Friday, June 30, 2006

IMPORTANT NUMBERS: BE SAFE PLEASE

BOOKING NUMBER: 0607340187 DATE: 07/02/2006 TIME: 0526
ARREST DATE: 07/02/2006 TIME: 0230 LOC: PARADISE/PEACOCK AGENCY: GRANDTERRACE CITY
RELEASE DATE: 07/02/2006 TIME: 1659 FACILITY:
NAME: LAST: NELSON FIRST: MICHAEL MIDDLE: LEE DOB: 05/30/1967 SEX: M
RACE: W HT: 5 10 WT: 185 HAIR: BRO EYE COLOR: BRO OCCUPATION: NONE LISTED
CHARGE TYPE SUPPL/HOLD BAIL DISPOSITION
PC148(A)(1) MISD ORIGINAL NO BAIL CITE-REL
PC242 MISD ORIGINAL
***
**
*
PC148.1. (a) Any person who reports to any peace officer listed inSection 830.1 or 830.2, or subdivision (a) of Section 830.33, employee of a fire department or fire service, district attorney, newspaper, radio station, television station, deputy district attorney, employees of the Department of Justice, employees of an airline, employees of an airport, employees of a railroad or busline, an employee of a telephone company, occupants of a building or a news reporter in the employ of a newspaper or radio or television station, that a bomb or other explosive has been or will be placed or secreted in any public or private place, knowing that the report is false, is guilty of a crime punishable by imprisonment in the state prison, or imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed one year.
PC242. A battery is any willful and unlawful use of force or violence upon the person of another.
July 3, 2006... Illegal Fireworks reported on the west side of GT, could be observed from Rollings Park. Insufficient detail on location.
*
*
*
IF you have made Firework / Fire Report to either the Sheriff or the Fire Department. Please email grandterracenews@yahoo.com the details.
Please include:
Location, (it doesn't' have to be exact).
Type of problem reported. Time called in.
Agency Called, Phone Number used, Name of person on phone if you remember. Response time if any response was made.
A log of this time is needed to verify the effectiveness of enforcement, and the risks of Fireworks in GT.

Thank you
Gramps.
USE 911 in an Emergency :
If you are calling an emergency from home land line
,

GT Tip Line for Fireworks Violations
909-430-2201

Resident's calls will be answered on the 4th
from 7 p.m to 12 midnight


PROGRAM THESE NUMBERS INTO YOUR CELL PHONE



TELL THE PERSON ANSWERS THE LEVEL OF URGENCY AND THAT YOU ARE CALLING FROM A CELL PHONE AND CAN'T CALL 911
****
Grand Terrace FIRE Station #23 ..........(909)825-0221
San Bernardino County Sheriff ...........(909) 824-0680
(non-emergency)
Crime Prevention .................................(909) 430-2224
Citizen's Patrol ....................................(909) 430-2222
****
With all major news papers and the local radio stations identifying Grand Terrace as being one of the Cities that allows "Safe and Sane" fireworks expect to be host to the friends and neighbors who chose to visit during Firework Season. Keep an eye out for Safety.
****
Please report unsafe practices before they become a tragedy.

From the Email InBox: A Question.

Friends:

Am I the only one that is curious as to the whereabouts of the 8-9 million dollars that Schwab gave the Corp. For Better Housing. Should it not be in an escrow account while the Senior Villa's are being built, drawing interest for the RDA and released as the Corp shows that it needs X amount to construct each step? I'm no contractor but I believe that is how even two or three hundred thousand dollar houses are constructed. So all you folks that are smarter than me on construction pipe in here.

Gramps will start the answer:

All contracts should have a section called terms and conditions. One of those conditions relates to the price, and how the money will be paid and when. The specifics of this should be available in the Contract between GT Redevelopment Agency/City of Grand Terrace and the Corporation for Better Housing.

It would seem to most people that an escrow account would be appropriate or a performance bond of some sort at least. It may well be that the contract between the two is nullified and the City of Grand Terrace will have to pay a settlement of some sort to off set actual expenses up to the date of contract cancellation. These are the specific terms and conditions spelled out in a contract. Grand Terrace may be found not liable for these real costs or the costs may be discounted as the Corporation for Better Housing may be found to have been the cause or partial cause of the cancellation, and a court may even require the Corporation for Better Housing to pay punitive damages to the City / RDA and Citizens for having made a bad contract.

So it is back to the question what were the particulars of the DEAL. The City could have posted the contracts on the web site so the Citizens would know the particulars prior to the City Councils Approval of the Contract, but no the citizens are not so informed.

Thursday, June 29, 2006

From the Email Inbox: More on the Senior Villas Case

Dear Gramps .... please post:

Dear Grampa:

I would just like to say a few words regarding the accusations that the residents of Brentwood St. don’t care one bit about the Seniors in our wonderful city of Grand Terrace.

When this whole project came to our attention, purely by accident, we understood why the Senior Center needed to be modernized and enlarged. However, we never wanted to have a 120-unit, three story apartment building on 2 acres behind our quiet neighborhood street for low to moderate seniors or anyone else.

The park and a new Senior Center would fit perfectly on the 6 acre parcel. Also remember that only 4 acres were donated to the city as a remembrance of the daughter of a past mayor. The other 2 acres were bought by the city from a former resident who died and his family didn’t want the property. Also the property was never offered for sale to the public before the city purchased it.

I would also like to make it quite clear that I am glad the law suit was granted to the residents so that any future projects will hopefully allow the residents that it will affect the most can be more involved in making the project fit our neighborhood and not be an eye sore.

Thank you,


Gramp's Reply:

Thanks for adding your points. They add to the understanding of the issues.

Victory: What is a WIN for the City and Citizens of GT

Victory for the Blog: Strange how in Politics and in the world today we need to define what will be called a Victory. Let me make it clear and to the point what this blog feels will be a Victory for all the Citizens of Grand Terrace.

1: The Current City Manager, and his contracted Staff Be Replaced with Competent Staff which SERVES the community, and City Council, rather than the opposite.

2: A full accounting of ALL Transactions be Made and Evaluated in PUBLIC.

3: All Payments made PUBLISHED on LINE

4: MAXIMUM OPEN GOVERNMENT... CLOSED MEETINGS ONLY WHEN ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED BY LAW.

5: Proper Governance, and Contracting Practices:

a) UP DATED AND CURRENT GENERAL PLAN
*
b) PROPER AND ROUTINE PROCEDURES FOR THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT AND PLANNING COMMISSION
*
c) The Retirement of the Redevelopment Agency and City Redevelopment Projects logically ending the City's meddling in the City's Development, and Real Estate Market
*
d) Competitive Bids for all contracts including selection of City Attorney, and City Engineer. Who serve at the Pleasure of the City Council, not the City Manager.
*
e) The guarantee to Property Ownership, HOME or Business. The City should eliminate the use of Eminent Domain to obtain Ownership of property except when the property is used for CITY OWNED and OPERATED FUNCTIONS such as roads, parks, and Youth Centers. City wide retirement of any designation as a REDEVELOPMENT AREA, Blighted AREA or any other designation giving the City or Redevelopment Agency power to DEMAND any conversion of property to a "Improved Use". (IF a property has to be condemned for any safety reason by State or County Law, it should be sold at public auction if the owner fails to remedy the problem or fails to pay the tax bill when the City has enacted a public safety abatement procedure such as weed removal, or a drug lab clean up.)
*
f) Parents at least ONE can work in GT and be able to Parent their Children after school.
*
g) Youth between 7th grade and 12th grade have services provided after school so that NO YOUTH is without Adult interaction and supervision at ALL TIMES.
*
h) City Council, Mayor, City Employees, Sheriff and Staff are Drug Tested quarterly.
*
I) Police and Fire Logs are available on the City Web Page... Including Calls and response time, and arrests.
*
j) City wide wifi (This is the library of the future) We do not need a library with more CD's and DVD's
*
k) City Lost and Found Web Site for Animals and other things...
*
l) City wide maximum speed limit of 35mph. (So Light Electric or Neighborhood Vehicles on the North side of town can do shopping on the South side of Town.
*
m) A GT Community Band of all age groups would be nice.
*

Here is MY LIST of What I want for the Citizens of Grand Terrace. This is what I would consider a Victory. These are Constructive Improvements, and Suggestions.

The Current City Manager, and the Majority of the City Council want things to be as they are.

Check your list and check it twice... What do you want for the City?


School Issues are not CITY issues... Yes CJUSD and our schools need help too. But that is a different blog.

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

From the Email Inbox: Brian's Comment

Email REPLY to Brian's Email

Couple other things for Brian. The Citizens that live on Brentwood have rights too. They brought the suit because the City created a zone for the project not a project for the zone. The Corp For Better Housing said they would change the plans for the Brentwood residents and as soon as the check was written nothing changed.

There is a large difference between an insufficient EIR and no EIR

Also the Corp For Better Housing changed the type of housing. After claiming the GT Seniors would be able to live there changed the rules to section 8 (VERY LOW INCOME). There will be 108 Units and 76 will be for VERY LOW INCOME individuals, this will leave 32 for LOW and Moderate INCOME but 10.8 units will be rented at "Market" Rate.

SO.. who will be living there may not be the same Seniors who thought they would be. Will our seniors want to "Play and Lunch" with the New Seniors our community will be inviting to town?

Most people get smarter with information,this is not the case with Brian.

Brian R wrote:

Well, you got one thing correct, the City of Grand Terrace did lose on 6/27/06. All of us did.

