Category Archives: Eastvale Front Page

Breaking News Stories from Eastvale and surrounding communities.

Here We Grow Again

By Michael Armijo

Eastvale – There are so many projects in Eastvale, we will highlight a few at a time. Just a recap on what’s going on in the Eastvale Community:

Map ID 1. KB Homes, The Lodge, Residential Development Project No 10-0124. Location: Corner of Limonite Avenue and Scholar Way. 205 detached single-family homes on approximately 40 acres. Planner Malinda Lim. Planning Commission approval on March 18, 2015, to add tempered glass panels along Scholar Way. CURRENT ACTIVITY Under construction as of May 8, 2017. Symmertry model homes now open. Phase 1 completed, Phase 2 under construction.

Map ID 2 Goodman Commerce Center (formerly Lewis Eastvale Commerce Center Project No 11-01271 (se also Project No 15-0551). Location: Hamner Ave between Bellgrave Ave and Cantu-Galleano Ranch Road. General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, and Specific Plan to provide for mix of warehousing, light industrial, office, and retail uses. Approved by City Council November 11, 2015 Building permits issued for two industrial buildings. CURRENT AVTIVITY: Under construction as of May 8, 2017.

You Can Get A Ticket For Walking In The Street

By Chandler Holloway and Michael Armijo

California – As kids, our parents warned us heavily to never ever walk in the middle of the street. It was viewed as a spot where no one could go. However, looking around today, it is clear to see that the sidewalk has become more of a suggestion than a requirement. More and more people every day are walking just by the curb or close to in the middle of the street. Even though it seems that this is simply just accepted by the law, it is very much illegal and you can get cited.

California Vehicle Code 21956 states, “No pedestrian may walk upon any roadway outside of a business or residence district otherwise than close to his or her left-hand edge of the roadway.”

“Walking in the street is a very citable offense,” said LA County Sheriff Captain Alfred Reyes, “it’s about safety more than anything else.”

The Captain explained that cross walks are in place for a reason, and so are sidewalks.

“It’s definitely not wise for anyone to walk in the street,” Reyes added, “the best practice are utilizing sidewalks for pedestrian traffic, sidewalks are safest, do not place yourself in harms way.”

Runners and walkers can sometimes use bike lanes, and bike lanes may not be always safe for runners or pedestrians, but no lane is definitely not safe. Safest utilize the sidewalk.

At night always wear reflective clothing, joggers and bikers, Captain Reyes recommends. “If you choose to jog in a bike lane there is always the distracted drivers element. It’s amazing how we see sooo many people look at phones, even on the freeway,” he said.

Just a few months ago, Pastor Mark Lee from Vantage Point Church in Eastvale, sister church from Diamond Bar’s E-Free Church, was running in the bike lane at 9 am when he was struck by a passing truck’s right side view mirror. He spend weeks in rehabilitation and is still reluctant to do certain activities. The driver was cited as being at fault. Fortunately he delivered an inspiring sermon on the importance of cherishing your life.

The Sheriff’s Department will cite runners and bikers in the bike lake who do not wear reflective clothing and bikers who do not have reflectors and a headlight. You are required to have lights on yur bike at night.

Many people do not get ticketed for walking in the street and it appears because of priority. In fact, if you are getting stopped, odds are the officer is concerned about your safety. Sure, walking on a roadway might not get you a serious ticket, but it might get you a serious injury, even death.

In Eastvale, California (bordering Chino), a 28 year old woman was killed last month when she was struck by a vehicle. 28 year old Janine Chavez of Eastvale was walking in the roadway, not inside a crosswalk, Eastvale Sheriff’s officials said. The Eastvale death happened about 7:45 p.m., Chavez was hit by a southbound a Honda Accord driven by a 51-year-old Ontario man, sheriff’s officials said in a press release.

Chavez was pronounced dead at the scene.

Sheriff’s officials are asking anyone with information about the crash to contact the Jurupa Valley Station’s Eastvale Traffic Division 951-955-2600. She was walking on Hamner Avenue south of Amberhill Ave, according to the Riverside County sheriff’s department and coroner’s office. It has not yet been determined who’s at fault but the report stated she was not in a sidewalk and appeared to be walking in the road. But details are being gathered.

According to everybodywalk.org, over 4,500 people in America are killed just crossing the street. The website also claims that over 68,000 people are injured every year from crossing the street. This is even worse in crowded cities like New York, where it is estimated that a pedestrian is killed or injured by a vehicle every two hours.

The only one who can prevent such actions taking place is the pedestrian. Using sidewalks and obeying traffic signs will keep you safe and lawful. If you want to know more about other laws in the California Vehicle Code, dmv.ca.gov has the complete Vehicle Code on their website.

Eastvale Holds 13th Annual Picnic In The Park

Photo courtesy: JCSD
Picnic in the Park begins Friday, June 23rd and ends Sunday, June 25th.

Staff Reports

Eastvale – It’s that time of year again when Eastvale and surrounding cities get ready for the 13th annual picnic in the park sponsored by Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD).

“You can expect picnicking, carnival rides, a beer garden, food and retail vendors, a watermelon eating contest, and even a salsa making contest, among other things” said Madison Crask, JCSD Senior Recreational Leader. “We are happy to announce that we’ve expanded the carnival rides area, making it larger than in the past.”

Picnic in the park is a three day event celebrating the Fourth of July, complete with an extravagant firework show. JCSD Parks and Recreation Department has received many awards for various events and activities like this because they know how to a throw party. This pre-Fourth of July celebration will be held at Eastvale Community Park, located at 12750 Citrus St. in Eastvale, near Hamner Ave.

