There are several reports of theft and robbery happening around the Hospitality Ln and Big Box Stores in the area of Best Buy, Home Depot, and CostCo... Please do not leave packages in the car in view of folks walking by. Please, shop with a friend, and get an escort to your car if you feel the least bit apprehensive about going in to the parking lot.
Thanks,
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
City Council Meeting: Appointment Option Made
Where as the Council Member Garcia and McNaboe sited the emails they received regarding an open agenda item to appoint or to elect a council member those emails should be part of the public records and minutes of the meeting. The public that speaks at a Council Meeting provide their names and addresses, so it is reasonable to have in the record the email requests made by citizens on this agenda item be also so noted and recorded in the public record.
The Blog received the above statement... it will take the action of a Citizen to make the request.
The Results of the City Council Meeting Are:
McNaboe and Garcia insulated that there was no way that they would support the Appointment of Sylvia Robles in spite of the clear public support at the two Council Meetings and the near 50 percent of the voters who voted in the last election. They each sited email input as being part of their justification to support an election or support for candidates that were not being supported in public at the City Council Meeting.
Lee Ann Garcia was and is willing to leave the seat vacant for 2 years in the hopes to prove to the Citizens that the current council can agree and manage the city's business when they have the appearance to be representing two different factions of the community. This she contends would upset just as many citizens as an appointment of a fifth council member from one side or faction or the other.
Darcy McNaboe was holding out for an election but did vote for an appointment provided she and Lee Ann's Conditions and Process for an appointment be approved. The conditions are:
1) The candidates or applicants will apply
2) Each will be subjected to the same questions.
3) The questions will be written by staff and council members but only 2 of the staff will know the questions prior to the night of the interview. Council members will select from a list of questions which ones they will ask, and they will ask the same question of each candidate. (Applicants will be sequestered in the Library during the interviews of the other applicants.)
4) Public Comment will take place after the interview process. (Applicants may or may not want to join the community during the public comment phase.)
5) Each Candidate will be voted on approved or eliminated. The first getting 3 positive votes will be seated. There was no provision to consider any remaining candidates if some had not been voted upon. This disallows for a tie, or a person who may have 4 votes but came randomly after the first person who got 3 votes. (All applicants will or may be in chambers when voting is done.)
6) If the council can not select one of the applicants with a majority vote of 3 or more, then the seat will remain vacant for 2 years.
There was to be no ranking of candidates or a provision for a run off between 2 or more candidates that may receive 3 votes or 4 votes in a tie situation.
Applicants will be self selected via an application available from the City Clerks Office.
There was discussion that the number of questions asked be limited so that the meeting does not run long and the discussion and selection process run into the late hours of the night past say 9:00 pm.
Notice of the Appointment Application will be made in the Local News papers and on the City Web Site and on the electronic sign board.
Email your thoughts on the above.
Next Meeting January 11th, 6:00, bring a snack... it may be a long night.
The Blog received the above statement... it will take the action of a Citizen to make the request.
The Results of the City Council Meeting Are:
McNaboe and Garcia insulated that there was no way that they would support the Appointment of Sylvia Robles in spite of the clear public support at the two Council Meetings and the near 50 percent of the voters who voted in the last election. They each sited email input as being part of their justification to support an election or support for candidates that were not being supported in public at the City Council Meeting.
Lee Ann Garcia was and is willing to leave the seat vacant for 2 years in the hopes to prove to the Citizens that the current council can agree and manage the city's business when they have the appearance to be representing two different factions of the community. This she contends would upset just as many citizens as an appointment of a fifth council member from one side or faction or the other.
Darcy McNaboe was holding out for an election but did vote for an appointment provided she and Lee Ann's Conditions and Process for an appointment be approved. The conditions are:
1) The candidates or applicants will apply
2) Each will be subjected to the same questions.
3) The questions will be written by staff and council members but only 2 of the staff will know the questions prior to the night of the interview. Council members will select from a list of questions which ones they will ask, and they will ask the same question of each candidate. (Applicants will be sequestered in the Library during the interviews of the other applicants.)
4) Public Comment will take place after the interview process. (Applicants may or may not want to join the community during the public comment phase.)
5) Each Candidate will be voted on approved or eliminated. The first getting 3 positive votes will be seated. There was no provision to consider any remaining candidates if some had not been voted upon. This disallows for a tie, or a person who may have 4 votes but came randomly after the first person who got 3 votes. (All applicants will or may be in chambers when voting is done.)
6) If the council can not select one of the applicants with a majority vote of 3 or more, then the seat will remain vacant for 2 years.
There was to be no ranking of candidates or a provision for a run off between 2 or more candidates that may receive 3 votes or 4 votes in a tie situation.
Applicants will be self selected via an application available from the City Clerks Office.
There was discussion that the number of questions asked be limited so that the meeting does not run long and the discussion and selection process run into the late hours of the night past say 9:00 pm.
___________________________________________________________
Notice of the Appointment Application will be made in the Local News papers and on the City Web Site and on the electronic sign board.
Email your thoughts on the above.
Next Meeting January 11th, 6:00, bring a snack... it may be a long night.
Harper is Norco's Advisor Too...
At the past Redevelopment Agency/City Council meeting there was a financial report that contained outstanding RDA Loans. These loans were not identified as to who they were made out to or their current status on repayment. Mr. Harper and the past Board and Council may not have negotiated the loans in such a way to fully secure the RDA's interest in recovering the funds lent. The article below does not indicate the City of Norco will own the property in the case of the defaulted $500,000 loan. This is why it is important to have citizens and council members ask questions and look to not only promote development but to protect the finances of the RDA and the City at the same time. The story below should cause every citizen of all towns an cities that Mr. Harper is their council that they may have also walked into other bad loans without negotiating a secondary means of collection.
Norco's $500,000 auto dealer loan may be a loss.
10:00 PM PST on Monday, December 20, 2010
Norco's $500,000 auto dealer loan may be a loss.
10:00 PM PST on Monday, December 20, 2010
Norco no longer expects to recover much of the $500,000 loaned to a car dealer, City Attorney John Harper said.
In December 2008, the city Redevelopment Agency loaned $500,000 each to the owners of Norco Mazda and Frahm Chrysler Jeep Dodge. The dealerships were in peril of going out of business, which would have cost the city sales-tax revenue that helps pay for public safety and other services.
Frahm Dodge is current on its payments, but the Mazda dealership stopped writing its $7,000 monthly checks in November 2009 after closing that May.
The Redevelopment Agency has sued Mazda owner Jeff Wilhelm, who had operated the business since 2005, in an attempt to recoup its money. The dealership first opened in 2001.
Harper updated the City Council on the collection efforts in a closed session Wednesday.
The city had been hopeful that payments could be worked out, but in an interview Friday, Harper said it is clear now that much of the millions of dollars of Wilhelm's personal assets that were used as collateral are gone and that he also owes almost $2 million to others.
Wilhelm had investments, property and business holdings, Harper said, but as the economy fizzled, those assets dwindled.
Wilhelm owes Ford Motor Credit $1.1 million and the state Board of Equalization, which collects sales tax, $800,000, Harper said.