The big losers though, are the Senior Citizens who have to withstand this delay and travel to other cities for a longer period of time to get their meals and companionship due to this spurious lawsuit. I guess that they're just collateral damage in this extended war against Tom Schwab, the City Council, and our sensibilities. I guess collateral suffering is a part of war, right? I'll bet that you're all sitting around basking in the glow of your "victory," totally forgetting about who really suffers... The seniors. I know that you and yours are incapable of admitting that you're wrong...Ever (you've admitted as much re: the recall), so I will never expect that, but in your quiet time, think about it. Who is being served by with-holding meals from seniors to try to bring down city leaders? This senior center will built, so why not let this battle go so the center can be finished and the seniors can have their gathering place back? All that's happening now is obstruction to make a point.

I know that your answer will be, "don't blame the plaintiff(s), blame the incompetent city" so don't even bother with that. The city didn't obstruct the process, they're just trying to build a better facility for city seniors. Please post this.

Brian Reinarz

Gramps Writes:

I could say, I don't agree with Brian so I won't post his comment. However, I will post it as a demonstration of flawed rational. Brian calls this a spurious lawsuit. The Judge has determined otherwise. In addition the JUDGE had ordered the City NOT to continue with the project until there was a finding by the court. THE CITY WENT AHEAD WITH THE CLOSING, AND MOVING OF THE OLD CENTER.

The people who filed suit, by the way, I am not one of... Did not close the Senior Center, they did not deprive any one of meals and companion ship. THE CITY DID by disregarding a COURT ORDER.

AGAIN you are placing "Blame" on the wrong actors...

Fortunately, many of the Seniors have found they can car pool to the fine Senior services in the City of Colton, there is a greater collaboration by our seniors, and they are still getting their meals and companionship.

If you don't want to be bothered with a reply don't email me. Your wife who works at the city of GT should be able to provide interesting insider information about the city's fantastic services and professionalism. Send your comments to the Press or the Sun or the Blue Mt. Outlook, or the Grand Terrace City News.

We (INCLUDING SENIORS) will be WINNERS when the Governance of the City IMPROVES, and the Development in this town is done in accordance to Good Governance Practices, Good Contractual Management, and in accordance to all LEGAL REQUIREMENTS. CITY MANAGER, Tom Schwab, the City Council, nor the other Bad Actors in this are those who need to LEARN from this Court Finding. This Judge is hearing all the other GT CASES. and he has ruled only on one of several issues on this particular case. More ISSUES will be ruled upon in the future.

And HERE COMES a CONSTRUCTIVE SUGGESTION:

Perhaps the Money the Staff recommends to spend on the Visitor Center would be better spent to offset the cost of carpools provided the seniors. Fontana has such a compensation program. It provides the drivers with a compensation to cover the cost of the transportation.


This would be a reasonable thing to implement and adopt as a true community service. We live where PUBLIC transportation is very limited, and even when there is a GT Senior Center the need for alternatives in transportation for seniors will continue. Senior help each other get to Doctor's appointments do their shopping and errands and all sorts of support of each other.

Seniors are in many ways more adaptable than younger folk. A touch of cash will encourage a person with a car and on a limited budget to be able to offer to drive more, and it will remove the barrier of asking for a ride. Fontana and other cities have found this a successful answer to senior transportation. I recommend it be implemented in GT.

AND AN ADDITIONAL SUGGESTION:

The city should be managed by a City Manager which will require the Law Be followed, and Good Governance Practices Followed. IF the City Manager is not able to do this HE and HIS minions should be removed from service. The city obstructed the building of low and moderate income housing for seniors by many of its own acts.


No housing plan for all citizens.
No Competitive Bids
Insufficient EIR and in some cases no EIR added by reader
Improper process and procedure

No Current General Plan
Violation of the Expired General Plan
Rushed Zone changes
Commencing with Development while Court Action Pending, and against Court Order.


and more.....


Earnestly,

Gramps

Court Case In the Press: Senior Villas

City ordered to review environmental impact

02:03 PM PDT on
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Julie Farren



The city of Grand Terrace will have to prepare an environmental impact review before proceeding with a 120-unit senior housing project, a Superior Court judge ruled Tuesday.

A group called Citizens for Responsible and Open Government filed a lawsuit against the city in late October, claiming that city didn’t adequately examine the environmental impacts of Blue Mountain Senior Villas and failed to evaluate project alternatives.

San Bernardino Superior Court Judge John Wade ruled that the developer, Corporation for Better Housing in Woodland Hills, did not consider additional noise and increased population generated by the senior housing complex and adjoining senior center.

Attorney Raymond Johnson, of Johnson and Sedlack, who is representing the Brentwood Street residents, said the city will have to rescind all project approvals for the $18 million project.

City Manager Tom Schwab said an environmental impact review will have to be conducted.

—Julie Farren

jfarren@PE.com
http://www.pe.com/localnews/grandterrace/stories/BWEB.73befb5.html

Tuesday, June 27, 2006

Remember to Check Meganslaw Web Site:

Please know who lives next to you... who is in GT and may visit GT for shopping.

http://www.meganslaw.ca.gov/index.aspx

Remember these folks have rights, but YOU and Your Family Have the Right to Know WHO they are.

Citizens of GT Win a Reversal of Prior Approval for BMSV

The City of Grand Terrace lost today 7-27-06 in court regarding the Blue Mt. Senior Villas issue.

The Judge reversed all the prior approvals granted for the construction of the project.

The Judge will issue a writ demanding that an environmental EIR report is done before any new project approvals are sought or granted.

The EIR for the project must address the location of the buildings surrounded by all R-1 housing and the noise factor. The Judge agreed with the city on a single point; that traffic is not a big issue. The attorneys were told that the decision is final and cannot be appealed.

The City Attorney John Harper sent his son to represent the City Staff's position which passed the RDA and City Council and Richard Schulman appeared for the Corporation for better housing.

Councilman Miller and Councilman Hilkey tried to be more deliberative, but were cut off from any discussion or ignored by Councilwoman acting Mayor Chairperson Ferre during both RDA and Council debate on the issues relating to the development. While Council Member Cortes and Council Member Garcia rushed motion after motion to the floor prior to the full resolution, discussion and evaluation of all facts and issues.

This failure to adherer to the procedure and process of governance is without a doubt what will be found in all the other lawsuits. The lawsuits are all pretty much based on the same lack of adhering to the law. In spite of repeated attempts of citizens to bring these facts to the attention and awareness of the Council and Board there has been persistent avoidance of doing things in accordance to the law and process of governance.

So here we are: The perpetual miss-management of procedure, management, and governance is the cause of this action. The responsibility rests on the City Manager Tom Schwab and his three Council Members who are his dutiful adherents and devotees.


Gramps Asks: Does this mean the Planning Commission’s Approvals, City Council Approvals, and the Check sent to Corporation For Better Housing are all reversed?

Perhaps the money will be returned and the project put where it was Planned with a competitive BID. Perhaps the Judge and Citizens should look into the State saying that the City NEEDS a total HOUSING PLAN for ALL Citizens not JUST SENIORS as a cause of termination of the total project. It will be interesting to read the writ yet to be released.

Oh and who gets to go to jail for weekends for the violation of the court order to not proceed?




Music in the Summer:

Hold this Date open For:
Riverside Community Band - Concert
Aug 18 ---- 6:30 pm (Time From Band Web Page)
*
*
Rollins Park
22735 DeBerry St
Grand Terrace
*
*

Bring Your Blankets and Lawn Chairs: Snacks and supper will be available at the snack bar operated by our YOUTH Soccer Teams.
Lets support this activity as being a Family Friendly Activity
Did you know GT has folks in the band? See if you know any of them.

Sunday, June 25, 2006

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

USE 911 in an Emergency :
If you are calling an emergency from home land line,
GT Tip Line for Fireworks Violations
909-430-2201
Resident’s calls will be answered on the 4th
from 7 p.m to 12 midnight

PROGRAM THESE NUMBERS INTO YOUR CELL PHONE

TELL THE PERSON ANSWERS THE LEVEL OF URGENCY AND THAT YOU ARE CALLING FROM A CELL PHONE AND CAN'T CALL 911
Grand Terrace FIRE Station #23 ..........(909)825-0221
San Bernardino County Sheriff ...........(909) 824-0680
(non-emergency)
Crime Prevention .................................(909) 430-2224
Citizen's Patrol ....................................(909) 430-2222

From the Email InBox: Eminent Domain Still a Threat

Friends:

Consider this fact: in just the past year, more than 5,700 properties nationwide have been threatened by or taken with eminent domain for private development - a figure that compares with more than 10,000 examples over a five-year period preceding the Kelo argument, according to one of five reports released today by the Institute for Justice (which argued the Kelo case before the U.S. Supreme Court) and the Castle Coalition. Coupled with this increase in eminent domain abuse, however, has been a virtually unprecedented grassroots and legislative response to the most universally despised Supreme Court ruling in recent memory.

Friday, June 23, is the one-year anniversary of the now-infamous U.S. Supreme Court decision that stripped Americans of any meaningful federal constitutional protection for their private property. To mark that date, the Institute for Justice and the Castle Coalition issued four separate reports yesterday that

1) document the growing problem of eminent domain for private development,
2) chronicle the legislative response to Kelo,
3) demonstrate failed redevelopments that followed government’s use of force to acquire property, and
4) expose the common myths put forward by developers and cities defending eminent domain for private use.

In another document also released yesterday, the Castle Coalition offers property owners who face eminent domain abuse an “Eminent Domain Survival Guide.”

All are available at http://www.castlecoalition.org/kelo/index.html - check them out today!

Christina Walsh
Assistant Castle Coalition Coordinator
Institute for Justice
901 N. Glebe Road, Suite 900
Arlington, VA 22203
(703) 682-9320
www.ij.org
www.castlecoalition.org

Free Post: Electronics Dump the Right Way..

