Category Archives: Eastvale Community News

NORCO: Illegal Marijuana Grow House Bust

INFO. COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

 

Israel Martinez

Israel Martinez

Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez

Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez

NORCO-On July 18, 2014, about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow at the location. During the search warrant service over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized.

The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, age 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, age 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and is vigilant in combating crime. Anyone with information about this case can contact Deputies Robles or Ghiliotty at (951) 270-5673.

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

Eastvale: Archibald Ave Closure North of Limonite

CITY OF EASTVALE
Local Construction
Archibald Ave. Closure North of Limonite
Posted Date: 7/18/2014 7:30 PM

The contractor for a development in City of Ontario will be closing Archibald Avenue at Limonite Avenue this weekend July 19 & 20, 2014. The Closure will start on Saturday, July 19th at 6:00 a.m. and be re-opened by Sunday, July 20th at 6:00 p.m. The closure is to implement underground utilities that will be serving the new residential development on Archibald Avenue at Merrill Avenue.

Closure Location: Archibald Avenue between Limonite avenue and Merrill Avenue
Closure Dates: July 19 & 20
Hours: Start on Saturday at 6:00 a.m.; End on Sunday at 6:00 p.m.

This will be a complete closure of Archibald Avenue from Limonite Avenue to Merrill. A detour route has been implemented. The contractor installed electronic message boards to warn citizens of the coming closure and traffic impacts. The electronic message boards will remain up until the completion of the work.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the inspector for the City of Ontario, Ken Oubre, at (909) 395-2138

EASTVALE: Process For Filling Vacant Two-Year City Council Term

jeff degrandpre

Jeff DeGrandpre

Staff Reports

 

Eastvale – On July 9, members of the City Council voted to appoint the remaining two-year term left vacant with the resignation of Councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre. The schedule for the appointment process is outlined below:

  • Application Period: Any registered voter living within the City of Eastvale may download an Application for City Council Vacancy from the City’s website at www.eastvaleca.gov , or pick up an application packet from Eastvale City Hall beginning at noon on July 10, 2014. Applicants must submit a signed application as well as a completed Form 700 to Eastvale City Hall by noon on July 24, 2014. ALL APPLICATIONS WILL BE TIME-STAMPED WHEN RECEIVED – NO LATE APPLICATIONS WILL BE CONSIDERED IF STAMPED AFTER 12 P.M. ON JULY 24, 2014. 
  • Special Meeting of the City Council: All applicants who have submitted complete applications by the 12:00 p.m. July 24 deadline will be interviewed at a Special Meeting of the City Council on Wed., Aug. 6. The Special Meeting will be held in the Multi-Purpose Room at Rosa Parks Elementary School, 13830 Whispering Hills Drive. Candidate names will be drawn at random. Each candidate will be allowed a two-minute statement, and then will be asked a set of pre-determined questions. Candidates waiting to be interviewed will be asked to remain in a separate room until their name is chosen, as to not give an unfair advantage. Once all candidates have been interviewed, members of the City Council will vote on the appointment. If a candidate is successfully chosen on Aug. 6, that candidate will be sworn in and seated as a member of City Council that night.
  • General Election, Nov. 4, 2014: If a candidate had previously filed nomination documents to run in the Nov. 4, 2014 General Election, and is appointed to fill the remaining two-year term for this current vacancy, the candidate will be required to withdraw their candidacy with the County of Riverside Registrar of Voters by Aug. 8, 2014 and will NOT be considered as a candidate in the November 4, 2014 General Election.
  • NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Municipal Election will be held in the City of Eastvale on Tues., Nov. 4, 2014 for three members of the City Council, each of said officers to serve a full four-year term. Prospective City Council candidates who wish to file papers for the November 2014 General Municipal Election must schedule an appointment with the City Clerk. The polls will be open for the election between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Tues., Nov. 4.

If you have any questions, please contact the City of Eastvale, City Clerk’s Office, at (951) 361-0900.

 

NORCO: Vehicle Theft Suspects Arrested

INFO. COURTESY RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

Julie Stewart

Julie Stewart

Tayler Jenkins

Tayler Jenkins

On Tuesday, July 15, 2014, about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence.

