9/3/2019 Homeowners in fire-prone areas of Riverside and San Bernardino counties losing insurance – San Bernardino Sun

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By By SANDRA EMERSONSANDRA EMERSON | | semerson@scng.comsemerson@scng.com | |PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: September 1, 2019 at 8:00 amSeptember 1, 2019 at 8:00 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: September 1, 2019 atSeptember 1, 2019 at8:01 am8:01 am

CalFire fighter/paramedic Kyle McDermott of Beaumont Station 66 hosed down hotCalFire fighter/paramedic Kyle McDermott of Beaumont Station 66 hosed down hotspots on one of the homes on Deer Foot Lane burned in the fast moving Cranstonspots on one of the homes on Deer Foot Lane burned in the fast moving Cranstonfire as it grows to more than over 3,500 acres in the San Bernardino Nationalfire as it grows to more than over 3,500 acres in the San Bernardino NationalForest in Idyllwild on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. (Photo by Terry Pierson, TheForest in Idyllwild on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. (Photo by Terry Pierson, ThePress-Enterprise/SCNG)Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

Homeowners in fire-proneHomeowners in fire-proneareas of Riverside and Sanareas of Riverside and SanBernardino counties losingBernardino counties losinginsuranceinsuranceInsurers declined to renew policies for 350,000Insurers declined to renew policies for 350,000homeowners across the state between 2015 andhomeowners across the state between 2015 and2018, state data shows2018, state data shows

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When Mary Morse’s insurance company declined to renew the policy for herWhen Mary Morse’s insurance company declined to renew the policy for her

Pine CovePine Cove home, she found herself in a difficult situation common among home, she found herself in a difficult situation common among

homeowners in the mountain communities and other fire-prone areas ofhomeowners in the mountain communities and other fire-prone areas of

Riverside and San Bernardino counties.Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

Morse, who has lived in her home for 13 years, said she has never filed anMorse, who has lived in her home for 13 years, said she has never filed an

insurance claim. She has a fire hydrant in her front yard, and there’s a fireinsurance claim. She has a fire hydrant in her front yard, and there’s a fire

station two blocks down the road.station two blocks down the road.

But due to recent wildfires across California, there’s been a surge in insuranceBut due to recent wildfires across California, there’s been a surge in insurance

companies declining to renew policies, or hiking premiums, in areas withcompanies declining to renew policies, or hiking premiums, in areas with

higher risk of wildfire, like Pine Cove in the San Bernardino National Forest,higher risk of wildfire, like Pine Cove in the San Bernardino National Forest,

leaving homeowners with few options.leaving homeowners with few options.

“There’s a lot of people up here having the same issue,” Morse said of her“There’s a lot of people up here having the same issue,” Morse said of her

community in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County. “They’ve hadcommunity in the San Jacinto Mountains in Riverside County. “They’ve had

insurance for years and years and all of a sudden (the insurers) wouldn’tinsurance for years and years and all of a sudden (the insurers) wouldn’t

renew.”renew.”

The trend isn’t limited to the Inland Empire.The trend isn’t limited to the Inland Empire.

New data from the state Department of InsuranceNew data from the state Department of Insurance revealed that insurers revealed that insurers

declined to renew policies for 350,000 homeowners living in wildfire-pronedeclined to renew policies for 350,000 homeowners living in wildfire-prone

areas across the state between 2015 and 2018. Nonrenewals have gone up inareas across the state between 2015 and 2018. Nonrenewals have gone up in

areas served by Cal Fire, especially in the ZIP codes impacted by wildfires inareas served by Cal Fire, especially in the ZIP codes impacted by wildfires in

2015 and 2017, the data shows.2015 and 2017, the data shows.

The data, released Aug. 20, does not reflect the full impact of fires in 2018,The data, released Aug. 20, does not reflect the full impact of fires in 2018,

such as the such as the CampCamp and and CarrCarr fires in Northern California and the fires in Northern California and the Woolsey/HillWoolsey/Hill

fires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The effect of these fires on thefires in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The effect of these fires on the

insurance market could appear this year and later, insurance departmentinsurance market could appear this year and later, insurance department

officials say.officials say.

The data did not show how many people who lost their insurance were able toThe data did not show how many people who lost their insurance were able to

purchase it elsewhere or how much more it cost. It showed, however, that thepurchase it elsewhere or how much more it cost. It showed, however, that the

total number of new and renewed insurance policies increased in high-risktotal number of new and renewed insurance policies increased in high-risk

fire areas during the same period.fire areas during the same period.

While insurer initiated nonrenewals were up across the Inland Empire inWhile insurer initiated nonrenewals were up across the Inland Empire in

2018, a breakdown on the rate of nonrenewals for the high-risk fire areas was2018, a breakdown on the rate of nonrenewals for the high-risk fire areas was

not immediately available.not immediately available.

The insurance industry, meanwhile, noted the number of nonrenewedThe insurance industry, meanwhile, noted the number of nonrenewed

policies remained fairly steady year-over-year and said many insurers are stillpolicies remained fairly steady year-over-year and said many insurers are still

offering policies in high-risk fire areas.offering policies in high-risk fire areas.

9/3/2019 Homeowners in fire-prone areas of Riverside and San Bernardino counties losing insurance – San Bernardino Sun

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A bigger problemA bigger problem

Rates are periodically adjusted to reflect historical loss trends, as well asRates are periodically adjusted to reflect historical loss trends, as well as

things like increased costs for building materials and labor, Luis Sahagun,things like increased costs for building materials and labor, Luis Sahagun,

spokesperson for Farmers Insurance, said in an email.spokesperson for Farmers Insurance, said in an email.

“When statewide base rate increases occur, it is not unusual for some“When statewide base rate increases occur, it is not unusual for some

consumers to experience a higher than average adjustment, while others see aconsumers to experience a higher than average adjustment, while others see a

lower than average increase,” Sahagun said.lower than average increase,” Sahagun said.

Morse, like other homeowners dropped by their insurers, found coverageMorse, like other homeowners dropped by their insurers, found coverage

through the California FAIR Plan, a shared market plan that provides lastthrough the California FAIR Plan, a shared market plan that provides last

resort coverage to those living in higher risk areas, but it requires anresort coverage to those living in higher risk areas, but it requires an

additional wrap policy to ensure full coverage.additional wrap policy to ensure full coverage.