The FREE event opens on Friday, June 23 at 5 pm and closes at 11 pm. Saturday hours are from 2-11 pm, Sunday 3 to 10 pm. There will be many things to do like picnic games, carnival rides, waterslides, bounce houses, and contest with prizes to win. The carnival attractions will be located on the West End of the event and will open at 5 pm. Entertainment on opening night, Friday, will be “Queen Nation,” a “Queen” cover band that will perform at 7 pm.

Parking will be available at the following locations- Eastvale Community Park (FREE UNTIL FILLED), Eleanor Roosevelt High (SMALL FEE TO BENEFIT SCHOOL), and Riverheights Intermediate School (SMALL FEE TO BENEFIT SCHOOL). Both schools are located on Scholar Way.

· Eleanor Roosevelt High School (7447 Scholar Way) – west parking lot and parking lot in front of the performing arts building.

· River Heights Intermediate School (7227 Scholar Way) – Outdoor basketball courts on the west end of campus.

They will be many vendors there selling goodies like kettle corn, Italian ice and much more. On Saturday various performances by Rockstars Of Tomorrow will take place throughout the day followed by the 9 pm firework show. Sunday the park will open at 3 to 10 pm. There will be activities like a salsa making competition from 3 to 6 pm, and in the main courtyard a giant waterslide, mega slip n slide, and mini waterslides for the younger children, so bring your bathing suits. The firework show will begin at 9 pm, but it’s recommended that you come early to reserve your viewing location.

Picnic in the park has become a tradition in many families so feel free to come out and celebrate your Fourth of July and neighborhood pride.

As a reminder, loud noises and flashes of lights from firework displays may be stressful for pets, especially cats and dogs. Please take extra precaution to safeguard your pets during the Picnic in the Park fireworks show on Saturday, June 24th from approximately 9 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Fourth of July and the days leading up to the holiday are the busiest times of the year for animal control. Pets may flee from their home as a result of fear from fireworks. Keep your pets safe and in a stress-free environment during large fireworks displays.

Connect with us on Social Media @JCSDParks. Share your memories this summer using #PIP2017 or #JCSD2017. If you have any questions, please call the JCSD Parks and Recreation Department at (951) 727-3524 or visit our website.

Heart 2 Serve: Offering Hope To The Hopeless

Combining Community Outreach with Business Services

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Hills – For four years now, an organization has existed somewhat under the radar providing services to both individuals and the community at large.

Heart 2 Serve, a privately owned and operated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, currently assists adult individuals in substance abuse recovery and reintegration as productive members of society through community service and construction businesses offered to the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County areas.

This faith-based (Christian) organization was founded by Brian and Cindy Baughman, with the help of fellow faith members, in 2013. It initially began as a construction company, followed by what was termed an “RV ministry” for transitional living. In 2015, Heart 2 Serve, Inc. became a 501(c)(3) entity, focused entirely on individuals who truly wanted help.

Heart 2 Serve provides all that is necessary to rebuild individual lives that have fallen into hopelessness due to substance addiction through the business built from these humble beginnings. Currently, the organization assists often-stigmatized individuals, including parolees and homeless persons, in their recovery through provision of work, shelter, food, and clothing, so as to reintegrate them as productive members of society.

Heart 2 serve offers a 2-year program that begins with establishing a life-plan of achievable goals designed to measure a client’s progress, rebuild his confidence, and discover newfound hope.

According to its mission statement, Heart 2 Serve Inc. is “the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen.” From the ashes of all the ruins of lives destroyed by addiction, there is birthed a new life amidst despair in the act of serving others. Thus, the name was chosen: Heart 2 Serve.

Among the services required and/or available for a client of the transitional living and reintegration program is participation in the following: substance abuse recovery programs (12 Step meetings), spiritual counseling, safe shelter, employment and skill training (through the construction and moving services training), health and care, food and clothing, legal assistance, education and transportation, and, finally, gainful employment.

The professional contracting and moving services that Heart 2 Serve provides through its nonprofit not only helps fun their ministry, but it also offers an opportunity for individuals in the program to learn new skills and earn an income.

To that end, Heart 2 Serve is a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, able to meet every commercial and residential construction and moving needs.

What attracts individuals and businesses to hire Heart 2 Serve over other companies is not just the low pricing, but, as a non-profit, there is also a substantial tax savings provided in using the service, as it is considered a “charitable contribution” on tax forms.
Good cause. Good savings. Rebuilding society from the ground up – literally. Not much else one could desire from a nonprofit, really.
For more information, visit www.h2si.org.

 

Here We Grow: Amazon Fulfillment Center and Costco Building

By Marissa Mitchell

Eastvale – Amazon will soon be opening its new fulfillment center in the Inland Empire, Eastvale, adding at least 1,000 more jobs.

Postings for job positions have been found on local job sites such as Indeed.com for fulfillment managers and employees.

In the city of Eastvale, Amazon employees, will handle and process “small” customer items, including books, electronics, and toys, at a 1 million-square-foot facility built by the Goodman Group.

All over the state, more than 15,000 full-time Amazon employees process and ship customer orders at nine current California fulfillment centers in  in San Bernardino, Eastvale, Redlands, Rialto, Moreno Valley, Tracy and Patterson, in addition to sortation centers in San Bernardino and Newark.

Eastvale City Manager Michele Nissen stated, “This is a really exciting project for us because of the jobs that will be coming.” The jobs will help diversify the economy and community, as well as build revenue.

