Audit Report and Commentary

IF the CITY of GRAND TERRACE wanted AN INFORMED COUNCIL and CITIZENS they would make this information available on THE GT WEB SITE. IF a BLOG can post it, they could with much less effort.

The Grand Terrace City Council voted Thursday night December 14th, 2006 on The Annual Report To The Legislative Body from Tom Schwab, Executive Director Grand Terrace Redevelopment Agency. This report is posted below.the first and second and 14th pages contain apparent false information and troubling information. The underlined include that no elderly were displaced for an RDA project. The trailer park was full of elderly and one who refused to move. The folks on Barton Road were told to deal with Jacobsen of face eminent domain. The section maintenance for Repair of Affordable Housing. The addresses listed are vacant lots. All but the Mirado location are known vacant lots. Page 14 states Rental Income $0 and Sale of Real Estate $0. We know this is also not factual.





ABOVE Audit Report Posted in this space. And a Short Commentary.


GT ORD: Related to Development:

Ord.142 gives all the reasons the grading is in violation of the law. There can be no work or permits issued until the sewer and drainage permits are issued.

Ord. 142 allows for criminal and civil penalties, including jail time for violations.




IF you have concerns about the content of the Audit Report, you may want to contact your State Government as that is who is the regulator of the funds and to whom the Report is Addressed.

BLUE MOUNTAIN SENIOR VILLAS: and VOUCHERS

Vouchers Show Payments to Corporation for Better Housing, and Other Interesting Payments:
Again, IF the City wanted Informed Citizens the Vouchers and in some cases the Detail would be on the City Web Site.

NOTICE OF A PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING
FOR THE BLUE MOUNTAIN
SENIOR VILLAS

DATE: Thursday, January 4, 2007

PLACE: Council Chambers, 22795 Barton Road, Grand Terrace, CA.

TIME: 6:00 PM

THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE HAS SCHEDULED A PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING AT THE ABOVE TIME AND PLACE. THE PURPOSE OF THE SCOPING MEETING IS TO OBTAIN INPUT REGARDING THE POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS THAT MIGHT BE INCLUDED IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE SUBJECT PROJECT.

PROJECT: The proposed development will feature a two-story 120 unit senior facility totaling approximately 100.000 square feet, an approximately 7,000- square foot one-story senior center, and an approximately four-acre passive park with controlled public access during posted hours. The residential facility is designed to provide 103 one-bedroom and 17 two-bedroom units. A total of 146 parking spaces will be provided.

APPLICANT: Corporation for Better Housing

LOCATION: 22627 and 22645 Grand Terrace Road (Approximately 6 acre site southerly side of Grand Terrace Road easterly of Mt. Vernon Ave mainly vacant excepting for the existing City of Grand Terrace senior center and parking lot next to the senior center. The Terrace View Elementary School lies to the immediate east.)

If you have any questions regarding the scoping meeting or this notice, please contact the Community Development Department of the City of Grand Terrace. at (909) 430-2247.

Gary L. Koontz, Community Development Director

Gramps Reports:

The above Message was Retyped so that it is easy to read... The Content is the same as the one Readers sent and said they receive via the mail. No one knows if EVERY one in GT was a recipient or just those who raised concerns in the past.

WE DO know that the City Manager said last night that the City is paying in part for a revised EIR which Judge Wade Required as part of his judgment. However we also know his decision is being appealed. SO Citizens, with concerns your attendance is required at yet another meeting as You MUST restate your concerns at this meeting or the City and CFBH may say the public is satisfied and therefore the EIR should be accepted. THE PUBLIC is not who has to be satisfied. At this point I think it is JUDGE WADE who has to be satisfied that the Environmental Problems are addressed in accordance with Federal, State, and Local Laws, in addition to Public Input. Citizens bring your list of concerns, read them into the record and ask for a notarized copy of their receipt and keep a copy.

But that is just me...

Gramps

Perhaps some way to Flex Your Power:

Friends the following Post was on CraigsList and The State Program is a funded this year. You MUST GET your FUNDING RESERVED prior to going ahead with installing a system, so Make SURE that each setp of the process is done in the RIGHT ORDER. That being said, it may be worth checking into SOLOR ROOFS again, the technology has improved and prices are down. YOU MAY FIND THIS IS A WAY TO FLEX YOUR POWER.

This is available to new and existing construction, individual homes and commercial buildings. So IF YOUR INTERESTED.... RESERVE your FUNDING NOW...

Gramps


Free Solar Panel Systems
Reply to: sale-249370982@craigslist.org
Date: 2006-12-15, 8:34AM

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Remember This Post: NOW think about the Council Meeting

Friday, July 28, 2006

John Harper's clients Include THIS MYSTERY CLIENT
Perhaps Some one will ask...... about.....

John Harper of:Harper & Burns LLPDated: October 26, 2005 File Number A-05-199 Two members of a city council have been sued in their individual capacities by a developer, and are paying defense costs from personal funds. Because the developer states that it will dismiss the action if its projects are approved by the city council, the defendant officials are disqualified from taking part in governmental decisions relating to these projects since it is reasonably foreseeable that the outcome of these decisions will have a material, personal financial effect on them.

Gramps thinks the Citizens of the City where this is or has taken place have the Right to know about this situation, as it may have an impact on the other council members, and the input given to them by the City Attorney, and City Staff. The above Could be Grand Terrace Council Members or one of the other City's Mr. Harper sits as the City's Attorney. The DEAL and the ADVISE he gives is troubling as it seems to HIDE the issue from the public, as apparently the Council Members know, and the Developer knows, so the only ones not being informed of the situation is that is .... The... the public..Interesting view of who is being served by the advice.

FPPC Advice Summaries :

Formal written advice provided pursuant to Government Code section 83114 subdivision (b) does not constitute an opinion of the Commission issued pursuant to Government Code section 83114 subdivision (a) nor a declaration of policy by the Commission. Formal written advice is the application of the law to a particular set of facts provided by the requestor. While this advice may provide guidance to others, the immunity provided by Government Code section 83114 subdivision (b) is limited to therequestor and to the specific facts contained in the formal written advice. (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, §18329, subd. (b)(7).)Informal assistance may be provided to persons whose duties under the act are in question. (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, §18329, subd. (c).) In general, informal assistance, rather than formal written advice is provided when the requestor has questions concerning his or her duties, but no specific government decision is pending. (See Cal. Code Regs., tit. 2, §18329, subd. (b)(8)(D).)Formal advice is identified by the file number beginning with an "A", while informal assistance is identified by the letter "I." Letters are summarized by subject matter and month issued.

posted by GrandPaTerrace at Friday, July 28, 2006

A Word About Auditors Reports:

An Auditor's Report is not the same as a Full Audit. It is a superficial review of accounting practices and a check of the summary of accounts and the final report. It would not find for example where the money went when Steve Berry "Bought" the Used Ford from the City as the story is told by Tom Schwab. Nor would it investigate if there was a public hearing prior to the sale or transfer of ownership of an asset.