Coverage is also limited to $1.5 million on one property. Nearly 57% of theseCoverage is also limited to $1.5 million on one property. Nearly 57% of these

policies are written in Cal Fire service areas, which is up from 47% in 2015,policies are written in Cal Fire service areas, which is up from 47% in 2015,

according to the state insurance department’s data.according to the state insurance department’s data.

Morse’s annual premium jumped from $792 for one policy to $1,365 for theMorse’s annual premium jumped from $792 for one policy to $1,365 for the

California FAIR Plan and wrap policy, she said.California FAIR Plan and wrap policy, she said.

“That’s really the only option they have that’s affordable and will provide the“That’s really the only option they have that’s affordable and will provide the

coverage that they need,” said Bob Severns, owner of Severns Insurancecoverage that they need,” said Bob Severns, owner of Severns Insurance

Agency in Hemet.Agency in Hemet.

Homeowners in the mountains and other fire-prone areas Homeowners in the mountains and other fire-prone areas have been dealinghave been dealing

with the fallout from wildfires for a whilewith the fallout from wildfires for a while..

Larger insurance companies stopped writing policies in the forest areas yearsLarger insurance companies stopped writing policies in the forest areas years

ago, Severns said, so homeowners turned to subsidiaries or out-of-stateago, Severns said, so homeowners turned to subsidiaries or out-of-state

insurers for coverage. Now, even those policies cost more or they are not beinginsurers for coverage. Now, even those policies cost more or they are not being

renewed, Severns said.renewed, Severns said.

“In 2019, we saw the largest expansion for the nonrenewals go across Yucaipa,“In 2019, we saw the largest expansion for the nonrenewals go across Yucaipa,

San Bernardino, Banning, Beaumont, Cherry Valley, Hemet and other areasSan Bernardino, Banning, Beaumont, Cherry Valley, Hemet and other areas

and now it’s expanding into Riverside County as well,” said Brenda Meyer, aand now it’s expanding into Riverside County as well,” said Brenda Meyer, a

real estate broker with Cozy Cabins Realty in Crestline in the San Bernardinoreal estate broker with Cozy Cabins Realty in Crestline in the San Bernardino

Mountains. “They’re looking at the close proximity to where they have hadMountains. “They’re looking at the close proximity to where they have had

fires and there’s higher fire risk.”fires and there’s higher fire risk.”

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Turning to the state for helpTurning to the state for help

To help, Meyer said, the $1.5 million limit under the California FAIR PlanTo help, Meyer said, the $1.5 million limit under the California FAIR Plan

should be raised to $2.5 million. She also would like insurance companies toshould be raised to $2.5 million. She also would like insurance companies to

take into consideration a community’s efforts to reduce fire risk. Currently,take into consideration a community’s efforts to reduce fire risk. Currently,

communities recognized by the wildfire-reduction Firewise USA program getcommunities recognized by the wildfire-reduction Firewise USA program get

a 10% deduction on their insurance, Meyer said.a 10% deduction on their insurance, Meyer said.

“The San Bernardino Mountains have a very restrictive policy and ordinances“The San Bernardino Mountains have a very restrictive policy and ordinances

on reduction of fire fuel surrounding the properties, more than any other areaon reduction of fire fuel surrounding the properties, more than any other area

within California, yet we’re penalized” because the area is deemed a high-riskwithin California, yet we’re penalized” because the area is deemed a high-risk

zone for wildfires, Meyer said.zone for wildfires, Meyer said.

Some homeowners have resorted to selling their homes due to the increasedSome homeowners have resorted to selling their homes due to the increased

insurance costs, Meyer said.insurance costs, Meyer said.

“With people just trying to survive, a lot of them are choosing to sell because“With people just trying to survive, a lot of them are choosing to sell because

their insurance more than tripled,” Meyer said. “We are seeing homes cometheir insurance more than tripled,” Meyer said. “We are seeing homes come

on the market specifically for this issue and (the owners are) choosing to moveon the market specifically for this issue and (the owners are) choosing to move

out of state.”out of state.”

Shelli Wimmer, an independent broker and Crestline resident,Shelli Wimmer, an independent broker and Crestline resident, blames fire- blames fire-

risk assessments for insurance companies choosing to cancel policies or raiserisk assessments for insurance companies choosing to cancel policies or raise

premiums.premiums.

The Fireline Score, for example, ranks a property from zero to 25 based onThe Fireline Score, for example, ranks a property from zero to 25 based on

fuel, slope and access. Homeowners living in the same neighborhood may endfuel, slope and access. Homeowners living in the same neighborhood may end

up with different scores and different premiums as a result, Wimmer said.up with different scores and different premiums as a result, Wimmer said.

Scores also can’t be rebutted by homeowners, she said. The score for her ownScores also can’t be rebutted by homeowners, she said. The score for her own

house, for example, doubled from a 6 to 12, which also sent her premiumhouse, for example, doubled from a 6 to 12, which also sent her premium

skyrocketing. Meanwhile, her neighbor’s home is ranked a 6, she said.skyrocketing. Meanwhile, her neighbor’s home is ranked a 6, she said.

“I really hope that we’re going to be able to come to some kind of solution so“I really hope that we’re going to be able to come to some kind of solution so

that people can get fair insurance,” Wimmer said.that people can get fair insurance,” Wimmer said.

Wimmer, who mapped about 600 homes in the mountains, sent AssemblymanWimmer, who mapped about 600 homes in the mountains, sent Assemblyman

Jay Obernolte, R-Big Bear Lake, her findings. Obernolte, along with SanJay Obernolte, R-Big Bear Lake, her findings. Obernolte, along with San

Bernardino County Supervisor Janice Rutherford and Sen. Mike Morrell, R-Bernardino County Supervisor Janice Rutherford and Sen. Mike Morrell, R-

Rancho Cucamonga, has asked state Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara toRancho Cucamonga, has asked state Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara to

hold a community meeting with residents to discuss the issue.hold a community meeting with residents to discuss the issue.

