Category Archives: Eastvale Front Page

Breaking News Stories from Eastvale and surrounding communities.

Eastvale: Leal Project Advances to Next Step

brad.leal.speaks.to.eastvale.city.council

Brad Leal speaks to the Eastvale City Council

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL 

Eastvale – The Leal Property, a 160-acre parcel of some of the last open land in Eastvale, has been a popular subject around the community. The land is owned by dairyman Brad Leal, who has tried to work with the City of Eastvale in developing a plan that brings his ideas into juxtaposition with what is best for the City. Leal has long been a proponent of ensuring what is most beneficial to Eastvale as a neighborhood is built on his property. The idea for a “downtown feel” is one that Leal is adamant about maintaining. He has worked with the City on making that dream a reality and at the City Council meeting on Wed., April 21, it seemed that Leal and the City are one step closer to making his dream come to life.

The Leal Property is currently zoned for agricultural as well as some residential development. With the Land Use Plan, the area would be re-zoned to include mixed use purposes for retail, office, civic, etc., and pave the way for the development of a large downtown area that combines commercial and retail with open spaces and landmark features that would become a major part of Eastvale’s economy and esteem.

Since February’s Leal Property update, the Leal family and the City have been busy moving away from the strict “bubble map” version of the property layout, which included exact sections to be developed (i.e. commercial in one specific area, retail in another), and moved more toward a flexible approach. The City sat down with Mr. Leal, who was concerned with the property plan being “too specific” about where things are and showing too little retail development. The City then took his comments and came up with a new, more flexible approach.

The New Leal Property Plan allows more retail to occur, doesn’t specify locations and uses at this time, and focuses on setting a higher bar for the quality of development. The new plan calls for 326,700 to 1,300,000 square feet of commercial development, up to 920,000 square feet of office/medical development, up to 450 hotel rooms, a possible Civic Center, as well as medium and high density housing. The plan also includes many community features like open spaces and entry features.

Leal and the City have been able to agree on most of the plan with the exception of the high density housing. Leal wants to ensure that the city remains flexible to development and that there aren’t any “dead spaces.” Councilmember Bill Link seemed to have the same concern but was informed that this housing doesn’t necessarily have to be in a certain area of the property development, but instead can be a more integrated part of the overall plan. Also, according to Eastvale’s Planning Director, Eric Norris, if the project is successful, then high density housing may not even have to be built at all.

The next step is to formalize a Vision Plan that will reflect this new land use concept. The City hopes to get this reflected into some type of brochure that will describe the land use ideas to potential developers by showing them that this project is open for business and they need only bring us their ideas. Members of the City and City Council will be attending the International Council of Shopping Centers Conference in May 2014, where many developers attend; this will allow them to get the project out to interested parties.

Once this Vision Plan has been created, the next step is the Specific plan. This will provide processes and act as more of a rule book to continue to guide the project to fruition. The City Council agreed to harmonize with the general direction that the plan is going in.

Leal, who has remained adamant about emphasizing a Downtown Eastvale area and maintaining quality for the people of Eastvale, got up to speak many times during the presentation. He explained that his original idea for a downtown “contained pockets for whatever gets built there”. He wants to make sure that the City and future developers provide a destination where all the different aspects of a downtown area blend seamlessly together. According to Leal, “This is a big project and it will develop slowly. I don’t want some guy to just come in and build a big building.” Instead Leal hopes that it will come in phases of construction and establish a real downtown Eastvale feeling.

For this project, which is roughly the same size as Victoria Gardens, attention to the finer details and the overall feel of community is apparent in Leal’s determination to ensure that it is developed in the best interest of everyone involved. The project will be a large part of Eastvale and there are many who hope it will serve as a “landmark,” bringing in jobs, business and revenue for our ever growing city.

For a dairy farmer who has been an integral part of this community, it’s about seeing his dreams and hopes come together in unison with the ideas and hopes of both the City and the Eastvale Residents.

Eastvale: Election Season Kicks-Off at Bootsma Ranch

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – With November’s City Council election season getting closer, some candidates have already thrown their hats in the ring. Current Planning Commissioner, Joe Tessari, and current City Council member, William Link, took part in a Chili Dinner Fundraiser at the Bootsma Ranch Sat., April 12.

The event was a re-election fundraiser for Corona Norco School Board Member Bill Newberry, but Newberry also invited a few city council candidates to participate. The evening proved to be a great way for candidates to introduce themselves to the community and also to begin the fundraising process.

During the fundraiser event, City Council hopeful, Joe Tessari, spoke about his wish to continue his service to the community by becoming part of the council. Tessari has served on the Eastvale Planning Commission for the last three years. Current Council member, Bill Link, also addressed the community and promised to run an open campaign, as he is a very open person and always tries to find the answers needed.

According to the City of Eastvale website, “City Council members are elected at-large for a four year term. Council Members serve “staggered” terms, meaning that either two or three seats are open for election every two years. Council Members receive a $400 per month stipend as compensation for their service”.  The current City Council consists of Mayor Ike Bootsma, Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush, Jeff DeGrandpre, Bill Link and Ric Welch.  Adam Rush, Link (who replaced Kelli Howell’s vacated seat in 2013) and Welch’s spots are the three seats that will be up for election in November.

As the election season draws closer, more candidates are expected to come forward and announce their candidacy. Some have even begun to go door to door and introduce themselves to the community. Some previous candidates from the City Council Elections in 2012 and 2013 have already began “pounding the pavement” in hopes of getting their names out there and letting the community know their intentions. And there are others, who are quietly contemplating running and planning their next move.  In an affluent city like Eastvale – with its high public safety, education and income rankings, as well as an extremely active and in-touch community – a City Council seat holds a lot of prestige.