That would be a Forensic Audit, and that friends is a Different Audit all together. It is done down to the last cent in and last cent out, including a test of not only how the money was brought into the funds available, the the spending of those funds and the procedure used in the management of the process including related contracting procedure review. That is the type of audit that would tell you IF the Car was Paid for Where did the money go? Or what were the cost items paid for with over 3 million paid to CFBH and what are we continuing to pay for, and is this in accordance to the contractual agreement approved by the Council or is is out of the Contractual Scope of the Council Approve Contract and Agreement?

These are just two examples of what won't show up in an Auditor's Report. So don't be over satisfied that an Auditors Report was made and it had no Exceptions. Don't get to secure with a false representation that if the Auditor's Report is OK. There is No Fraud... or No Problem. I am sure ENRON had several years of Good Audit Reports. As a Matter of fact a company going broke can have a "Good Audit Report".

Just thought you should know.

ALTERNATIVE TO STATER'S

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Adds are on line weekly some of us get them in the mail.

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Celery is at times bitter, other than that... the variety, and quality are equal or better than Stater's... and the PRICE is MUCH BETTER.

If you need convenience try picking up items from the Hot Kitchen and wrap it up in meal size servings, beef, chicken, pork, all are available in addition to several sides.

Your grocery money will go much further if you shop at Cardenas.

AND NO THIS IS NOT A PAID ADVERTISEMENT

BIRTHDAY PARTY

FOR THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE

TONIGHT 6:00 COMMUNITY ROOM...

BEFORE THE COUNCIL MEETING;

CAKE AND NETWORKING

From the Email InBox:

Dear Gramps,

It is just my opinion after watching Jacobsen' cheap theatrics to distract the citizens of Grand Terrace, that Jacobsen is trying to frighten Jo Stringfield. What I have learned is that Jacobsen (developer) and Schwab (City Manager) have brought together a plan to develop "Grand Terrace" . He has bought up, or obtained properties all over the City. I have to ask myself, why would he buy a house on Michigan for over $1,270,000? Yet he directs the City Council to stick by the "appraised" value of only $800,000 for Jo's property which is in the middle of the Barton Road Project. It has got to be a matter of pride, or principal to someone in the City.

We have watched the Mayor dig her heals in just this way. Without any common logic. Things have got to be her way. It is obvious to me that she is in cahoots with the Jacobsen and Schwab.

Why else would a nice little ol lady want to over build in a city of only 13,000 people? Why would anyone with a good heart and kind sole want to overbuild, created gridlock in the main thorough ways, increase smog - disease?

I am not saying she is all bad. Nobody in the City Government is all bad, just misguided. If it is not good for everyone, how can it be good.

If the Mayor really believes in her decision to backup a developer, then why can't she support her beliefs by explaining it to the citizens who will be here long after she is gone?

A Parent, A Voter, A Citizen of Grand Terrace.


Dear Fellow Concerned Citizen:

I agree with almost every thing you say and would like you like the answers to all of the questions you ask.

Jacobsen and the City will no doubt find that doing things in the normal process and procedures practiced by Tom Schwab will be costly in time and legal fees. The presentation which has bells and whistles and computer graphics was entertaining, but it was not in anyway a plan anyone can count on to be built. Look at the scale of the CVS/Sav-on Building and it's BUFFER space between the side road, and the neighbors, and all. He is the same developer, it is reasonable to expect the same quality or lack of quality of design implementation on the Town Center.

Yes I agree that the offer for Jo's Property was low balled. My Objection to the Negotiation is not that the city offered a low price, but that the city threatened for years to use Eminent Domain to Force Land Owners to selling at the Price Jacobsen wanted to pay. Some would not have sold at any price as they wanted to live in their home until they died. Some of the property was in fact sold after the elders passed on. IF Jo was offered and turned down a BILLION Dollars because she wants to stay that is her business and the City nor any Citizen should complain that she wants to enjoy her property as she wishes. The City is just WRONG in being entangled with this deal. Use of Eminent Domain, Public Financing and Negotiation Leverage to be the benefit of a single Developer is Wrong. No Open Proposal, No Open or Inclusion of Participation of the other Property Owners, No Public Meetings for Land Purchases, and Land Sales. The purchase of a Former Mayors Property at a Premium Price, the Purchase of low or middle cost housing and its demolition and not replacing it, all open this development open for a ton of problems and ever increasing legal expenses.

Jo Stringfield is not the singular concern. In addition to the above the citizens have reasonable concern about what is put on this strangely entangled property. If the Courts eventually say Jacobsen does not have to replace the housing destroyed. If the Courts approve the EIR for the Development of what ever Jacobsen Plans. We citizens do not have to shop in the stores, drink at the bars and patronize the businesses that are built on property that was developed by these methods. I have not steped foot into the CVS Store, and I will not.

I have stopped shopping at Stater Brothers. I do go to the other local shops, stores and restaurants. Citizens can vote with their pocket books.

Citizens can have a traffic plan too. We can all drive 25mph on all streets in GT.. The folks avoiding the freeway may figure out, you can't make up time by cutting through GT. 40 MPH is the MAXIMUM SPEED... it is not the MINIMUM SPEED... We can slow traffic by the use of a Slow Driver Strike.

Citizens can continue to insist that the facts of the deals are made open to the public. Citizens can file complaints and concerns where appropriate with the FBI, State and Federal Law Enforcement, and Civil Rights Agencies.

Citizens can VOTE.

Gramps.

Pictures of Grading and ? Who Knows What Else.

HERE IS THE PLOT MAP


Who Knows what else is Planned: Work is being done without Permits or Plans on File to indicate what is being done by who.

The Lots affected are owned by several owners. One's Lot's Ownership may be challanged in Court.

EVEN IF I do work on my neighbors Roof, I'd Need a Permit. IF I Hired a Contractor to do the work on my neighbors house, that Contractor would have to have a GT BUSINESS LICENSE, and the Job would have to be on file to inform the INSPECTOR to come and INSPECT and sign off. IF I were going to follow the Laws of Grand Terrace, as they have been applied to others.

These documents should be available for inspection and review. The Staff should be able to give a complete answer to questions raised by concerned citizens.

Mark this Pending... Looks like a great place to plant some Walnut trees.... oh no that's been done.