FREE DISPOSAL OF BROKEN/UNWANTED MONITORS,TV'S & PC/LAPTOPS...

IF YOU HAVE ANY OF THIS ITEMS THEY NEED TO BE DISPOSED OF PROPERLY.
THAT'S WHAT WE DO SO GIVE US A CALL ELECTRONIC DISPOSAL GROUP 858-271-1616

WE DISPOSE OF THIS ITEMS AT NO CHARGE WHEN YOU MENTION THIS AD.

PLEASE SAVE THIS NUMBER YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW WILL NEED IT SOONER OR LATER>858-271-1616

Points Of Interest to the Citizens

City Manager / Redevelopment Director : Tom Schwab's salary went from 125,000.00 to 150,000.00 at the last round of negotiations which were held behind closed doors as the Brown Act say they "MAY BE" it does not say they "MUST BE".

The last known contract was for 110,000.00 when did it go to 125,000.00? What other costs are on top of this amount that Mr. Schwab is provided as salary are there?

The statement he isn't paid as much as other Local City Manager's is an indication of arrogance. Grand Terrace is not like other cities. The City Contracts all its limited services, and half of those are let without competitive bid process. We have a significantly smaller population, smaller budget, and perhaps our city mayor should be paid at a rate equal to the rate of the Riverside City Manager is. Price per citizen. I wonder if he would want to make that comparative rate of pay? This is an example of poor fiscal management, and a fraud played out on the citizens of Grand Terrace.

We have Fire, Police, Trash contracts to manage. Roads to repair, and Parks to maintain. This should be the limit of the activities of the City. Unless you want to add in to the mix the Senior Center, but they will tell you they are self supporting, and not managed by the City. You can add in the Child Care Facility a few citizens are able to take part in but those funds are just pass through funds again the Management is not done at the City Level. So why should Mr. Schwab get paid so much.

We of course suggest Mr. Schwab should not be employed by our City. However, the position of City manager will exist, and that position should be paid a reasonable compensation. The Median income in Grand Terrace is $65,000.00 per year. That seems fair. However, one may even look at what is the median income of others working IN Grand Terrace, and find we need to lower it even further.

What is the City Clerk being paid? No doubt she does the bulk of the contract paperwork. Give her a Bonus and let her have Tom's Job as he would be insulted by the suggestion of taking less money from the City of Grand Terrace.


Examples of Why Money Matters at City Hall:

Dodson was asking $760,000.00 and the City paid $1,290,000. $540,000 is big change.

How did this happen. Enter Gene Carlstrom owner of Terra Loma to Negotiate the Final Deal between Dodson and the City. In one meeting, behind closed doors the price went up $540,000.00?

Then they divided the check between two Council meeting so they would not have to say in public that they paid that much for Dodsons.

What makes this not pass the SNIFF TEST?

Carlstrom is or was Councilmember Ferre's campaign manager. Councilmember Ferre should not have even been in the room on that deal.

Carlstrom was a former employer of Bea Cortes, and she has returned to working for him after the deal was made.

Carlstrom is now getting paid to be the current property manager on the Dodson property.

Carlstrom is collecting rent checks for the City and then forwarding the money to the city after he takes a fee.

Carlstrom is collecting that rent from a family relative that is living in the house now.

What made this happen?

Well, the zoning of the OAC and the conditions or limitations put on the property made it impossible to sell to a private party. The City's acceptance of the OAC "Plan" and the limits it put on current and future property owners put the Dodson's in a position where their only possible buyer was the Redevelopment Agency. Was the $540,000.00 a pay off so the Dodson's did not sue the city for the abuse of zoning laws? Who knows what went on behind closed doors? Again, this is a case where the Brown act says the meeting "MAY Be" behind closed doors. The Brown Act does not say Real Estate Negotiations "MUST BE" behind closed doors. This is a choice being made by the Council and Board Members as a result of the Directions of the City Manager, who is backed by his friend he hired the City Attorney.

Eminent Domain IS Still an OPTION IN GRAND TERRACE

Lobbying Activity Lee Ann Garcia's Associations and Travels at the Expense of the City of Grand Terrace: Putting the Quality of Life of Grand Terrace Citizens at Risk.


LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES

This is the list of lobbyist hired by the League that lobbied against limiting the use of eminent domain and against the State Constitutional Amendment limiting its use to what the Framers intended.

Our Councilwoman Garcia is the Board member for the League for this area and has charged her travel expenses to the City for years for this activity that goes against the majorities' wishes in Grand Terrace. More to follow.

ADDRESS
1400 K STREET, SUITE 400
SACRAMENTO, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 658-8200

RESPONSIBLE OFFICER REGISTRATION DATE STATUS
DWIGHT R. STENBAKKEN, DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR 01/01/2005 Active

EMPLOYER'S LOBBYISTS
NAME START DATE TERMINATION DATE
LAWSON STARK, LIISA 05/01/2005
HIGGINS, WILLIAM S. 04/01/2006
STENBAKKEN, DWIGHT 01/01/2005
CARRIGG, DANIEL 01/01/2005
HUNTER, YVONNE L. 01/01/2005
KORINKE, JEAN F. 01/01/2005 03/31/2006
THOMAS, P. ANTHONY 01/01/2005
O'GORMAN, AMY 01/01/2005 01/01/2005

EMPLOYER'S FIRMS
NAME START DATE TERMINATION DATE
JEA & ASSOCIATES 01/01/2005

If you see any of these folks in town know that they Support the Use of Eminent Domain for Development Like what Schwab / Jacobsen and the Council that approved the RDA to Negotiate with the Citizen Property Owner on the Behalf of the Developer, threatened and began to do to a Citizen Property Owner in Grand Terrace.


Connecting this to GRAND TERRACE and the FUTURE:

Note the Council has still an outstanding authorization for the "Negotiation" a piece of privately owned property. Making it virtually impossible for this or any property owner to feel that the issues is fully resolved. The council should Put a Resolution on the Agenda that states,

Where AS this Council/Board will not use Eminent Domain to force the sale of property from one private individual to another private individual for the purpose of private development.

Where As the City Manager / Redevelopment Director has no authorization to Negotiate, Suggest, or Offer the use of Eminent Domain for any purpose except when Authorized by Public Vote by this City Council for specific Public Works Projects such as roads, parks and PUBLICLY OWNED Facilities.

Where As all Past use of such action, threats and warnings are from this point hence nullified and the property rights to ownership and free use and enjoyment of private property is restored to all property owners of the City of Grand Terrace.

Where As the threat of the use of Eminent Domain was use against the Citizens and Property owners in the past by the Director of the Redevelopment Agency, with out the authorization of the Council/Board he is to be terminated.

Where As the City Manager, Director of the Redevelopment Agency, miss-guided the City Council , and Redevelopment Board with statements which later were confirmed to be false there is cause to terminate the City Manager,Director of Redevelopment Agency, Tom Schwab with prejudice.

Where As the City Manager, Director of Redevelopment has caused damage to the Citizens of the City, and the Reputation of the City, and induced the City Council and Redevelopment Board to take actions which have affected the Financial Decisions made, there shall be a Full Critical analysis looking for in all of the Financial Records, Contracts, and all matters of City Management and Governance.

Where As at the result of the full audit a full clear disclosure will be made public and available to any investigative agency responsible for the proper use of Local, State and Federal Funds.

Where As the City of Grand Terrace will aspire to be faithful servant to its Citizens in its dealings and governance.

Saturday, June 24, 2006

From the Email InBox: Surplus of Pot Holes.

Dear Grandpa Terrace.

Thank you for the surplus explanation. Now I understand why when we called the City to get a pothole fixed on Mt. Vernon we were told there was no money to fix it. The City could not come up with fifty bucks worth of asphalt.

Grampa answers:

yup and how many pot holes will 2500.00 repair? That is how much we are thinking of giving per year for a "Promotional" Effort Collaboration with the San Bernardino Visitors Center.

Pot holes, or Promotion and More Traffic... hmmm interesting choice.

Well, when was the last time you heard a report about a Pothole taking a Councilmember of City Manager on a trip or out to lunch, or used as an excuse to charge the city for a lunch, trip or hotel? Hmmm... Perhaps we want to be part of the San Bernardino Visitor's Center so we can later on down the line use that participation as a reason to travel or dine on the City's Dime.

yup, your right, pot holes should be first.


Gramps

From the Email InBox:

Gramps:

IF and I say IF there is a 5.5 million reserve in CASH why not pay for the Air Conditioner with CASH. WHY have the Finance Charges?

WELL there is not 5.5 or 4.8, million in reserve, in the way we folk think of a Savings Account or Reserve Account.

In one type account there is a BIG DEBT to be Paid in the Future. That is about 15 to 17 Million.

In another Account is Cash ON HAND, and Tax Revenue Expected.

You have to have a BUDGET to say how you are going to spend the Cash on Hand and Expected receipts. The claim the Budget "Surplus" means that the City has a Real positive Net worth is an error in the representation of the City's Financial Status.

Much of the Reserve or Cash the City Manager identifies as being on the Plus side is dedicated to specific expenditures. This is why he had to "Refund" an account for the money he took to pay for the Air Conditioner we had to get a loan to Pay for. Apparently this taking money from one account to then have to refund that account was not information Mr. Schwab felt he had to share with the public or council until it is a done deal. This is at least questionable governance, if not fraud of some sort. Spending money for the wrong thing is not legal even if you later return the money. How dare him do this. How dare the Council to let it be done.