9/3/2019 Homeowners in fire-prone areas of Riverside and San Bernardino counties losing insurance – San Bernardino Sun

Obernolte has been working with the insurance industry regarding possibleObernolte has been working with the insurance industry regarding possible

solutions and also has collected a case file with many examples of propertiessolutions and also has collected a case file with many examples of properties

in his district where rates have increased substantially without justification,in his district where rates have increased substantially without justification,

said Teresa Trujillo, Obernolte’s chief of staff.said Teresa Trujillo, Obernolte’s chief of staff.

“He is also very concerned about the increasing use of automated scoring“He is also very concerned about the increasing use of automated scoring

systems to generate fire propensity scores without human oversight, and he’ssystems to generate fire propensity scores without human oversight, and he’s

shared examples of cases where this occurred and errors were made with theshared examples of cases where this occurred and errors were made with the

insurance companies involved,” Trujillo said.insurance companies involved,” Trujillo said.

Assemblyman Randy Voepel, R-Santee, a member of the Assembly InsuranceAssemblyman Randy Voepel, R-Santee, a member of the Assembly Insurance

Committee whose district includes the San Bernardino National Forest areasCommittee whose district includes the San Bernardino National Forest areas

in Riverside County, said he’s determined to find a solution that ensures ain Riverside County, said he’s determined to find a solution that ensures a

stable insurance market and accessible and affordable coverage for allstable insurance market and accessible and affordable coverage for all

homeowners.homeowners.

“I am deeply concerned with the lack of comprehensive, cost-effective policies“I am deeply concerned with the lack of comprehensive, cost-effective policies

available to my constituents who have been subjected to a loss in coverage,”available to my constituents who have been subjected to a loss in coverage,”

Voepel said in an emailed statement. “My office has been assisting individualsVoepel said in an emailed statement. “My office has been assisting individuals

in communicating with the Department of Insurance in regards to the loss ofin communicating with the Department of Insurance in regards to the loss of

their policy and the prospects of obtaining a new policy through a differenttheir policy and the prospects of obtaining a new policy through a different

carrier.”carrier.”

Meyer has been calling on state lawmakers and insurance companies to comeMeyer has been calling on state lawmakers and insurance companies to come

to the table to find solutions because, the broker said, the problem isn’t goingto the table to find solutions because, the broker said, the problem isn’t going

away.away.

“Your mortgage requires you have insurance,” Meyer said. “What if you can’t“Your mortgage requires you have insurance,” Meyer said. “What if you can’t

get it? Then do they foreclose? This has the potential for disaster if we don’t doget it? Then do they foreclose? This has the potential for disaster if we don’t do

something.”something.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.The Associated Press contributed to this report.

8/30/2019 County of San Bernardino Addressing Homelessness & Providing Resources for the Homeless | 24/7 Headline News

STAFF WRITER

County of San Bernardino Addressing Homelessness &

Providing Resources for the Homeless

ABOUT 1 HOUR AGO

The County of San Bernardino has worked diligently to address homelessness and provide the best resources to help those impacted.

In recent years the approach has been studied and the county has modeled itself after highly-successful cities and counties elsewhere. Over 1000

homeless veterans, with the help of non-profit organizations serving the homeless, have been housed. San Bernardino County first district Supervisor

Lovingood said that the county has received national recognition for their innovative recognition.

The Sheriff’s HOPE Team works in the field to assist the unsheltered homeless ensuring that they are aware of the available resources. The County of San

Bernardino has approved funding to being an additional deputy onto the team. New data-collecting technology and mapping will help capture a more

accurate number of homeless people within the community.

The former Queens Motel in the City of Victorville is being converted into one bedroom apartments to assist the chronically homeless. The motel, which

is being converted is near the 15 freeway and Stoddard Wells Road. When complete, there will be 31 units, an onsite manager’s unit, and a community

center. The rehabilitation of the property is set to be done during the fall of 2019.

Ongoing support is essential for the chronically homeless, meaning that the person has been homeless for at least a year. The homelessness could be in a

shelter or on the street. Onsite supportive services will be offered including the County Housing Authority, Department of Behavioral Health, Workforce

Development, Inland Empire Health Plan, Goodwill of Southern California, Step Up on Second Street, and Loma Linda University. “Ultimately, our goal

is to help ensure stability and to maximize each tenant’s ability to live independently,” San Bernardino County First District Supervisor Lovingood’s

officials said.

9/3/2019 Victorville navigation center, if built, would be first in San Bernardino County - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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By Martin Estacio Staff Writer Posted Aug 31, 2019 at 3:10 PM

VICTORVILLE — A special kind of homeless shelter in the early stages ofplanning would likely become the first of its kind in San Bernardino County, cityofficials said.

Victorville Homeless Solutions Coordinator Cassandra Searcy said she and thecity’s homeless task force are working on submitting a proposal to go before theCity Council to construct a low-barrier navigation center.

Low barrier means entry would not be denied based on factors other sheltersmight consider, such as drug use, criminal history or having a pet. The term“navigation” indicates the center would be a resource for services that help gethomeless off the street.

Searcy said the center would serve as a “one-stop shop that operates not only as a24/7 emergency shelter, but also carries components of a day center.” Searcybelieves the center would lead to a decrease in vagrancy, because people wouldbe able to stay there during the day, and allow the city to better enforce anti-camping ordinances in public areas.

She made the announcement during a High Desert Commercial Real EstateCouncil meeting last week.

The center, in addition to providing temporary housing, would also include on-site services such as assistance with obtaining permanent housing, drug andalcohol counseling, and medical care.

If built, the center would include 150 beds, with an additional 30-bedrecuperative care wing where homeless persons could go for care after beingdischarged from a hospital.

Victorville navigation center, if built, would be

�rst in San Bernardino County

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Officials emphasized that the plans were still in the planning stages. A recently-approved budget and trailer bill would likely provide the needed funding tomove forward.

Assembly Bill 101, signed into law when the state’s budget was approved in July,makes it easier for such centers to be built in areas zoned for mixed andnonresidential uses.

The new law streamlines the process by allowing local jurisdictions to bypasscertain permits or more intensive reviews.

Some have criticized the bill as allowing centers to be built without givingneighboring homeowners a voice.