Grand Terrace You Have Been Served: Again and Again

Case SCVSS144406 - Pending Hearings

Date Action Text Disposition
01/10/2007 8:30 AM DEPT. S8 STATUS HEARING ON PETITION

Case SCVSS144406 - Complaints/Parties

Complaint Number: 1
Complaint Type: PETITION
Filing Date: 11/15/2006
Complaint Status: ACTIVE

Party Number Party Type Party Name Attorney Party Status
1 PETITIONER CITIZENS FOR RESPONSIBLE AND OPEN , JOHNSON & SE DLACK First Paper Fee Paid
2 RESPONDENT CITY OF GRAND TERRACE Served 11/20/2006
3 REAL PARTY IN INTEREST SWERTFEGERS EQUIPMENT INC Served 11/20/2006
4 RESPONDENT GRAND TERRACE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Served 11/20/2006



Case SCVSS144133 - Complaints/Parties

Complaint Number: 1
Complaint Type: PETITION
Filing Date: 11/21/2006
Complaint Status: ACTIVE

Who is the Real Party in Interest: We know them as Miguel's Jr.

MJSC HOLDINGS, LLC
Number: 199918810074 Date Filed: 7/2/1999 Status: active
Jurisdiction: CALIFORNIA
Address
1920 FRONTAGE RD
CORONA, CA 92882
Agent for Service of Process
JAVIER S. VASQUEZ
PO BOX 1083
CORONA, CA 92878
Parcel Number 1167-231-07-0000

OWNER SDG INVESTMENTS LLC
CARE OF JAVIER S VASQUEZ

AND THIS CASE: DUE TO UNRESOLVED ISSUES BROGHT TO THE CITY COUNCIL:

Case SCVSS144133 - Pending Hearings

Date Action Text Disposition
01/10/2007 8:30 AM DEPT. S8 STATUS HEARING ON PETITION

Case SCVSS144406 - Complaints/Parties

Complaint Number: 1
Complaint Type: PETITION
Filing Date: 11/15/2006
Complaint Status: ACTIVE

Party Number Party Type Party Name Attorney Party Status
1 PETITIONER CITIZENS FOR RESPONSIBLE AND OPEN , JOHNSON & SE DLACK First Paper Fee Paid
2 RESPONDENT CITY OF GRAND TERRACE Served 11/20/2006
3 REAL PARTY IN INTEREST SWERTFEGERS EQUIPMENT INC Served 11/20/2006
4 RESPONDENT GRAND TERRACE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY Served 11/20/2006


Gramps does not have a copy of the full Complaint Filed by the Petitioner. All I have thus far is that a case has been filed. This is from the County Court Web Site. It may not include all information and may lag behind as much as a couple of weeks in getting posted.

From the Sun:

From the Sun Telegram:

GRAND TERRACE
Council to consider traffic recommendations

The City Council on Thursday evening will review recommendations of an ad hoc traffic committee. The committee identified traffic-mitigation strategies such as traffic signals and street improvements the city should consider in the next five years. Major developments are under way or being planned in the area that will significantly increase traffic flow in the city, officials said. Most of the projects are in nearby cities such as Loma Linda, Redlands and Colton and in Riverside County.

The council meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Civic Center,

Where Contributions GO:

There is a Relationship with GT Politics and City Practices and these cases. GT is a Reflection of what is happening on the National Level of Government. Each feeds off the other and neither is interested in correcting the situation.

Rep. Lewis, who is under investigation for his cozy relationship with lobbyist and former Congressman Bill Lowery (R-CA) and his lobbying firm, Copeland Lowery Jacquez Denton & White, has spent a staggering $861,789 in the 2005-2006 cycle from his campaign committee, Lewis for Congress Committee.

Rep. Mollohan, who is set to chair the Science, State, Justice and Commerce and Related Agencies Appropriations subcommittee, also used funds from his campaign committee, Alan Mollohan for Congress, to pay for his legal expenses. Rep. Mollohan has paid $70,112 this past cycle to Kellogg Huber Hansen Todd Evans & Figel, a firm that specializes in “white collar criminal defense.” Federal investigators are exploring whether Rep. Mollohan steered $250 million to five nonprofit groups that he created and that are staffed by his friends in direct exchange for campaign contributions.

Rep. Doolittle has spent $117,730 from his campaign committee, John T. Doolittle for Congress, on legal fees over the last election cycle. Rep. Doolittle has an outstanding invoice of $45,151 with Wiley Rein & Fielding LLP, the firm handling his legal issues. Its practice area includes “criminal/congressional investigation.” Rep. Doolittle is under investigation for his ties to convicted Washington lobbyist Jack Abramoff and defense contractor Brent Wilkes, who is under federal investigation for allegedly bribing former Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham (R-CA).

Gramps Thoughts on No Permits and Workmen:

Workmen don’t show up on a whim. There is a plan, a contract, and a design with a specific work order prior to the men show up on the job. So this pre work effort could be characterized as being a conspiracy to do work. Now who were the co conspirators? For one is Jacobsen of course, and for number 2 the company willing to do work without permits being filed with the city and perhaps without proper business licenses in Grand Terrace.

Collaborators may include City Staff who fail to enforce the requirements for permits, and following the laws and regulations pertaining to construction, EIR, and the process of land transfer from Public to Private Ownership. You would think they have learned this lesson by now.

Lawyers and the Court, and perhaps Law Enforcement should review the Deal of the Town Center as it started up to where it is today. Citizens have not been able to find a permit, or approved plan, and there have not been require public hearings prior to Public Land Being Transferred, or sold. Call it what you want. There is more to this than a one sheriff town can investigate? Even the County DA has no interest in unwinding this tangled ball of string.

We have yet to see the Campaign Contributions Report, or the Grand Terrace Days Accounting of Contributions and Expenses. How much does it cost to get the Code Enforcement Officer not to do Code Enforcement, or the Planning Department to Look the Other Way, or the Council to sit quiet as the Will of the Staff. Dictates their action and reactions?

How much will it take prior to the light going on for the Voter’s of Grand Terrace? Perhaps it is not so much people are for or against an issue in Grand Terrace as People JUST DON’T Care, as GT is not a Community. Then we must ask what builds community. If we don’t answer this question we don’t have a right to take pride in our past or put a claim on the future of Grand Terrace. As a matter of fact, we may be better served if the City was Dissolved and returned to County Status, or Annexed into Colton. What would be the benefits and non benefits of those choices? It may be appropriate to ask that question on the next round of Elections.

From the Email In Box: Jacobsen Works with NO PERMITS

From the Email Inbox:

Dear Grandpa Terrace,

Why is it that my neighbors had to stop laying a second layer of shingles on their roof by Barry Owens, the City Code Enforcement Officer, and go pay a big building permit fee. Why is it you can't hang a screen door on your house with paying for a building permit? You can't replace a hot water heater without a building permit.