Because of augmented demand for the Inland Empire Amazon facilities, Nissen declared, “retailers in this position have to expand, otherwise they’re going to lose market share to other competitors.”

Amazon also provides a boost to the economy in the form of education. Amazon’s Career Choice program, offered to Amazon associates who have had at least one year of experience working for the company, pre-pays up to 95 percent of tuition for college courses related to in-demand fields, independent of whether the employee’s skills are relevant to a career at Amazon.

Because of this, more than 9,000 employees have pursued degrees in game design and visual communications, nursing, IT programming and radiology, among other career paths.

Amazon isn’t the only construction happening in Eastvale lately. A new Costco is now in the making – one with the region’s first Costco car wash.

The soon-to-be 158,000 square foot Costco on the east side of Hamner Avenue will showcase a 45-acre retail complex, according to Nissen, who stated, “Assuming there are no additional delays due to weather, we’re hoping Costco will open in late [this year]”.

The Costco will also provide a 30-position gas station.

“Costco has been probably the No. 1 retailer our residents have requested,” Nissen said, “and the sales tax generation from the Costco facility will make a significant difference to the long term sustainability for the city. It’s a conservative estimate that Costco would generate $1 million in sales tax annually to the general fund.”

The proposed retail center will include restaurants and house-shops…up to 14 of them, shaped in an “L.” If approved, Nissen and city planner Eric Norris stated those retailers could open late this year or early 2018.

“We have the Costco coming and we recently announced that we have an additional (Amazon fulfillment center), and between Costco and Amazon, that’s going to bring a substantial amount of employment to Eastvale,” stated Eastvale Councilman Todd Rigby. “And with the employment coming, we know that people that work in an area tend to spend money in the area.”

A Costco spokesperson declined to comment on plans for Eastvale, citing in an email company policy to withhold comment on future Costco locations.

 

SB 130 Restores Funding to Eastvale

By Marissa Mitchell

SACRAMENTO – Early this month, Senate Bill 130 was approved by the California State Senate (34-0), thus restoring vital funding to for the newly incorporated cities of Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Menifee, and Wildomar. The bill was later approved by the California State Assembly on a bipartisan vote of 72-1.

Senator Richard Roth of Riverside declared regarding the passage, “For too long, Sacramento has failed to provide our region with its fair share. There is no reason why these particular cities should be excluded from receiving an equitable share of state revenue which every other California city receives. SB 130 is a critical measure of fairness and equity, and I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their support and for recognizing how important this funding is for our cities’ residents.”

The City of Eastvale will receive funds that they were not privy to prior to passage of Bill 130. Instead, because each of the four cities were incorporated before the passage of Senate Bill 89 (2011), they suffered great financial difficulties. Senate Bill 89 was one of the steps that the legislature took to close the state budget gap, and resulted in cities which had incorporated after 2004 losing critical public safety and municipal services funding previously given to all newly incorporated cities.

Senator Roth would continue, “Riverside County’s four newest cities are one step closer to receiving the funding they deserve and, in the case of Jurupa Valley, desperately need. This is an issue I have fought for since before I was even elected, and I am proud to have a strong partner in Assembly member Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona) in ensuring our cities and region receive their fair share from Sacramento.”

Assembly member Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona) and Senator Richard D. Roth (D-Riverside) issued the following joint statement on their support for SB 130: “We thank our colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting SB 130 and recognizing how important this funding is for our cities’ residents. For too long, Sacramento has failed to provide our region with its fair share. SB 130 is a critical measure of fairness and equity which ensures Riverside County’s four newest cities will once again have the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods and families safe.

“This is a major victory that will provide these four cities with the funding they deserve and, in the case of Jurupa Valley, desperately need. There is no reason why these particular cities should be excluded from receiving an equitable share of state revenue which every other California city receives. We look forward to receiving the Governor’s signature on this measure and finally delivering a fair share of resources to our cities.”

SB 130 will now go on to Governor Jerry Brown for his approval or veto.

Wal-Mart Supercenter Being Built in Eastvale

Photo courtesy: Google Images Eastvale municipality leaders hvae approved development of Wal-Mart.

Eastvale municipality leaders have approved the development of a Walmart supercenter.

By Marissa Mitchell

Eastvale – A new Wal-Mart Supercenter will be built in the city of Eastvale, as ratified by city council members. The Supercenter at large will feature Walmart and other stores, bearing the name “Eastvale Crossings”

On April 26, the project was unanimously approved for building. It will be built on the southeast corner of Limonite and Archibald. In the center covering over 25 acres, the Walmart itself will be approximately 192,000 square feet and include a gas station. Subsequent developments on other parcels of land will be subject to city and Planning Commission review, according to City Manager Michele Nissen.

Per city planning documents, the project will also feature a drive-through pharmacy for Eastvale residents. Time frame for construction, however, has yet to be determined.

Walmart spokeswoman Delia Garcia stated by phone, “The approval is the first step. We’re very early in the process here.”

Photo courtesy: Google Images
Eastvale municipality leaders hvae approved development of Wal-Mart.

The planning project is projected to serve not just Eastvale but also the surrounding communities, including Ontario, Chino, Norco, and Jurupa Valley, said officials.

Garcia added, “We know that many of our customers are already shopping at other Wal-Marts in Chino and Corona, and this will be a convenience to our Eastvale customers, but we’ll also serve a broader area.”

This novel Wal-Mart supercenter is expected to garner around $375,000 a year in sales tax revenue for the city, Nissen stated, which will help the city overall in many ways. In general, average sales tax revenue for any Wal-Mart supercenter can range from $250,000 to $900,000 per year, so the estimate is conservative.