The following suspects were arrested and booked into Robert Presley Detention Center:

Lawrence Piper – 30 years old – Possession of stolen property, burglary, & two felony warrants for Parole Violations.
Julie Stewart – 28 years old – Possession of stolen property, burglary, & a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance.
Tayler Jenkins – 23 years old – Possession of methamphetamine & Violation of probation.
The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and is vigilant in combating crime. Anyone with information about this case can contact Deputy Nicholas Padilla #2781 at 951-270-5673.

Eastvale: Small Business Workshop: Social Media 101

By Inland Empire SBDC

Eastvale – You can’t avoid Social Media anymore. From being asked to Like or Follow a company, to tweeting hashtags to promote a product, social media has become part of our everyday culture. To help new and aspiring business owners, the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center will offer a seminar on the fundamentals of Social Media on Wed., Aug. 27.

The “Social Media 101” seminar will present a basic overview of Facebook and Twitter, offering some easy how-to tips to successfully market your business online. Learn how to create a Facebook fan page, choose the best profile picture that represents your business, use Twitter and Facebook #hashtags effectively, and manage your social time online.

This free seminar is sponsored by the City of Eastvale and will be held from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the New Day Church, 7155 Hamner Avenue, in Eastvale. This seminar is presented by Eydie Stumpf, owner of Terra Media Marketing and Solution Provider for Constant Contact.

Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as seating is limited. For additional information on this seminar, please call the Inland Empire SBDC at (909) 983-5005. Online registration is available at http://www.iesmallbusiness.com. Business owners and start-up entities alike are welcome to attend this presentation.

The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center is hosted by California State University, San Bernardino, University Enterprises Corporation. The Center is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the California State University, Fullerton, Tri-County Lead SBDC. All of the SBDC programs and services are offered on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made.

The Business of Busyness

BY PASTOR MARK LEE

Pastor Mark Lee Vantage Point Church

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Eastvale

In 1963, Nat King Cole famously sang about the “Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer.” However, idleness was associated with the warmest months of the year long before this catchy tune was released. And while some people look forward to their daily pace slowing down when the weather heats up, others see it as an opportunity to pack even more activities into an already-busy routine.

From Fourth of July picnics to Labor Day barbecues, our calendars quickly fill up with activities and obligations. In fact, we often find ourselves wanting these long days to be even longer. If your summer schedule leaves you feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it may be time to take action.

As the parents of four children, my wife and I are often approached with the question, “How do you manage to do everything?” The answer is simple: We don’t. The first step in ending the business of busyness is to realize that some things won’t happen. We were not designed to do it all.

The next step is to recognize that some responsibilities were meant to be shared. It may be hard to give, but sometimes it is even harder to receive. Admitting you need a helping hand can actually open the door to great blessings such as new friendships, fulfilling fellowship, and vital support.

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m.

 

Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed.” Everyone knows what if feels like to want a little extra time in their day. But, instead of needing more hours, we actually need a greater appreciation for those hours we already have. Hand your summer over to God and see what amazing things are in store!

 

Eastvale: Free Sports Camp Promises Fun for the Whole Family

BY MONIQUE WHRITENOUR

 

Eastvale – Local youngsters will soon have the chance to learn the finer points of football and cheerleading at a free clinic taught by some of the region’s most dedicated athletes.

 

Vantage Point Church is joining forces with Roosevelt High School’s football team and cheerleading squad to coach 1st through 8th Graders during a two-hour camp on Fri., July 18.

 

The Friday Night Lights Football and Cheer Camp, which begins with check-in at 5 p.m., will feature fun activities for all ages.  Campers and non-campers alike will be able to enjoy food, games, and an inflatable obstacle course throughout the evening.

 

The camp will be held between 6 and 8 p.m.  Following the camp, there will be an outdoor movie for the entire family to enjoy.

 

“VantagePoint Church is thrilled to have this opportunity to help promote Eastvale pride,” said Monique Whritenour, director of the church’s community outreach efforts.  “We are incredibly proud to team up with the wonderful people of Roosevelt Football who have been working hard to give back to their community through volunteer work and community events.”