HOWEVER: If your Jacobsen Family Holdings and you contribute to Council members campaigns and contribute to the Chamber of Commerce and to Grand Terrace Days, you can start on the Town Center without bringing Plan "B" before the Planning Commission, the Community or the Council. You don't have to have a grading permit, a building permit, a lot line adjustment or an EIR.

Perhaps the Code Enforcement Officer never drives down Barton Road or maybe she was told to look the other way. The Swertfeger's Trucking Company on Michigan is moving building materials in for the building he is going to put up that goes against the zoning and code conditions. If it were any citizen that wanted to make a small improvement he has to pay for a permit. The Council will debate paint color or type of lawn or trees, but not this?

I am sure Mr. Karger paid all the fees for his projects. I'm sure the Town Gate condos had to pay all the required permit fees. This smells of someone getting a kickback from Jacobsen to not enforce the law. They want to hire another Code Enforcement Officer, I think they should make the one they have now do the job before they start hiring someone to do her job for her.

Yet a Second Citizen of Grand Terrace Contributes:

Dear Grandpa:

Regarding the grading on Barton Rd. One of the workman was asked if they had any permits and drawings. The workman said they didn't need a permit to start a project. Let anyone else do such work without a permit.

The company doing the grading:Precision Grading & Excavating, San Demis CA
ConLic #138243 (909) 592-8683. Do they have a business Permit in Grand Terrace? Workers for them apparently go to jobsites without knowing if Permits are in order.

Some of this property is still City RDA Property as there has been no legal transfer of the property that requires PUBLIC HEARINGS prior to the TRANSFER of the PROPERTY.

Where is the OVERSIGHT, and LAW ENFORCEMENT?

Is this not fraud or theft of some kind?

Thanks for the Blogs Effort to inform the Community.

Signed,
East Side Resident

Fireworks, Traffic, Council Vacancy Replacement, Budget and Cake

AFTER MONTHS of AGENDA LIGHT: THE CITY COUNCIL WILL BE HEARING ISSUES OF GREAT CONCERN ALL IN ONE AGENDA RIGHT AS THE CITIZENS ARE GETTING READY FOR CHRISTMAS AND POST ELECTION.

REMEMBER WHO MAKES UP THE AGENDA:

THAT WOULD BE CITY MANAGER TOM SCHWAB.

From the Sun Telegram
GRAND TERRACE - Council to address filling vacant position

The City Council on Thursday will decide on the procedure for filling a vacant council position. With last month's election of Maryetta Ferre as mayor, her council seat that expires in November 2008 became vacant. The council can fill the vacancy either by appointment or special election.

The election would coincide with the next general election, on April 10. It would cost about $21,000, officials said. An appointment would require the city to request applications, conduct interviews and make a decision within 30 days.

The council has made an appointment the four previous times a vacancy has occurred.

The council meets at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Civic Center, 22795 Barton Road.

OTHER ANNOUNCED AND PUBLIC INFORMATION RELEASED BY THE CITY FOR THE SAME DAY:

DEC 14th City BirthDay Celebration .... In Community Room
DEC 14th City Council Meeting at 7:00 P.M.
Above was in Council Chambers City Funded Blue Mt Outlook City Calendar
DEC 14th City Block Grant Hearing at 7:30 P.M. In Council Chambers
From the Grand Terrace City News Announcement
*

NOTICE of PUBLIC HEARING IN GRAND TERRACE

*
Meeting Date: December 14th , 2006
*
Meeting Regarding: Use of Block Grant Funds
Meeting Location: City Council Chambers
Meeting Begins: 7:30PM
*
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE IS SCHEDULED TO HAVE A PUBLIC HARING REGARDING THE FOLLOWING ITEM.

*
The Grand Terrace City Council inviting input to assist in reprioritizing projects and determining community needs to be funded during the period of 2006-2007 under its Community Development Block Grant Program.
*
Anyone wishing to speak in favor or opposition to the above listed item will be given the opportunity. Any questions regarding the public hearing may be addressed to Steve Berry, Assistant City manager, City of grand Terrace at (909)430-2226.

NOW HERE IS THE OFFICIAL AGENDA FOR THE MEETING:

CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS DECEMBER 14, 2006
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER 7:30 PM
22795 Barton Road

THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE COMPLIES WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990. IF YOU REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING, PLEASE CALL THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE AT (909) 824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.

IF YOU DESIRE TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING, PLEASE COMPLETE A REQUEST TO SPEAK FORM AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE AND PRESENT IT TO THE CITY CLERK. SPEAKERS WILL BE CALLED UPON BY THE MAYOR AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME. REMEMBER YOU CAN ADDRESS THE COUNCIL ON EACH ITEM FOR 3 MINUTES AND A SUMMARY OF YOUR COMMENTS AND ASK FOR ADDITIONAL TIME AFTER YOUR 3 MIN AND WAIT FOR COUNCIL CONSENT TO PROCEED IF NO EXTRA TIME SUMMARIZE.

* Call to Order -
* Invocation - Calvary The Brook Church
* Pledge of Allegiance -
* Roll Call -

1. Special Presentations to Outgoing Council Member Herman Hilkey
2. Reciting the Fact of the General Municipal Election Held on November 7, 2006, Declaring the Result and Such Other Matters as Provided By Law
3. Swear In Newly Elected Mayor, Maryetta Ferré and Newly Elected Council Member Bea Cortes
4. Election of Mayor Pro Tem
5. Review and Assign Representatives/Alternates to Various Organizations

CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
1. Approval of 11-09-2006 Minutes
2. Annual Financial Report For Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2006
3. Annual Report to the Legislative Body

ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1. Items to Delete
2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
A. Introduction of New Citizen Patrol Members

3. CONSENT CALENDAR

The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and noncontroversial. They will be acted upon by the Council at one time without discussion. Any Council Member, Staff Member, or Citizen may request removal of an item from the Consent Calendar for discussion.

A. Approve Check Register Dated December 14, 2006
B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
C. Approval of 11-09-2006 Minutes
D. Resolution of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, California, Rescinding Resolution 2005-02 and establishing Times for Regular City Council Meetings, Commission Meetings and Committee Meetings
E. Memorandum of Understanding - Pico Street Storm Drain (Colton Joint Unified School District)
F. Joint Use Agreement - Pico Park (Colton Joint Unified School District)
G. Notice of Completion Riverside 48" Water Line Relocation (Trautwein Construction)
H. Resolution - Approval of Final Tract Map No. 17264 (Dulce Vida, LLC) WHAT IS THIS?
I. Annual Financial Report For Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2006

4. PUBLIC COMMENT

This is the opportunity for members of the public to comment on any items not appearing on the regular agenda. Because of restrictions contained in California Law, the City Council may not discuss or act on any item not on the agenda, but may briefly respond to statements made or ask a question for clarification. The Mayor may also request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment or may request a matter be agendized for a future meeting.