“Those dollars go straight into the city’s general fund,” Nissen declared. “Ultimately, it’s up to the City Council and myself to decide how those dollars are spent, but it’s based on the needs of the community.” And, as a rapidly growing community, the needs are many.

Moreover, the new center is anticipated to help ease a challenge for the city, said Brandon Plott:   “For the last six years, we’ve been able to maintain a solvent budget, but it’s been very challenging. The topic of gaining more sales tax revenue comes up and Wal-Mart brings that to the city.”

More revenue generated leads in turn to greater benefits of the community at large. Simply the project in and of itself is expected to create approximately 100 construction jobs and around 300 retail jobs for the city.

The Wal-Mart will include a full grocery department, giving citizens choices and flexibility in food shopping in and around the marketplace of Eastvale.

Plott stated, “It does bring a level of service to the city that the residents want. People can shop for something at a lower price and it brings a level of competition to the city, which is good for our local economy. I think people want to pay lower prices for products.”

 

CBU Officially Opens Events Center With Ribbon

Photo courtesy: Andrew Shortall
CBU President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis officially opens the Events Center by cutting the ceremonial ribbon on Thursday.

News Release

RIVERSIDE, Calif. – California Baptist University added another milestone event in its 67-year history by dedicating the new events center and unveiling the Lancer statue that will stand guard over the sprawling 153,000 square foot building Thursday afternoon.

“This represents another wow day for California Baptist University and Lancer Athletics,” said CBU president Dr. Ronald L. Ellis. “We are thrilled that the new CBU Events Center will be the home of Lancer basketball games, student chapel services and many other great events in the years to come. This building is now one of the magnificent landmarks in the entire Inland Empire.”

CBU’s Director of Athletics Dr. Micah Parker echoed the impact.

“The mission of the athletic department is to ‘honor Christ through excellence in athletics,'” said Parker. “This facility will definitely help us fulfill our mission. The Events Center will present us with the opportunity to invite the Inland Empire to experience exciting and family friendly events and as a result, we anticipate a great atmosphere due to a growing Lancer nation. We are currently planning the events surrounding the season’s opening weekend Nov. 10-11.”

For the coaches and student-athletes, the rapid ascension of the Lancer basketball programs has had far ranging impact.

Photo courtesy: Andrew Shortall
California Baptist University President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis speaks in front of the Events Center at Thursday’s ribbon cutting ceremony.

“We’re incredibly excited for our past, present and future players,” said head men’s basketball coach Rick Croy. “It is our mission to create a transcendent college basketball experience for our students, faculty/staff, alums, and community that will resonate throughout the Inland Empire, Southern California and eventually onto the national basketball scene. Dr. Ellis’ vision and execution of the building of the Events Center changes that dream into a goal.”

CBU student-athlete, Tori Mitchell from women’s basketball grew up in Riverside and offered her perspective.

“I think playing in the Events Center for the first time is going to be very exciting and that the environment there is going to thrilling,” said Mitchell. “The addition of the Events Center to CBU will mean that we will be able seat a greater amount of people for games and chapel, which will make it easier for people to come out and support us.”

The design of the two-level building complements the Mission Revival architecture style that is a hallmark of the CBU campus. The centerpiece of the building will be a more than 5,000-seat arena that will showcase some of the CBU athletics teams competing in NCAA competition.

Currently, the Lancers compete in the NCAA Division II PacWest Conference and will remain eligible for all PacWest championships and NCAA D-II postseason play through the 2017-18 season. University officials plan to apply for NCAA D-I membership in June 2018. CBU has already been accepted to join the Western Athletic Conference beginning the 2018-19 season.

Besides athletics, the arena also will provide space for CBU’s chapel program, attended by nearly 5,000 students weekly during the academic year. Other uses planned for the Events Center include student orientation activities and commencement ceremonies.

Photo courtesy: Andrew Shortall
CBU women’s basketball Coach Jarrod Olson, Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services Kent Dacus, President Dr. Ronald L. Ellis, Director of Athletics Dr. Micah Parker and men’s basketball Coach Rick Croy pose for a photo in front of the Events Center after the ribbon cutting.

Eastvale’s Newest Retail Development To Open This Fall

Eastvale Marketplace Will be Anchored by a Smart & Final Extra! Grocery Store

City of Eastvale

EASTVALE –Evergreen Devco, Inc. broke ground on its 73,000-square-foot retail development in Eastvale, California, in January. The retail development, Eastvale Marketplace, comprises 7.64 acres on the northeast corner of Limonite and Sumner Avenues, and is expected to open this fall.

“Eastvale is one of the fastest-growing cities in the State of California and is a very special community,” said Chris Bergren, Principal of Evergreen Development. “Eastvale is a young, affluent and family-oriented community with a great culture.”

Eastvale Marketplace will be anchored by Smart & Final’s new Smart & Final Extra! grocery store concept. At 30,560-square-feet in size, it will provide all of the basic grocery necessities and a whole lot more.

The Smart & Final Extra! store at Eastvale Marketplace will also speak to consumers seeking a healthier lifestyle. The store will offer larger sections of fresh and frozen foods, organic and natural products, and bulk food items. Shoppers will find larger sections of produce, along with oven-roasted chicken and other daily-needs items in convenient sizes.

In addition to the grocery store, Eastvale Marketplace will feature three additional retail pads and two shop buildings for additional tenants, which will include a mix of tenants, including a Les Schwab Tire Center and a Pacific Dental Services office.