Much of the Debt is a result of obtaining Tax Debt Bonds. These bonds require 20 percent is spent on Low and Moderate Income Housing as part of the condition of the issuance of the bonds. The spending of this 20 percent has been a problem in the past. The State has declared that the Senior Villa's is not sufficient as it only serves the seniors. So that 9 million will be spent, and it will cause a NEED to obtain more Debt to pay for Low and Moderate Income Housing. Or to FUND the set aside for that purpose, after having miss directed that amount to the Senior Villas.

Oh as you say it is much like a shell game. The Pea is the Tax Payer's Money, or Debt.

A balanced budget, means you don't have DEBT after all your budgeted expenses.

It does not mean at the end of the year you are not increasing the long term debt.

A surplus is when you have money left over after paying for all your expenses and debts, long and short term.

This city and its Redevelopment Agency are in a NET DEBT. Lee Ann Garcia, and Marretta Ferre have burdened this city with this bad management and bad governance long enough.

We need a real accounting. We need to get a City Manager who is the Servant of the Council and City, not the inverse. We need members of the City Council who will say NO to the City Manager, and will DEMAND a proper and clear accounting of the status of the City/RDA finances.

Gramps Reply:

You are right. Also right about the Council being Dictated to by Mr. Schwab. The question was put to Lee Ann Garcia, and it was Mr. Schwab's mouth moving. His answer couldn't keep the figures consistant. The statement or question was explain the 5.5 million surplus. Tom Schwab had figures all around that number. Yet, he never said NET amount less the Debt. He only spoke about one half of the Ballance Sheet.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Where's the Deputy:

Police Services were Reviewed at the City Council Meeting.

It was interesting: The Council Approved a motion to have Staff prepare a contract amendment with the intent of adding one 40 hour deputy and car. This will cost about $200.000.00 per year.

One has to wonder what other service provider would charge. Perhaps the Colton PD who already provides some back up service, and provides services to the CJUSD schools in Colton. Has anyone asked?

What is clear. There is plenty of need for additional Police service. When a call goes out to the Call center that a confrontation JUST took Place at an Elderly Woman's Home on Barton Road, with a description of a Truck and People involved, for it to take a half an hour for the Deputy to arrive. Clearly this was not considered an URGENT CALL.

This call was characterized as being non violent at the council meeting, yet the son arrived at the scene of the crime and had to wrestle the perpetrators out of his mother's home. He was chastised by the Deputy for breaking the white pickup trucks mirror.

IF there were a deputy available to respond faster, the alert for a white pickup, with no plates, and damaged mirror and a description of the driver could have gone out to law enforcement surrounding GT. Perhaps the Colton PD, CHP, or Riverside PD/Sheriff, or Orange County Law Enforcement could have been informed and protected their citizens from the next to crimes of these same individuals.

No now we hear that there have been repeats of this crime in Riverside and Orange County which seem to be the same perpetrators.

This evening the lieutenant said there are composite drawings which indicate it is the same folks.

So where are these composite? May WE SEE THEM... On one hand you ask for help, and then you don't provide us with the information.

Did you get the connection. More Police will equal more arrests, more crime reported on the cities statistics, and that is not good for increasing the house values.

Crime is here. Perhaps there is a direct relationship to the increase in places where alcohol can be purchased and consumed. Perhaps there is a direct relationship to drug use. Perhaps there is a direct relationship to the Increased Housing Costs, requiring both Parents to Commute to jobs distant from their children, leaving a group of individuals un-parented when they need them the most.

As long as we neglect the children and youth of our community by not having a community where parents can afford to parent children or services aren't provided as a surrogate parents we will continue the decline of our civility and community. This will be a trend difficult to turn around.

One way of looking at the reports, fire the police and there will be no crime statistics to report.

How about having a look into our civility and community which fosters criminal behavior. Alcohol, Drugs, unsupervised youth, unemployment, transient population also TRAFFIC or Drive through Criminals. A one day Grand Terrace Day, or a Halloween Haunt is not that which will create civility or community and reduce criminal activity in our community.

More Police does not equal an increase in criminality. In increases the number of crimes recorded and hopeful solved. Increases in criminality are a result of economic, family, and social conditions. These are the issues not being addressed in the discussion of community services, community planning, and yes even the development we select for our community.

Promote Grand Terrace at a Regional Welcome Center?

California Welcome Center:

Yes, it would be nice to have discount cards and maps handy to Grand Terrace. However, Is the the best use of City Funds.

The City Chamber Of Commerce should be doing this as a Chamber. This is not City Business.

How else could money be spent. Let's count the ways. Perhaps paying the light bills at the city parks so they can be used after daylight hours. Perhaps City Wide WiFi service... Perhaps, paying for Youth to Youth Tutoring. At 10.00 per hour of tutoring that would buy 250 hours of tutoring time. That investment could save the State one drop out, and one criminal and one life of living in a jail.

How about, spending that money on providing a RAMP to City Council and Library for Handicapped or physically challenged individuals. How about paying off some of the city loans and debts ahead of schedule?

Oh so many ways to spend the money.

How about a camp out night in the Park for all families who want to participate twice a year in a Night Out... in the park... It could be fun, and an exercise in emergency preparedness, a massive earth quake drill.

Do we want more people to come to Halloween Haunt.. NO..

Is Grand Terrace Days for the Citizens of Grand Terrace or for some other purpose?

Do we want to really promote more traffic through Grand Terrace when Maps show how to bypass the freeway traffic jams...

NO, not only should the money not be spent this way, Grand Terrace should not promote itself to invite More Drive Through Traffic, which brings no more money. What are they thinking. Is there a $ 2.00 level of support. That is all that should be spent on such a thing.

Now, IF the City were to support the development of the south side of the Santa Anna River area where the Manhole Builders Planned to build as a regional park catered by local restaurants, and other businesses. PERHAPS there is a reason to INVITE people to Come to GT on a Visit, but NOT NOW... gads. What are they thinking?

Walnut and the Pea Shell Game Goes On

CITY MANAGER TOM SCHWAB DEFENDS COUNCIL WOMAN LEE AN GARCIA'S ANSWER OR REPLY TO RECALL STATEMENT DURING COUNCIL MEETING.

A question was asked and directed to Council Woman Lee Ann Garcia, and Tom Schwab Spoke. Defending her recall response. Perhaps he should let her defend her own political statements.

However, his answer was a continued use of smoke and mirrors of a magician which would gain the respect of the association of magicians.

Again the Reality of Grand Terrace's Financial Status was misrepresented.

Yes, a Savings account, or a Cash account can have cash in it for 4.8 million for the city and apparently 12. Million for the Redevelopment Agency. HOWEVER, this answer is not what was being asked.

When NORMAL people think of a surplus it is a NET calculation. What Mr. Schwab did not include in his answer is the Amount of DEBT which is owed by the City and Redevelopment Agency.

Yes the City has Debt. Bonds are Debt... to be paid in the future.


WHEN some one says they have a surplus it should be reported NET or after all debt is paid. WE DO NOT have a SURPLUS IF ALL DEBT were paid.

PLEASE ASK FOR THE NET ASSESSMENT OF THE CITY.

LET'S Hope, the REAL GTDAYS costs are calculated and reported. Last year the number of hours spent by city, sheriff and persons paid by tax expense were not known in detail sufficient to asses a real cost.

Steve Berry's statement there is ALWAYS a Public Disclosure of the Income and expenses of the GT DAYS is a flat out un true statement. It was like pulling teeth and took Council Member Millers insistence that a report was done, and released.

In addition we had disclosed tonight a bit of insight on how the finances are handled in the Finance Department.

We apparently purchased an Air Conditioner, and did not have funds on hand available to pay for the AC units. WE have so much surplus, we have to take a loan for the purchase. A loan that creates interest expense. Not only did we do this, we took the money from one account to pay that account, and now the loan has been funded that account will be refunded its funds. Now in business that would be called kiting of funds. In your house hold budget that would be called robbing Peter to pay Paul. This is not something you do when you have a surplus of funds.

Now should this concern you. YES. WHY, well it should concern you be cause it took place without Council being made aware of the funds transfer from Peter to Paul, over a year of the event of the purchase. THIS is unacceptable or should be.

Who can run for what office: A big question for Council Members:

Citizens: Please Consider running for Recall Seats term of 2 years, Mayor, or Council Seat 4 year terms.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

GT ELM and FREEWAY INFORMATION:

Some Information on the Freeway Plans and the Future of Grand Terrace Elementary, From "CJUSD FOCUS" May/June 2006 Issue.

Representatives from the Colton Joint Unified School District and the California
Department of Education have discussed a possible future freeway widening project near Grand Terrace Elementary School.

The California Department of Transportation and the San Diego Association of Governments are preparing a study report on the potential expansion of the Barton Road Bridge and possibly the expansion of the 215 freeway.

This project study report does not impact the school site whatsoever. The study is expected to be ready in approximately 30 days [from May 11] and the project is projected to begin in approximately 10 years.

According to Department of Education officials, the school would not necessarily have to go away. The following options could be considered:

Have Cal Trans provide a sound wall along the freeway.

Move portables and expand east. Move portables and expand to two story buildings.

Expand the school site to the east and/or south.

The District will continue to work with the departments of education and transportation as this issue develops. Freeway project coming to Grand Terrace area


Gramp's Comments:

Well, it would be nice if the Study Plan is Available to the Public for Review.

We can understand why the Lion's Club is being offered a year to year lease. GT ELM may need to use that part of the property in the future.

The CJUSD Does not expect to Move the School. So the City Of Grand Terrace's Commercial Zoning of the Property is a Conflict of zoning, or perhaps a purposeful mis-representation. How is this possible you are asking. Well, if a banker looks at the City's Zone Map and sees a large Commercial Zone near the Town Center. A Banker may not question the investment risk of a project as the same as if it was near a school. For Example, if a Hooters, and a Lary Flint Bar went to a bank asking for funds to invest in the Town Center development. The bank would not know there is a School across the street. Funds may be invested, and when it gets to the City Council, it will be a problem all of the sudden.. OF course this is an extreme issue. How about state liquor licenses for on site, and off site consumption... Can they be so close to a school?