5. REPORTS

A. Committee Reports

1. Historical & Cultural Activities Committee
a. Minutes of October 2, 2006 & November 6, 2006

2. Crime Prevention Committee
a. Minutes of October 9, 2006

3. Emergency Operations Committee
a. Minutes of October 3, 2006 & November 7, 2006
b. Appoint New Alternate Member (Santana)
B. Council Reports

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Re-Allocation

7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Traffic Ad Hoc Committee Report
B. Fireworks Ad Hoc Committee Report

8. NEW BUSINESS

A. Approve Contract for the Corinthians Futbol Club for the Use of the Fields at Pico Park and Rollins Park
B. Procedure for Filling Vacant City Council Position
C. Appropriation and Award of the Competitively Bid Mt. Vernon Street Phase II Road Maintenance Services Contract to Roquet Paving

9. CLOSED SESSION - None

ADJOURN

THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 2007 AT 6:00 P.M.

AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE NO LATER THAN 14 CALENDAR DAYS PRECEDING THE MEETING.

All things listed are to be approved or accepted per Staff's Suggested Action. Why does the staff suggest the outcome the Council should take? Can they not reach decision with out this direction from Staff?

Meetings This Week:

DEC: 14th City Birthday Celebration ....

FREE: Cake at 6:00

This is usually attended only by Council Members, and City Staff... and former Council Members.... Show up if you can. It is a PUBLIC EVENT, paid for by PUBLIC FUNDS... and Free Cake... Perhaps more importantly it is an opportunity to network.

In Community Room

Stay for After the Meeting:

DEC 14th City Block Grant Hearing at 7:30 P.M.. This is where the Staff Tells the Council how to spend the Block Grant Money. The Council May then set a priority of tasks. Citizens and LOCAL Non profits such as the 4H, Churches, or even Small Businesses providing Public Service could be party to or receive a Block Grant.

In Council Chambers

DEC 18th Close of Bid Request for Road Construction at 10:00 A.M. DEC 21st Planning Commission Meeting.

Free for the Labor: Interesting things from craigslist.org

Need Landscape Rocks?
Reply to: sale-245996947@craigslist.org
Date: 2006-12-08, 10:20AM PST


I have LOTS (100 sq ft. each)of
medium sized river rocks and
small white groundcover rocks.
Come pick them up and they are yours FREE.
Email or call (951) 514-9091.
Location: Temecula

ROSES - Beautiful and Bountiful

Reply to: sale-245998529@craigslist.org
Date: 2006-12-08, 10:22AM PST

I have MANY different varieties
Come dig them up and they are yours FREE.
Email or call (951) 514-9091
Location: Temecula


Church Pews

Reply to: sale-245790713@craigslist.org
Date: 2006-12-07, 9:34PM PST

Need Pews for your church? You haul them and they're yours free.

Location: Moreno Valley

To All Citizens: Iraq Study Group Report

http://www.usip.org/isg/iraq_study_group_report/report/1206/index.html

The Above Link will provide you the Iraq Study Group Report. Please Be Informed.

If you have a problem with the Download email grandterracenews@yahoo.com and I'll send it to you via attached email.

Know the document.

Gramps

Tom Schwab City Manager Speaks... the Next NEED.

Thomas Schwab is city manager of Grand Terrace, population 13,000, which also does not have a fire-based paramedic service but is working on getting one. "Most people, when they see that fire engine show up in an emergency, just assume that paramedic advance-life-support service is there, and in our case it isn", he said. "So I just think we ought to bring ourselves up to what's basically a community standard in most communities, at least in California."

The Rest of the Story:

http://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20061206/hope-to-save-lives


Gramps Asks for a moment of THOUGHT:

I see a FirePerson, I think First Aid and CPR, and O2 and Perhaps a Deferbulator and monitor for the old ticker. I don't think of major surgery, or DRUGS, or even an IV drip. Nope, stop the bleeding, get or keep the ticker pumping and get to the hospital. I have seen it take an ambulance longer to get to LL than it would have taken to drive. If the heart is beating, go to the Hospital, if it isn't do CPR till help gets there.

Grand Terrace is not a typical City... and should caution Tom Schwab from yet another Grand Concept as having a EMT for the CITY ONLY. First of all our Fire Department Responds to More than just GT, and so would our EMT. Second Most city's don't have Loma Linda University, Redlands Community, Kaiser Riverside, Kaiser Fontana, and all the other options close in hand.

Could the City Rent a Parking an Ambulance/EMT Service to Park for Advanced Placement of a Response Unit. After all We are located between Freeways, and Hospitals... IF there was a Parking Place and a Restroom for the Employee it seems that GT would be a Prime Advance Location for an Ambulance EMT Service. The other issue is who would get the service only people with medical insurance can afford this kind of service and usually family members have to be the first responders, and get folks to the hospital in time.

The horror story of a person's death by sauce is in part that persons fault for not having an Epi Pen in their possession 24/7. If you have extreme allergic reactions you should carry your own medications. Thinking an EMT will get there in time is an error in planning.

Before for we take on saving every life in the world, how about addressing what more of us need and that is transportation to and from the doctor not on an emergency... a reasonable taxi service, or a give a lift program... where citizen volunteers are paid for giving rides to seniors and non drivers. Now that is within a budget.

Perhaps the City Could buy a van for Public Use in Emergency so we can drive our Elders to the hospital.... on an as needed basis... some of us don't have city provided cars or trucks for our private use.

I

Quick Summary of Traffic Committee's Work...

Monday was the last meeting of the Traffic Committee. The function was to prioritize projects that were already cast in stone. The official members list is heavy with citizens that believe the city can do no wrong. Our actual street improvements will depend on how aggressively Councilwoman Cortes fights for Grand Terrace as our SANBAG Representative. The funds are from SANBAG for the major repairs.

The Committee was able to chose between speed bumps and did eliminate some of them. A full summary of the list should be available soon. This is Grand Terrace and we have no money and the City council and Staff have a tendency to waive fees or disregard the need for traffic studies and assess impact fees. So Traffic will remain a problem. We were in affect powerless, as a Committee or as Citizens. The City Manager and Council are not going to give the decision making power to anyone but themselves. When Larkin left, Brian Phelps of the Planning Commission was elected Chairman.

We have seen the Staff Overide Committee Recommendations and Direct the Council. We are Nearly 6 months past July 4th and there has not been a review of the LAST YEARS POLICY on Fireworks... Anyone Forget, the Majority of Citizens had said no fireworks.... PLEASE, and then if you must only IN PARKS, but the STAFF said it was too dangerouse for Parks, but encouraged the sale and unrestricted use of "Safe and Sane" in the entire town. Within a few days we had a Fire on Blue MT.... apparently started by fireworks...