“We’ve received a lot of interest in Eastvale Marketplace from restaurants and service-oriented retailers,” said Bergren. “To date, we have tenant commitments for 92 percent of the development. We will make more announcements soon, as we know that residents and visitors are looking forward to hearing what restaurants and retailers will open at Eastvale Marketplace.”

Santa Ana-based Moorefield Construction is the contractor for Eastvale Marketplace, which was designed by Pasadena-based McKently Malak Architects.

“Evergreen kept our community in mind when collaborating with City staff to create a shared vision for Eastvale Marketplace,” said Mayor Joseph Tessari. “Eastvale Marketplace will provide a mix of restaurants and retailers who can serve the needs of our growing community and create a broad range of jobs to support our local workforce, both during construction, and when it opens this fall.”

Tenants interested in Eastvale Marketplace are encouraged to contact Chris Bergren at (310) 480-0128 or cbergren@evgre.com.

 

City Of Eastvale City Council Notice Of Public Hearing

PROJECT NO. 12-0051

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Eastvale City Council will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary School located at 13830 Whispering Hills Drive, Eastvale, CA 92880, to consider the City of Eastvale Planning Commission’s recommendation of approval for the development of a new retail center with a Walmart Store on an approximately 24.68-acre site – Project No. 12-0051.

 The proposed project includes the following proposed  land use entitlements:

  • General Plan Amendment to change the land use designation for the eastern half of the project site from Light Industrial to Commercial Retail.
  • Change of Zone to change the zoning for the eastern half of the project site from Manufacturing-Service Commercial to General Commercial.
  • Tentative Tract Map No. 35061 for the subdivision of approximately 24.68 acres into five commercial parcels and one parcel for a stormwater detention and water quality basin.
  • Major Development Review for the development of an approximately 192,000-square-foot proposed Walmart store and associated improvements.
  • Conditional Use Permit to operate a drive-through pharmacy at the proposed Walmart store.
  • Two Conditional Use Permits to allow two drive-through facilities on two parcels located within the retail center, subject to future Major Development Review approval.
  • Conditional Use Permit to allow alcohol sales at the proposed Walmart store.
  • Conditional Use Permit to allow alcohol sales in a future gasoline service station located within the retail center.
  • Variance from the parking lot landscaping and shading requirements of the Zoning Code for a portion of the parking lot in front of the proposed Walmart store.

The project site is located at the southwest corner of Limonite Avenue and Archibald Avenue; Assessor’s Parcel Number 144-030-039. The project site is not located on a hazardous materials site that is listed under Government Code Section 65962.5. Applicant is Wal-Mart Real Estate Business Trust, c/o Matt Smith.

The City of Eastvale has completed an environmental impact report (EIR) for the proposed project in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) to assess the potential for any significant environmental impacts associated with the proposed project. The EIR (State Clearinghouse No. 2015011020) was released for public and agency review on October 3, 2016, with the 45-day review period ending on November 17, 2016. The EIR and project file may be reviewed at Eastvale City Hall during business hours. The City Council will consider adoption of the EIR prior to making a decision on the project.

The EIR recommends the adoption of various mitigation measures that will reduce the project’s environmental impacts to a less than significant level as required under CEQA. The EIR identifies three areas in which environmental impacts cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level; namely, air quality, noise, and transportation. Because of these significant and unavoidable impacts, a Statement of Overriding Considerations has been prepared for adoption by the City Council prior to any decision to approve the project.

Any person may submit written comments prior to the public hearing or may appear in person before the City Council to be heard. Written comments may be mailed to the City of Eastvale City Clerk at Eastvale City Hall, 12363 Limonite Avenue, Suite 910, Eastvale, CA 91752. Any questions on the project may be directed to Eric Norris at (530) 574-4875 or via e-mail at enorris@eastvaleca.gov. To be presented to the Council at the meeting, all comments made in writing or via e-mail prior to the public hearing must be submitted and received by the City of Eastvale City Clerk no later than Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at 4:00 p.m. Oral and written comments may be submitted directly to the City Council at the public hearing. If you challenge the project in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you raised at the public hearing as described in this notice or in written correspondence delivered to the Eastvale City Council prior to or at the public hearing.

Suspects Arrested In Mail Theft

Photo courtesy: Dickie Simmons

Staff Reports

 

Eastvale – Last week deputies announced that the Norco Sheriff’s office arrested four suspects for mail theft from homes in the City of Eastvale. Several more suspects were arrested, three from Corona, by the US Postal Service.

According to a press release, on March 28 around 2 am, Norco deputies located an unoccupied stolen vehicle in the 1600 block of Hamner Ave., Norco. While conducting further investigation, deputies located and detained four suspects at the scene. During a subsequent probation compliance search of their belongings, deputies located several hundred pieces of stolen mail, checks and credit cards in their possession. The mail was determined to have been recently stolen from the cities of Norco, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley and Ontario. Several locations victimized include, but are not limited to:

7000 block of Freesia Ct., Eastvale

7000 block of Ginko Ct., Eastvale

13000 block of Blue Ribbon Ln., Eastvale

14000 block of Orangevale Ave., Eastvale

3900 block of Pontiac Ave., Jurupa Valley

2100 block of 5th St., Norco

3000 block of S. Clover Ln., Ontario

All four suspects were arrested and booked into jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center for numerous crimes including conspiracy, mail theft, identity theft, possession of stolen property and vandalism. The suspects have been identified as:

Anthony Joey Marquez, a 22-year-old resident of Rialto

Janeen Alejandra Gutierrez, a 24-year-old resident of Rialto

Alejandra Tapia-Jimenez, a 24-year-old resident of San Bernardino

Jovanni Benitez, a 22-year-old resident of Loma Linda

The three arrested from Corona are Bernie Martinez 23, Kammi Leigh Vestesen, 24, and Paul Wagner 28.