The process to become a candidate starts early and prior to soliciting or receiving any contributions related to candidacy, aspirants must file a Statement of Intention with the City Clerk’s Office. There are also additional filing requirements that are dependent on the amount of contributions anticipated. The official filing period begins on July 14 and ends August 8 of this year. To become a candidate, according to the City of Eastvale’s City Clerk’s office, you must first be issued a Nomination Paper which specifies the office you are seeking. You must also obtain the signatures of at least 20 and not more than 30 registered voters within the City of Eastvale.

To qualify as a candidate for the City Council, you must reside and be registered to vote within the jurisdiction at the time nomination papers are issued. More specifically, you must be:

  • At least 18 years old.
  • A U.S. Citizen.
  • A resident of the City of Eastvale.
  • Registered to vote in the city.
  • You must not be on parole or serving time for any felony conviction.

To find out more information about this process, visit the City of Eastvale’s website at http://www.eastvaleca.gov/.

 

Eastvale: Corona Norco Unified School District Begins Student City Council Liason Position

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

 

Eastvale – At the City of Eastvale’s March 12 City Council meeting, CNUSD (Corona Norco Unified School District) Board Member, William (Bill) Newberry, was present to discuss the idea of instating a volunteer student liaison to the Eastvale City Council. The concept behind involving a student liaison in the Council meetings would be to engage local youth in the governmental process, as well as assisting elected officials who are seeking solutions to community problems.

 

According to Newberry, the concept involves one student per semester that would be selected by Eleanor Roosevelt High School staff. This student representative would join the City Council members at meetings, but would not be a voting member of the council.  The liaison would be responsible for conducting the flag salute at each meeting, coordinating and presenting special student certificates, working with the Eastvale schools to obtain an update to provide during the City Council meetings, and writing a brief report that will include bullet points from each school site.

 

This liaison is selected from either incoming or current seniors at Eleanor Roosevelt High School. Each student will serve for approximately three months, with one student covering the July-August Council meetings while school is not in session.

 

When presented with the idea, the Eastvale City Council expressed a few concerns, such as who would be in charge of selecting the student liaison and how long a single student would remain in the position.  Aside from that, the Council seemed pleased with the idea not only to further the knowledge of a select few students, but to encourage more of the local youth to be an active part of their community.

 

The first school liaison selected was Julia Vasquez, a senior. She attended her very first City Council meeting on April 9.

 

Leal Specific Plan To Be Discussed – April 23rd

Leal Property Aerial View Photo Courtesy: www.lealspecificplan.com

Leal Property Aerial View
Photo Courtesy: http://www.lealspecificplan.com

City council meeting is Wednesday April 23rd at 6:30 pm! Be there to hear more about this plan!

 Information: courtesy City of Eastvale
Posted Date: 4/21/2014 2:00 PM

CITY OF EASTVALE, CA (April 21, 2014) – At the April 23rd City Council Meeting, Council Members will be reviewing a draft of the proposed mix of uses to be built on the Leal Property at some point in the future. The land use mix includes retail for the “downtown” area, offices, civic uses (possibly a future city hall), and residential. If the proposed uses are approved by the City Council, the land use mix will be described in the “Vision Plan” and ultimately in the detailed planning document which will be prepared for the property.

The public will again have an opportunity to provide comments during this meeting. The City Council meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary School: 13830 Whispering Hills Drive, Eastvale 92880. The Public is highly encouraged to attend and provide their input on the project.  The land use program staff report is available for download on the City’s website (www.eastvaleca.gov) or the Leal Specific Plan website under documents: www.lealspecificplan.com/documents.

The meetings are open to the public to listen and participate. If you were unable to attend the last meeting (February 26, 2014), you can view the PowerPoint presentation to the City Council and Planning Commission at: www.lealspecificplan.com/documents.

For more information about the Leal Specific Plan, please visit: www.lealspecificplan.com

Eastvale: Distracted Driving Enforcement

Courtesy City of Eastvale

Eastvale, CA. – As part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign, the Eastvale Police Department has Distracted Driving Month joined with over 200 other local law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol in a month long “zero tolerance” enforcement and education campaign to curb those texting or operating hand-held cell phones while driving. The Eastvale Police Department conducted a special high visibility enforcement operation to cite cell phone violators in the area of Roosevelt High School, River Heights Intermediate School and Harada Elementary School.
As a direct result of the operation, 34 drivers were cited for various unsafe driving conducts. The violations cited included cell phone violations, crosswalk right of way violations and seatbelt violations. One vehicle was stored during the operation.
The increased enforcement and education aims to persuade drivers to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and reduce the number of people impacted by this perilous behavior. The “It’s Not Worth It!” theme emphasizes that a phone call or text isn’t worth a hefty fine or a collision. The current minimum ticket cost is $161, with subsequent tickets costing at least $281.
“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” said Eastvale Police Lt. Mike Yates, “because we see the aftermath of these totally preventable crashes. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $161, or worse, someone’s life?”
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver. According to research, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. Even a three second glance at freeway speeds means a driver has traveled the distance of a football field.
Research shows that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in “inattention blindness” which occurs when the brain isn’t seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers’ focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road. When over one third of your brain’s functioning that should be on your driving moves over to cell phone talking, you can become a cell phone “zombie.”
Join the City of Eastvale in our support for the “It’s Not Worth it Campaign!” Cell phones, texting. It’s not worth it. It’s just that simple.
Resources from the California Office of Traffic Safety: http://ots.ca.gov/Media_and_Research/Campaigns/Distracted_Driving.asp

Eastvale: ATM Machine Attempted Theft Suspects In Eastvale and Hemet Caught

Image
Courtesy City of Eastvale

Date Written: April 17, 2014 Time Written: 10:00 AM 
Date of Incident: April 3 and April 6, 2014 Time of Incident: 4:40 AM 
Location of Incident: 6000 Block of Hamner Avenue, Eastvale 
Reporting Officer: Sergeant Vanessa Sloniker 
File Number: EV140930004 and EV140960004 