Six centers are in operation in San Francisco, according to the city’s Departmentof Homelessness and Supportive Housing. Local residents filed a lawsuit againstthe city and state in July after an appeal was rejected opposing a newly-plannedcenter in their area.

The law also provides about $2 billion towards addressing the state’s housing andhomelessness crisis. Searcy speculated that Victorville would likely receive asignificant portion of the funding allocated to the county next year.

The county’s homeless population went up 23% compared to last year, accordingto federal survey data. For the second time, Victorville’s homeless populationranked No. 2 in the county. The survey showed the city with a homelesspopulation of 333.

California has almost a quarter of the nation’s homeless persons at around130,000, and nearly half of all unsheltered reside in the state.

Searcy said those who were married and on the streets wouldn’t have to split up.

She believes the lack of stringent requirements will allow the city to better crackdown on those living out in the open and in public areas.

According to the city’s municipal code, it is illegal for a person to camp in a park.But a city may expose itself to a legal challenge, as was seen in a lawsuit inanother state.

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Searcy said in that case, homeless advocate groups sued officials in the Idaho cityof Boise when they attempted to enforce an ordinance prohibiting homelesspeople from sleeping outdoors on public property.

The 9th Circuit Court of Appeals found it was unconstitutional for the city totake such action when there were not enough alternatives, or shelter beds, forpeople.

A navigation center would give people an additional option, Searcy said,lessening the threat of a lawsuit.

“So we got to get to the place before we can start slapping hands and imposingfines to say, ’We have a place to house and shelter these people,” she said. “It’s astep-by-step process.”

Martin Estacio may be reached at MEstacio@VVDailyPress.com or at 760-955-5358.

Follow him on Twitter @DP_mestacio.

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But where will they sleep?For more than a decade, the city of Los Angeles has been required by a court settlement tolet homeless people sleep overnight on the sidewalks because it cannot supply enoughhousing for them. The U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals underlined that point last year ina case involving the city of Boise, Idaho, declaring that prosecuting homeless people forsleeping on public property when there was no available shelter was cruel and unusualpunishment.

In a footnote, however, the court also said that cities might be able to set some restrictionson when, where and how people slept outside. Seizing on that, the City Council Committeeon Homelessness and Poverty proposed to make certain areas of the city essentially off-limits to the homeless. Although the committee’s chairman, Councilman Mitch O’Farrell,presented the proposed revision of the city’s loitering ordinance as an attempt to complywith the Boise decision and balance the needs of the homeless with public safety, it wouldimpose a host of new restrictions that could make it much more difficult for homelesspeople to find places to sleep.

Under the proposal, a person could not sit, lie or sleep within 500 feet of a park, school ordaycare center. Also barred would be bike paths, underpasses and bridges that the councildesignates as a school route, and crowded public sidewalks near large venues. Homelesspeople would be prohibited from sitting or lying near any of the following facilities if theyopened after Jan. 1, 2018: shelters, storage facilities, homeless service centers and “safeparking” lots for people who sleep in their vehicles. Also, there would be no sitting or lyingwithin 10 feet of a driveway or entrance.

It’s not outrageous for the city to want to set reasonable rules that balance the rights of thehomeless with the need to keep L.A. clean, livable and appealing to other residents. It’sreasonable to expect homeless encampments not to block sidewalks or entrances. Thispage supported the city’s decision to ban sleeping on the street in areas where newshelters had been built for homeless people in the neighborhood.

But this proposal would make it impermissible for people to sleep in many parts of thecity, and would almost certainly cause mass confusion over where they could sleep. Howwould a homeless person even know if he or she were 500 feet from a daycare center or ona school route? And how can the city prohibit resting 500 feet from a park when publicparks are open to everyone? Could you sit or lie in the park but not outside it? And wouldall of this be enforced around the clock? City officials don’t know yet.

The city could make it so difficult to find a place to sleep or sit that it could end up doingthe very thing the 9th Circuit said it may not do: criminalize being homeless. Carol Sobel,

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an attorney and advocate, estimated that because of its parks and daycare centers, a thirdof the skid row neighborhood could be off-limits under the rules.

What the proposal will not do is make homeless people magically disappear. People willeither stay where they’ve been in violation of the new laws and risk getting cited by police,or they’ll move on — often to streets that don’t have parks, schools or daycare centersnearby. With the long-promised housing the city is supposed to be building for thehomeless still waiting to be completed, they have nowhere else to go.

These restrictions imply that homeless people are so dangerous that they can’t beanywhere near a school or a daycare center. But that contradicts the message officialshave been sending at public meetings, where they try to persuade communities to acceptsupportive housing and shelters by sharing stories of long-suffering homeless people whothrived once they were housed. Council members know that while there are, no doubt,dangerous people among the homeless, the vast majority are not mentally ill or drug-addicted or violent. Demonizing them helps nobody.

Of course, no one should have to walk down city sidewalks strewn with trash and stainedwith human feces. No one should have to live on those sidewalks, either. If officials wantto make the city more livable for the homeless and non-homeless alike, they should putout trash receptacles for homeless people to use and offer more access to toilets andmobile showers. And, ultimately, the city must build more supportive housing and moreshelters.

The City Council has struggled for years to strike the right balance between the needs ofhomeless people and the rights of the city’s residents and businesses. We get it —Angelenos are tired of this crisis and are eager to see some progress. This proposal,however, isn’t the answer.

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Seniors facing eviction fearhomelessness is nextThe threat of displacement and isolation is greater for olderrenters

BY ANDREW KHOURI AND COLLEEN SHALBY

Mario Canel met his wife inside the apartment where he’s lived for the last 33 years.

MARIO CANEL sits outside the Silver Lake apartment that has been his home for 33years. At 73, he faces eviction by the building’s new owners and sees dim prospects offinding an affordable home anywhere nearby. “I feel like I am suffocating,” he says.“Every day.” (Liz Moughon Los Angeles Times)

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Canel, a house painter, was at the Silver Lake complex off Sunset Boulevard on a job, buthe and his customer quickly connected over their shared Guatemalan roots. It wasn’t longbefore Mario and Sabina married, and her home became his. For years, they basked insuch comforts as plucking chayote from a vine outside their front window.