Are the drug arrests being elevated to be crimes in a NO DRUG ZONE when they are near the School?

This is why a Map of the area where there is a School should SHOW a SCHOOL. ZONE should BE PUBLIC SCHOOL.


These "Plans" are 10 years off. Traffic should BE PLANNED for that in MIND.

From the Email InBox: Questions on Redevelopment Agency

Why is the Redevlopment Agency and the City Council the same. Isn't ita conflict of interest to have the same people making the decisions forboth Redevelopment and City Business. I think if they were separate wewould have a better check and balance system.

Grand PaTerrace Answers:

It is that way in many cities, yes that is a conflict of intrest, but it is permitted.

I think the "Redevelopment Agency" should be retired and disbanded. If the city dosn't qualify for government grants, or have tax revenue it should not be in the realistate redevelopment business. Private Property Ownership should be Free to wax and waine naturally without government intervention and meddling.

Nearly anywhere there is an Redevelopment Agency there is less prosparity than places where there is no agency.

The Primary action of any Redevelopment Agency is to obtain loans, for development controlled by the Redevelopment Agency, for the benefit of a few. In the end the banks, loan broakers, lawyers, and Developers make out, and tax payers who eventually have to pay the loans lose. IF we all had the same challanges and funding opprotunities it may be different. But, when could you go to the bank get a loan and ask someone else to pay for it?

ALL Redevelopment done with any aid of the Redevelopment Agency is in part paid for by Redevelopment funds, or taxes, paying a loan of the Redevelopment Agency. Tom Schwab's time spent on promoting Town Center, OAC, and the Senior Villa could have been spent picking up trash in the city rather than promoting debt, and his favorate development plan. Perhaps the City manager should be spending his time getting competitive bids on more of the City Contracts.

From the Email Inbox: Weeds on City and Jacobsen Property

Dear Gramps:

Has anyone noticed that the fields on Barton Road are not properly tilled and maintained for weeds. The backside of the "Barton Road Project" is a sight not to behold. While the city is so busy poking their noses into the private lives of the citizens and finding more ways to control and fine their life styles with in the City, they are not tending their own business. I have noticed that the Stringfield property is always maintained. Perhaps they could hire her gardner. The citizens would greatly appreciate some attention to this detail.

Gramps Reply:

Well, I'll post this and knowing that the City Hall has Blog Readers we can hope they will pick up on this observation. However, you are right in observing that code enforcement like zoning is applied to some and not others. Businesses owned by Friends of Council and City Hall are not nit picked out of business, while others are given the pitchfork treatment.

If Jo Strinfield had a weed out of place she'd be declared in violation of a code right and left and if not corrected in time no doubt the city would leap at the opportunity to declare her property a problem of one sort or another as a means to take her property.

Recall the case of Larry Halstead years ago. Now sits an empty weedy lot where a nice garden and house used to exist. Sure the action of the city improved the view of the people who live across the street, they now can see the river and valley. Larry has started a new life out of town. The city management only gained a new method of threatening citizens.

How many of the former owners of the Barton Rd Property were given Weed Code Violation Warnings along with the treats of condemnation, and the use of Eminent Domain to take their property. Interesting bag of tools the City Manager has been provided.

Need we be reminded... FIRE WORKS and FIRE SEASON start in the same season.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

From the Email InBox: A question

Gramps:

I have a friend who is an African American, and he invited me to a Juneteenth Party last weekend. I had a great time, but what is Juneteenth. I didn't want to let on that I didn't know.

Gramps Answers:

First of all the internet is a great place just a search would have answered you question. BUT, I am glad you went to the party, and that you asked the question. Here is the short answer.

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, when Union Army officer Gordon Granger read the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston. The reading came two months after the end of the Civil War and more than two years after the document took effect. More than 200,000 Texas slaves were free.

Juneteenth has also been used as an alternative spring break dates so that College Breaks remained segregated in resort towns in the South East.

California, has a more liberal history than much of the nation, and we don't learn of these events often. HOWEVER. Juneteenth is beginning to take on a broader meaning of the elimination of all forms of Prejudice, and Oppression of Individuals. A Unity/Freedom/Civil Rights Days, all in one. To recall the errors of slavery, prejudice, and celebrate our collective distinctive cultures, and unique unity over a period of days in the teenths of June is indeed a worthy activity regardless of your heritage or social circumstance.

Monday, June 19, 2006

City Council Agenda June 22, 2006

CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA

CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS JUNE 22, 2006
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER 6:00 PM
22795 Barton Road

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.

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 CLERKS OFFICE AT (909) 824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.

* Call to Order -
* Invocation -
* Pledge of Allegiance -
* Roll Call -

AGENDA ITEMS

CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY

1. Approval of 06-08-2006 Minutes
Staff Recommendation - Approve

2. Annual Statement of Investment Policy
Staff Recommendation - Adopt

ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING

1. Items to Delete

2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
A. Proclamation - Fun in the Sun, Safe Summer 2006
B. Arson & Bomb Detail/Presentation on Fireworks - Dan Glozer
C. Proclamation - Terrace Hills Middle School

3. CONSENT CALENDAR

The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and non-controversial. 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 June 22, 2006
Staff Recommendation – Approve

Gramps Questions: Who got paid for what, and how was it paid with what monies? This information should be available on the City Web Site…

B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda

C. Approval of 06-08-2006 Minutes
Staff Recommendation - Approve

D. Resolution Calling a General Municipal Election - November 7, 2006
Staff Recommendation – Adopt

Gramps Note: Folks wanting to Run for the Open Council Seats and the Seat of Mayor of Grand Terrace should start thinking about gathering up the paper work from the City Clerk.

E. Annual Statement of Investment Policy
Staff Recommendation - Adopt

F. Fiscal Year 2006-2007 Appropriations Limit
Staff Recommendation – Adopt

Gramps Recommendation - All Contractors or Suppliers conducting business with the City of Grand Terrace in excess of $5,000.00 for a one time contract, or a supply contract expected to have a cumulative value of over $5,000.00 in a year shall be under open competitive bid including employment contracts, and professional services contracts. In addition all should have proper City Business Licenses. This includes the City Manager’s Contract, City Attorny’s Contract, City Engineer’s Contract, and the Employment Contract of Richard Rollings.


G. Special Events Permit Requested by Calvary, The Brook for the Use of Rollins Park for a Fourth of July Day Picnic Open to the Public on July 4, 2006 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Staff Recommendation – Approve

Gramps Question: If a family of Zoroastrians, Muslims, or Greek Orthodox Christians wanted to use the park will the folks from “The Brook” allow them to enjoy the public facility without an invitation to convert to their church? Is this a public event or use of public property on a national holiday to prostelitize/convert anyone who may want to use the park on that particular day?

Will “The Brook” be banned from the use of fireworks in the park, as the “PUBLIC” was not to use fireworks in the park as it would be too Dangerous, and liability to the city. Are we being told… Public Bad…. The Brook Good? What is the message here?

H. Cancellation of July 27, 2006 City Council Meeting
Staff Recommendation - Cancel

I. HVAC Financing Agreement with Zion Bank Replacing the Agreement with Municipal Services Group, Inc.

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 is prohibited from discussing or acting on any item not on the agenda. The Mayor may request a brief response from staff to questions raised during public comment.

5. REPORTS
J. Committee Reports

1. Historical & Cultural Activities Committee
Staff Recommendation - Accept

a. Minutes of May 1, 2006
Staff Recommendation - Accept

2. Emergency Operations Committee
a. Minutes of May 2, 2006
Staff Recommendation - Accept

B. Council Reports

6. PUBLIC HEARINGS

A. 2006-2007 Annual Assessment Landscaping and Lighting District No. 89-1
Staff Recommendation - Adopt

7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None

8. NEW BUSINESS

A. Solid Waste Management Rate Adjustments
Staff Recommendation - Approve

B. Sheriff’s Department Report
Staff Recommendation – Make Recommendations

C. The San Bernardino Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Proposal for a San Bernardino California Welcome Center
Staff Recommendation - Authorize

D. Reappointment of Commission/Committee Members
Staff Recommendation – Reappoint

Gramps Comment: How about an open invitation to the Community for persons interested in serving on the Committees. List the Committees and see if there is a need for each one.

The Goals or Task Statement of the Committees may need to be evaluated:

GT Days Committee should be refocused to include in its objective to hold a day of Youth Activities Fund Drive as the PURPOSE of GT DAYS.

The Historical Preservation Committee should include Youth in its Planning of Events:

IF the YOUTH aren’t included why Preserve the History. Youth Art, and Activities such as 4H

Each Committee should look to the inclusion of the energy of the Youth who have time and the physical strength to carryout many activities IF they were incorporated into the planning rather than excluded from participation.

Each Committee should be refocused to serve all the community, and in particular those elements underserved in the community. Youth between 7th and 12th grades are neglected in the planning of this community. This is an under utilized resource, and a missed opportunity.


9. CLOSED SESSION – None

Gramps Asks:
What happened to the Closed Session on Labor Negotiations. There was no report of Action Taken made Public. IN SPITE of Public Comment requesting consultation related to City Manager Tom Schwab’s performance evaluation, including his lies told to the City Council and Public specifically regarding a “Signed Lease”, which later was proven to be a false statement?

ADJOURN
THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD ON HURSDAY, JULY 13, 2006 AT 6:00 P.M.

AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS FOR THE 07-13-2006 MEETING MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE BY NOON 07-06-2006.