In the federal case, a father and son team from Adelanto were arrested for mail theft. They went so far as to jump onto a moving USPS vehicle in an attempt to rob it.

“The brazen acts of these defendants demonstrate the lengths to which mail thieves will go, including jumping onto moving vehicles and attempting to rob secure post offices,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “This case is the latest of several cases highlighting my office’s focus on criminals victimizing the Postal Service and its customers.”

If convicted of the conspiracy charge in the criminal complaint, the defendants each would face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison. A criminal complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in court.

One thing the USPS is doing to combat mail theft is a new program that will scan images of mail you are to receive. By April 14th, Informed Delivery will be available covering the majority of the United States.

The United Stated Postal Service now offers a service called “Informed Delivery.”  With Informed Delivery, the USPS is able to scan your mail each day and send images directly to you.

Get up to 10 mail piece images in your morning email, which can be viewed on any computer or a smart phone. Get more mail than that? Additional images are available for viewing on your online dashboard – in the same place you track your packages! Don’t worry if you are on travel; if you have email or online access, you can see much of the mail that will be delivered to your mailbox.

If you suspect your mail is stolen, you will know exactly what is missing when filing a police report.

Eastvale City Council Recap

By Tiana Goegebuer

Eastvale – The February 22nd City Council Meeting was attended by Council Members Rigby, Rush, and Plott, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Lorimore and Mayor Tessari. The invocation was led by Pastor Ed Moreno from New Day Christian Church, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Pro Tem Lorimore. After a moment of silence to honor the fallen Police Officer from the City of Whittier, the Council moved into a Closed Session.

In the Presentations/Announcements portion of the meeting, Mayor Tessari invited Captain Rossi from Fire Station 31 to accept the Safely Surrender Baby Month proclamation. The Council then moved Item 10 on the Agenda, the City Manager’s Report, to this portion of the meeting.

Next, the meeting progressed to the Public Comments section, a resident stated his concerns about birthing homes in Eastvale, to which the Council responded by saying that since the issue is currently part of an ongoing investigation, not much information could be given without harming the pursuit.

The Consent Calendar was discussed next, and all Items were passed 5-0.

In the City Council Business section, Item 9.1 involved Richard Wall being sworn in to the Public Safety Commission. Item 9.2, an Investment Portfolio Update was approved 5-0. Item 9.3, Solar Powered Receptacles Project Overview and Approval of Memorandum of Understanding Senior Administrative Analyst Rodriguez was continued to a later meeting. Item 9.4, Pavement Management System Update was approved 5-0. Item 9.5, Draft Truck Route Study Update was approved 5-0. For Item 9.6 , the Appointment of Ad-Hoc Committee, the Council voted 5-0 to appoint an ad-hoc committee comprised of two planning and two public safety commissioners with alternates, plus two community members selected by City Staff.

The meeting adjourned with closing statements by the Council and City Staff. ■

Eastvale Native Provides Healthcare for U.S. Navy Sailors

By Kayla Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO– A 2000 Jose Olaya High School in Peru graduate and Eastvale, California native is serving in the U.S. Navy at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

Petty Officer 3rd Class German Vargasdavila serves as a hospital corpsman at the San Diego based hospital. According to Navy officials, the hospital’s priority is to provide the safest, highest quality patient-centered medical care for veterans, service members and their families.

“The best part of my job is treating my patients,” said Vargasdavila. “I enjoy intereacting with people so this is a perfect job for me.”

The sailors who are part of Navy medicine are the most highly trained, educated and specialized force in history, said Navy officials. The role of Navy medicine in preserving the healthy and fighting readiness of that force has never been greater or more critical.

“Serving our nation’s warriors and their families is an honor, and our staff is dedicated to providing the existing best care possible,” said Capt. Joel Roos, Naval Medical Center San Diego Commanding Officer. “Our continuous training coupled with unparalleled innovation allow us to deliver exceptional care.”

Vargasdavila said he feels honored to be able to serve at a hospital that is continually raising the bar in health care.

“I like that I get to serve in San Diego,” said Vargasdavila. “This is a teaching hospital so I am able to learn more while serving here.”

Those who serve in Navy medicine understand that they play a key role in meeting the missions of the armed forces, according to Navy officials.

“When I first joined the Navy, the language barriers were a challenge,” added Vargasdavila. “Now that I am use to the enviornment, I know I have a purpose. I am fighting for freedom for my family and the country.”

 

 

Eastvale Families Sue For Crash On Pine; City Allocates $250,000 For Defense

By Michael Armijo

Chino –The City of Chino has allocated $250,000 to defend itself from a lawsuit for a fiery crash on Pine Avenue that occurred in Oct. of 2014.

The accident, which took place on the 7600 block of Pine Avenue near the California Institute for Women near the Meadow Square Apartments, took the lives of three teenagers who lived in the neighboring city of Eastvale.

The families of the three people killed filed the suit in Dec. 2015 citing that the city allowed dangerous conditions on Pine Avenue that resulted in the crash. Of the many allegations, the families claimed the city failed to warn drivers of the dangerous conditions and failed to maintain a safe shoulder or clear zone near the curve.

The first $100,000 was authorized by in June last year. The additional $150,000 was approved last month. According to local reports the funds will be used to create a defense for the rest of the year.