 

According to organizers, the Friday Night Lights Football and Cheer Camp is designed to provide its participants with a free, positive sport and coaching experience.  Roosevelt High School Football Coach, Tony Barile, will be heading up the camp and teaching a football clinic for more advanced players.

 

Young athletes of all skill levels are encouraged to attend and the first 300 campers will receive t-shirts.

 

“At VantagePoint Church, we are planning on making this a ‘Summer of Love’ for our community,” Whritenour said.  “This is the first of several events we have scheduled that will enable us to be living proof of a loving God.”

 

The Friday Night Lights Football and Cheer Camp is also being sponsored by Eastvale Pop Warner, Eastvale Mustangs JAAF, Eastvale Nutrishop, CYSC All Stars, and Diamond Elite Gymnastics.  For more information, call (909) 465-9700.

 

 

 

 

 

What Love Is

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Jennifer

I learned my greatest lesson about love from my Grandpa Jester. Surprisingly, the lesson came long after his mind and memories had left him, and all that remained was just what he was at his core. My grandpa loved his family and his wife, and was genuinely kind to everyone. He stood for what he believed and defended his thoughts passionately, but with respect. When he was wronged, he looked at both sides and didn’t always assume he was right. But most of all, my grandpa was truly a good man.

Alzheimer’s disease came and stole parts of his mind and most of his memoires. While many people with this disease lose their “filters” and become increasingly more difficult, my grandpa stayed kind. Often times he would hop up and try and help out with the chores he always did. He would still make jokes and then forget the punch line, but laugh anyway. As his disease progressed, the secret winks he used to always give me from across the room stopped, and at that point I knew he had really forgotten me. However, he once told me that he couldn’t remember who I was but that he did know that he sure did love me. With all the great moments I shared with him, I always knew I was loved without end and that he was always proud of me. When my mother passed away, he sat at her funeral, tears streaming down his face, reliving her passing like a repeating loop in a bad movie. Although he wasn’t sure exactly what was going on, he knew we were all hurting and it broke his heart.

 

The moment that I really understood what it means to love another person came one morning after my grandma had learned that her brother died. My grandpa sat in his chair watching her as she tried to hide the anguish she was feeling. Although we tried to keep him from seeing her upset, he continued to watch her and then stood up with his shaking legs and bad balance and walked into the kitchen with her. He took her into his arms and hugged her tight, telling her it would be okay. He saw her pain, and knew that “his girl” was hurting. That moment was so profound and even years later I can still see the look of concern on his face. At that moment I understood that love is not a word you say because it makes people smile, love is something that lives on long after your memories fade. It is what you know and feel at the very core of your being. When you truly love someone their pain becomes your pain and even when lost in the cloud of Alzheimer’s, or age, or whatever else, that love remains. To me, that’s what love is.

 

 

Thank You, Lt. Michael Yates

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – Lt. Michael Yates has been with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for almost 25 years. He has served as Eastvale’s Assistant Chief of Police for the last two years. With his tenure in Eastvale ending in July as he moves on to another assignment, we asked him to comment on his time taking care of our citizens.

According to Yates, the best part of serving Eastvale these last years has been actively pursuing crime, and the satisfaction that comes from taking the “bad guys” off the streets. “There is crime everywhere, in every city, and you can either turn your head the other way or go out there and find it. I have always tried to inspire my officers to bring me arrests and find the crime.”

With multiple traffic and safety saturations, 55 marijuana house closures, decoy programs, and making the City of Eastvale safer, Yates has done everything within his power to achieve his goals. His swan song for Eastvale was the second-degree murder arrest of the suspect that killed bicyclist, Troy Davids, in June. The Ghost Bike Memorial at the northeast corner of Hamner and Limonite avenues is not only a tribute to the life of Davids, but a reminder of the countless hours that Yates and his team invested to bring justice to this heartbreaking hit-and-run crime.

When asked what he wanted the community to know about the Eastvale Police Department, Yates replied, “Our officers are approachable and do care. They may not all come off as passionate as me, but they like working in the City because the residents are good people, and the officers enjoy being around them.”

We thank you for your service, Lt. Michael Yates, and wish you the very best in all of your future endeavors.