In the Sun Telegram a GT Citizen Asks and Important Question about Contracted Services:

Disappearing act
http://www.sbsun.com/portlet/article/html/fragments/print_article.jsp?article=3873887

Correct me if I am wrong, but isn't it the role of the city attorney to advise, protect and represent the city they represent? The City of Grand Terrace is paying City Attorney John R. Harper thousands of dollars in fees, and yet, what happens when the city gets sued? Harper refers the lawsuit to a private law firm which charges thousands of dollars to represent the city, and guess who pays for that? Grand Terrace has been inundated with lawsuits against it for decisions made by the City Council. Decisions based on Harper's advice. But when it comes down to defending, Harper is nowhere to be found. It is very disturbing to me when I attend City Council meetings and see Harper rocking in his chair and giving advice to the council when such advice has proven to be costly to the city and us - its resident taxpayers.

If Harper is not up to defending the city, why not get a private law firm to represent the city and advise? Why pay both as we are doing now?

KAREN CASTRO
Grand Terrace


Minutes to be Approved
CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - JUNE 8, 2006


A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace was called to order in the Council Chambers, Grand Terrace Civic Center, 22795 Barton Road, Grand Terrace, California, on June 8, 2006, at 6:00 p.m.

PRESENT: Maryetta Ferré, Mayor
Bea Cortes, Mayor Pro Tem
Herman Hilkey, Councilmember
Lee Ann Garcia, Councilmember
Jim Miller, Councilmember
Tom Schwab, City Manager
Steve Berry, Assistant City Manager
Brenda Mesa, City Clerk
Larry Ronnow, Finance Director
Gary Koontz, Community Development Director
Richard Shields, Building & Safety Director
John Harper, City Attorney
Captain Mike Howell, Sheriff’s Department

ABSENT: None
The City Council meeting was opened with Invocation by Raul Montano, Calvary, The Brook Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Jim Miller.

CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
ITEMS TO DELETE - None
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS - None
CONSENT CALENDAR


CC-2006-60 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM CORTES, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the following Consent Calendar Items with the removal of Items 3A. and 3D.:
3B. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
3C. Approval of 05-25-2006 Minutes


ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR


3A. Approve Check Register Dated June 8, 2006


Council Minutes June 8, 2006 Page 2
CC-2006-61 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA, CARRIED 5-0, to approve Check Register Dated June 8, 2006.
3D. Reject Liability Claim GTLC-05-08 (Hornsby)
CC-2006-62 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER HILKEY, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER MILLER, CARRIED 4-1-0-0 (MAYOR FERRÉ VOTED NO), to table Rejecting Liability Claim GTLC-05-08 (Hornsby) until Council receives the comments from the adjuster and his logic behind his recommendation.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Bill Hays, 22114 De Berry, served Maryetta Ferré and Lee Ann Garcia with Notices of Intent to Circulate a Recall Petition. He stated that he and other people in the Community will come before the Council during upcoming meetings giving their reasons why they feel Maryetta Ferré and Lee Ann Garcia should be recalled.

REPORTS
5A. Committee Reports
1. Crime Prevention Committee
a. Minutes of April 10, 2006

CC-2006-63 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM CORTES, CARRIED 5-0, to accept the April 10, 2006 Minutes of the Crime Prevention Committee

5B. Council Reports
Mayor Pro Tem Cortes, reported that she has spoken to Lt. Guerra with regards to crime in the City. She stated that a man went to the door of a resident and claimed that they were building a fence behind her home and that they needed to come inside the home to take measurements. Once inside the home they began to steal items from her. Her son came in the process and there was a scuffle. She requested that Captain Howell give a report on the incident.


Captain Mike Howell, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, reported that they refer to these as gypsy scams and that they have been taking place for many years. They are a non-violent group of individuals that go through communities commit a crime and leave immediately. It is a way to steal small valuable items that will go unnoticed. This is the only incident of that nature that has happened in Grand






Council Minutes June 8, 2006 Page 3

Terrace and in the surrounding areas. He feels that it was a transit that took advantage of an opportunity.

Mayor Pro Tem Cortes, reported that there have been more crime incidents taking place throughout the community and requested that another Deputy be added to Grand Terrace. She asked the City Manager what he thinks about adding another Deputy.

City Manager Schwab, responded that staff is bringing a study back to the Council on Law Enforcement and it would be at that time for Council to make their recommendations. This will take place either the last meeting in June or the first meeting in July.

Mayor Pro Tem Cortes, thanked Assistant City Manager Berry for doing an outstanding job with the Grand Terrace Days Parade and feels that this was one of the best Grand Terrace Days ever. She said that next years theme may be a Country Western theme.
Councilmember Hilkey, thanked staff for a great Grand Terrace Days. He reported that the grass at the park looked wonderful. He expressed his concern with the relationship between the City and the Blue Mountain Outlook. He confirmed that the law enforcement contract will be discussed during a regular meeting. He wants to make sure that the response time is discussed and that the coverage is custom fitted to the City’s needs.
Councilmember Garcia, thanked staff for an outstanding Grand Terrace Days. She reported that on June 10, 2006 the Fire Department will be holding their Annual Pancake Breakfast, all proceeds will go to station #23. She is a major proponent of the Citizen’s Patrol and the Crime Prevention Committee and would like to see the role of those two included in the presentation that will be given by the Department. She has heard of a program called ASafe Communities@ and would like to see if this could be implemented in Grand Terrace. She reported that at the Chamber of Commerce Luncheon someone from the Sheriff’s Department bomb squad will be giving a presentation on fireworks. She stated that with regards to recall notice that all of the allegations that have been stated are false. She will continue to work for the good of the City. She would ask that every resident, when asked to sign something, to look into the facts before you take somebody’s word.


Councilmember Miller, also thanked staff for Grand Terrace Days. He was disappointed with the voter turn out on election day. He feels that we need to come up with some type of campaign to get the voters out. San Bernardino County had the lowest number of voter turnout. Monday is the second meeting of the Traffic Mitigation Committee and he invited everyone to attend.
Council Minutes June 8, 2006 Page 4
Mayor Ferré, expressed her appreciation for all of the work that was put into Grand Terrace Days. She stated that the Crime Prevention Committee is a wonderful group of volunteers that look closely after the safety of the City as well as the Citizen’s Patrol. When the review is done on the department they should be given credit for what they do and continue to support them. In regards to the serving of the petition, she feels that it is really important that the Grand Terrace residents seriously consider putting their passion toward the solving of problems, making of suggestions and the supporting of decisions that will make this city prosper not toward distractions that can destroy a community such as recall petitions that have been served three times due to insufficiency.
PUBLIC HEARING
6A. Zone Change Case No. 06-01 (ZC-06-01), Tentative Tract Map No. 06-01 (TTM-06-01/County No. 18071) and Environmental Review Case No. 06-03 (E-06-03) to Change the Existing R1-20 Zoning to R1-10 Zoning on a 8.26 Acre Parcel and to Subdivide the Property into 20 Single Family Lots.
An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace Approving Zone Change No. 06-01 (Z-06-01) to Change the Existing R1-20 Zoning to R1-10 and Delete the AG Overlay Zone for an 8.26 Acre Parcel Located on the Northerly Side of Pico Street Starting Approximately 150 Feet Easterly of the Intersection of Pico Street and Kingfisher Road and Environmental Case No. 06-03 (E-06-03) - Mitigated Negative Declaration as Provided by the California Environmental Quality Act
Resolution by the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, State of California, Approving Tentative Tract Map No. 06-01 (County No. TTM 18071) for a 20 Lot Single Family Residential Development on a 8.26 Acre Parcel Located on the North Side of Pico Street 150 East Kingfisher Road in the City of Grand Terrace, California


John Lampe, Planner, reported that there is a request from Karger homes to change the existing zoning on the subject site from R1-20 (Very Low Density Single Family - minimum required area 20,000 sq. ft.) Zoning to R1-10 (Low Density Single Family - minimum required area 10,000 sq ft.) Zoning . Also proposed is Tentative Tract Map No. 06-01 (County No. 18071) to subdivide the site into 20 single family lots in conformance with the new zoning designation. The Planning Commission and Staff recommend that the City Council adopt the Ordinance changing the existing R1-20 Zoning to R1-10 Zoning based on the findings in the Ordinance and recommend the approval of the Resolution of Approval for Tentative Tract Map No. 06-01 (County No. 18071) based on the findings in the Resolution and subject to the recommended conditions of approval.
Councilmember Miller, questioned what the vote was from the Planning Commission.
Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 5
Planner Lampe, responded that there were only three members present that evening and that it was 2-1.
Councilmember Miller, stated that the question was asked AWhy do we need to change the zoning?@
Planner Lampe, responded that the zoning change would be appropriate given the fact that the property is constrained by various extensive easements. When the map was approved there was variance that was granted to modify the lot size. To make this work the Commission felt that it would be appropriate.
Mayor Pro Tem Cortes, requested clarification on the drainage.
Councilmember Hilkey, indicated that he has some questions with regards to the drainage off of the water tank and landscaping around the tank.
Planner Lampe, stated that he has seen the wall, however, no landscaping.
Building & Safety Director Richard Shields, responded that trees have been planted with irrigation.
Councilmember Hilkey, stated that he too, would like clarification regarding the drainage.
Councilmember Garcia, stated that she enjoyed the map that was included in the packet.
Bill McKeever, 647 N. Main Street, Riverside, responded that the drains along the west side, there is an existing concrete channel located along the easterly boundary of the tract to the west that is within a public drainage easement. Originally, that channel was designed to intercept water from an area once this property is developed that drainage area will be reduced to a small portion and the back of the lots. In effect they are reducing the amount of water that will be contributing to the existing concrete channel. He addressed the drainage off the reservoir site and explained. The ultimate plan is to bring the storm drain out and have it discharge to the street.
Councilmember Hilkey, stated that there is an existing concrete drainage on the west side of the property that is going to stay there and it is exposed.