On Thursday, April 3, and Sunday April 6, 2014, officers assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to the Chase Bank in reference to an attempted theft of the stand-alone ATM machine. Detectives assigned to the Eastvale Police Department assumed the investigation and later determined a separate ATM theft in the city of Hemet that occurred on April 11, 2014 at the 1800 block of East Florida Avenue was also committed by the same suspects. In a collaborative effort between the Eastvale Detectives and the Hemet Police Department the two suspects were located in the city of Riverside. Due to the more serious crime of grand theft, occurring in the Hemet Police Department’s jurisdiction they assumed the investigation and the following suspects were arrested and booked into the Southwest Detention Center for both the attempted thefts in Eastvale and the grand theft in Hemet: 

Ernest Brandon Causey, a 26 year old resident of Riverside was arrested for vehicle theft, conspiracy, grand theft, attempted grand theft and an outstanding misdemeanor warrant for petty theft. Causey is being held on $167,000 bail. 

Thomas Carlton Wilson, a 38 year old transient of Riverside was arrested for vehicle theft, conspiracy, grand theft, attempted grand theft and violation of parole. Wilson is currently being held without bail. 

Anyone with additional information on this case is encouraged to contact Eastvale Detective, Ted Gonzales by calling (951) 955-2600.

Citizens may also submit an anonymous tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

(Photo by Bree Pressler Dennis)

EASTVALE: Why So Many Eastvale Pot Houses?

Plants seized during an investigation in February 2014. Picture courtesy of Eastvale Police Dept.

Plants seized during an investigation in February 2014. Picture courtesy of Eastvale Police Dept.

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – In the last few years, more than 50 marijuana grow houses have been located, investigated and ultimately shut down by the work of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in conjunction with Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team. Many of these houses were located with the assistance of the community, who have listened and followed the “How to Spot a Marijuana House” tips and diligently called in their suspicions to the Sheriff. So while it may seem to the public that Eastvale has been inundated with “drug houses and crime”, that really is not the case.

What makes a marijuana grow house, and how do they keep ending up in our community? This is one of the most commonly asked questions with one of the simplest answers: size and availability. Eastvale has a multitude of large homes, and with the economic downturn, many of these homes were left abandoned or were quickly purchased by investors. Unfortunately, a lot of these owners didn’t take the time to do the proper background checks on tenants or follow up with property checks, to ensure that their homes were being used properly. According to Sergeant Davis of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, “Often after a bust, when we try to locate the renters (if they were not there and arrested at the time) we find that the owners were given inaccurate paperwork, fake identifications and were paid in cash. As a result, the trail goes cold.” The actual homeowners are then responsible to pay for all the damages done to these homes. As Davis describes, “These homes get ruined inside with mold and water damage and an absolute disregard for the property”.

The large Eastvale houses enable the full process of marijuana cultivation to occur because there is sufficient space. According to the Assistant Police Chief of Eastvale, Lieutenant Mike Yates, the homes in Eastvale have the room to run the entire operation. “There are even a few guys that were setting up these houses to prepare them to become grow houses by circumventing the electricity and thus providing the processors with a ‘pre-made’ facility,” he says. Bypassing the electricity causes an extreme fire hazard, which was witnessed firsthand when a property on Craigburn Circle in Eastvale caught on fire and was later discovered to house over 1,100 marijuana plants. Besides being a fire and safety hazard, the circumventing of the electricity also robs Edison of thousands of dollars in stolen electricity and destroys the house. The electronics inside the walls of the home are ripped out by cutting into the dry wall. The criminals rip open the plastic and tap into the electric system, basically running their own electric panels and bypassing the original system. According to Davis, it’s difficult for Edison to spot these low or non-using homes because the grid is so large, and so many of these homes are on solar power and using very little electricity, or are abandoned or for sale.

The process of tracking down these houses, identifying and confirming them, and ultimately shutting them down, is something that the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team has gotten pretty good at doing. Sergeant Davis explained how he was fortunate enough to go on a ride-along with two set team officers who have a unique way of finding these grow houses – with their noses. They basically drive around with their windows open and are able to smell the marijuana. They then narrow down the smell to a few houses and call Edison to check the grid for bypass possibility. Sure enough, they have been correct. Search warrants have been issued and houses have ultimately been busted.

But what happens to the criminals after the bust? Are they being prosecuted, and where are they coming from? Yates has noticed that many of the suspects are from the San Gabriel Valley and cities like Monterey and Alhambra are drawn to Eastvale by the size of the homes and because, “there simply is enough space to house an entire operation”. Many different people are involved in each house and they often can be seen coming and going. While a house is being investigated and activity is being monitored, every effort to catch the criminals in “the act” is made. Davis explains that if the suspects are in the house during the bust, they are arrested and the case is turned over to the DA for prosecution. However, if they are not in the home, an investigation is continued to try and locate suspects; but when owners are not aware of who is really renting it becomes difficult. When they are found and arrested, suspects are being prosecuted for felonies and doing jail time – suspects like family members Vinh Cuomg and John Hoa Tran, who were both arrested on Jan. 14 for cultivating marijuana at an Eastvale home on Iris Court. Officers seized 398 marijuana plants, five pounds of processed marijuana and packaging material. Additionally, electricity was being bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in approximately $6,000 a month in stolen electricity. Both were charged with felony counts of marijuana cultivation, denied probation, and are awaiting sentencing.

So while the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team continues to canvas neighborhoods looking for these houses and driving them out of our community, Sergeant Davis wants the community to know that they all appreciate the diligence of the Eastvale citizens in calling in tips and being aware. With a community as savvy in social media as Eastvale is, and with the commitment of its citizens to maintaining a safer community, hopefully these marijuana houses will soon become a trend of the past.