The city at one point grew concerned that Wilhelm had spent the money on personal uses, but he has since proved that he spent it on the dealership, Harper said.
Wilhelm's attorney at the Irvine-based Horizon Law Group could not immediately be reached for comment.
The City Council members present on Dec. 3, 2008 -- Kathy Azevedo, Frank Hall, Richard MacGregor and Malcolm Miller -- approved the loans after a public hearing.
Even the late Lois "Granny" Loock, the noted critic of city spending, encouraged the deal, according to minutes of the meeting.
Redevelopment Agency dollars typically are used to help businesses expand or locate within the city.
Azevedo said Friday that she is still hopeful that Wilhelm will repay the city.
"I know he's trying really hard not to file bankruptcy," she said. "The decision in the past was made at a different time in the economy. We had no idea it was going to be of the magnitude that it is now."
Azevedo added that a similar agreement in the 1980s saved a dealership then.
More than a dozen Inland dealerships closed between March 2008 and May 2009.
Reach Brian Rokos at 951-368-9660 or brokos@PE.com
A Place to Spend Money...
WARNING ROAD CLOSED
Grand Terrace Road between Newport Avenue and Vivienda Avenue has been closed due to a road failure. Residents will still have access to their homes. The City will be investigating the cost associated with the repairs. The road will remain closed until further notice.
Could this be related to the Riverside Water Company's Work in the area or just extra rain?
This is an example of the type of repairs or infrastructure improvements that would be covered by Developer Fees or Building Permit Fees. Some construction impacts are not known until tested by Mother Nature.
This is an example of the type of repairs or infrastructure improvements that would be covered by Developer Fees or Building Permit Fees. Some construction impacts are not known until tested by Mother Nature.
Monday, December 20, 2010
From the Email InBox: The Other View: Hold an Election
Hey Old Man:
I say go ahead have an election. Then Sylvia Robles will be elected and be done with it. Sure it would cost 30,000 to 50,000 but, hey that is nothing compared to the money they gave Jack Brown and Stater's to buy a big chunk of Grand Terrace for a mini Stater's Ville right on our own main street. The Non-Competitive nature of the Stater's Complex will have a long term business impact that puts Stater's Interest ahead of Business Interest in Grand Terrace. So go ahead and spend down the reserve on this election. This city no longer needs to exist, we have become Stater's Ville thanks to Jacobsen and Schwab and Jack Brown and the RDA. We've been assured that all sorts of tax revenue will result from this development... so we will be in the money as soon as next summer when the new market opens all financial problems will be gone.
It costs twice that to fix the brand new kitchen at the Senior Center, or buy an electric sign, or to pay Tom Schwab to retire quietly.
At a minimum, elections are good for local printers of campaign signs, and fliers. Make my day lets have an election. I want to vote for Sylvia Robles again, and I will work harder to get more people out to vote so she exceeds the number of votes she got in the last election to bring home the point of her public support. I will make sure to tell the voters which city council members voted for the need for an election and the spending of 30 to 50,000 tax dollars for a "Special Election". I will also tell folks that this is the type of excessive spending that should be stopped or made unnessassary by a person with a eyes trained to be critical to details like Sylvia Robles has.
I have space in my yard for a yard sign all ready.
Signed:
A voter who will vote again for Sylvia Robles. If there is an election I know right now I will not vote for either Garcia or McNaboe in their future election. That is also a fact.
Gramps Reply With A Note:
Well, folks there is the other side of the same coin if ever I read it. Interesting point of view.
I say go ahead have an election. Then Sylvia Robles will be elected and be done with it. Sure it would cost 30,000 to 50,000 but, hey that is nothing compared to the money they gave Jack Brown and Stater's to buy a big chunk of Grand Terrace for a mini Stater's Ville right on our own main street. The Non-Competitive nature of the Stater's Complex will have a long term business impact that puts Stater's Interest ahead of Business Interest in Grand Terrace. So go ahead and spend down the reserve on this election. This city no longer needs to exist, we have become Stater's Ville thanks to Jacobsen and Schwab and Jack Brown and the RDA. We've been assured that all sorts of tax revenue will result from this development... so we will be in the money as soon as next summer when the new market opens all financial problems will be gone.
It costs twice that to fix the brand new kitchen at the Senior Center, or buy an electric sign, or to pay Tom Schwab to retire quietly.
At a minimum, elections are good for local printers of campaign signs, and fliers. Make my day lets have an election. I want to vote for Sylvia Robles again, and I will work harder to get more people out to vote so she exceeds the number of votes she got in the last election to bring home the point of her public support. I will make sure to tell the voters which city council members voted for the need for an election and the spending of 30 to 50,000 tax dollars for a "Special Election". I will also tell folks that this is the type of excessive spending that should be stopped or made unnessassary by a person with a eyes trained to be critical to details like Sylvia Robles has.
I have space in my yard for a yard sign all ready.
Signed:
A voter who will vote again for Sylvia Robles. If there is an election I know right now I will not vote for either Garcia or McNaboe in their future election. That is also a fact.
Gramps Reply With A Note:
Well, folks there is the other side of the same coin if ever I read it. Interesting point of view.
Past Appointments By Lee Ann Garcia
Dear Gramps:
IF you look at the past appointments that Lee Ann Garcia made you'll have to agree they are interesting. First of all the appointments went to people who pledged not to run for the seat in the next election, protecting the sitting council members in their own campaigns. The people were also flash backs to the past prior members of the council and no doubt people who were not "Independent" as Mr. Hilkey suggested the appointment needs to be this time.
Lee Ann Garcia was comfortable with the appointment process when it resulted in an appointment that served her political security and network. Now only the big price tag of an election is her inducement for accepting an appointment if applications are taken and the field is open to all comers.
We have no way of calibrating Council Member Darcy McNaboe's conduct or decision making. At some points in her campaign she claimed she can work with anyone... Is she showing that she is putting her foot down, disregarding public support for Robles, that she is of a temperament that all though she "can" work with anyone she "won't". In her election she said she was a candidate that would be mindful of the financial limits of the community during this slow economy. Spending our limited funds for an election when Robles has the clear support of the community as a glimpse into the mind or motivation of our new council member. Quite frankly she is not providing many of us with much hope she has Grand Terrace as her primary focus. Let's hope she has had a week to reflect on the choices and the responsibilities she has assumed as a City Council Member.
If either of the Council Members who's term expires in 2 years, (Garcia-McNaboe, and the appointed or elected replacement) think that running in 2 years would be easier if Robles is not the appointment they are kidding themselves. While they are doing that they are also denying the public the service of a person who has a skills set to bring to the City Council that can not be found in any of the other 4 members of the council, and thus by function and capability she is "Independent" as well as has significant public support. Sylvia Robles should be the appointment to the empty seat on the City Council. We need her expertise that NONE of the existing Council Members bring to the pool of talents and expertise.
PS Thanks for the blog...
IF you look at the past appointments that Lee Ann Garcia made you'll have to agree they are interesting. First of all the appointments went to people who pledged not to run for the seat in the next election, protecting the sitting council members in their own campaigns. The people were also flash backs to the past prior members of the council and no doubt people who were not "Independent" as Mr. Hilkey suggested the appointment needs to be this time.