Mr. McKeever, responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Hilkey, questioned where it drains to.
Mr. McKeever, responded that it drains through a parkway drain out into the street section
Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 6
on Pico.
Councilmember Hilkey, stated that one of the biggest complaints that has been heard over the past couple of years is a similar drainage on the back side of Observation. He would hate to be a part of any decision making team that didn’t address the same issue that is before them.
Mr. McKeever, responded that he understands Councilmember Hilkey’s concern and explained that even if this property wasn’t draining into that ditch you can’t get to it.
Councilmember Hilkey, questioned if it can be placed underground.
Mr. McKeever, responded that it is possible, however, the problem you run into when you are accepting drainage off an area line that is how do you get it into an underground conduit. The only place that it is underground is right across the Edison easement.
Councilmember Hilkey, confirmed that it comes to their property underground.
Mr. McKeever, responded in effect. He stated that the ditch is not located on the property, it is located on the back of the lots to the west.
Councilmember Hilkey, stated that he feels that the drain need to be covered. He questioned where the nearest drainage is to the property that goes underground and down to the west side of town. He stated that there is a problem with drainage building up.
Mr. McKeever, responded that there is no storm drain on Pico.
Councilmember Hilkey, confirmed that the water that comes off of this site drains down Pico past Mt. Vernon, past Michigan.
Mr. McKeever, concurred. He stated that the drainage goes underground when it crosses Mt. Vernon then it comes back onto the surface on the west side of Mt. Vernon.
Mayor Ferré opened the Public Hearing.


Mark Roberts, 12665 Kingfisher Road, stated that he attended both of the Planning Commission meetings regarding this item. Residents of Kingfisher Road, Blue Mountain Court, Pico Street all raised objections to the subdivision as designed. They raised many concerns regarding including the following; drainage impacts, building a proposed alley right up to their property line, building sewer and a toxic storm water treatment facility in this alley, the height of the series of walls that are proposed, the need to build pads above them, and the potential of two-story homes higher over them. They thought that single story homes might be an answer to partially address these issues. They feel that the proposed zone

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 7

change isn’t necessary, the current zoning allows up to 15 homes, which is similar to and a reasonable transition to the existing larger estate home on Blue Mountain Court. They felt that their flimsy wood fence was an inadequate buffer from the alley and other work that is proposed. Several of them requested that a block wall be built along the shared property line to buffer them from vandalism from this new alley and potential accidents from cars rolling down hill into them. The Planning Commission seem to dismiss this as too expensive. This wall would cost approximately $37,500.00, split among 20 homes is about 1,875.00 per house for 15 homes it would be about $2,500.00. If you think of this as a Development Impact Fee and add it to other fees Grand Terrace charges the total would still be thousands less than what adjoining cities charge. They are also concerned that the zone change will increase traffic on Pico more than the current zoning would. Pico street east of Mt. Vernon is not an arterial street, it’s double loaded with drive-ways and kids on both sides of the street. School bus stops exists on or near Pico, kids walk and bike the street as well as on Oriole. In response to their concerns, the Planning Commission continued the hearing to May 18, however, two of the Commissioners didn’t show to the second hearing and they were not allowed to speak at the second hearing. He feels that the Planning Commission didn’t address their issues. Residents of Kingfisher have much more invested in getting this design right than the developer does. Their mortgages are much higher than what the design costs are. He feels that the Council wouldn’t want an alley build up to their home. He provided a Resolution recommending denial of this application and that is what he recommends.

Denis Kidd, 22874 Pico, stated that he is in favor of this project. He was at the hearings when the project on Kingfisher was approved so he heard all of the testimony and the reason that the ditch was put in there was not only to take care of the 100 year flood but it was to take care of all of the run-off east of the Kingfisher homes and to protect them from all of the run-off to the east. Not just the 100 year flood and not just the run-off from Blue Mountain but from the run-off from the Karger property. The reason the ditch is a big as it is, is because he lobbied for them to put in a big ditch. The reason there is not a pipe there is because in 1969 we had the wettest year that he ever saw, Blue Mountain became saturated and the gully was running day and night like a creek not only was there a lot of water coming down but silt and so there needs to be big ditch that will catch that silt so the ditch doesn’t fill up or the pipe clog so the water doesn’t wash out the houses.


Todd Campbell, 12625 Kingfisher Road, stated that he is against the zone change. The first meeting of the Planning Commission, the residents got up and spoke and it was cut short due to the antenna issue. At the next Planning Commission meeting there were only three Commissioners there and the Public Hearing was closed before the public could comment. He feels that their comments were never addressed. His main concern is the cull-de-sac coming down into his back yard. When he moved into his house he signed a paper that stated that he is liable for cleaning out his section of drainage. He doesn’t like the drainage easement, he doesn’t want them to drain into the drainage easement and he does not like the cull-de-sac.

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 8

Doug McColeman, 12675 Kingfisher Road, addressed the drainage culvert that is on his property behind his fence. They are draining under their fence into the culvert and they have to clean it, which he feels is not acceptable. He stated the houses on the west end will have to have their sewer lines coming down the back bank because of the aqueduct and then have a 10 foot access road, he feels that it isn’t the proper way to do it and that they need to run down the street like everything else. He feels that the zoning needs to remain as it is.

Robert Vasquez, 12635 Kingfisher, stated that he has concerns regarding safety issues, he strongly feels that the design of the tract will pose a possible hazard to he and his family. The area of concern is the cull-de-sac coming off the primary road. According to the plans, at the end of the cull-de-sac there is nothing to prevent an out of control speeding vehicle from jumping the curb going down the embankment and ultimately landing in his backyard. He is not too concerned with the grade. When he purchased his home he was aware that the land to the east of him was going to be developed someday and he was fine with that. He didn’t think he was going to have to worry about having a speeding vehicle crashing into his backyard. When he purchased his home the plans were to have a pool installed, now those plans have been put on hold. They use their backyard constantly and as a parent he doesn’t want to have that worry. He has a concern with drainage. It was brought to attention that the channel was designed for the 100 year flood. He has been there five years and during the heaviest rains he has never experienced any run-off coming directly from the field behind him itself, it has come down the channel. He feels with the proposed development the water is going to be coming into the drain and it won’t take much for the inlets to plug up. He would like Council to take into consideration, when voting on this, their concerns.

Charles Kan, 12645 Kingfisher Road, stated that he has the same concerns as his neighbors. He feels that the sewer and drainage design could be better. He is concerned with soil erosion, traffic and accidents. The sewer system is a major concern for him. When he purchased the home he was told by the agent that the back piece of land would be built with 11 custom. He strongly opposes the zone change.

Mayor Ferré closed the Public Hearing and returned discussion to the Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Cortes, thanked the residents for the professionalism. She requested that staff address the issues of drainage, safety, and sewer.

Mr. McKeever, stated that as of two years ago any land development has to deal with State requirements on water quality management plans. This is connected with the Federal NPDES requirements. At the end of the cull-de-sac they have two separate drainage systems one that deals with the storm flow and the primary function of the storm flow drain system is to protect the homes or whatever is being developed from damage of storm flows, in addition to that they have to provide a system that provides primary treatment for the storm water run-off. The primary treatment for the storm water run-off is based on the first 2/10 of an

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 9

inch that comes off of the project. It is usually accepted that the first 2/10 of an inch contains the vast majority of the pollutants that are going to be flushed off of the project into the storm drain system or wherever they are going to go. He explained the drainage process on the project. He stated that if the Council desires the developer to place the drain underground they can intercept that drainage and put it underground discharge it out into the street and not contribute anything to that existing ditch in the interest in getting along with the neighbors. They can actually show that they can build this project and the net result is that they would be reducing the amount of area substantially that is contributing storm water run-off to the existing ditch. As far as the grades and slopes, even if they go to the other plan the grade on the street is set by the grade of the pipe that is underground. They don’t have the ability to reduce the amount of cover on the pipe. The slope of the back lots will not change even with the 20,000 sq foot lots. The problem they have with the sewer is that the lots don’t drain out to the street and they can’t put sewer in the street because the State Department of Water Resources will not allow them to put parallel sewer in their right-of-way. They have designed the sewer the only way that they could. There are a lot of constraints on the property that won’t change by virtue of just making the lots bigger. It is more expensive to build a single story house as opposed to two story homes. Developers are having a hard time selling single story homes.

Mayor Pro Tem Cortes, requested that he address the cull-de-sac safety issues.
Mr. McKeever, responded that the cull-de-sac is not an un-typical situation. He has designed several projects like that and hasn’t experienced any problems. The 6% grade is not excessive. There are things that we can do, however, he doesn’t see it as a problem.
Councilmember Garcia, thanked the residents for coming out and speaking. She reported that she went out and took a look at the project. She has been asking for a comprehensive infrastructure plan to address drainage. It is a serious issue in Grand Terrace. She is sensitive to the neighbors concerns and feels that we should do what we can to address them. She questioned what is going to be on the other side of the wood fence.

Mr. McKeever, responded that when the existing tract was developed it was their responsibility to protect it from storm water drain-off, which is why the ditch is located on that property. Since that tract was developed the reservoir was built, there is a block wall that was built in conjunction with the reservoir, essentially everything east that could possibly get to that boundary has been eliminated.


Councilmember Garcia, stated that one of residents mentioned the wall and alley.
Mr, McKeever, stated that it is not an alley, an alley is a public access street that is about 20 feet wide. This is an access road for the sewer and the water quality system that is 10 feet wide.