 

Eastvale: “LUGER BANDIT” Linked To Seventh Bank Robberies Since Jan 2012 Following Bank Robbery Wed. In San Dimas

FBI Press Release

Following a bank robbery this morning in San Dimas, California, law enforcement has linked an unidentified suspect known only as the “Luger Bandit” to a seventh bank, six of which were robbed and one where an attempted robbery occurred. Law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties are seeking the public’s assistance in order to identify and determine the whereabouts of the Luger Bandit. Two of the banks that were victimized are offering a combined reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.*
The suspect was described by witnesses as a white or Hispanic male, approximately 30-40 years in age; between 5’8” and 6” in height; and approximately 200 lbs.
During each robbery, the suspect orders employees and customers to the ground, brandishes a weapon and demands cash in various denominations. The suspect’s weapon has been described by witnesses as silver in color and resembling a German Luger-style weapon. During today’s robbery, the Luger Bandit entered the Chase Bank at 1198 Via Verde Avenue in San Dimas and demanded cash while brandishing a weapon. 
In previous robberies, witnesses have described the suspect’s vehicle as a charcoal gray BMW, 3-series with a sports package. 
The suspect can be seen in bank surveillance photos wearing pullover sweatshirts with hoods and jeans, as well as a facemask, sunglasses and black gloves to conceal his appearance. The suspect is also carrying a black bag with a strap during the robberies. 
The Luger Bandit has been linked to the following robberies:

1/3/13 Wells Fargo Granada Hills
2/18/13 Wells Fargo Fontana
3/8/13 Wells Fargo San Dimas (Attempt)
3/12/13 Chase Bank Mira Loma
6/4/13 Bank of America Corona
1/8/14 Wells Fargo Bank Corona
4/9/14 Chase Bank San Dimas

Bank surveillance photographs from today’s robbery and previous robberies are being released publicly in order to identify the suspect (see below). Anyone with information as to the identity or the whereabouts of the unidentified suspect known as the Luger Bandit is urged to contact the FBI or dial 911. In Los Angeles, the FBI can be reached 24 hours a day at 310 477-6565. 
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Los Angeles Police Department; the Fontana Police Department; the Corona Police Department; and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. 
*Specific criteria for each bank reward offer applies.

Eastvale: Distracted Driving Enforcement

Eastvale, CA (April 9, 2014) – As part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign, the Eastvale PoliceDistracted Driving MonthDepartment will be joining with over 200 other local law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol in a month long “zero tolerance” enforcement and education campaign to curb those texting or operating handheld cell phones while driving.

The Eastvale Police Department conducted a special high visibility enforcement operation to cite cell phone violators in the area of Rosa Parks Elementary School and Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School.

As a direct result of the operation, 29 drivers were cited for various unsafe driving actions.  The violations cited included cell phone violations, crosswalk right of way violations, seatbelt violations, red light violations, and unlicensed driver violations. One vehicle was stored during the operation.

The increased enforcement and education aims to persuade drivers to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and reduce the number of people impacted by this perilous behavior. The “It’s Not Worth It!” theme emphasizes that a phone call or text isn’t worth a hefty fine or a collision. The current minimum ticket cost is $161, with subsequent tickets costing at least $281.

“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” said Eastvale Police Lt. Mike Yates, “because we see the aftermath of these totally preventable crashes. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $161, or worse, someone’s life?”

Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves.  In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver. According to research, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds.  Even a three second glance at freeway speeds means a driver has traveled the distance of a football field.

Research shows that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in “inattention blindness” which occurs when the brain isn’t seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers’ focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road.  When over one third of your brain’s functioning that should be on your driving moves over to cell phone talking, you can become a cell phone “zombie.”

Join the City of Eastvale in our support for the “It’s Not Worth it Campaign!”  Cell phones, texting. It’s not worth it. It’s just that simple.

Resources from the California Office of Traffic Safety:http://ots.ca.gov/Media_and_Research/Campaigns/Distracted_Driving.asp

Distracted Driving Fact Sheet (pdf)
Printable Distracted Driving Tip Card (pdf)
Printable Pledge Card (pdf)

Release and Image Courtesy of City of Eastvale

Eastvale: City Council March Recap 2014

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER 

 

Eastvale – This month there were two City Council meetings.  At the March 12 meeting, Council Members Ric Welch, Jeff DeGrandpre, and Bill Link, Mayor Ike Bootsma and Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush were present.  The invocation was led by Pastor Sam Tanner with Life Church.

 

There were no Presentations, Announcements, or Public Comments.

 

All Items on the Consent Calendar were approved, 5-0.

 

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items, so the meeting continued on to New Business Items, as follows:

 

8.1:  School Liaison to City Council was approved 5-0; 8.2:  Selection of Anderson Penna, Consultant for Engineering Design Services, was approved 5-0; 8.3:  A Study Session was requested and approved 5-0 for the 2014-15 Fiscal Year Goal Setting Budget; 8:4:  Review of Expense Policy Reimbursement was approved 4-1, with DeGrandpre voting against; and 8:5:  Attendance at the International Conference of Shopping Centers (ICSC) was approved 4-0-1, with DeGrandpre abstaining.

 

In the City Managers Report, Carol Jacobs reminded the Council that they need to select a Planning Commissioner for the Economic Development Committee, as well as formally reappoint the Public Safety Committee.

During Council Communications, the Planning Commission and the Public Safety Commission’s attendance was requested at the next meeting, as well as an ‘after-action’ report on the robbery/dog shooting that recently occurred with Animal Services.