Lee Ann Garcia was comfortable with the appointment process when it resulted in an appointment that served her political security and network. Now only the big price tag of an election is her inducement for accepting an appointment if applications are taken and the field is open to all comers.
We have no way of calibrating Council Member Darcy McNaboe's conduct or decision making. At some points in her campaign she claimed she can work with anyone... Is she showing that she is putting her foot down, disregarding public support for Robles, that she is of a temperament that all though she "can" work with anyone she "won't". In her election she said she was a candidate that would be mindful of the financial limits of the community during this slow economy. Spending our limited funds for an election when Robles has the clear support of the community as a glimpse into the mind or motivation of our new council member. Quite frankly she is not providing many of us with much hope she has Grand Terrace as her primary focus. Let's hope she has had a week to reflect on the choices and the responsibilities she has assumed as a City Council Member.
If either of the Council Members who's term expires in 2 years, (Garcia-McNaboe, and the appointed or elected replacement) think that running in 2 years would be easier if Robles is not the appointment they are kidding themselves. While they are doing that they are also denying the public the service of a person who has a skills set to bring to the City Council that can not be found in any of the other 4 members of the council, and thus by function and capability she is "Independent" as well as has significant public support. Sylvia Robles should be the appointment to the empty seat on the City Council. We need her expertise that NONE of the existing Council Members bring to the pool of talents and expertise.
PS Thanks for the blog...
As the Clock Ticks: Here is what is needed....
Gramps:
As the clock is running down on the 30 day dead line in filling the empty council seat perhaps it would be wise for Mayor Walt Stanckiewitz to call a Special City Council Meeting every day until the decision has been made. Perhaps he should include Weekends and non "Official Holidays".
In order to facilitate this he may have to ask the City Staff who attends the meetings to begin their work days at 1:00 pm so they are not on overtime hours. (Management in most businesses do not get paid overtime or hourly, so that only affects those who are compensated hourly.) All other management should put in the extra hours without additional pay. No Comp time. It is part of being a manager.
Please encourage all citizens that can come to Tuesdays City Council Meeting to show up and encourage a timely decision. We can't afford to pay 30,000 to 50,000 for an election. That is a waste of money that should be held in reserve for a real need or a long term asset that will serve the community longer than 2 year appointment to city council.
As the clock is running down on the 30 day dead line in filling the empty council seat perhaps it would be wise for Mayor Walt Stanckiewitz to call a Special City Council Meeting every day until the decision has been made. Perhaps he should include Weekends and non "Official Holidays".
In order to facilitate this he may have to ask the City Staff who attends the meetings to begin their work days at 1:00 pm so they are not on overtime hours. (Management in most businesses do not get paid overtime or hourly, so that only affects those who are compensated hourly.) All other management should put in the extra hours without additional pay. No Comp time. It is part of being a manager.
Please encourage all citizens that can come to Tuesdays City Council Meeting to show up and encourage a timely decision. We can't afford to pay 30,000 to 50,000 for an election. That is a waste of money that should be held in reserve for a real need or a long term asset that will serve the community longer than 2 year appointment to city council.
From In the News and InBox: Appoint or Elect
Grand Terrace to decide council selection method
Ryan Hagen, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/19/2010 06:08:19 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - The City Council will decide whether to elect or appoint the fifth member of the body at a special meeting starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
The council was scheduled to decide how to fill the seat, which opened up when Walt Stanckiewitz became mayor, at its regular meeting Dec. 14.
But with two of the four members indicating an election was necessary to give the people a proper voice and two saying the city could not afford the price tag, they agreed to meet again after checking to see if that price could be lowered by scheduling the election alongside another city's.
The county registrar of voters said no - the election would still cost $45,000 to $50,000, or $31,000 if the city used mailed ballots.
Seventeen residents spoke about the issue at the last meeting. Most argued the council should appoint Sylvia Robles, who lost November's two-person council race by 45 votes. Five said the city deserved an election.
Council members avoided coming down definitively.
Councilman Bernardo Sandoval said he wasn't sure the city could afford the election - which would come out of a General Fund reserve of nearly $1.6 million - but was sensitive to community members who thought Robles would form a bloc with him and Stanckiewitz because they based their elections on similar issues.
"I have talked to Sylvia probably on four or five occasions," he said. "We have fundamental disagreements, especially on the school board."
Councilwoman Lee Ann Garcia said she had a good dynamic with all of the sitting members, but also said there were too few people present to represent the city.
"In my heart, I think the fair thing to do is to let the people decide," she said.
Five of the city's six past vacancies have been filled by appointment.
more: http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_16899550#ixzz18fuOXvCT
FROM THE EMAIL INBOX
Gramp Please you have to remind us that on Lee Ann Garcia's first appointment she voiced no such thoughts the Citizens should have a vote. Nor did she when she appointed 2 other appointments during her terms in office. This new found position is interesting given she has at least some evidence of who the voters want where as in the past she made a selection and appointment without the aid of a recent election.
What is happening is that she is fearful of losing the support of her voter block by appointing the Voter's Choice, and fearful of a loss in the next election if she doesn't appoint the Voter's Choice.
Sandoval is right Sylvia is different than he and Stanckiewitz. Folks that see them as linked at the hip are just wrong. However, Sandoval and Stanckiewitz do see the facts that she would most likely win an election, and did get support from a significant portion of the electorate in the last election.
The concept that Robles shares with Stanckiewitz and Sandoval is that there needs to be a full accounting and correction of the past and to move forward with an open, clean and financially responsible city government. We must ask Garcia and McNaboe what of that list they do not support. Then in two years ask do we want them on the council during a "Normal" Election Cycle.
Ryan Hagen, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/19/2010 06:08:19 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - The City Council will decide whether to elect or appoint the fifth member of the body at a special meeting starting at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
The council was scheduled to decide how to fill the seat, which opened up when Walt Stanckiewitz became mayor, at its regular meeting Dec. 14.
But with two of the four members indicating an election was necessary to give the people a proper voice and two saying the city could not afford the price tag, they agreed to meet again after checking to see if that price could be lowered by scheduling the election alongside another city's.
The county registrar of voters said no - the election would still cost $45,000 to $50,000, or $31,000 if the city used mailed ballots.
Seventeen residents spoke about the issue at the last meeting. Most argued the council should appoint Sylvia Robles, who lost November's two-person council race by 45 votes. Five said the city deserved an election.
Council members avoided coming down definitively.
Councilman Bernardo Sandoval said he wasn't sure the city could afford the election - which would come out of a General Fund reserve of nearly $1.6 million - but was sensitive to community members who thought Robles would form a bloc with him and Stanckiewitz because they based their elections on similar issues.
"I have talked to Sylvia probably on four or five occasions," he said. "We have fundamental disagreements, especially on the school board."
Councilwoman Lee Ann Garcia said she had a good dynamic with all of the sitting members, but also said there were too few people present to represent the city.
"In my heart, I think the fair thing to do is to let the people decide," she said.