 

 

Killing Me Softly

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

 

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

I have become mute; I do not open my mouth (Psalm 39:9).

A man and his wife were having some problems at home and were giving each other the silent treatment. The husband realized he needed to be awakened early one morning to catch a business flight, but he didn’t want to be the first to break the silence. So he left a note on his wife’s side of the bed that read, “Please wake me at 5 A.M.”

By the time bright sunshine roused him the next morning, it was 9 a.m. Furious, he threw back the covers and shouted to his wife (who was nowhere to be found), “Why didn’t you wake me up like I asked you to?” That’s when he saw, stuck to the lamp on his bedside table, a note in her handwriting that read, “It is 5 a.m. Time to wake up.”

It doesn’t take much to make us angry and create emotional distance from each other. But it does take great, courageous effort to fight through the silence to a place of forgiveness and oneness. Isolation seems to offer us protection, a certain kind of self-preservation. There is a type of peace found in avoidance that appears much more appealing than the pain of dealing with reality.

Silence feels like a security blanket. But in fact, it is one of Satan’s most deadly disguises. The silent treatment is perilously deceptive and ultimately destructive.

When you find yourself tempted to square off against each other, retreating to your corners and refusing to give in, remember that Jesus could have given us the cold shoulder. He could have taken one look at our many, many sins and shortcomings and never sought to draw us out. May His reaching, redemptive love be our model and motivator. We serve a God who both seeks and speaks. Be sure you’re a spouse who does the same.

Live it:   What, if anything, drives you into silence? Discuss what your spouse should do when you are silent.

Pray: That God will show you both what you should do if one or both of you becomes silent.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

 

 

Desiring God?

BY PASTOR ROBERT JEWETT

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchSearch me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! (Psalm 139:23–24).

David, a man whom God declared was a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), desired to live righteously before God. With his eyes fixed on the Lord, David welcomed God’s correction in his life. David understood that God knew every detail about him and that there was nothing that he could hide from the Lord (Psalm 139:1-16). Thus, he willingly opened himself up for correction and discipline from the Lord.

Correction and discipline are never a pleasant experience: “For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it,” (Hebrews 12:11). We are instructed not to “despise the Lord’s discipline or be weary of his reproof, for the Lord reproves him whom he loves, as a father the son in whom he delights” (Proverbs 3:11-12).

In response to the Father’s love, pray today and ask Him to search you and know you, to reveal any wicked way in you, and to lead you in the way everlasting.

 

Pastor Rob Jewett is with the Word of Truth Community Church. For more information about Word of Truth Community Church, visit http://www.wordoftruthcc.com.

 

Eastvale: Councilman DeGrandpre Resigns in Controversy

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

jeff degrandpre

Jeff DeGrandpre

Eastvale – With accusations of shady behavior toward unnamed colleagues, councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre abruptly resigned from Eastvale’s City Council, effective July 1, 2014.

The June 25 council meeting progressed like any other, and then came to an awkward end when DeGrandpre stood to read a letter to the council and public expressing his discontent that the council was no longer about the residents of Eastvale. While he did not provide any examples or name names, he accused his colleagues of “engaging in back-door deals” and holding closed door meetings in direct violation of California’s open-meeting law; he then publically resigned his position.

DeGrandpre was first elected to the Eastvale City Council in 2010, serving as the first Mayor Pro Tem, and then as Mayor in 2011-2012.

The recent council meeting was not the first time that DeGrandpre has pointed the finger at his colleagues. In 2013 he accused fellow council member, Kelly Howell, of “abusing funds” during a conference held in Las Vegas that they attended on behalf of the City. Howell posted on a local Facebook page that there “was no need for an investigation – staff provided all financial documents to the City Council at the next meeting”. The request for an investigation was eventually dropped, but not without causing ripples in the City and council. According to Howell, “It was a very difficult time for me and my family”.

William Link, who was selected as a replacement after councilmember Kelly Howell resigned last November, was shocked by DeGrandpre’s announcement. “I was stunned that he resigned. I don’t think anyone knew he was going to. As far as his accusations, I am unaware of the issues he spoke of.”