The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

 

At the March 26 meeting, Council Members Ric Welch, Jeff DeGrandpre, and Bill Link were present, with Mayor Ike Bootsma running the meeting; Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush was absent.  The invocation was led by Pastor Rick Morris with The Crossings Church.

 

There was a presentation by Melonee Cruse on behalf of the Public Safety Commission.

 

All items on the Consent Calendar were approved 4-0-1.

 

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items.  The New Business Items were as follows:

 

8.1: The motion to continue the appointment of the Planning Commissioner to the Economic Development Committee.  Dr. Albert Randall was recommended, and was approved 4-0-1; 8.2: The motion to appoint Council Member Ric Welch and Jennifer Rodriguez to the Eastvale Community Foundation Board of Directors was approved 4-0-1; 8.3: The discussion on The Leal Specific Plan was approved to be continued to a later date 4-0-1.

 

In the City Managers Report, there was a reminder that the State of City Address would be on March 27.  In the Council Communications section, the Limonite off-ramp discussion involving Link, and other members of the council was mentioned; and a recommendation to investigate and modify laws concerning marijuana use in vapor cigarettes was mentioned by Council Member Bill Link.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:42 p.m.

 

Eastvale: Man Who Shot Woman in Custody

Man Suspected of Shooting female in Eastvale early on April 5 (Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

Man Suspected of Shooting female in Eastvale early on April 5
(Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

By Michael Armijo 

UPDATED 4 pm 4/5/14: Just before 7 a.m. authorities spotted the suspect’s white Dodge  driving around and tried to initiate a stop. The suspect failed to yield and eventually parked his car in a strip mall parking lot, located at Norwalk Blvd. and Carson in the city of Hawaiian Gardens where he barricaded himself inside his white Dodge Magnum for seven hours. He was spotted by Sheriff’s Deputies when they went to the area to check for the suspect because his auto registration has a Hawaiian Gardens address. After Deputies tried to pull him over, they administered a “spike strip” and all four tires of the Dodge Magnum were deflated. The suspect refused to surrender and tear gas was used. After this was unsuccessful, a K9 was deployed. The standoff with Los Angeles County Sheriff ended with the suspect being taken into custody. He was treated for minor injuries and transported to a hospital, according to the Sheriff’s Department. The female victim is out of surgery and listed in stable condition. She is expected to survive. Update by Jennifer Madrigal  
Eastvale 7:49 am, 4/5/14– A man allegedly shot a woman early this morning and then drove her to the hospital, dropped her off, and fled, police say.“At about 12:30 am, officers from the Eastvale PD answered a call about an assault with a deadly weapon,” said Deputy Anthony Munoz, Public Information Officer for the Riverside Sheriff’s Department. “The suspect, a Hispanic male, allegedly shot a Hispanic female six times and dropped her off at a local hospital, then fled.” The incident happened early this morning, Sat. April 5, 2014, near Rolling Meadow Street and Burrage Street, Munoz said. The area is south west of Limonite and Harrison, and no other injuries were reported. The names of the victim and the suspect was not released yet, and their maritial status was unknown,  but they did have two kids together, Munoz said. “The suspect is considered armed and dangerous, and he fled in a white Dodge. Since the investigation is ongoing, we will have more information later and a press release will be issued,” Munoz said.

 

EASTVALE: Here We Grow Again

 

eastvale park mayor addresses crowd

By K.P. Sander and Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – The brand new Eastvale Community Park opened on Saturday, March 8, to a crowd of excited Eastvale residents. Representatives from the Eastvale Mustangs JAAF and Cheer, AYSO Soccer, Empire Soccer, Chivas Soccer, CrossFit Eastvale, and many others came out to promote their businesses. JCSD had demonstrations from various programs going on which kept both children and adults actively engaged throughout the day. Even with the dreadful Santa Ana winds, the event was a success.

The 160-acre parcel on the northwest corner of Limonite and Hamner Avenues is the ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ right now as far as real estate goes in the City of Eastvale. The massive property, owned by Dairyman, Brad Leal, has been the focus of discussion by the City Council, and even Eastvale citizens. Further exploration of the vision for the Leal Property was to be addressed at the City Council meeting on March 26, but discussion on the Specific Plan was approved to be continued to a later date. Stay tuned.

Ponino’s Pizzarena (located in the Ralph’s shopping center next door to the newly opened Soccer Wearhouse) opened without fanfare on Thursday, March 13 so employees could get into top form prior to the grand opening – coming soon; however, feel free to stop in for some hot, cheesy pizza right now.

You may have noticed that the Auto Zone at Archibald and Schleisman is now open. Still to come in that shopping center is Starbucks (gotta have one on every corner, right?), Fantastic Sam’s, Mes Amies Hair and Nails, Dentistry with Nihar Tanna DDS, Juice It Up, and the Great Harvest Bread Company (if you are not familiar with this business, you are in for a real treat).

 

The City of Eastvale has so much to be proud of, and so much to look forward to. The City is working on entryway monuments and directional signs that will be a beautiful welcome for citizens and visitors in the future. Yorba Elementary is planning its grand opening for July 6, 2015. And our second fire station will benefit our City next year as well.

 

Silverlakes: Another Perspective

Silverlakes Master Plan Photo Courtesy: City of Norco

 

By Jennifer Madrigal

Norco – With so much controversy and politics surrounding the now infamous Silverlakes Equestrian and Sports Park in Norco, there seems to be a notion that the taxpayers of Norco have received nothing in return. According to Norco Councilman, Kevin Bash, that simply is not true. In fact, Bash points out that Norco has directly and indirectly received millions of dollars in cash, infrastructure, property improvements, road improvements, and more.