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 10

Councilmember Garcia, even though it is not intended to be public people can have access to it.

Mr. McKeever, stated that they agreed to gate the access road to preclude public access.

Councilmember Garcia, expressed her concern with a potential mosquito issue.

Mr, McKeever, responded that the only place there will be standing water in this proposed system is in the water quality swells. If there is a way to get around that they will but they have to follow the mandated laws. They are all designed not to have water standing for more than 72 hours.

Councilmember Garcia, wants to make sure that as many questions are answered as possible and what the options are.

Councilmember Miller, questioned if the developer has set a meeting with the home owners before the project was brought before the Council.

Mr. McKeever, responded in the negative. He feels that what has been designed is per code. He hears the concerns but is not sure that there is anything that can be done about them.

Councilmember Miller, said that he has a problem with Mr. McKeever saying he has never had a problem with the design of the cull-de-sac. He feels that maybe Mr.

McKeever had never seen a problem, however, there could possibly be something that could happen. He has a concern with the 6% grade. He questioned what changed it from 15 to 20 homes.

Mr. McKeever, stated that they can place some sort of decorative barrier.

Councilmember Miller, questioned if the slope on the west side is going to be manicured and whether there will be sprinklers on it.

Mr. McKeever, responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Miller, questioned who will be controlling the sprinkler system.

Mr. McKeever, responded that the homeowners associations will..

Councilmember Miller, stated that there is a possibility that the sprinklers could run longer than they are suppose to or they run right before the rains and you have a saturated hill. He questioned where that run-off will go.

Mr. McKeever , responded that if there is any irrigation run-off it will go into the low flow drain system.

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 11

Councilmember Miller, questioned if the existing sediment basin will be moved.

Mr. McKeever, responded in the affirmative.

Councilmember Miller, questioned when the water comes will the sediment basin be for the first flush or for the storm drain.

Mr. McKeever, responded that the sediment basin goes away. The reason why the sediment basin is there now is because of properties undeveloped. Once the project is developed you have eliminated the sediment problem. The water that comes off of the slopes will go through the water quality swells.

Councilmember Miller, questioned if the access road will have lighting.

Mr. McKeever, responded in the negative.

Councilmember Miller, questioned who will have access to the road.

Mr. McKeever, responded that the City would and the homeowners association.

Councilmember Miller, confirmed that they would be putting a gate at the entrance of the road.

Councilmember Hilkey, stated that he is understanding the first flush interceptor. He questioned if the wood fence would be on the property line.

Mr. McKeever, responded in the affirmative.
Councilmember Hilkey, confirmed his understanding of the process of the drainage system.

Mr. McKeever, stated that the law says that when a piece of property is developed, they can not increase run-off to downstream properties. By reducing the area that drains to that they have fulfilled that obligation. They are not impacting the capacity of that channel that is on the other properties.

Councilmember Hilkey, questioned if there was a reason why Brice Canyon is so long.


Mr. McKeever, stated that they are not interested in building more street than they have to. The problem is the width of the cull-de-sac. If they could get it shorter and still provide access to the lots they would.

Councilmember Hilkey, stated that it gives them more lots.

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 12

Mr. McKeever, concurred.

Councilmember Hilkey, requested that staff get new orthoquads that shows what is there now.

Mayor Ferré, the drainage, the sewer, and the access road are the issues. The lot size doesn’t appear to be the issue. She questioned whether it is 15 or 20 homes all of the same issues will exist.

Mr. McKeever, responded in the affirmative. The property has a lot of constraints. They have to work with what they have. The number of lots will have an impact on the financial feasibility of the development of this project.
Mayor Ferré, appreciates the concerns of the residents and the manner in which they presented them.

Councilmember Garcia, questioned if there was ever a plan for a 15 lot project.

Mr. McKeever, the design criteria was to come up with something that was compatible with the adjacent properties but suitable for custom homes. The 20 lots is what they came up with. They feel that this project will be an asset to the community.

Councilmember Garcia, she would like the applicant to have a neighborhood meeting to try and address their concerns and to continue this item.


CC-2006-64 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER HILKEY, CARRIED 5-0 to continue the public hearing to July 13, 2006 for a Zone Change Case No. 06-01 (ZC-06-01), Tentative Tract Map No. 06-01 (TTM-06-01/County No. 18071) and Environmental Review Case No. 06-03 (E-06-03) to Change the Existing R1-20 Zoning to R1-10 Zoning on a 8.26 Acre Parcel and to Subdivide the Property into 20 Single Family Lots and an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace Approving Zone Change No. 06-01 (Z-06-01) to Change the Existing R1-20 Zoning to R1-10 and Delete the AG Overlay Zone for an 8.26 Acre Parcel Located on the Northerly Side of Pico Street Starting Approximately 150 Feet Easterly of the Intersection of Pico Street and Kingfisher Road and Environmental Case No. 06-03 (E-06-03) - Mitigated Negative Declaration as Provided by the California Environmental Quality Act and a Resolution by the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace, State of California, Approving Tentative Tract Map No. 06-01 (County No. TTM 18071) for a 20 Lot Single Family Residential Development on a 8.26 Acre Parcel Located on the North Side of Pico Street 150 East Kingfisher Road in the City of Grand Terrace, California to allow the Developer to meet with the Kingfisher residents to discuss their concerns.

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 13

UNFINISHED BUSINESS - None

NEW BUSINESS
A. Landscaping and Lighting Assessment District No. 89-1

CC-2006-65 MOTION COUNCILMEMBER HILKEY, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM CORTES, CARRIED 4-0-1-0 (COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA WAS ABSENT), to adopt the Resolution Ordering the Preparation of Plans, Specifications, Cost Estimate, Diagram, Assessment and Report Pursuant to the Provisions of Division 15, Part 2 of the Streets and Highways Code of the State of California, for Proceedings for the Annual Assessment Levy After a Formation of a District and adopt a Resolution approving the Engineer’s AReport@ for the Annual Levy of Assessments for the Fiscal Year 2006-2007 in a District with said City and a Resolution Declaring its Intention to Provide for an Annual Levy and Collection of Assessments for Certain Maintenance in an Existing District, Pursuant to the Provisions of Decision 15, Part 2 of the Street and Highways Code of the State of California, and Setting a Time and Place for the Public Hearing Thereon.

B. Personnel Negotiations - Meet and Confer

CC-2006-66 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM CORTES, CARRIED 5-0, to authorize a 5% salary adjustment for the employees effective July 1, 2006 and to adopt Resolution 2006 next in order rescinding Resolution 2005-08 adjusting the salary ranges for the employees of the City of Grand Terrace and authorize an amendment to the City of Grand Terrace PERS Contract from the current 2.0%at 55 to a proposed 2.7% at 55 and authorizes the Mayor to execute a contract amendment to reflect this change and authorize additional City PERS contribution of 2.9% and the employees will contribute 2.9 % to fund this new benefit.

CLOSED SESSION

A. Personnel Negotiations (GC54957.5) Conference with Labor Negotiations (GC54957.6) Conference with Labor Negotiator Tom Schwab, Steve Berry and Larry Ronnow Representing Unrepresented Employees

Mayor Ferré announced that the Council met in Closed Session to discuss Personnel Negotiations (GC54957.5) Conference with Labor Negotiations (GC54957.6) Conference with Labor Negotiator Tom Schwab, Steve Berry and Larry Ronnow Representing Unrepresented Employees and the following was agreed to; to authorize a 5% salary adjustment for the employees effective July 1, 2006 and to adopt a Resolution 2006 next in order rescinding Resolution 2005-08 adjusting the

Council Minutes June 8, 2006 P age 14

salary ranges for the employees of the City of Grand Terrace and to authorize an amendment to the City of Grand Terrace PERS Contract from the current 2.0%at 55 to a proposed 2.7% at 55 and authorize the Mayor to execute a contract amendment to reflect this change and authorize additional City PERS contribution of 2.9% and that the employees will contribute 2.9 % to fund this new benefit.
Mayor Ferré adjourned the meeting at 8:50 p.m., until the next CRA/City Council Meeting which is scheduled to be held on Thursday, June 22, 2006 at 6:00 p.m.


CITY CLERK of the City of Grand Terrace
MAYOR of the City of Grand Terrace



CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING - JUNE 8, 2006

A regular meeting of the Community Redevelopment Agency, City of Grand Terrace, was held in the Council Chambers, Grand Terrace Civic Center, 22795 Barton Road, Grand Terrace, California, on June 8, 2006 at 6:00 p.m.

PRESENT: Maryetta Ferré, Chairman
Bea Cortes, Vice-Chairman
Herman Hilkey, Agency Member
Lee Ann Garcia, Agency Member
Jim Miller, Agency Member
Tom Schwab, City Manager
Steve Berry, Assistant City Manager
Brenda Mesa, City Clerk
Larry Ronnow, Finance Director
Gary Koontz, Community Development Director
Richard Shields, Building & Safety Director
John Harper, City Attorney
Captain Mike Howell, Sheriff’s Department

ABSENT: None

CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEETING

APPROVAL OF 05-25-2006 MINUTES
CRA-2006-16 MOTION BY VICE-CHAIRMAN CORTES, SECOND BY AGENCY MEMBER GARCIA, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the May 25, 2006 Community
Redevelopment Agency Minutes.

Chairman Ferré adjourned the Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting at 6:10 p.m.,
until the next CRA/City Council Meeting scheduled to be held on Thursday, June 22, 2006, at 6:00 p.m.

SECRETARY of the Community Redevelopment
Agency of the City of Grand Terrace
CHAIRMAN of the Community Redevelopment
Agency of the City of Grand Terrace