When his wife died in April 2005, Canel was consoled with walks throughout theneighborhood and his connection to people inside the eight-unit bungalow court. It alsohelped that even as the surrounding neighborhood gentrified, rent control held his rentbelow $400.

But three months ago, a real estate investor purchased the complex and soon told alltenants to leave. Suddenly, Canel faced the prospect of having to find a new home in amarket where nearby studios rent for more than his monthly Social Security benefits —his sole means of support.

“I feel like I am suffocating,” Canel, 73, said in Spanish. “Every day.” The threat ofdisplacement and loss of community and routine can take a mental and physical toll.Experts say that’s especially true for seniors, who are perhaps the most vulnerable toCalifornia’s rising rents and evictions of any age group, and the fastest growing in thestate.

There are signs that seniors are disproportionately affected by the types of evictions Canelnow faces. Households with at least one person 62 or older made up 26% of no-faultevictions in Los Angeles city rent-controlled buildings between June 2014 and May 2019,according to the Los Angeles Housing and Community Investment Department. Bycomparison, 13% of rental households in properties built before 1979 are headed bysomeone 65 or older, according to 2017 census estimates. (Most rent-controlled buildingsin Los Angeles were constructed before 1979.)

The eviction threat was given a face in May when news spread on social media that 102-year-old Thelma Smith faced a lease termination in an unincorporated area of Los AngelesCounty. Smith had lived at her Ladera Heights residence for nearly 30 years when herlandlord gave her notice to leave. Former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a friend of thewoman, was one of many who expressed outrage over the lawful action.

But even when not facing eviction, seniors who depend on a fixed income have a hardertime weathering rent increases, even the modest rises allowed under rent control. In 2016,29% of all renter households in California spent more than half their income on housing,according to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies. That figure rises to 35% ofrenters ages 65 to 79, and 42% of renters 80 or older.

Overall rent growth has slowed in the last two years. But the average price for a vacantapartment in L.A. County is nearly 40% higher than it was in 2012, at $2,329 a month,according to Zillow.

That swift rise has been blamed for driving people of all ages into homelessness, but livingon the streets can be particularly traumatic for seniors. In 2018, when overall homelessnumbers went down, the tally of homeless people 62 and older in the Greater Los Angeles

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area surged 22%, to nearly 5,000. According to the latest count by the Los AngelesHomeless Services Authority, that number has since increased to 5,231.

Moving is tough at any age, said Tracy Greene Mintz, a senior care consultant based inRedondo Beach. “[But] if you didn’t hear what someone said to you about what [housing]is available, or you can’t read your eviction notice or rental agreement and if you can’tcomprehend and problem solve, how are you going to survive that? ... You either adapt toa new routine or you completely fall apart.”

Canel’s new landlord is a limited partnership — a popular real estate investment vehicle.Attempts to reach Stephen Williams, who is listed in a state filing as a representative forthe partnership, were unsuccessful. A letter left for Williams at the El Segundo office thepartnership lists as its address was not answered and a man there declined to comment.Emails to an address the new owners gave tenants also went unanswered.

On Bellevue Avenue in Echo Park, a short drive from Canel’s complex, Luis Contreras, 63,and his family are also looking for a new home after another limited partnershippurchased their rent-controlled building and gave the tenants an eviction notice. Thepartnership lists Williams as a representative.

Contreras, a retired “jack of all trades” who worked in factories and painted houses, hashad two open-heart surgeries and said his health is now worsening. But mostly he worriesabout how his family will find another safe and affordable home on their limited income.

A day after the family of four received notice to leave their $837-a-month, one-bedroomunit, Contreras went to the hospital with chest pains. But he didn’t stay long, despite theadvice of the emergency room doctor.

“I’m afraid to leave the apartment unoccupied, because they could come and change thelocks,” he said.

Because Contreras is at least 62, city rules allow the family up to a year to move. KevinContreras, a security guard in Beverly Hills who is helping his mom, dad and sister searchfor a new place, said they can afford rent of $1,100 a month. Landlords have told him theywon’t accept more than two adults in a one-bedroom; he’s hoping someone will make anexception for his sister, who is disabled. In any case, a recent search on Zillow showedonly five one-bedrooms under their price in the entire city of Los Angeles. Meanwhile, thestate is only getting older. The Public Policy Institute of California predicts the number ofCalifornians age 65 and older will grow by more than 4 million come 2030, nearly doublewhat it was in 2012.

In many ways, tenants such as Canel and Contreras who live in rent-controlled buildingshave more protections than others. Landlords for those properties, which in the city ofLos Angeles were generally built before 1979, can raise their rent by only a limited amounteach year and tenants generally can’t be evicted unless they fail to pay the rent or breakother rules.

Property owners, however, can charge as much as they want each time a unit is vacated.And, under a state law known as the Ellis Act, they can get rid of rule-following tenants if

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they permanently remove units from the rental market — something that is often done inorder to convert units to condos or build new, more expensive housing.

Tenants removed that way get additional leave and relocation assistance, though thatmoney can be eaten up relatively quickly by moving costs and today’s sky-high rents.

Canel, for instance, can receive a year to move and $21,200. If he were approved for thecheapest place in Silver Lake that’s advertised on Zillow — a $1,225 studio apartment —that would cover the difference between his old and new rents for two years, not takinginto account moving costs and a deposit.

In non-rent-controlled buildings, landlords can raise the rent as high as they want andcan usually tell long-term tenants to leave in 60 days, as long as doing so wouldn’t break alease. In those cases, relocation fees are not typically required.

A possible relief valve — subsidized senior housing and Section 8 federal vouchers — is inshort supply, forcing people to tough it out in the open market. “On a fixed income, thereis just no way you can keep up with changing market rates,” said Steven Wallace, associatedirector of the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research.

The high proportion of seniors in no-fault evictions may reflect that many have stayed intheir units for decades and their low-rent units make their properties especially attractivefor redevelopment.

As with so many aspects of the housing crisis, the crunch for seniors is most obvious ingentrifying neighborhoods. Rents in Silver Lake and Echo Park have soared as those andother longtime working-class Latino communities near downtown have seen an influx ofwealthier residents. Pricier restaurants and bars moved in, catering to a clientele who willpay $16 for a bowl of chickpeas and poached eggs.