The Silverlakes property was first purchased in 2002 for $5.5 million dollars with the primary intent to stop more homes from being built. The City also hoped to create a “green belt buffer” between Norco and Eastvale. The money used to purchase the park was from RDA (redevelopment) Funds, and as a result the Redevelopment Agency actually owned Silverlakes. Those funds were very limited in what they could be used for and were eventually taken away by the Governor. Had the property not been purchased, the money would have been completely lost.

Already occupying the property, the once beautiful Lyn-Bar Ranch and fishing ponds fell deeper into disrepair as the land continued to be a constant source of Council and public controversy. Weeds grew higher, the property generated no revenue, and the costs for fencing and weed abatement began to add up. In April of 2011, the City of Norco purchased Silverlakes from the RDA for one dollar, and ownership came with a Federal deed restriction stating the land could only be used for a park and any commercial use included must fund the park.

Silverlakes developer, RJ Brandes, CEO of Balboa Management Group, has continued his quest to see this land turned into the Silverlakes Equestrian and Sports Park that both Eastvale and Norco are eagerly anticipating. Negative press, bank troubles and political divisions between the Council and community have caused delay after delay. According to Councilman Bash, “This project should have been shelved so many times, but Brandes has continued to stick in there because he sees the big picture.” In fact, following the December 2010 flood that absolutely devastated the property, Brandes had already spent $4 million on the site.

In July of 2011, Balboa Management Group, LLC and the City of Norco entered into a Funding Construction and Acquisition Agreement in which the City of Norco agreed to set aside $6,000,000 of a 2009 Enterprise Revenue Refunding Water and Sewer Bond to reimburse Balboa Management Group for the actual cost of eligible sewer and water related facilities. This loan agreement was very unusual because normal practice calls for the landowners, The City of Norco, to be responsible for installing the entire infrastructure, but in this case Brandes accepted a loan to do all the work. To clarify, Norco bond holders (Norconians) will be paid back and thus pay nothing for water, sewer and storm drain construction. This loan was discussed in multiple public meetings and clearly understood by the Norco City Council. Bash believes that many people don’t know that there is a loan agreement in place. Part of the loan agreement includes Balboa Management Group paying $33,040 each month in lease payments. This rental income is the second largest tax revenue generator for the City of Norco. In addition, these initial Norco/Silverlakes start-up loan monies have attracted millions of dollars from county and federal agencies, which funded the long delayed Hamner Avenue widening project and will be used to build the new Hamner Bridge.

The money and improvements from this project to the City of Norco cannot be ignored. Over $396,000 each year in lease payments has been collected from Balboa Management Group, which goes directly to the general fund. This money is used to fund public safety, children and senior programs, and more. Additionally, millions of dollars from outside agencies, services and advantages have been provided to Norco, one of the most substantial being the dike. After the flood of 2010, Norco Staff, Brandes and the Army Corp of Engineers sought a better way to protect the property from flooding. A protective dike that runs from the northeast sector of the property around to the southern end along the river was constructed. This dike is designed to withstand a flood where water rises up and over the property. The $752,000 project was paid for by Riverside County Flood Control.

Another project that was completed was the Hamner Avenue Widening Project, which was funded as a direct result of the Silverlakes Project. Norco received $1.4 million from TUMF (Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees), $1.5 million from DSA (Chino Desalter Authority), and $1.6 million from Successor Agency (formerly RDA, funds pending). Other improvements to the site that are directly benefiting Norco and parts of Eastvale presently, are the tunnel, which acts as a Silverlakes flood release valve, and storm drains located in the new Eastvale Community Park – which combined with the tunnel will act as further protection from another devastating flood.

The Hamner Avenue Bridge Project will also begin with the federal government paying 88 percent of the costs, and regional agencies matching the other 12 percent. This project is currently in the engineering stages and Riverside Supervisor Tavaglione predicts the bridge will be completed in five years. These projects and many other small infrastructure projects, as well as businesses that have come to Norco in anticipation of this park, are just a few examples of the good that this project has already created.

Silverlakes Equestrian and Sports Park may still seem to be only weeds and dirt at this point, but the property has generated thousands of dollars to Norco’s general fund, brought road and city improvements to Norco and the property is worth so much more than it was five years ago. It has promise, and will be a major component to the economic health of the communities of Norco and Eastvale by attracting more business interests to both cities. At press time, Brandes is still committed to the project, is still making his lease payments, and hopefully will soon acquire the financing needed to finally bring this project to completion.

EASTVALE – Positive Outlook at Eastvale’s State of the City

The City of Eastvale Staff and Council Photo Courtesy: SD Images

The City of Eastvale Staff and Council
Photo Courtesy: SD Images

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – The Eastvale Chamber of Commerce presented “Eastvale’s 3rd Annual State of the City” to a packed and excited crowd on March 27. The event started off with a reception, catered by Five Star Catering, that included fruit, desserts and a large chocolate fountain. Guests were able to mingle and snack on all the delicious food while looking at various business booths. Representatives from Waste Management, The Gas Co., the Corona-Norco Unified School District, Eastvale’s San Antonio Medical Center, Allegra Marketing and others were on hand to welcome members of the community and share their products and services with them. At the conclusion of the reception, guests were seated in the auditorium of Roosevelt High School for the presentation.

The State of the City was opened with an invocation from Pastor Rick Morris of The Crossings Church. The presentation of colors was done by Boy Scout Troop 2012. Joel Seigler, Chairman of the Board of the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce, began the presentation and thanked all the sponsors for their dedication to this event and to our wonderful city.

After Seigler’s presentation, City Manager, Carol Jacobs, took the stage. According to Jacobs, “We may be a small city, but we get the job done.” Jacobs talked about revenue neutrality being a critical success to the future of Eastvale. In 2013, this revenue allowed the City to purchase land for a second fire station, start a medic unit, increase our police presence, add a fire protection specialist and save the City $33 million over the next 30 years by renegotiating contracts. With a large portion of the general fund coming from sales tax revenue, the amount of sales tax that went to our general fund grew this year from $5,353,575 to $5,720,377, an increase of 6.9%. Jacobs went on to explain that for the third year in a row, Eastvale has a balanced budget. She reminded citizens that, “Sales tax revenue continues to grow. Every dollar you spend here helps us help you”.