Five of the city's six past vacancies have been filled by appointment.
more: http://www.sbsun.com/news/ci_16899550#ixzz18fuOXvCT
FROM THE EMAIL INBOX
Gramp Please you have to remind us that on Lee Ann Garcia's first appointment she voiced no such thoughts the Citizens should have a vote. Nor did she when she appointed 2 other appointments during her terms in office. This new found position is interesting given she has at least some evidence of who the voters want where as in the past she made a selection and appointment without the aid of a recent election.
What is happening is that she is fearful of losing the support of her voter block by appointing the Voter's Choice, and fearful of a loss in the next election if she doesn't appoint the Voter's Choice.
Sandoval is right Sylvia is different than he and Stanckiewitz. Folks that see them as linked at the hip are just wrong. However, Sandoval and Stanckiewitz do see the facts that she would most likely win an election, and did get support from a significant portion of the electorate in the last election.
The concept that Robles shares with Stanckiewitz and Sandoval is that there needs to be a full accounting and correction of the past and to move forward with an open, clean and financially responsible city government. We must ask Garcia and McNaboe what of that list they do not support. Then in two years ask do we want them on the council during a "Normal" Election Cycle.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Once Upon a Time in Grand Terrace....
In a land dear to our hearts called Grand Terrace there came a Developer named Doug Jacobsen who said he wanted to build a development. In that development would be a large Stater's Brothers Market, which he would sell the land to Stater's and then benefit from them being the anchor and HE'd develop the rest of the development and be a good neighbor... yada yada yada...
As of Dec 3, 2010 it looks like Mr. Jacobsen has sold almost all of the property to Stater Brothers and he is limiting his participation in the development. Given Stater Brothers propensity to limit any form of competition on property they own, how the remaining land will be use may be seriously redefined to suit Stater's Desires not those stated in prior agreements, and Specific Plans. In so much that Stater's is getting government assistance directly and indirectly this amounts to a restraint of trade and unfair trade in this writer's opinion.Staters has bought all of the property in the Barton Road Towne Center that Jacobsen owned.
Jacobsen owns nothing in the Barton Rd. Towne Center.
Jacobsen still owns the 2-story house that was next to the ex-mayor's house on Michigan.
That property was never in the Towne Center project.
1167-231-03-0000
" 08
" 09
" 12
" 13
" 15
" 21
Jacobsen owns nothing in the Barton Rd. Towne Center.
Jacobsen still owns the 2-story house that was next to the ex-mayor's house on Michigan.
That property was never in the Towne Center project.
1167-231-03-0000
" 08
" 09
" 12
" 13
" 15
" 21
Now for our trusted News Coverage provided by the Sun Telegram, read the following article and you'll get the since that the writer did not stay for the entire meeting. He fails to mention the number of people who provided public comment, in support of an appointment of Sylvia Robles and the few who desired a direct election regardless of the cost to the city. The blog has provided much better coverage than the Sun or the Press...
Grand Terrace Council sees fresh start with Colton school districtRyan Hagen, Staff Writer Posted: 12/16/2010 5:24:25 PM PST
GRAND TERRACE - City Hall was crowded with new faces and new words.
Shortly after the swearing in of Mayor Walt Stanckiewitz and City Council members Darcy McNaboe and Bernardo Sandoval, the standing-room-only crowd began to disperse.
But four members of the Colton Joint Unified School District board, including the board president, stayed afterward to pledge a close working relationship with Grand Terrace.
"I want to be clear this board will be transparent above all," said Patt Haro, the new school board president. "You will hear anything and everything."
Mayor Walt Stanckiewitz, who has served on the City Council since 2008, said afterward that he couldn't remember a school board president addressing the City Council in recent memory.
"It's just a whole different outlook now," Stanckiewitz said.
Relations between the two bodies had become frayed in recent years, with tempers flaring over such issues as the the naming and the construction of Grand Terrace High School.
Other developments at the Tuesday night meeting:
A development agreement with Stater Bros. Markets was adopted that locks in fees. Construction on the long-debated market in the city began in October.
City staff was directed to meet with the county registrar of voters to see if costs could be reduced for a potential special election to fill an empty seat on the council. On Thursday, City Clerk Brenda Mesa reported no money could be saved and scheduled a special meeting for Tuesday to decide whether to hold an election or appoint someone to the seat.
Departing Councilwoman Bea Cortes and Mayor Maryetta Ferre received awards for their service to the city.
A decision on which members would represent the city on various regional agencies was delayed.
ryan.hagen@inlandnewspapers.com, 909-386-3916
From In the News: CJUSD Board Members Taken To Task:
Navarro claims officials broke law
Complaint filed against Colton school boardPosted: 12/20/2010 09:13:57 PM PSTUpdated: 12/20/2010 09:19:29 PM PSTAn unannounced appearance by four Colton school board members at a Grand Terrace City Council meeting broke state law, alleges a complaint filed Monday with the county District Attorney's Public Integrity Unit.Gil Navarro, a member of the county board of education, said the Colton members violated the Ralph M. Brown Act, which requires local legislative bodies to publicly post an agenda 72 hours before a meeting, when board president Patt Haro and three of the board's other six members attended the Dec. 14 City Council meeting.
Brown Act experts say it's unlikely the school board members violated the act.
"For the board president to take it upon herself to have a private meeting without advising her constituents - that's why we have the law in place," Navarro said. "The public has a right to know when a majority of the board members are taking on an issue."
During the public comment section of the meeting, Haro and board members Randall Ceniceros and Pilar Tabera congratulated the newly elected council members and pledged to work openly and cooperatively with the city, which in the past has tangled with the school board.
Another board member, Kent Taylor, watched the beginning of the meeting before leaving.
"I came to say goodbye to the existing mayor and council and also to see the incoming mayor and council being sworn in," Taylor said. "I came for an intended purpose, and that wasn't to communicate with other board members. I shook their hand, I waved `hi,' and that's it."
The act contains an exemption allowing members to attend another body's public meeting "provided that a majority of the members do not discuss among themselves, other than as part of the scheduled program, business of a specified nature that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the local agency."
That would probably cover the school board's actions, said Terry Francke, general counsel of Californians Aware, a group that fights for open access to government.
"I don't think there's a Brown Act issue there," Francke said after hearing a brief summary. "Those expressions of goodwill don't constitute anything substantive."
But Navarro said the comments were not part of the "scheduled program" because they did not address an issue on the council's agenda.
The complaint asks the four board members to apologize in writing and attend a workshop on the Brown Act.
Note on CHS CIF....
Voice of the People
Go Colton!
We attended the Colton and Rancho Verde High School CIF football game last Friday night.
The Rancho Verde High School was packed with Colton supporters - standing room only.
It is the first time since 1978 Colton has won the CIF.
Go Colton!
JO STRINGFIELD and MATT FLEMING
Friday, December 17, 2010
Stater Brothers Profits Increase:
Glad Staters got over a million from the city, in direct support and waived development fees from a cash strapped city that is taking extra monies from a cash strapped state to fund RDA Projects.