The ripples and controversy that were provoked by DeGrandpre are expansive. Many residents took to Facebook to express their concerns about the fraud allegations and resignation. Mayor Pro-Tem, Adam Rush, posted, “I am not aware of any illegal meetings, and if they occurred, I am saddened by this. Eastvale will continue to grow smart and provide excellent service to our fabulous community.”

Bill Van Leeuwen, from Mt. SAC, posted, “Jeff, I do not know what is behind this, but it is your decision and I respect that. Thank you for all your work in organizing the city and the leadership you provided. Blessings to you and Deanne as you go forward form this point.”

DeGrandpre’s wife, Deanne, also resigned her position with the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce earlier that same week, stating that the family was moving out of the state.

When asked to further elaborate on what prompted his resignation, DeGrandpre elected not to respond. Regardless of his personal reasons for resigning, he has left a vacant seat on the council that will need to be filled prior to this November’s election. The City must now decide whether to hold a special election, or select a person to serve out DeGrandpre’s term, which will end in 2016.

And what, if anything, will transpire as a result of DeGrandpre’s allegations? That remains to be seen.

K.P. Sander contributed to this story.

 

 

Eastvale 7-2014

The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. Click this link  2014-07-EastvaleAll  to access the complete July issue in pdf format.

Eastvale: LEAFF Update-June

By L.E.A.F.F. (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

leaff-logoEastvale – LEAFF has always been supportive of our military, and as such we are thrilled that the Eastvale Community Services Foundation will be taking over the Military Banner Program. At the June 11 City Council meeting, Sharyn Link, Executive Director of the foundation, spoke to the Council about their desire to manage the program. They had originally wanted to run the program, but did not have the staff or the funds to do so when it first began. Link and the foundation are excited to work with the community on ensuring that the Military Banner Program stays a success. One of the first ways they plan on doing this is by purchasing better brackets for the banners and getting all the banners up where they belong. The City Council apparently agreed as the item was unanimously voted in by the entire council. We look forward to helping the Eastvale Community Foundation with their endeavors in the future.

LEAFF, a huge proponent of public safety, also wanted to take the time to express gratitude to Lt. Mike Yates, who will be transferring out of the Eastvale Police Department and on to another assignment. Lt. Yates has always been an invaluable asset to this community and to our organization. He has an excellent record in conducting various traffic and safety saturations; has been committed to eradicating “pot houses” from Eastvale; and was tireless in his dedication to making an arrest in the Troy Davids hit and run case. According to LEAFF President, Rigo Arrellano, “Lt. Yates is always willing to listen to our concerns and his dedication to Public Safety is obvious in the many different ways he has found to promote public safety in our community.” We wish Lt. Yates the best of luck in his new endeavor.

 

Eastvale: Goodman-Birtcher Project Update

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – The Goodman-Birtcher warehouse construction project that was halted at the June 11 Eastvale City Council meeting, when the council voted 3-2 to not approve the re-zoning and other aspects of the project, has been given new life. After appealing to the council and asking to be put back on the agenda, the council voted 5-0 to grant the developer’s request for reconsideration.

This project, which has been met with some resistance from many members of the community, includes a general plan amendment, zone change and specific plan for a 205 acre site; a tentative parcel map for sub-division of a 193 acre area into five industrial parcels; two business park parcels and one commercial parcel. In addition, the project also calls for the major development of a 2,714,829 square foot light industrial space, including four industrial/warehouse buildings.

Before the council voted on the reconsideration, Bryan Birtcher, CEO of Goodman Birtcher, addressed the council and expressed his gratitude for the project being reconsidered. He also said that there was some general confusion in the community over the Lewis Retail activities. Randall Lewis then spoke and clarified that Lewis Properties are “major supporters of the project and it’s a major investment in the Eastvale community. It will be good for the City.”

The reconsideration calls for the developers to take the recommendations of the council and to resubmit their requests at a future meeting. In an effort to make this process more efficient, each council member gave their recommendations.