Mayor Ike Bootsma then took the stage to deliver his speech. He thanked everyone involved in running the City and spoke about the busy year that Eastvale had with all of the new construction. He then listed the names of new businesses that have opened or will open soon in Eastvale. “Small business owners and entrepreneurs are the backbone of our City”, Bootsma said. He also spoke about the different commissions that the City has, such as the Planning Commission, and the Public Safety Commission.

“The purpose of the Public Safety Commission is to provide the City with recommendations on dealing with things like Neighborhood Watch. The Planning Commission advises the City on land use and much more,” Bootsma said. He added that, “Eastvale is a new City, so there will be many capital improvement projects.” Public safety is the biggest priority for the City and Bootsma believes that, “If we all work together, we can improve traffic safety around the schools”.

Eastvale: Family Shares Connection With Former President

BY EMILY AGUILAR

Eastvale — For most people, it is an honor to meet the man who keeps our country organized. But for two Eastvale residents, it is a privilege to be the closest to a presidential figure. Amelia Crawford and her brother W. Jackson are the great-grand children of the 39th president of the United States, Jimmy Carter.

Crawford and Jackson reveal they carry great pride that there is such an influential figure in their family tree. Former Pres. Carter has been awarded with a Nobel Peace Prize, is part of the Habitat for Humanity project, and aided America during trying times. The Crawford and Jackson families celebrated Black History Month knowing that their family members have helped this country prosper to its current might.

Wilbur Jones, a cousin of Crawford and Jackson, has researched their family’s history and has organized his findings into a book — “Cecelia and Nancy Carter, a Family History” — for others to read the story of this family’s relationship to Pres. Carter. Pick up your copy today to read more about this family.

Eastvale: March 12 City Council Meeting Recap

BY: TIANA GOEGEBUER

EASTVALE – At the March 12, 2014 meeting, Council Members Ric Welch, Jeff DeGrandpre, and Bill Link were present.  Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush and Mayor Ike Bootsma were present as well.  The invocation was led by Pastor Sam Tanner with Life Church.

    There were no Presentations, Announcements, or Public Comments.

All Items on the Consent Calendar were approved, 5-0.

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items, so the meeting continued on to the New Business Items.  The New Business Items are as follows:

8.1: School Liaison to City Council was approved 5-0.

8.2: Selection Of Consultant for Engineering Design Services – Anderson Penna, was passed 5-0.

8.3: Goal Setting for Fiscal Year 2014-2015 Budget: a study session was requested and passed 5-0.

8.4: Review of Reimbursement of Expense Policy was approved 4-1, with DeGrandpre voting ‘no’.

8.5: Attendance At The International Conference Of Shopping Centers (ICSC) was approved in favor of staff members attending the meeting 4-0-1, with DeGrandpre abstaining.

In the City Managers Report, City Manager Jacobs reminded the Council that they need to select a Planning Commissioner for the Economic Development Committee, as well as formally re-appoint a Public Safety Committee member.

During the Council Communications, the Planning Commission and the Public Safety Commission’s attendance was requested at the next meeting, as well as an ‘after-action’ report on the robbery/dog shooting that recently occurred by the Animal Services.

The meeting adjourned at 7:45.

EASTVALE – Here We Grow Again (Update)

BY KP SANDERS

Eastvale – It seems like you can’t drive on any main street in the City of Eastvale without seeing a significant construction project underway.  If you’ve been following this article, you know that our beautiful City, already home to more than 57,000 residents, is in the process of building out the majority of the open land still available.

Our population will increase through the hundreds of homes being constructed throughout the City, and jobs will become available through new businesses – with revenue generated through both key components of a thriving metropolis.  It’s exciting to see the transformation of Eastvale, especially if you have been here for a while.  It almost makes the few cows you see here and there seem quaint, instead of being responsible for the successful agricultural Dairyland it was decades ago.  But time marches on and progress continues for Eastvale.

Auto Zone at Archibald and Schleisman in Eastvale

Auto Zone at Archibald and Schleisman

As decisions are still being made for one of the biggest pieces of acreage, the Leal property on the northwest corner of Limonite and Hamner avenues, other projects are nearing completion.  Auto Zone and Starbucks, at Archibald and Schleisman, look to be opening their doors soon.

Desi Arnaz Ranch

The Desi ‘Arnaz Ranch’ located behind the Desi Collection Models at Estancia East and West

The beautiful new homes, Estancia East and West, located at Citrus and Granja Vista del Rio just opened their stunning model homes.  The Desi ‘Arnaz Ranch’ home is visible from the models, directly behind the Desi Collection model.  This is perhaps the most charming of all the new homes and an obvious tribute to Mr. Arnaz’ love of Spanish style architecture, with equestrian and musical décor abundant throughout.

There are a few new businesses coming to Eastvale.  Look for Tio’s Tacos and Cellular Repair to open soon in the Gateway Center (next to Pick Up Stix); and Boba2Go Coffee and Tea (next to Albertson’s).

 

EASTVALE: Pit Bull Injured During Suspected Burglary Arrest

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL
According to a Riverside County Sheriff’s Press Release, a pit bull was shot and injured after charging a deputy during an attempted arrest. The dog was fired upon after it charged the Deputy and the Deputy was forced to fire two rounds at the animal in order to protect himself. The dog is expected to survive.