“There are a lot of white people moving in” who can afford more in rent, said DoraObando, who moved in next to Canel 25 years ago. Obando, who is in her 70s and also gotan eviction notice, feels the Latino community is now being pushed out of theneighborhood.

“We live in such a peaceful environment,” she said, referring to her complex. “For them tonot have any mercy and want to evict us feels very unfair to us.”

Richard Green, director of the USC Lusk Center for Real Estate, said gentrification wasbeing driven by supply and demand. Higher-income individuals increasingly want to livein urban centers. An underlying shortage of housing kicks off a chain reaction, pricingmiddle-class households out of wealthier areas and forcing those people to seek homes inmore affordable neighborhoods.

Seeing an increase in demand, Green said, landlords in low-income areas raise rents orredevelop their properties to make more money and cater to wealthier individuals.

But Tracy Jeanne Rosenthal of the L.A. Tenants Union says that view glosses over the roleinvestors can play in kick-starting and accelerating the process by, for instance, marketing

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an area as “hip.” The union, which is working with the Echo Park and Silver Lake tenants,says government should pass strict rules against speculative investments made to replaceone demographic group for another.

Fred Sutton, vice president of public affairs with the California Apartment Assn., said thegroup encouraged its members to think about the “social impacts as they review theoperational realities” of their buildings. But he says some old housing needs to bereplaced. Rather than control rents, he encouraged cities to expand housing supply andprovide direct rent subsidies to those most at risk.

There are ways to cushion the blow of relocation, said Nicholas Castle, a professor at WestVirginia University and senior-care expert. In addition to finding a place and moving,seniors need help adapting to a new routine, meeting neighbors and finding the nearestsupermarket or church.

Tenants like Canel don’t get that level of help, but a housing department spokeswomansaid a relocation consultant can provide people with listings that fit their criteria andtransportation to view the rentals.

Then there are the complexities of navigating any assistance program. Canel said the localSocial Security office told him his $806-a-month low-income benefits, known as SSI,would be cut off if he accepted the relocation payment. That would leave him with only$145 a month in retirement income.

A Social Security spokesperson says SSI could be affected because — unlike retirementbenefits — it is needs-based and the relocation payment might qualify as income.

That’s disputed, however, by the Los Angeles Housing and Community InvestmentDepartment, which said it hadn’t received any complaints about lost benefits. “It would beunreasonable to force tenants to choose between accepting ‘relocation assistance’ andrejecting ‘relocation assistance’ in order not to jeopardize SSI,” a spokeswoman for theHousing Department wrote in an email.

As a growing number of local governments turn to rent control, including Culver City,Inglewood and unincorporated L.A. County, state officials are exploring options to protectrenters.

A bill in the state Legislature would temporarily cap annual increases at 7% plus inflationin buildings older than 10 years and provide their tenants with “just cause” evictionprotections. And Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing to spend additional money to providelegal assistance to renters.

Meanwhile, others argue the state efforts don’t go far enough. On a recent Friday, tenantsjoined L.A. Tenants Union organizers in a march from Pershing Square to the office ofAssemblyman Miguel Santiago (D-Los Angeles), who last year didn’t vote on a bill thatwould have placed some additional restrictions on the Ellis Act. (Santiago’s office said he’ssupporting a more modest Ellis bill this year, as well as the 7% rent cap.)

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Canel donned a red homemade T-shirt that read “Stop Acta Ellis” and shouted his storyinto a megaphone as drivers honked support for the marchers.

In an interview, the septuagenarian said he was more upbeat since joining the TenantsUnion in a fight to stay in his home. But he acknowledged his panic hadn’t disappeared.

“I have nowhere to go,” he said. “I could die in the streets.”

Times staff writer Sandhya Kambhampati contributed to this report.

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Taking stock of homeless programCity leaders and other stakeholders weigh in on the resultsof the Encampment to Home initiative.BY THOMAS CURWEN

When Los Angeles city and county agencies introduced an initiative last year to movehomeless individuals into housing, they drew upon the cooperation of politicians andother public officials, outreach workers, property managers, business owners and policeofficers.

The initiative, Encampment to Home, took 10 months and cost taxpayers $850,000.Efforts focused on encampments of homeless people in two South L.A. neighborhoods. Ofthe 106 residents who were housed, 68 moved into two new apartment buildings at ElSegundo Boulevard and the 110 Freeway.

With help from United Way, Encampment to Home was more ambitious than anythingthe county had tried in years and was the subject of a series of stories in The Times thatprofiled seven people who had been living on the sidewalks of Broadway Place, near theVolunteers of America shelter a few miles south of downtown L.A.

The Times contacted some organizers and supporters of Encampment to Home and askedfor their views on the program. Their comments have been edited for space and clarity.

::

Elizabeth Boyce is director of access, referral and engagement for Housing for Health, adivision of the county’s Department of Health Services. She helped lead the program.

What did you learn from Encampment to Home?

People in encampments want to get off the streets, and when housed with adequateservices, they will remain in permanent homes.

Equipping the outreach teams with direct access to permanent housing resources — andgiving them the tools to help the street-based homeless navigate the paperwork andactivities necessary to secure permanent housing — was critical. Lastly, coordinating allparties that play a role in obtaining permanent housing ... was extremely helpful.

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Having more client-centered and coordinated sanitation services would be beneficial. Andthere has to be more access to more housing within communities where the encampmentsare located, and communities have to be willing to allow for housing.

::

Mayor Eric Garcetti attended the grand opening of the two apartment buildings inOctober.

How do you overcome neighborhood opposition?

The noise from NIMBYism is nothing compared to the power of progress I have witnessedas Angelenos have come together to confront the homelessness and housing crisis.Research has shown that the vast majority of Angelenos want to be a part of the solutionto this crisis, and they’re willing to bring those solutions into their neighborhoods. ... Ihave been inspired by the growing courage of people across our city to say “yes” to thehousing and healing unhoused Angelenos urgently need and deserve. ...

And that’s not rhetoric — it’s reality borne out in numbers. We met my goal to permit100,000 new units of housing two years ahead of schedule.

As a direct result of Proposition HHH, we’re dramatically expanding our pipeline of long-lasting, high-quality affordable housing that is going to benefit our city for generations tocome. All told, 110 Proposition HHH projects are in the pipeline totaling commitments tobuild thousands of units of supportive housing.