Stater Bros. upbeat Grocery chain makes $5.9M in 4th quarter
Andrew Edwards, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/16/2010 07:04:36 PM PST
Profits at Stater Bros. Holdings dropped over the course of the chain's most recent fiscal year, but a fourth quarter increase may signal better times ahead for the grocery business and Inland Empire, company chairman Jack Brown said.
"We're hopeful that the economy is turning around," Brown said Thursday morning. "There are some housing starts out there. There are 50 homes being built up at Cal State, so people are going back to work."
Brown referred to the Pinnacles at University Hills project, which Seal Beach-based J.R. Watson and Associates is developing for future construction atop a hill near Cal State San Bernardino.
In terms of Stater Bros.' performance, the company reported $24.6 million in profits for the fiscal year ending Sept. 26. That amount signified a decline of about 29 percent from the previous year's figure of $34.8 million.
During the fourth quarter, however, Stater Bros. recorded a $5.9 million profit, which was higher than the $5 million earned during the same three-month period in 2009.
The better numbers came in part from new computer systems that improved managers' ability to track shrinkage, Brown said.
"None of the improvements came from pricing," he said.
Stater Bros. experienced an overall decline in sales during the past fiscal year, but most of that decrease was not the result of reduced business at the company's 167 supermarkets.
The company reported year-over-year sales
dropped by about $159 million, although all but $66 million of that decrease resulted from its sale of Industry-based Santee Dairies.
In terms of Stater Bros. customers, Brown said shoppers are still filling their carts in the same ways they learned to do in the depths of the recession. That means budget meals and store brands.
"Most people are still holding on to the hamburger," he said. "It will probably be summer before you see families starting to move up again." andrew.edwards@inlandnewspapers.com 909-483-8550 Read more: http://www.sbsun.com/business/ci_16879103#ixzz18Ns2bu4f
Stater Bros. upbeat Grocery chain makes $5.9M in 4th quarter
Andrew Edwards, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/16/2010 07:04:36 PM PST
Profits at Stater Bros. Holdings dropped over the course of the chain's most recent fiscal year, but a fourth quarter increase may signal better times ahead for the grocery business and Inland Empire, company chairman Jack Brown said.
"We're hopeful that the economy is turning around," Brown said Thursday morning. "There are some housing starts out there. There are 50 homes being built up at Cal State, so people are going back to work."
Brown referred to the Pinnacles at University Hills project, which Seal Beach-based J.R. Watson and Associates is developing for future construction atop a hill near Cal State San Bernardino.
In terms of Stater Bros.' performance, the company reported $24.6 million in profits for the fiscal year ending Sept. 26. That amount signified a decline of about 29 percent from the previous year's figure of $34.8 million.
During the fourth quarter, however, Stater Bros. recorded a $5.9 million profit, which was higher than the $5 million earned during the same three-month period in 2009.
The better numbers came in part from new computer systems that improved managers' ability to track shrinkage, Brown said.
"None of the improvements came from pricing," he said.
Stater Bros. experienced an overall decline in sales during the past fiscal year, but most of that decrease was not the result of reduced business at the company's 167 supermarkets.
The company reported year-over-year sales
dropped by about $159 million, although all but $66 million of that decrease resulted from its sale of Industry-based Santee Dairies.
In terms of Stater Bros. customers, Brown said shoppers are still filling their carts in the same ways they learned to do in the depths of the recession. That means budget meals and store brands.
"Most people are still holding on to the hamburger," he said. "It will probably be summer before you see families starting to move up again." andrew.edwards@inlandnewspapers.com 909-483-8550 Read more: http://www.sbsun.com/business/ci_16879103#ixzz18Ns2bu4f
Snip of GTHS NEWS: In the Works...
News Flash . . . GTHS will in all likelyhood not open until August 2012, but it should open with all that was promised to GT. It will probably open with 9/10/11th grades instead of just 9/10th. More info should be comming out soon.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Appointment or Elect On Agenda:
A Special Meeting of the City Council has been called
Tuesday, December 21, 2010 at 6:00 p.m.
at City Hall, Council Chambers
Note Change in Date Email from City Corrected
Agenda and Packet are now available on line.
Click below for the Agenda
http://www.cityofgrandterrace.org/archives/30/12212010.PDF
Click below for the Packet It contains a short summary of the Public Comments made at the prior meeting. Staff contacted ROV and Jeff McC was not right about a discounted election being possible. I have been informed the Public Comment on the topic of filling the seat will be opened during the meeting.
http://www.cityofgrandterrace.org/archives/38/12212010%20Council%20Packet%20Special.PDF
This is a Special Meeting it will start at 6:00 p.m. There are only 3 things on the agenda. If you wish to speak you should be there on time.
Item 1
Public Comment
Item 2
Filling Council Member Vacancy
Item 3
Approve Council Board / Committee Assignments
From the Email Inbox: Past Appointments
Hey gramps,
I was reading the staff report on the council vacancy and noticed something very interesting. Lee Ann says she wants an election to make sure the people have a vote, yet in 1996 Councilman Gene Carlstrom resigned and she accepted an appointment to the day seat the very next day. Who is she beholden to, the voters or the camp that got her appointed? Also, I do not see Herman Hilkey's name and he said he was appointed at the city council meeting when he spoke on the filling of the vacant seat.
I was reading the staff report on the council vacancy and noticed something very interesting. Lee Ann says she wants an election to make sure the people have a vote, yet in 1996 Councilman Gene Carlstrom resigned and she accepted an appointment to the day seat the very next day. Who is she beholden to, the voters or the camp that got her appointed? Also, I do not see Herman Hilkey's name and he said he was appointed at the city council meeting when he spoke on the filling of the vacant seat.
Hey Gramps:
This person's perspective brings up some election reform worth putting on the ballot should a special election be scheduled. In today's Riverside Press Enterprise the new Moreno Valley, councilman Marcelo Co is quoted, ..." he'll propose term limits to end a ruling class of part-time City Council members becoming career politicians." The voters have shown they're fed up, he said, Fllickinger the outgoing Mayor, had 18 years on the council."
This is worth considering for Grand Terrace, Herman Hilkey was appointed by the "ruling class" as was current councilmember LeeAnn Garcia.
Hilkey served about 18 years and LeeAnn 14, with 2 years left in her current term.
The "ruling class" demonstrated at Monday's meeting, they only want an election when they do not like how the voters have spoken.
This is worth considering for Grand Terrace, Herman Hilkey was appointed by the "ruling class" as was current councilmember LeeAnn Garcia.
Hilkey served about 18 years and LeeAnn 14, with 2 years left in her current term.
The "ruling class" demonstrated at Monday's meeting, they only want an election when they do not like how the voters have spoken.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
McNaboe & Thelma Teach Us Something.
Gramps:
I thought I'd share a different view on the Appoint or Elect to fill an empty seat question.
This week in Grand Terrace Politics we can see that there already needs to be a change. Council Member Darcy Mc Naboe's position that there should be an election to fill the seat vacated by an election proves to be a avoidance of one of the current responsibilities of a council member.
Given the past precedent of prior appointments and those appointments being acceptable practice and that the voters just recently voted and expressed support for candidate she happens not to like she is willing to saddle the community with a 30,000.00 to 50.000.00 expense to avoid the challenge of working with some one who ran against her in an election, some one she may or may not personally like.