According to the Press Release, On Sunday, March 2, 2014, at about 2:23 p.m. Eastvale officers responded to the 12000 block of Limonite Avenue to investigate a burglary in progress. Two adult male suspects were observed removing the protective security packaging from items in the electronics department of the Target Shopping Center (Located on Hamner/Limonite). After they both exited the building, at separate times, an individual who reported the theft was able to provide a vehicle description to authorities.

Once deputies arrived on location and were able to locate the vehicle matching the description, an enforcement stop was conducted. According to the press release, “Upon making contact, the suspect opened the door to the vehicle, releasing a large pit bull that immediately charged at the deputy. The deputy was forced to defend himself and fired two rounds at the dog, striking it. The dog is expected to survive. None of the suspects or the deputies were injured during the altercation”.

The suspects were identified as Salvadore Lopez Garcia, age 38 of Fullerton, who was detained outside the business with stolen property in his possession. The second suspect was identified as Sage Hall, age 25 of Canyon Lake.

The vehicle was searched and stolen property from the business was discovered. Garcia was booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for burglary, possession of stolen property, conspiracy and providing false identification to law enforcement. Hall was booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for burglary, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is committed to the safety of the citizens of this community and will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature. The Sheriff’s Department is asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Deputy Myers at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Eastvale: An Interview with Council Member DeGrandpre

BY K.P. SANDER

Eastvale Council Member DeGrandpre

Eastvale Council Member DeGrandpre

Eastvale – Jeff DeGrandpre has been a member of Eastvale’s City Council since 2010.  He was also an integral part of seeing Eastvale through Cityhood as President of the Eastvale Incorporation Committee.  He has been well-invested in our City, and takes pride in its leadership, and as a resident.

Q:  You were Eastvale’s first Mayor Pro-Tem, as well as Mayor in 2011-2012.  What do you love about this City?

A:  I love the interest that residents have for their city. There is a very strong sense of community here. People know their neighbors and watch out for each other. There is also a sense of volunteerism that runs through the city, schools and recreational activities.

Q:  What is your number one goal for the City this year (2014)?

A:  I would like to complete the Leal plan for the property on the northwest corner of Hamner and Limonite.  It affords us a unique opportunity to create something special. This development will outlive me and I want to make sure that it is something special that this Council can leave behind, and I appreciate the input from the community.

Q:  What do you feel are Eastvale’s Biggest Challenges going forward in the next several years?

A:  We have to continue to pass balanced budgets, spend wisely, build up our financial reserves and continue smart growth.

Q:  What brought you and your wife, Deanne, to Eastvale?

A:  We loved the fact that it was a new community.  I had lived in Chino Hills for over 20 years and saw an opportunity to own a larger home on a larger lot.  It was such a successful move that I became involved in the Cityhood effort as President. It was so much fun to help create a city and then to serve its residents as a Council Member.

Q:  You are not only committed to Eastvale, but serve in a number of capacities on other committees.  Care to share a little more of what you’re working on?

A:  I also serve as a member of the Governing Board of the Corona Regional Medical Center; Secretary and Board Member of the Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District; Regional Council Member to the Southern California Association of Governments; Executive Committee Member for the Western Riverside Council of Governments; and member of the Legislative Committee and Transportation Committee for the League of California Cities.

Thank you, Council Member DeGrandpre, for sharing a little bit of your story with our local citizens.  We wish you success in all of your endeavors, and appreciate all you do for Eastvale.

NORCO: ANOTHER DELAY FOR SILVERLAKES EQUESTRIAN CENTER

By Jennifer Madrigal and K.P. Sander

Photo Courtesy: Google Images

Photo Courtesy: Google Images


Norco – Silverlakes Equestrian Sports Park, the highly anticipated 122-acre recreational facility that began development in 2007, has hit yet another roadblock. Financing for the park in Norco has been delayed as their latest financial backer has pulled out.

At a Norco City Council Meeting in December, Balboa Management Group Chief Executive Officer, R.J. Brandes, said he hoped construction would begin in early 2014 with the opening occurring six to nine months thereafter. However, at a Feb. 19 City Council meeting, Brandes informed the council that bank officials who had agreed to finance had withdrawn.

Silverlakes Equestrian Sports Park has been eagerly awaited for years and with the grand opening of Eastvale Community Park occurring on March 8, the barren field is even more of an eyesore. Silverlakes will be used for equestrian and sporting events, as well as dog shows, car shows, weddings, corporate and community events, circus performances, camping and more. Once completed, it will also join with nearly 120 miles of biking, jogging and equestrian trails.

The vacant land and unfinished project continue to be a source of controversy for both Eastvale and Norco residents. In a meeting back in October 2013, Norco Planning Commission member, Dave Henderson, and his wife Shirley, made a public presentation providing the facts on Silverlakes. Some key points were: $5.1 million was spent in 2012 when there was not authorization to spend above $3.7 million; water, sewer and road infrastructure were not in place; water/sewer municipal bond money appears to have been used for something else; and inspections were not made. With even more delays and no progress on what is now just vacant land with lots of dirt, many questions of poor planning have been raised.

So, will this project ever be completed? According to Brandes, at least two larger banks are considering financing the project and he is determined not to give up on this project until the deal is done. However, when questioned by Councilman Greg Newton at the Feb. 19 City Council meeting about a timeline for financing and construction, Brandes avoided answering.

According to a 2009 market analysis, Silverlakes (with an equestrian center capable of stabling and hosting world-class events, 25 soccer fields, a stadium field that can seat up to 5,000, an event center and picnic areas) could bring in over $35 million to Norco and attract over 550,000 visitors. These are funds that the City has been eagerly anticipating, especially since $5.7 million in water and sewer bond proceeds have already been released to the developer by the City.

The current situation involving Silverlakes Equestrian Sports Park continues to be waterlogged by a lack of funding, reimbursement legalities and general mistrust, but everyone involved still seems to remain hopeful that eventually the project will be completed.