The suit filed by the families did not ask for a specific amount for damages for the deaths of Andrew Deleon, Alex Horta, and Nathan Dominguez, all 19 years of age from Eastvale. The three were in a 2000 Chevy pickup traveling westbound on Pine when it crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with a 2013 Honda Accord traveling the opposite way.

New Chandler Fire Station Now Open

By City of Eastvale

The City of Eastavle is proud to announce that the Chandler Fire Station is now open and ready to serve the community!

While Engine 31 is operational, the Grand Opening Ceremony will be held on Wednesday April 19, 2017.

Chandler Fire Station No. 31
14991 Chandler Street
Eastvale, CA 92880

Please join us in welcoming this new addition!

City Council Recap for January

By Tiana Goegebuer

The January 11th, 2017 City Council Meeting was attended by Councilmembers Todd Rigby, Adam Rush, and Brandon Plott were present, as well as Mayor Joseph Tessari and Mayor Pro Tem Clint Lorimore. The invocation was led by Pastor James Turner from Eastvale Bible Church.

The Council held a Closed Session meeting, and no reportable actions were taken as a result, and the meeting then progressed on to the Presentations and Announcements section. Representatives from the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) discussed the Eastvale Health Screening, and then progressed to the Public Comment section.

In the Public Comments, there were two speakers; one who wished to address the mail theft in his area, and the other who asked the Council to find more proactive ways to deal with things such as mail theft and littering.

The Consent Calendar was approved 5-0.

Next, in the Public Hearings section, Item 8.1 was discussed by several members of the community before the Council moved to pull the Item from the calendar or the evening. IT was approved 5-0.

In the City Council Business section, Items 9.6 and 9.7, the appointment of the Public Safety Commission and the Planning Commission positions were addressed first.

Item 9.1, an update of the maternity homes and the enforcement actions taken was presented by the City Manager.

Item 9.2, Consideration of an Ad-Hoc Committee to Discuss Possible Solutions for Maternity Homes, was discussed, and two Councilmembers will serve on the committee, with Mayor Tessari serving as an alternate.

Item 9.3 involved the Community Fruit Tree Public-Private Partnership Memorandum of Understanding. It was approved 5-0.

Item 9.4, the Chandler Station (Fire Station No. 51) Update was presented by Bob Williamson, the project and construction manager for the build.

Item 9.5 had to do with the Acceptance and Quitclaim of Storm Drain Easement for Eastvale MDP on certain lines and parcels.

The Meeting adjourned with closing statements from the City Staff and Councilmembers.

The January 25th, 2017 City Council Meeting was attended by Councilmembers Todd Rigby, Adam Rush, and Brandon Plott were present, as well as Mayor Joseph Tessari and Mayor Pro Tem Clint Lorimore. The invocation was led by Pastor Rob Norris from The Crossings church. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Councilmember Rush.

In the Presentations/Announcements portion of the meeting, an update was provided by the Public Safety Commission, an introduction of the JCSD Community Affairs Supervisor was presented, a plaque was given to Chief Deputy Jason Horton for his service to the City, and the new president of Norco College came to speak and introduce himself to the Council. Student Liaison Natalie Diaz gave her report on upcoming and current happenings in the Eastvale schools.

In the Public Comment section, a resident came forward to speak about the mailbox break-ins and theft in Eastvale, another resident complained about the traffic around Rosa Parks Elementary School, one implored the Councilmembers to continue taking action against maternity homes.

The Consent Calendar was approved 5-0. There were no Public Hearings.

Item 8.1, the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report was presented and approved 5-0.

Items 8.2, the Acceptance of the 2016 State Homeland Security Grant Award, and Item 8.3, the Acceptance of the Emergency Management Performance Grant, were both approved 5-0.

Item 8.4 stated additional programs offered by Waste Management, and was approved 4-1, with Councilmember Rush voting ‘no’.

Item 8.5 was an update on the Roadway Adoption Program was presented and approved 5-0.

Item 8.6, a Quitclaim of Presidio Road Storm Drain was given, and it passed 5-0.

The Meeting adjourned with closing statements from the City Staff and Councilmembers.

 

Non-Permitted Food Distribution at City Park

By Corona PD

The Corona Police Department has been working closely with County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health and local clergy members in order to work on a solution to the safety concerns regarding non-permitted food distribution at City Park.

Safety concerns that are being addressed include unsafe play areas for children, unusable public restrooms due to debris and inhabitation, and the possibility of persons becoming sick due to food borne illnesses. The growing number of our homeless citizens who frequent City Park for the non-permitted distribution of food has also negatively affected the surrounding residential and business community. These concerns include sleeping in the doorways of businesses, trespassing onto private property, and the accumulation of human waste in public spaces.

In order to educate the public about the ways non-permitted food distribution affects the surrounding residential and business communities, the Corona Police Department’s HOPE (Homeless, Outreach & Psychological Evaluation) Team has contacted many of the groups currently providing food in the park. The HOPE Team facilitated conversations with these groups and explained the safety concerns for homeless citizens, as well as the general public who use the park. The Corona PD has also met with members of the local clergy to discuss the safety and community concerns and to search for a solution. The members of the clergy and the Corona PD have both expressed their commitment to continue to meet and develop a solution to this issue.

As a first step in order to relieve some of the safety concerns, the City of Corona will post signs at City Park educating the public of the violation of existing California Health and Safety Codes related to non-permitted distribution of food. These signs will be clearly posted in the near future in order to discourage the non-permitted distribution of food.