Hats off to the Citizens who try to serve on Committiees. The more there are the better... Not that there would be direct impact but there would be better information available to the citizens at large.

Disillusioned in Grand Terrace

More Big Brother in Grand Terrace

Have you seen the movie which was motivated by George Orwell called 1984? Everyone will be expected to answer to big brother, was the theme.

I'm wondering, has life become so so painfully busy. Our lives are bombarded with negative news everyday? Have we turned a deaf ear to our dreams of making the lives of our children better. Or, are we busy working and saving for their college so they can do it themselves?

I love the energy of the citizens in Grand Terrace at the Soccer, baseball and basketball games. Parents are so alive, with love and support that it is contagious. However, most citizens in Grand Terrace remain oblivious to the changes proposed by the Mayor, Ferre, changes are taking place and they will impact everyone.

Ignorance is not bliss.

The Press Enterprise wrote about the new rental inspections. These inspections were meant to bring more money to the City. Before the Mayor's battle to unseat her, she was crying that there wasn't enough money. During her campaign she changed her tune and said we are five million in reserve. Which is it? She is a woman who talks out of both sides of her mouth in order to call herself mayor. She said it was her dream to be like her daddy. I sure hope she has what it takes to make things right for all citizens in Grand Terrace and not just the ones who live above Mt. Vernon.

It is obvious to me that some of the council members think their title is more important than their goals, so maybe they will get out and talk to the people who live in the affected areas of the projected developments such as the Barton Road Project, Outdoor Adventure Center, Senior Project, etc. And find out how real people feel. Not just the ones who live on the hills and will not be affected by the daily bombardment of increased traffic, smog, and noise.

disillusioned

Where and How YOUR Law Enforcement Is Being Spent

BOOKING NUMBER: 0612300732
DATE: 12/13/2006 TIME: 2350
ARREST DATE: 12/13/2006 TIME: 2239
LOC: S.MT.VERNON/E.WASHINGTON
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME:
FACILITY: CENTRAL D.C.
NAME: LAST: STICKLER FIRST: DAVID MIDDLE: EDWARD
DOB: 12/08/1970 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 6 02 WT: 195 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BLU
OCCUPATION: MANAGER
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
VC23152(A) MISD ORIGINAL $35,000.00
VC40508(A) MISD ORIGINAL


BOOKING NUMBER: 0612300664
DATE: 12/13/2006 TIME: 0713
ARREST DATE: 12/13/2006 TIME: 0630
LOC: RECHE CANYON RD/WASHINGT
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 12/13/2006
TIME: 1312 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: LIEVANOS FIRST: ADRIAN MIDDLE:
DOB: 10/31/1974 SEX: M
RACE: H HT: 5 09 WT: 165 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: DETAILER
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC148.9(A) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL


BOOKING NUMBER: 0612060023 DATE: 12/07/2006 TIME: 2318
ARREST DATE: 12/07/2006 TIME: 1945
LOC:
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 12/08/2006 TIME: 0810 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: HERNANDEZ FIRST: EDUARDO MIDDLE:
DOB: 05/30/1971 SEX: M
RACE: H HT: 5 06 WT: 160 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION:
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL

BOOKING NUMBER: 0612300211 DATE: 12/05/2006 TIME: 1542
ARREST DATE: 12/05/2006 TIME: 1443
LOC: ORANGE SHOW RD/WASHINGTON
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 12/06/2006 TIME: 2302 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: MILLER FIRST: ANTHONY MIDDLE: JAMES
DOB: 11/22/1968 SEX: M
RACE: B HT: 5 08 WT: 180 HAIR: BLK EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC148(A)(1) MISD ORIGINAL $25,000.00 MISD-WARRANT
PC243(E)(1) MISD ORIGINAL


BOOKING NUMBER: 0612340505
DATE: 12/04/2006 TIME: 1912
ARREST DATE: 12/04/2006 TIME: 0920
LOC: 351 ARROWHEAD SAN BERNARD
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: WEST VALLEY D.C.
NAME: LAST: CAHON FIRST: SHAHARZAN MIDDLE:
DOB: 05/22/1979 SEX: F
RACE: W HT: 5 07 WT: 140 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
HS11379(A) FEL ORIGINAL NO BAIL
HS11379(A) FEL SUPP A NO BAIL


ORIGINALBOOKING NUMBER: 0612060003
DATE: 12/01/2006 TIME: 2309
ARREST DATE: 12/01/2006 TIME: 2235
LOC: VILLAGE/BIG BEAR LAKE
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 12/02/2006
TIME: 1125 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: HAYES FIRST: JUSTIN MIDDLE: DONALD
DOB: 02/19/1982 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 11 WT: 145 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: HAZ
OCCUPATION: MECHANIC
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC647(F) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL

BOOKING NUMBER: 0612300044
DATE: 12/02/2006 TIME: 0055
ARREST DATE: 12/02/2006 TIME: 0001
LOC: BASELINE/DEL ROSA
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: CENTRAL D.C.
NAME: LAST: VELASQUEZ FIRST: TRAVON MIDDLE: DEMON
DOB: 08/21/1981 SEX: MRACE: B HT: 5 10 WT: 185 HAIR: BLK EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
HS11350(A) FEL ORIGINAL $10,000.00
PC3056 FEL T46962 NO BAIL

BOOKING NUMBER: 0612300065
DATE: 12/02/2006 TIME: 0537
ARREST DATE: 12/02/2006 TIME: 0225
LOC: SAN MANUEL CASINO
AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: TIME: FACILITY: CENTRAL D.C.
NAME: LAST: DELGADO FIRST: PAUL MIDDLE:
DOB: 02/19/1973 SEX: MRACE: H HT: 5 06 WT: 165 HAIR: MUL EYE COLOR: BRO
OCCUPATION: UNEMPLOYED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC3056 FEL ORIGINAL NO BAIL

From the Email INBOX: RE-Calendar and Bids

Pawww....

Went through what was mentioned in your event calendar for City of G.T. and noticed what may or may not Be two errors.

Have been told via clerk at city that the Planning Commission meetings for all of December have been cancelled. The dates are set as side for normal business, but have been told there is nothing for the 7th, and looks as if the items being processed right now will not be done in time for the 2nd meeting In December either.

So no P.C. meeting until 2007. An inquiry was made on the new contract being announced at bid to benefit west side residents. This may be attributed to the new Traffic Commission, but looks as if what will eventually be will affect the area for couple decades. Yes, once again that group of folks who are high on the popularity list, but low on the practable or professional list may be at it again.