McNaboe and Garcia are clearly leaning on the side of the fence that would be characterized as being a personal decision not a representation of what the community of voters wants. Time will tell how they resolve this conundrum. Do they do what the people want or do they do what they want? This decision will tell the voters a lot about how the next few years will be.
For sure there is something to be learned here.
The rules of the election process may need to change. If a council member is going to run for Mayor that council member must resign effective of the election or in time for the seat to be vacated is also on the ballot so there is no empty seat caused by an election. Or an alternative may be like the Recall Election for Governor had a Yes or No for Recall, and IF the Recall Passes who would you vote for. So if a Council Member runs for Mayor it could be, IF the Council Member is elected this person is to replace him kind of a vote. Not a guaranteed opening and filler but the people would have a voice and there would be an election and not an large additional cost to fill the seat.
Perhaps Grand Terrace has a pool of people that can't be trusted to make an appointment in this case or in the future and that option should be eliminated for all future situations where their is a need to fill a seat.
Until there is a change lets hope the city council members will use wisdom in their decision making and that may include appointing some one the public support. If one was being political, just think of the next election that says Vote for 3. Well if you appointed a person that the majority of the public supports your likely to pick up a few votes of gratitude. On the other hand if you don't you may find yourself on the lower end of the vote count, without an empty seat to fill.
We have a Republic form of Government and when our elected officials don't represent us or refuse to do their duty in an effective way they eventually are replaced, at the next normal election cycle.
I thought I'd share a different view on the Appoint or Elect to fill an empty seat question.
This week in Grand Terrace Politics we can see that there already needs to be a change. Council Member Darcy Mc Naboe's position that there should be an election to fill the seat vacated by an election proves to be a avoidance of one of the current responsibilities of a council member.
Given the past precedent of prior appointments and those appointments being acceptable practice and that the voters just recently voted and expressed support for candidate she happens not to like she is willing to saddle the community with a 30,000.00 to 50.000.00 expense to avoid the challenge of working with some one who ran against her in an election, some one she may or may not personally like.
McNaboe and Garcia are clearly leaning on the side of the fence that would be characterized as being a personal decision not a representation of what the community of voters wants. Time will tell how they resolve this conundrum. Do they do what the people want or do they do what they want? This decision will tell the voters a lot about how the next few years will be.
For sure there is something to be learned here.
The rules of the election process may need to change. If a council member is going to run for Mayor that council member must resign effective of the election or in time for the seat to be vacated is also on the ballot so there is no empty seat caused by an election. Or an alternative may be like the Recall Election for Governor had a Yes or No for Recall, and IF the Recall Passes who would you vote for. So if a Council Member runs for Mayor it could be, IF the Council Member is elected this person is to replace him kind of a vote. Not a guaranteed opening and filler but the people would have a voice and there would be an election and not an large additional cost to fill the seat.
Perhaps Grand Terrace has a pool of people that can't be trusted to make an appointment in this case or in the future and that option should be eliminated for all future situations where their is a need to fill a seat.
Until there is a change lets hope the city council members will use wisdom in their decision making and that may include appointing some one the public support. If one was being political, just think of the next election that says Vote for 3. Well if you appointed a person that the majority of the public supports your likely to pick up a few votes of gratitude. On the other hand if you don't you may find yourself on the lower end of the vote count, without an empty seat to fill.
We have a Republic form of Government and when our elected officials don't represent us or refuse to do their duty in an effective way they eventually are replaced, at the next normal election cycle.
City Council Meeting Report from the Email InBox
Gramps:
I tried to sum up the Council the best I could for a friend who could not make the meeting or see it on TV.
Thought I would share it with you. It is not perfect, but I tried.
It was a long night. At six there was a city birthday party with food and desert and speakers. I did not go to that, but it looked full.
The council meeting started at 7:30. The place was packed. Lots of family and friends there for the swearing in.
Cortez was there. Maryetta & Bea had a special going away recognition for there service to the city. Bea & Maryetta good bye speeches.
I tried to sum up the Council the best I could for a friend who could not make the meeting or see it on TV.
Thought I would share it with you. It is not perfect, but I tried.
It was a long night. At six there was a city birthday party with food and desert and speakers. I did not go to that, but it looked full.
The council meeting started at 7:30. The place was packed. Lots of family and friends there for the swearing in.
Cortez was there. Maryetta & Bea had a special going away recognition for there service to the city. Bea & Maryetta good bye speeches.
- Maryetta can hardly wait to shop at the new Staters (quote).
- Then swearing in of Walt, Bernardo & Darcy.
- By now it is after 8:30 PM. Jacobsen and Slatter (Staters rep) had to sit through all of this nonsense.
- Recognition of father & son that are in the service.
- Approving minutes etc.
- Debra Hurst spoke about having question about the register.
- I think that was it.
A few for public hearing. - Darcy asked about the check register showing $52,400 to Jacobsen. Joyce said it was for commercial improvement of getting rid of blight. (Might be a RDA grant or fund, not sure).
- One of the staff discussed the open house SANBAG had about the fwy construction, including the Barton Rd. offramps.
- Christmas lights on GT homes.
- Now Staters had to sit through all this and more.
- Then they got to the dev. agreement.
See if I can get this straight, not in order:
Staters is done with escrow.
Going to terminate previous agreement (2005) & have a new one
The City got a letter from Staters, stating the City could pull the two parcels to the east of me out of the DDA agreement.
When Slatter spoke he mumbled something about the city could have the right to bulid, but couldn't use the lots to compete with them.
Apparently, the two lots were in escrow hold all this time.
After all that they approved it.
Now on to Empty Council Seat:
- Walt and Bernardo were so wisy washy about making a decision to appoint anyone (Sylvia)
- Garcia went on and on about having people apply for the position.
- Bernardo was on the fence. Wants the residence to know the new council is going to be fair.
- Darcy made it very well known she did not want Sylvia appointed.
- People got up and spoke for and against making an appointment. Most in support of a Robles appointment.
- A couple thought they should have a special election, no matter what the cost.
- Jeff McC got up and said he call the register of voters and GT could piggy back on another election so it wouldn't cost as much as alone.
- Then the council decided to wait and have staff look into that.
- After they find out for sure, there may be another council meeting next week.
- One of the ladies said they thought the 4 of them could get alone just find without filling that position.
- Wait until the 2 yrs is up.
Ray Abril Jr Dies:
Longtime board member Abril dies
Ryan Hagen, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/14/2010 08:09:49 PM PST
Ray Abril Jr., a long-time school board member sometimes known as the "godfather of the Colton Joint Unified School District" for his extensive mentoring and encyclopedic knowledge, died Tuesday morning. He was 78.
Abril joined the board in 1973 to end what supporters say was institutional discrimination against Latinos in Colton. By the time he retired in 2001, he had broadened his vision and shaped a generation of students, educators and administrators.
"He was an icon in Colton and beyond," said Herb Fischer, who was superintendent of schools in Colton from 1991 to 1999 and county superintendent of schools from 1999 to 2008. "His legacy lives on."