Councilmember William Link, who was previously concerned about the amount of projected truck traffic each day, the lack of business retail, and the overall recommendation, did not believe that this project would be good for the community. Link hopes that “ the project will come back to planning with changes that are in line with what most feel would be best for the nearby residents and what is best for the City overall. It is a prime piece of property that cannot be wasted with the wrong project. It will continue to be opposed unless some serious changes are made.”

Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush stated that the City has a lot of needs, and he believes that the project is the best opportunity for that specific piece of property. However, he would like to see the impact of traffic, noise, and air quality be less, but understands that can only be controlled so much. “When the revised plan comes before council, we will really need to look at the benefits versus the impacts and make the decision.”

Councilmember Ric Welch emphasized his desire to make more of an effort to separate the warehouse from the residents on Bellegrave, reduce the number of intersections and signals on Hamner, and include a more in depth consideration of Cantu-Galleano to avoid blocking the streets up with trucks. The fact that this area would be one of the first sights seen when coming into Eastvale from that direction makes it imperative that it be well planned.

Mayor Ike Bootsma would like to see more e-commerce retail to help build revenue from sales tax and to keep truck traffic to a minimum.

Councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre noted, “It’s important to strike a balance.” DeGrandpre emphasized the need to look more at a project like Goodman-Birtcher as opposed to the building of 1,750 homes and the revenue that would be lost.

The Goodman-Birtcher representatives will take these recommendations and come up with a revised plan for council and public evaluation at a meeting not yet determined. If the Goodman-Birtcher project is not approved, the current property will remain zoned for housing.

 

 

Eastvale: City Council June Recap

By Jennifer Madrigal

 

Eastvale – This month there were two City Council meetings. The first meeting was held on June 11, at Rosa Parks Elementary. All council members were present and the meeting started promptly at 6:30 p.m. The invocation was led by Susie Tanner of Life Church. There were no presentations, announcements or public comments.

All items on the consent calendar were approved 5-0.

During the Public Hearings portion of the meeting, Item 6.1 was approved 5-0, and since there were no public comments, the public hearing on that item was closed at 6:34 p.m. Item 6.2 concerning a request for a rate increase from Waste Management for the fiscal year 2013-2014 included an update by City Manager, Carol Jacobs. The item was approved by a vote of 5-0. Item 6.3 concerning the Goodman/Birtcher Commerce Center, Project No. 11-0271, also had a public hearing. Jacobs provided a background and update on the item and explained some of the latest events concerning the project.

According to the City of Eastvale council minutes for the June 11 meeting, Councilmember Bill Link made a request for more “definitive language regarding the condition that the developer would initiate construction of not less than 100,000 square feet of business park within one year of issuance of the first industrial certificate of occupancy, yet that language was still too vague”. Jacobs assured Link that if the council decided to move forward with the project, that condition would be more clearly defined. The item was then opened for public hearing at 6:41 p.m.

Many residents came out to share their opinions on this project. Resident Rania Hamdy requested that the council oppose the project until the occupant can bring something of quality and diversity to Eastvale. Hamdy was concerned that Eastvale would become part of a group where warehouses had not been prosperous. The public hearing portion was closed at 6:46 p.m. Council members were then able to ask further questions on this project. (A deeper look at the Goodman/Bircher project can be found in our cover story). A motion to adopt a resolution approving a General Plan Amendment from high density residential to light industrial, commercial retail and business park, as well as a motion to adopt a resolution approving a major developmental plan review for the development of four new industrial/ warehouse buildings totaling 2,714,829 square feet, subject to conditions of approval, ultimately failed to pass, 2-3, with Rush and DeGrandpre voting yes, and Link, Welch and Mayor Bootsma voting no.

There were no Old Business Items. In the New Business Items section of the meeting, Item 8.1, Adoption of the Annual Operations and Capital Improvement Budget for the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 was presented by Jacobs via Power Point Presentation. Council members raised questions about salaries of various employees and asked for further clarification on salaries, as well as police contract negotiations and police salaries. The item was passed 5-0, with the exception of the addition of an additional Code Enforcement Officer, until a staff report is presented. Items 8.2 through 8.8 also passed 5-0. After some further Council business was conducted, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m.

The second meeting of the month was held on June 25 at Rosa Parks Elementary. All council members were present, with the invocation led by Pastor Rick Morris of The Crossings Church.