The new "Out for Bids" project is labeled as are construction of existing streets. However, in the civil engineering world, it is more properly described as an appeasement patch, black paint, or waste of dollars. But since they are other people's dollars, so who cares. The project is over the streets of Vivienda (east-west) from the freeway, west to the new concrete RR. Bridge, and on LaCrosse, where it Tee's into Vivienda and then goes south to the traffic signals at Barton.

What is labeled and what is being proposed are two different items. It is not one of the standard "We gotta Problem, so lets fix it" projects. Instead it is more like a "We gotta problem, but residents are too dumb to notice, so lets make everything black, say it is good for 25 years, we all will be gone da hell outta here in 5-7 years and then let them solve it again" type of deals. (If I am told without looking that everything will be OK, then I can pull out into the traffic and won't get klobbered. Oops). I am not familiar with entire length of the two named streets, but do know of two problem areas.

Back a good 10-15 years ago, on the South side of Vivienda, a new duplex was built. The street grades were wacko enough that when ever it rained, water would collect along the south edge. It could only get about one foot deep, for beyond that depth it flowed over the street center line and into the property on the north side of the street. Then the rainy water or flooding was the other folk's problem.

When the duplex project came before the then current City Planner the simple solution was to build a few feet of curb and gutter, down hill into a hole, and take a deposit or set a side funds to eventually make a permanent fix, like a culvert, to alleviate the problem. I believe she said close to $30,000 (seems high to me) had been bonded to alleviate the problem, and when ever the city decided to improve the whole street, upgrade the area,that sum would be incorporated. A permanent fix would then be made.

Lets see now, according to Sacramento, a bond for construction can only be held twenty years,then it must be released. Now that sum what ever it could be, according to S.B. had been forgotten about when the block grant funding was located. Dollars are dollars to me, but votes are better if it don't cost dollars too. If anyone heading south zips off the singular freeway offramp known also as the Barton Road exit, they should notice when it rains a nice sized pool of water flooding the intersection and part of the adjacent property. I once saw an 18 wheel truck stuck in the resulting mud. Here too there is a low spot. Not quiete as deep, but very broad. It flows over the whole of the pavement on occasion such that it is necessary to place several of those A frame street barricades. They warn motorists not to travel that direction for there is some sort of navigation hazard ahead.

Back when, I went to a A.P.W.A. Inspectors school in Los Angeles. One of the things they taught me was that asphalt paving don't fail normally, if there is water around it will fail faster. If the water pools in the street, a utility trench is not properly compacted, then you get what is commonly called alligatored pavement. You cannot simply add more asphalt, that is temporary. Only way to fix permanently is to improve the drainage. Dry up things normally. When you drive the little piece of LaCrosse, do you notice the alligatoring? What do these two little instances have to do with the beautification of the city? Have found that in the past, that the active City committees play about as much a rubber stamp due to their inexperience or inattention as in many other communities.

Essentially, someone determines a problem area, funds become available, everyone gets excited, but does it really solve the problem. Lets dump a whole bunch of dollars into plants for the park, but lets not figure out how to keep them alive for several years. Imagine a house with a leaky roof. Don't investigate why, just instead put a whole new roof on. That'll fix it. But in 5-6 years the leak reappears at same location. So, lets put another set of shingles up there, for that'll fix it........Hey, hey now. I was told the shingles had a twenty year warranty and why are they leaking already? Wadda you mean the company is out of business already? Gee, I was told the new asphalt being laid in in the western area was going to be good for twenty years, and it would solve any problem of the water in the streets.

What? The Traffic Commission said no problem? The City staff said no problem, this will fix everything? They must be correct, and know more than the residents of twenty years do, for they are professional experts. They got appointed based upon their personality instead of their practicality. After about ten years of bumbling, wasting (free) money, they will have sufficient experience to keep their appointments. Remember, as of today, there is no flooding. They may have driven out there and looked.'course, it isn't raining today either. But that only happens five or six times a year and the residents were told that new black paint (or a whole new roof) would cure everything. I would personally see all those dollars for blackpaint be put into another neighborhood, where visibility is important, and can best be used to advantage. Dumping those dollars into the proposed area will not solve the underlying problems.

Gramps Replies:

Many good points are made by the writer of this email. I know the Dates Published in the Blue Mt Outlook were suspect. However, the BMO is a Publication Paid for In Part by the City and the calendar Section has the meetings on the December calendar. Now if there was going to be an opportunity for some slight of hand management this is one way to do it. Cause a false calendar and then toss in a meeting when it had been removed in the past.

Your concerns are correct about the decision making and repairs to roads except that you give the Traffic Committee way to much power. They have been given a report of things that the Staff Wants done, and in truth they can function as public information providers, but have little impact on what gets done or not done. The impact they may have is what gets done first. However, this group is being told what to do by Staff. It is not the case where they advise the Council, and the Council directs Staff. As to WHO is on the Traffic Committee I think in part the membership reflects who wants to serve more than who is picked. So if a Citizen Showed up I am fairly sure that citizen would welcome and most likely added to the Committee. Mr Larken's Deployment leaves an opening and I doubt there is a limit to the number of folks that are on that particular Committee. Perhaps contacting Council Member Miller regarding these issues is the right step to have your concerns raised.

Now the conflicting information in the Bid Documents. That is a problem. The top coat over a faulty road, that is a problem. I know that the roads in that area are worn, and wet as you say. They need more than icing of black slurry to fix the problems. I also know that years of top coat raise the street bed up above driveways, and drainage and cause flooding. Eventually the top coating icing has to be removed, and a new bed laid like what was done on Mt. Vernon. Your observations are absolutely correct as to what needs to be done, and how things are done at the city, in regards to funding and planning a project. The only hope is to make the City Council WORK at making the Staff Work for the Council, and the Council Work for the Citizens. That may help get better use of the limited money we have available. Do a Smaller Job Right, is a better form of management than a Bigger Bad Job.

So to sum it up...

Yeah, I know the dates were suspect, but I put them there for a reason... So the City Can't Cancel a Meeting, then Have a Meeting and not have the Public Know.

Yeah, I agree with you on the Road Repair Bid, and Flawed Management Practices of the Staff.

You give the Traffic Committee too much Power.

Sounds like if you are not on the Traffic Committee you should be, and if not, at least bring these comments to the Committee, Council, and Perhaps even to the funding source of the repair as some times the funding source will take back money if it is going to be spent on a project as you indicate this is. That may be County Funds, or State Funds and even possible Federal.