::

City Councilman Joe Buscainorepresents the district where the two apartment buildingsare located.

How do you respond to complaints that the former encampment residents have madeproblems worse in their new neighborhood?

The bottom line is that formerly homeless people living indoors have a much smallerimpact on neighborhoods than sidewalk encampments. ... It is incumbent on the city toensure that neighborhoods that accept homeless housing remain clean and free ofsidewalk encampments, so that residents see practical benefits to welcoming thesefacilities.

::

John Helyar is a manager with Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System. Heoversaw outreach workers who interviewed potential candidates for the program.

What were the greatest challenges for outreach workers?

Encampment to Home represented the first (and only) time that as an outreach team wewere able to promise our clients housing. Normally we can only talk about eligibility,

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waiting lists and hope. For this project, we could promise a set of keys to everyone in theencampment.

But with those promises came delays. Clients knew it was all too good to be true, that wewere just another program promising a miracle that would never happen. And thatnaturally angered them. They’d fallen for that bait again.

Once clients began to be housed, there were the further delays for some who were nothoused in the two apartment buildings. ... All of this just made the resentment and fearworse for those still waiting, and they got frantic when we had to redo income paperworkbecause it had expired.

They assumed we were incompetent, had lost the paperwork ... one lousy excuse afteranother.

It would be nice to be able to shorten the paperwork cycle and get people housed muchfaster. But this project was so much faster than the normal process that to us it feltmiraculous.

::

Elena Stern is the public information director for the city Department of Public Works,whose Bureau of Sanitation directed the cleanups along Broadway Place.

Tent-dwelling Angelenos complain about how the city handles cleanups. Is that about tochange?

In early October, [the sanitation department] will roll out a significant redeployment ofour teams that will increase trust and communication between our employees and peopleexperiencing homelessness. ...

The regional deployment of 30 teams (up from the current 20) will allow for daily andweekly service to many encampments. This will mean access to expanded services, such asregular trash collection at high-density encampments, removal of hazardous materialsthat pose health and safety risks and the use of mobile hygiene stations.

::

Jerry Ballesteros is a senior lead officer with the Los Angeles Police Department. Hehelped oversee the work of the sanitation crews as they periodically cleaned up theencampment on Broadway Place.

How has your job on the street changed in response to the homelessness crisis?

What I have seen on the street is — in my opinion — the end result of the use of gatewaydrugs that have led to the stronger drugs like meth, heroin and cocaine.

There are truly people out there who deserve help and services. These are the people I tryand help. But I don’t believe in helping the able-bodied persons who are just looking forthe easy handout.

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I also have seen a huge increase in the numbers of mentally ill persons on the street. Yearsago we would run into a seriously psychotic person once in a while. Now it seems like it’s adaily occurrence.

::

Aaron Mandel is executive vice president with real estate firm Meta Housing, whichdeveloped the two apartment buildings in Harbor Gateway.

What distinguishes these buildings and their designs from housing projects that the citydeveloped in years past?

We spent a lot of time on the front end ... considering how the architecture fits into thegreater neighborhood and how the residents will interact with the design on a daily basis.

We have partnered with John Stewart Co. and the People Concern. A lack of fundingand/or supportive services can quickly lead to compounding operating problems, so wehave also partnered with several county agencies to ensure there is sufficient funding andappropriate services.

::

Melissa Vollbrecht is a program director with the People Concern, which was selected byMeta Housing to provide counseling and services for residents.

How do you help the people who have been housed break the habits and behaviors of thestreet?

All of our goals in housing retention service hinge on building insight. Insight leads tobuy-in. We create targeted intervention plans for each individual, interventions that canbe viewed as priorities over the survival activities that have been in place for months oryears.

Survival on the streets — or in historically oppressed communities — is reliant on maskingvulnerability. Case managers are faced with the big task of creating a space ofnonjudgment within which people feel safe sharing their vulnerabilities. If we are luckyenough to be trusted in that way, we are able to focus on strengths and challenges. Fromthere, we help them become good neighbors and tenants and develop independent livingskills.

We want to let them know that it is OK not to feel exclusively happy when they move intohousing ... OK to feel alone, scared, uncomfortable and uncertain. ... It’s important to notignore those feelings and to work to unpack them with the available, reliable teamincluding case managers, therapists, doctors and other community resources.

::

Dana Shareef is the property manager for John Stewart Co., which Meta Housing broughtin to manage the apartments.

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How would you characterize these last 12 months?

For most of the residents, the idea of being in a brand-new environment was a bit scary.Some made mistakes and displayed inconsistency in their behavior. They had been in“survival mode” for so long that it was difficult to change that way of life. ... Most of themhaven’t had a place to call their own in many years.

The majority of people who just made the one-year anniversary of their move-in date aremaking great efforts to change their behavior. It has been a humbling journey for all of us,but along the way we have been able to change many lives.

::

Chris Ko, managing director of homeless initiatives for United Way of Greater LosAngeles, was one of the architects of Encampment to Home.

What lies ahead?

Our system’s ability today to help someone secure housing is nearly unprecedented.Measure H is what makes it possible for us to employ the lessons learned in this pilot: Themeasure has tripled the volume of street outreach; it funds system coordinators that stitchthe pieces together, and it’s increased the amount of supportive services in future housingprojects and existing ones, too.

Two specific projects are underway: The city of Los Angeles is deploying community andLos Angeles Homeless Services Authority outreach teams to help people sleeping outsideinto their A Bridge Home projects. And the county’s multiple disciplinary outreach teamswill do the same when the county’s newly enriched shelters open.

::

Alan Ishii owns the George-David Co., a machine shop on Broadway Place opposite theencampment. Ishii knew its residents and watched them move to their new apartments.

How has the neighborhood changed?

This is our 64th year at this location. When we moved here, it was a mixed commercialand residential neighborhood. The homeless shelter was established about 15 years ago.Alcohol and drugs were prohibited. A few residents began sleeping on the street tocontinue using drugs.

People would walk by my shop coming and going from the shelter. Some were friendly,some not. There were arrests for drug sales. More and more tents were pitched. Someresidents were very nice. I gladly charged their phones and appliances. We becamefriends. I am proud to say that I remain friends with a few of the people.