It was at a breakfast meeting with Abril - even after retirement, he met regularly with dozens of people - that Robert Armenta Jr. decided to run for the retiring lion's seat.
"It's because of him I'm on the Colton school board," said Armenta, then a staffer in the State Assembly. "He made me realize we didn't need professional educators on the board; we need people who care about the district."
Abril never taught in a classroom. He graduated from Colton High School in 1950, then dropped out of business college after one month to join the Navy.
He worked for Griffin Wheel Co. and San Bernardino County, joking he had a PhD from USC - the University of South Colton.
But Abril ardently supported higher education. During his six years as school board president, district officials say, the percent of district students to attend college rose from 16 to 54 and dropout rates declined from 12.4 percent to 1.6 percent, helping him earn both the San Bernardino County Education Medal of Honor and the Distinguished Service Award in 2000.
Abril's accomplishments also drove the school board to consider naming a high school in Grand Terrace after him, drawing fierce criticism from residents who wanted to honor the city. When completed, the school will be known as Grand Terrace High School at the Ray Abril Jr. Educational Complex.
Abril had six children, 19 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. His daughter, Melinda Medina, said he taught them the most important lesson: "Do not be afraid to speak up. People will love you for who you are."
A memorial viewing service will be held Dec. 20 in the Colton High School auditorium.
Read more: http://www.sbsun.com/ci_16860406?IADID=Search-www.sbsun.com-www.sbsun.com#ixzz18DxSgskN
Gramps Note:
Ray Abril Jr. served all the people of his community and CJUSD, not just the Latino students or community. When we all can see that the seeds he sprouted will have taken firm root.
Ryan Hagen, Staff Writer
Posted: 12/14/2010 08:09:49 PM PST
Ray Abril Jr., a long-time school board member sometimes known as the "godfather of the Colton Joint Unified School District" for his extensive mentoring and encyclopedic knowledge, died Tuesday morning. He was 78.
Abril joined the board in 1973 to end what supporters say was institutional discrimination against Latinos in Colton. By the time he retired in 2001, he had broadened his vision and shaped a generation of students, educators and administrators.
"He was an icon in Colton and beyond," said Herb Fischer, who was superintendent of schools in Colton from 1991 to 1999 and county superintendent of schools from 1999 to 2008. "His legacy lives on."
It was at a breakfast meeting with Abril - even after retirement, he met regularly with dozens of people - that Robert Armenta Jr. decided to run for the retiring lion's seat.
"It's because of him I'm on the Colton school board," said Armenta, then a staffer in the State Assembly. "He made me realize we didn't need professional educators on the board; we need people who care about the district."
Abril never taught in a classroom. He graduated from Colton High School in 1950, then dropped out of business college after one month to join the Navy.
He worked for Griffin Wheel Co. and San Bernardino County, joking he had a PhD from USC - the University of South Colton.
But Abril ardently supported higher education. During his six years as school board president, district officials say, the percent of district students to attend college rose from 16 to 54 and dropout rates declined from 12.4 percent to 1.6 percent, helping him earn both the San Bernardino County Education Medal of Honor and the Distinguished Service Award in 2000.
Abril's accomplishments also drove the school board to consider naming a high school in Grand Terrace after him, drawing fierce criticism from residents who wanted to honor the city. When completed, the school will be known as Grand Terrace High School at the Ray Abril Jr. Educational Complex.
Abril had six children, 19 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. His daughter, Melinda Medina, said he taught them the most important lesson: "Do not be afraid to speak up. People will love you for who you are."
A memorial viewing service will be held Dec. 20 in the Colton High School auditorium.
Read more: http://www.sbsun.com/ci_16860406?IADID=Search-www.sbsun.com-www.sbsun.com#ixzz18DxSgskN
Gramps Note:
Ray Abril Jr. served all the people of his community and CJUSD, not just the Latino students or community. When we all can see that the seeds he sprouted will have taken firm root.
City Council Meeting From the Email InBox:
Gramps:
What is up with CH3... off and on coverage... then it totally stopped prior the the end of the meeting.... HELLO YOUTUBE any one??
I did hear Bernardo Sandoval suggest that the city look into a better way to communicate with the public. He included streaming video of the City Council and Planning Meetings and much more. Let's hope some of this vision is brought into fruition. Seems like there was no progress on sharing of information until this blog kind of made folks notice that information can be posted and made available.
Gramps:
It was nice to see that the election has resulted in a warmer relationship between the City of Grand Terrace and the CJUSD Board. It is about time. Change on both the Council and the Board may just have been the nut that needed to be cracked. Let's keep watch on them...
Gramps:
If Sylvia Robles is not appointed, she should run for office in 2012 perhaps she'll find those extra 27 votes. Clearly Doug Wilson hasn't been that close in two elections. When McGuire said why not Doug Wilson she should have gotten an answer:
Doug Wilson was not running for City Council.
We don't need 2 Mayors on the Dias
Doug Wilson in a two way race might have gotten close to 49.3 percent of the vote, but there is a chance that some of those who voted for McGuire, Sternberg would have voted for Stanckiewitz rather than Doug Wilson.
Doug Wilson has tried 2 times and has missed the mark significantly both times.
Just a few answers to the ladies question.
Gramps:
Tell folks that we have a REPUBLIC not a DEMOCRACY. It is well within the frame work of our Republic and the City's Charter that an appointment is made. Herman Hilkey himself was an appointment as was Lee Ann Garcia. Where were their opposition to an appointment then. Where was Thelma then? Did they request a vote or an election? Nay.
Gramps:
Cindy Bidney made a terrific point. How about it folks at the city, can the citizens impacted by a development get something in writing that will hold up longer than a head scratch of an answer...
Gramps:
Sylvia Robles ran an independent campaign and as an independent candidate why is there any doubt that she would be independent as Mr. Hilkey tried to imply?
Gramp Answer: Perhaps the linkage started with the Blog making the three a recommended selection for the campaign. Your right Sylvia ran her own campaign, and only occasionally was included in overlapping events like the Rally against the flier. She holds a much more conservative view on some issues, and she has a background of work experience and a Masters level of education that is particularly appropriate for service on the city council.
Gramps:
Who was appointed to what committees? The Ch3 didn't come back on.
Gramp Answer: I don't know. I am as frustrated by the media black out as you are. Hoping it would come back on I was subjected to watching old old old tapes. Hey now there is a Scout Project for some one.... How about some home made coverage: This is your fire house, this is your school this is the park... YouTube for City Council and all Public Meetings... we can hope.
Gramps:
Why didn't Sandoval or Stanckiewitz make a motion and force a vote on an appointment of Sylvia Robles when it is clear that she has the public support?
Gramps Reply to all the above email:
I think either Lee Ann Garcia or Darcy McNaboe should step up and make a motion that Sylvia Robles be appointed to the empty seat on the City Council.
Why? Well, for no other reason than their own interests perhaps. They would be better off running in 2012 as an also run than against a Robles candidate. The three seats will be open and the vote will be select 3, type of election. Or back to normal. Not appointing her now would tarnish the feelings of 1300 voters who's vote they disregarded.