Going forward, the HOPE Team, along with other Corona Police officers, will monitor City Park for the non-permitted distribution of food, and for a period of time will focus on the educational process rather than the enforcement process to inform those who have become accustomed to providing non-permitted food to our homeless citizens on the legal requirements to continue doing so.

For groups who wish to continue feeding the homeless at City Park, a “Special Use Permit” will be required by the City of Corona as well as a “Food Distribution Permit” required by the County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health. The process for both permits can be initiated simultaneously however the City permit must be granted prior to County permit approval. For further details on how to obtain a “Special Use Permit” from the City of Corona, please visit our Community Development Department at City Hall or go to www.DiscoverCorona.com. To obtain a “Food Distribution Permit” please contact the County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health at 951-273-9140 or visit their website at www.rivcoeh.org.

If you have any questions about the information provided please contact Lieutenant Alan Lorton at 951-736-2281 or email Alan.Lorton@DiscoverCorona.com.

Harada Heritage Park Served Its Purpose !

By Tiana Goegebuer harada-park

After having been famously stuck in a 6-year drought, a series of powerful winter storms has brought some much-needed rainfall to Southern California. According to the L.A. Times, since the beginning of October, Los Angeles has received more than 13 inches of rain. This amount is 216% of the normal rainfall of this time of year, which the National Weather Service states is 6.26 inches.

Eastvale has experienced its fair share of rain over the course of the last few weeks as well. On Sunday, January 22nd, the rain poured down for a period of at least 5 hours straight before lightening to a drizzle. Due to the unusual amount of water suddenly found in the city, Eastvale’s own Harada Heritage Park found itself almost completely under water.

The 32-acre park in Eastvale doubles as a storm basin in the event of excessive rainfall, just like that which was experienced on the 22nd. Harada serves as a place for the rain that falls on many streets to drain in the attempt to avoid flooding on the roads. The basin portion of the park—normally home to recreational sports and the Concerts in the Park during the summer—captures the water and later drains out after the flooding has ceased. The collected runoff will either percolate into the ground or flow into the surrounding storm drains. This system helps to create a safer environment for the homes in our community, and serves to control the flooding in the streets.

On the 22nd of January at approximately 7 p.m., Harada Heritage Park was filled to the brim with rainwater, to the point that it was nearly reaching the parking lot at the top of the stairs. The following morning, the water level had dramatically receded in spite of the continuous rainfall. A few days after that, the water had completely drained. Thanks to Eastvales great planning system our multi-purpose park returned back to normal just as quickly as it became a temporary “Lake”. It is once again ready for our amazing Community Sports and Music!

 

Corona Woman Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Embezzling more than $500,000 from her Employer

By U.S. Attorney’s Office 

Santa Ana– A Corona woman who embezzled more than $500,000 from her employer, an Irvine-based property management company, has been sentenced to serve 27 months in federal prison.

Kristina Hosea, 46, of Corona, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Cormac J. Carney, who also ordered the defendant to pay $515,619 restitution.

Hosea pleaded guilty in 2015 to one count of wire fraud and admitted that she stole money from her employer, Advanced Real Estate Services, Inc. (ARES), where she worked as the assistant to the president.

“This defendant stole funds for years to pay for rent, her cars, a retirement account and a quinceanera for her daughter,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “Businesses place trust in their employees who handle their finances, and crimes like this defendant’s harm the business and all of the business’ employees.”

According to court documents, Hosea was responsible for reviewing and approving invoices, as well as preparing checks to be signed by the company president. She was also provided a company credit card to be used only for business purposes.

From at least September 2008 and through May 2014, Hosea knowingly defraud ARES by wire company funds to her personal bank account and cashing at least 100 ARES checks made payable to her and others for non-business expenses. She also used company credit cards to make purchases unrelated to the company’s business.

In order to conceal her actions and avoid detection, Hosea altered and modified bank and credit card statements, created phony invoices and deleted records of checks from the company’s computers.

“The defendant supplemented her income with stolen company funds and became accustomed to living beyond her means by regularly defrauding her employer,” said Deirdre Fike, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “Ultimately, the greed which led to her criminal actions came under scrutiny and she will pay for her crime behind bars and through court-ordered restitution.”

Judge Carney ordered the defendant to begin serving her prison sentence by February 21.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory W. Staples of the Santa Ana Branch Office

Military Banner Program :Applications are now being accepted

By City of Eastvale imagejpeg_0

The City of Eastvale is now accepting applications for the Military Banner Program for the May 2017 installation.

The Military Banner Program recognizes and honors Eastvale residents that are serving on active duty in the United States Armed Forces.

To be eligible for the Military Banner Program, a service person must:

  • Be an Eastvale resident or is the spouse, mother, father, daughter, son, brother, sister, grandchild, or legal guardian of a current City of Eastvale resident. Proof of residency will be verified by a provided driver’s license or other form of identification and a recent utility bill listing an Eastvale address; and
  • Be serving on active duty. For the purpose of this program, active duty is defined as twelve (12) months of continuous service in the United States Armed Forces.

-At the time of application submittal, a minimum of six (6) months must be remaining of active duty service.

 

Limited funding is available and banners will be approved on a first come first serve basis. Approved military banners will be installed along Archibald Avenue in May 2017.

This program is subject to all terms and conditions of the Military Banner Program Policy.

An application must be submitted with a copy of the applicant’s driver’s license, utility bill and photo of the service person by March 15, 2017. Applications can be download here and submitted via email to info@EastvaleCA.gov or mailed to:

City of Eastvale Military Banner Program

12363 Limonite Avenue, Suite 910

Eastvale, CA 91752