There were no public comments and the consent calendar was passed in its entirety, 5-0.

The Public Hearing portion of the meeting began with Item 6.1 for Delinquent Residential Solid Waste Accounts and placement of such accounts on property tax rolls for collection. The item passed 5-0. The Planning Commission recommended that Item 6.2, for the Adoption of the Eastvale Design Standards and Guidelines, be adopted by the council, and it passed 5-0.

There were no Old Business items. In the New Business section of the meeting Items 8.1 and 8.2 passed 5-0. Item 8.3, Architectural Features for Limonite Avenue Interchange at Interstate 15, failed to pass with a vote of 2-3. Item 8.4, for the establishment of an Eastvale Parks Commission, was presented by JCSD’s Director of Community Services, Chad Blais. This committee would not give the City actual authority over recommendations to JCSD about parks in Eastvale; Councilmember and JCSD Director of Parks and Community Affairs, Ric Welch, left room during vote due to conflict of interest. The item passed 3-1. Item 8.5 passed 5-0. Item 8.6, a request for reconsideration regarding the Goodman/Birtcher Project, was also on the agenda. The item was discussed in great deal and eventually the request for reconsideration passed 5-0. The decision made concerning the project at the June 11 council meeting has been reversed, and the project will once again be put back on the agenda. Council members were able to give their recommendations to Goodman/Birtcher as to what they would like to see at the next meeting.

There was no City Manager report, as Jacobs was out of town. And then, in a shocking turn of events, councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre read a letter to the council and public, accusing three council members of wrong doing. He expressed his discontent with the council no longer being about the residents of Eastvale. Although, DeGrandpre did not cite any actual examples or name any names, he did put in his resignation and will be leaving the council effective July 1.

The next City Council meeting will be held on July 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary. For more information on City Council agendas and meeting minutes, visit the City of Eastvale website at http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

 

Eastvale: June Crime Recap 2014

By Staff Reports

 

Eastvale – The following is a crime recap for the month of June in the cities of Eastvale, Norco and Jurupa Valley. This information is from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and from our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page.

On June 13 at 3:30 a.m., deputies from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to a burglary alarm at Rubidoux High School. During a search of the interior of the school, a male suspect was located hiding inside with stolen items in his possession belonging to the school, as well as a stolen firearm. Markion Williams, a 19-year old, black male from Jurupa Valley, was arrested for commercial burglary, possession of stolen property, parole violation, discharging a firearm in a negligent manner, vandalism, and resisting arrest. Williams was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center and is being held without bail. Anyone with any additional information related to the burglary is encouraged to contact Investigator Brett Johnson at the Jurupa Valley Station, at (951) 955-2600.

On June 14 at 8 a.m., officers assigned to the City of Jurupa Valley’s Special Enforcement Team obtained information regarding a residence being used for illegal narcotic sales. A follow up investigation was initiated and a search warrant was obtained for the residence. A search revealed narcotics and other items conducive to sales. The subjects, David Voyles, Roxanna Voyles, John Cabral and Sean Rizzo, all Jurupa Valley residents, were all arrested and booked into jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On June 17 around 3 p.m., Worry Free Gadgets, located in the City of Norco was burglarized. The thieves stole approximately 1,400 Zeepad Android Tablets valued at over $90,000. After deputies learned the tablets were being advertised on the Internet they arranged to purchase some tablets. On June 17 undercover deputies met the suspects to purchase the stolen tablets. As a result, 21-year old Nanak Singh and 31-year old Amrik Singh were arrested for possession of stolen property, embezzlement, and conspiracy. Two search warrants were served at their residence and at an off-site storage facility. In all, approximately 1,000 tablets were recovered. Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to call Deputies Robles or Ghiliotty at (951) 270-5673.

eneas-palacios

Eneas Palacios (Photo Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department)

On June 26 at 10:56 a.m., Eastvale Police Department deputies responded to a report of indecent exposure that occurred on a walking trail near the area of Dearborn and Tisdale streets in the City of Eastvale. Deputies quickly arrived at the location and met with the victim who provided a detailed description of the subject. After an extensive search by several deputies, a subject matching the description was located on the walking trail. He was positively identified as the subject in question. Eneas Palacios, 23, of Eastvale was arrested for indecent exposure, lewd conduct, and violation of probation. He was booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center. An investigation revealed that Palacios may have been involved in previous incidents of this nature. Eastvale Police are asking citizens to contact Deputy Thompson at (951) 955-2600 with any information regarding this case. The Eastvale Police Department is committed to the safety of this community and they will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature.