Why? Well, how about because she is independent, and will speak her mind and hold their feet and the city's feet to the fire of accountability. They should want this for the city.
Why? Well. some times it is easier to manage folks given the authority of a decision than to leave them on the outside of the power base.
Ultimately, you'd have to ask them why. I don't have a crystal ball that reads into their mind.
Walt Stanckiewitz knows that if he were to force a vote early that it most likely will result in a 2-2 split. I am guessing he is letting the conversation exhaust itself and hopes that one or both of the ladies will come to the conclusion that an appointment is the responsible fiscal choice and then also make a motion that Sylvia is the appointment. Note these are two different decisions and may not happen that quickly. The motion may be to have an appointment, then open for applications or just go ahead and appoint Sylvia Robles. The council does not have to take applications if there is already a consensus by then. I don't know if Walt or Bernardo Support a Robles appointment they too are hearing the public views on the issue. So there may be an alternative name that could get 3 votes. Don't know, like you I am interested to see how it concludes. I do hope it is and appointment and done without an election. I would like it to be Sylvia, but know that she'll run even stronger in 2012 and pick up from there if need be. I'd rather she be on the council right now.
What is up with CH3... off and on coverage... then it totally stopped prior the the end of the meeting.... HELLO YOUTUBE any one??
I did hear Bernardo Sandoval suggest that the city look into a better way to communicate with the public. He included streaming video of the City Council and Planning Meetings and much more. Let's hope some of this vision is brought into fruition. Seems like there was no progress on sharing of information until this blog kind of made folks notice that information can be posted and made available.
Gramps:
It was nice to see that the election has resulted in a warmer relationship between the City of Grand Terrace and the CJUSD Board. It is about time. Change on both the Council and the Board may just have been the nut that needed to be cracked. Let's keep watch on them...
Gramps:
If Sylvia Robles is not appointed, she should run for office in 2012 perhaps she'll find those extra 27 votes. Clearly Doug Wilson hasn't been that close in two elections. When McGuire said why not Doug Wilson she should have gotten an answer:
Doug Wilson was not running for City Council.
We don't need 2 Mayors on the Dias
Doug Wilson in a two way race might have gotten close to 49.3 percent of the vote, but there is a chance that some of those who voted for McGuire, Sternberg would have voted for Stanckiewitz rather than Doug Wilson.
Doug Wilson has tried 2 times and has missed the mark significantly both times.
Just a few answers to the ladies question.
Gramps:
Tell folks that we have a REPUBLIC not a DEMOCRACY. It is well within the frame work of our Republic and the City's Charter that an appointment is made. Herman Hilkey himself was an appointment as was Lee Ann Garcia. Where were their opposition to an appointment then. Where was Thelma then? Did they request a vote or an election? Nay.
Gramps:
Cindy Bidney made a terrific point. How about it folks at the city, can the citizens impacted by a development get something in writing that will hold up longer than a head scratch of an answer...
Gramps:
Sylvia Robles ran an independent campaign and as an independent candidate why is there any doubt that she would be independent as Mr. Hilkey tried to imply?
Gramp Answer: Perhaps the linkage started with the Blog making the three a recommended selection for the campaign. Your right Sylvia ran her own campaign, and only occasionally was included in overlapping events like the Rally against the flier. She holds a much more conservative view on some issues, and she has a background of work experience and a Masters level of education that is particularly appropriate for service on the city council.
Gramps:
Who was appointed to what committees? The Ch3 didn't come back on.
Gramp Answer: I don't know. I am as frustrated by the media black out as you are. Hoping it would come back on I was subjected to watching old old old tapes. Hey now there is a Scout Project for some one.... How about some home made coverage: This is your fire house, this is your school this is the park... YouTube for City Council and all Public Meetings... we can hope.
Gramps:
Why didn't Sandoval or Stanckiewitz make a motion and force a vote on an appointment of Sylvia Robles when it is clear that she has the public support?
Gramps Reply to all the above email:
I think either Lee Ann Garcia or Darcy McNaboe should step up and make a motion that Sylvia Robles be appointed to the empty seat on the City Council.
Why? Well, for no other reason than their own interests perhaps. They would be better off running in 2012 as an also run than against a Robles candidate. The three seats will be open and the vote will be select 3, type of election. Or back to normal. Not appointing her now would tarnish the feelings of 1300 voters who's vote they disregarded.
Why? Well, how about because she is independent, and will speak her mind and hold their feet and the city's feet to the fire of accountability. They should want this for the city.
Why? Well. some times it is easier to manage folks given the authority of a decision than to leave them on the outside of the power base.
Ultimately, you'd have to ask them why. I don't have a crystal ball that reads into their mind.
Walt Stanckiewitz knows that if he were to force a vote early that it most likely will result in a 2-2 split. I am guessing he is letting the conversation exhaust itself and hopes that one or both of the ladies will come to the conclusion that an appointment is the responsible fiscal choice and then also make a motion that Sylvia is the appointment. Note these are two different decisions and may not happen that quickly. The motion may be to have an appointment, then open for applications or just go ahead and appoint Sylvia Robles. The council does not have to take applications if there is already a consensus by then. I don't know if Walt or Bernardo Support a Robles appointment they too are hearing the public views on the issue. So there may be an alternative name that could get 3 votes. Don't know, like you I am interested to see how it concludes. I do hope it is and appointment and done without an election. I would like it to be Sylvia, but know that she'll run even stronger in 2012 and pick up from there if need be. I'd rather she be on the council right now.
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
From the Email INbox: Appointment or Election?
Those of you who want to contact Darcy Mc Naboe her phone number from Press Enterprise article was listed as 909/824-1506, perhaps you would like to share your thoughts with her.
This is the only winning strategy for me and all of us who care about GT:
1. This is not the only mid-term vacancy as a result of an elevation of a council member to Mayor, leaving a unexpired term. When Ferre was elected there was an appointment to the Council.
2. Of the six mid-term resignations all were filled by appointment except for the Miller seat as it coincided with an upcoming election.
3. This is the first time the council is faced with having to consider how an electorate voted when looking to fill a seat. You are very right in challenging Darcy's view of democracy. You are very right in challenging Leeann's own ascension to the council by appointment.
The issue in this election and all others for Mayor or Council in which there was only two-contenders, the winner garnered over 60 percent of the vote. If Mr Wilson was in a 2 way race he would have gotten only 40 percent of the vote at most. Where as Robles got 49 percent. Wilson has already lost prior elections, by wide margins.
Bernardo and Walt face two years of a 2-2 dead lock if there is not an appointment. The public has seen the difficulty of having only 4 people on the council. It takes 3 votes to approve anything.
The City of Rancho Cucamonga just did made an appointment , based on the next highest vote getter--so can we. They did not consider others who ran for Mayor, and now or wait a minute I want to be on the council. If Wilson wanted to sit on the Council as a Council Member he should have run for one of the two seats on the council. There is little reason to justify his appointment if he were to apply.
What the new council have to do is have the courage to move forward with an eye to put GT on the path to sustainability and community building in a way that restores and preserves the rights of individuals and offers the community good governance.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