THIS WILL BE GT>>> THE STATE WILL REQUIRE IT:

City to break ground on new low-income housing
By Paula King
CONTRA COSTA TIMES
*
OAKLEY - Construction on two apartment complexes is scheduled to start early next year despite the initial controversy surrounding the affordable housing project.
More than 200 low-income units for seniors and families will be built on Carol Lane. The 54-unit seniors complex and 154 units of work force housing will be on land formerly zoned for light industry.
*
Oakley City Council last year changed the zoning to multifamily residential to meet the state's pressing requirements to provide more affordable housing. Some long-time light industrial business owners and residents opposed the decision, however, fearing it would cost the city valuable jobs and revenue.
*
Local Realtor Enrico Cinquini has expressed concern over the rezoning, saying the city needs commercially zoned land to thrive.
*
"It is hard to make up that commercial and light industrial land once you give it up," he said.
Still, Cinquini said some upcoming commercial sites along nearby Main Street should compensate for the loss.
*
The four-story apartments also drew criticism from area residents who argued that the high-density dwellings would lead to more crime and traffic as well as lower property values.
Nearby neighbor Carol Manning said she is not against affordable housing, but disagrees with the high density of this particular project and mixing senior housing with multi-family units. Now that the city has approved the project, Manning said it must manage it properly to avoid problems.
*
"They are buying themselves a nightmare," she said. "It is not going to be a project we are proud of."
*
Nonprofit developer Corporation for Better Housing said it has constructed several high-quality projects all around the state.
*
The site near Main Street was too deep for commercial purposes, added CBH employee Charlie Brumbaugh, noting that the project will be gated and subject to strict management practices.
Brumbaugh says this area needs at least 10,000 affordable housing units. The state recently recommended CBH for $35 million in federal tax-exempt bond funding for the project.
*
"This project will provide much-needed housing for our seniors and local working population," Redevelopment Director Barbara Mason said. "The developer has worked diligently with the city to address trees, design and infrastructure challenges."
*
Although Mayor Brad Nix still disagrees with the decision to rezone the property, he has vowed to ensure that the project is well-managed. He is scrutinizing this project especially closely because there are market-rate condominiums planned nearby that could be converted into affordable housing.
*
"Obviously, we are going to be watching it because we don't want that problem any more than anyone else does," Nix said.
*
Nix and city officials are considering an ordinance that would force landlords to pay fees through a rental housing licensing requirement. That money could pay for additional code and law enforcement efforts targeting rental properties throughout the city, according to City Manager Bryan Montgomery.
*
The developer has strict management practices, which should allay concerns about public safety, he added. The project will provide a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and is scheduled to open in 2008.
*
The multifamily complex will feature a computer learning center that will offer tutoring and classes, as well as playgrounds, picnic areas, barbecues and a lounge.
*
The senior housing will provide a walking track, rose garden and exercise classes.
Rents will be based on income and are likely to range from $700 to $800 per month for seniors and $700 to $1,200 for families.
*
For more information on the project, call 818-905-2430.
Paula King covers Oakley. Reach her at 925-779-7189 or pking@cctimes.com.

City Web Page Back Up and Running:

The Good News: The Grand Terrace City Web Site is back up and running,

The Bad News: The Agenda for Thursdays Planning Commission Meeting Is NOT POSTED

The Bad News: The Web Site information is much as it was..

Well, one can HOPE...

ON the Calendar Of City Events: as Published in BMO

DEC 1 to when there are no more Free Compost Bins... Bring ID showing you live in GT...
DEC 6th: Landlords Meeting regarding New Inspection Fees
DEC 7th Planning Commission Meeting
DEC 14th City BirthDay Celebration .... Cake at 6:00 usually attended only by Council Members, and City Staff... and former Council Members.... Show up it is a PUBLIC EVENT, paid for by PUBLIC FUNDS... In Community Room
DEC 14th City Council Meeting at 7:00 P.M. In Council Chambers
DEC 14th City Block Grant Hearing at 7:30 P.M. In Council Chambers
DEC 18th Close of Bid Request for Road Construction at 10:00 A.M.
DEC 21st Planning Commission Meeting

I am unable to obtain Agenda Information regarding any of these meetings so it is not easy for the PUBLIC to participate and be informed. The limited amount of information available to citizens via the city web page is not available as the city web page is not working.

For those of you with pending issues and concerns before the City Council it is advised that you find out what is on the Agenda. I know most of us are busy with holidays and family details but this would be a perfect time for the City Staff and Council to pass something by having "Computer Upgrades" and distracted Citizens converge.

Now that the council and Mayor have been re-designated so to speak. I won't say they have a mandate with such low voter turn out, it is important to see to it they EARN the right to stay on the Council and in their Jobs.

City of Grand Terrace Web Site Down...

Let Us Hope the City Web Site Revisions are underway.

Included in those revisions it is hopped that the Council Member's Documents are available on line to the interested reader. It is hopped that the Check Register and Vouchers are Provided to the Public Review. It is hopped that all Contracts for Services are Posted on the Web Site, and so forth.

We don't need to see pictures of this park or flower, we would like to see a disclosure of facts, not just budgets, but actuals. Including such things as How much and from whom did the money come from to pay for GT Days... Let the Citizens decide on if it is a conflict of interest or not, or if the funds could be spent in a better way, perhaps funding the Youth Sports Teams instead of the promotion of Firework Sales, and use. A 4th of July Party that would celebrate the Sports Teams, and the 4th and raise additional funds... BUT, no Sale of Fireworks and use in the city except at a controlled site at a PUBLIC PARK... where by its nature would be a SOBER EVENT.

Raymond B. Ramirez - Accident Cause Death

Raymond B. Ramirez, the motorcycle, collided with the Jeep near Washington Street and Bluff Drive. Raymon B Ramirez died from the injuries after his arrival at Lomal Linda University Medical Center. The driver of the Jeep was uninjured. The accident happened at 6:10 am on Saturday Dec 2, 2006 while Raymond B Ramirez was riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycle which collided with a Jeep Cherokee. The accident is to be investigated by the Colton Police.

The area of Washington and Bluff Drive is Signalized and about as regulated as it can be with the exception of perhaps the speed limit should be slower considering that the traffic is navigating curves and the signals and the numerous driveways in and out of businesses parking lots. Car to Motorcycle Contact often results in no injury to the driver of the auto, however Jeeps and SUV's are particularly injurious to smaller vehicles, and pedestrians.

So Friends who drive: Please be careful know that Safety is a Planned Action. When you get in or on your vehicle say to yourself, I could Kill or Be Killed as a result of driving this vehicle. IF you are impaired by anything even the sun rise, don't drive, when it is not safe. IF you are tired, drunk, or sick don't drive. If the Sun is so bright in your eyes, wait till it is a bit higher. If it is raining so hard you can't see, get off the road have a cup of coffee.

May the families of Mr. Ramirez be a comfort to each other. May we all be made aware of the fragile nature of life and our interdependence.