 

 

Fireworks Prohibited in Riverside County

City of Eastvale
Posted Date:6/4/2014 11:45 AM

The City of Eastvale would like to remind everyone that it is illegal to possess, discharge or sell fireworks. Residents should adhere to the “no fireworks” law throughout the City of Eastvale pursuant to Eastvale Municipal Code Sec. 8.22.030.

The illegal use of fireworks can cause serious injuries to people and significant property damage. Dry conditions, due to lack of rainfall have created further potential for fires caused by illegal fireworks.  Please leave the fireworks to the professionals!

Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend the professional fireworks display at the Annual Eastvale Picnic in the Park on Saturday, June 28th at 9:00 p.m. at the new Eastvale Community Park: 12750 Citrus Street, Eastvale. Admission is FREE.

The City of Eastvale appreciates your understanding and cooperation with the no fireworks law and reminds everyone to be safe this 4th of July season!

EASTVALE: Suspect Arrested for Indecent Exposure, Lewd Conduct , etc.

Eneas Palacios

Eneas Palacios

INFO. Courtesy of RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT>On June 26, 2014, at 10:56 A.M., deputies assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to a report of indecent exposure that occurred on a walking trail near the area of Dearborn Street and Tisdale Street, city of Eastvale. Deputies quickly arrived in the area and met with the victim who provided a detailed description of the subject. After an extensive search by several deputies, a subject matching the description was located on the walking trail. The victim was able to positively identify the subject as the individual who exposed himself.

The suspect was identified as Eneas Palacios, a 23-year-old resident of Eastvale. Palacios was arrested for indecent exposure, lewd conduct, and a violation of probation. Palacios was later booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for the above-mentioned charges.

The investigation revealed Palacios may have been involved in previous incidents of this nature. The Eastvale Police Department is asking the citizens of Eastvale to contact the Eastvale Police Department if they have any information on previous incidents which may have occurred in that area.

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

Norco: Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Three for Felony Charges during Crosswalk Safety Operation

Norco Sheriff’s Office Press Release
June 23, 2014
Sergeant Christian Dekker

On Monday, June 23, 2014, Deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office conducted an operation at the intersection of Hamner Avenue and 6th Street in the city of Norco, in response to traffic safety related complaints. “We had such an outpour of community support for our last crosswalk operation in April; that we decided to do another one.” Lieutenant Daniel Hedge said. “Many people within the Norco Community have voiced their frustration with the blatant disregard some drivers have for others safety.”

The main focus of the operation was to identify motorists who failed to yield to the pedestrian deputy in the crosswalk (Vehicle Code Section 21950(a)). The pedestrian deputy and the safety companion deputy would call out the observed violation over the radio to uniformed deputies staged nearby. The uniformed deputies would then conduct enforcement stops, contact the driver of the vehicle and issue citations.

While conducting the operation, deputies contacted three subjects who were subsequently arrested for felony charges. The following people were arrested and booked into Robert Presley Detention Center:

  1. Gonzalo Hurtado – 22 years old – Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.
  2. Joseph Rosales – 26 years old – Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.
  3. Gustavo Chavez – 23 years old – Felony warrant for possession of stolen property.

The following are the results of the crosswalk safety operation:

  • 50 Citations were issue (Fail to Yield for Pedestrian/ Red Light/Grid Lock/ Cell Phone)
  • 1 Arrest for Unlicensed Driver
  • 1 Vehicle Impounded
  • 1 Arrested on a Felony Warrant
  • 2 Suspects arrested for illegal drugs (possession/transportation/sales)

It should be noted that many motorists yielded for the pedestrian in the crosswalk, which is to be commended. The Norco Sheriff’s Office plans to conduct additional operations in the near future.