It is troubling how entitlements enable addiction. Politicians think tossing money is likeputting out a fire, when it is really fodder for the blaze. I feel that we must make it clear tofuture generations that working is a reward, not a task. I met a man in his 40s who told

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me he was writing his resume. I asked what he had done in the past. He said he had neverhad a job. People need a purpose in life and guidance and motivation.

8/30/2019 Cockroaches, cockroaches, cockroaches: Restaurant closures, other inspections in San Bernardino County, Aug. 23-29 – San …

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By By NIKIE JOHNSONNIKIE JOHNSON | | nijohnson@scng.comnijohnson@scng.com | |PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 30, 2019 at 1:36 pmAugust 30, 2019 at 1:36 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 30, 2019 at 1:36 pmAugust 30, 2019 at 1:36 pm

Here are the restaurants and other food facilities closed by health inspectors inHere are the restaurants and other food facilities closed by health inspectors in

San Bernardino County between Aug. 23 and 29, 2019, according to the county’sSan Bernardino County between Aug. 23 and 29, 2019, according to the county’s

Department of Public Health. If no reopening date is mentioned, the departmentDepartment of Public Health. If no reopening date is mentioned, the department

had not listed that facility as reopened as of this publication.had not listed that facility as reopened as of this publication.

Little DragonLittle Dragon, 178 E. Highland Ave., San Bernardino, 178 E. Highland Ave., San Bernardino

BUSINESSBUSINESS

Cockroaches, cockroaches,Cockroaches, cockroaches,cockroaches: Restaurantcockroaches: Restaurantclosures, other inspections in Sanclosures, other inspections in SanBernardino County, Aug. 23-29Bernardino County, Aug. 23-29

8/30/2019

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Non-closure inspections of noteNon-closure inspections of note

Closure date:Closure date: Aug. 28 Aug. 28

Grade:Grade: Not graded Not graded

Reason for closure:Reason for closure: Cockroach infestationCockroach infestation. The inspector visited in. The inspector visited in

response to a complaint that a customer had seen a roach crawling on theresponse to a complaint that a customer had seen a roach crawling on the

wall. The manager said they hadn’t seen any roaches in the facility lately, butwall. The manager said they hadn’t seen any roaches in the facility lately, but

the inspector found live and dead roaches throughout the kitchen (includingthe inspector found live and dead roaches throughout the kitchen (including

under cooking equipment and the dishwasher) and storage room and in theunder cooking equipment and the dishwasher) and storage room and in the

seating area. Pest control had serviced the restaurant two days earlier andseating area. Pest control had serviced the restaurant two days earlier and

noted finding five live roaches. This was the restaurant’s second roach-noted finding five live roaches. This was the restaurant’s second roach-

related closure in three years; the first was in related closure in three years; the first was in February 2017February 2017..

Star BuffetStar Buffet, 1141 S. Mount Vernon Ave., Colton, 1141 S. Mount Vernon Ave., Colton

Closure date:Closure date: Aug. 27 Aug. 27

Grade:Grade: Not graded Not graded

Reason for closure: Reason for closure: Cockroach infestationCockroach infestation. The restaurant had been . The restaurant had been closedclosed

Aug. 22 for the same reasonAug. 22 for the same reason when an inspector investigating a when an inspector investigating a complaintcomplaint

found live and dead roaches “almost every where in the facility.” It wasfound live and dead roaches “almost every where in the facility.” It was

permitted to reopenpermitted to reopen the following day after receiving pest-control services; the following day after receiving pest-control services;

the inspector didn’t see any live roaches that day. However, a day later, athe inspector didn’t see any live roaches that day. However, a day later, a

group of customers saw roaches in their booth “and one actually fell fromgroup of customers saw roaches in their booth “and one actually fell from

the ceiling into one of the soup bowls,” according to the ceiling into one of the soup bowls,” according to a reporta report from Aug. 27. from Aug. 27.

The inspector who investigated that complaint (and The inspector who investigated that complaint (and anotheranother the next day) the next day)

found roaches almost everywhere in the restaurant again and reclosed it.found roaches almost everywhere in the restaurant again and reclosed it.

Rialto BuffetRialto Buffet, 201 E. Baseline, Rialto, 201 E. Baseline, Rialto

Closure date:Closure date: Aug. 27 Aug. 27

Grade:Grade: Not graded Not graded

Reason for closure:Reason for closure: Cockroach infestationCockroach infestation. The inspector visited in. The inspector visited in

response to a complaint that someone had found a roach in his drink andresponse to a complaint that someone had found a roach in his drink and

seen others in the dining area. The inspector saw two live roaches in theseen others in the dining area. The inspector saw two live roaches in the

kitchen and several dead ones in a storage area.kitchen and several dead ones in a storage area.

Here are facilities that weren’t closed but had other significant issues in theirHere are facilities that weren’t closed but had other significant issues in their

inspections.inspections.

8/30/2019 Cockroaches, cockroaches, cockroaches: Restaurant closures, other inspections in San Bernardino County, Aug. 23-29 – San …

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Updates from past weeksUpdates from past weeks

About this listAbout this list

The VenueThe Venue,, at 22400 Barton Road Suite 23 in Grand Terrace, was at 22400 Barton Road Suite 23 in Grand Terrace, was inspected Aug. 28inspected Aug. 28

and received a grade of 83/B with two critical violations. Some taco beef cookedand received a grade of 83/B with two critical violations. Some taco beef cooked

the day before was at an unsafe temperature inside a refrigerator that wasn’tthe day before was at an unsafe temperature inside a refrigerator that wasn’t

keeping cold. The inspector also found a large container of dressing that hadkeeping cold. The inspector also found a large container of dressing that had

expired and was accumulating mold and mildew. This was the fifth B grade theexpired and was accumulating mold and mildew. This was the fifth B grade the

restaurant has received since 2016.restaurant has received since 2016.

China Sun BuffetChina Sun Buffet,, at 580 E. Highland Ave. in San Bernardino, was at 580 E. Highland Ave. in San Bernardino, was inspected Aug.inspected Aug.

2323 in response to a in response to a foodborne illness complaintfoodborne illness complaint and received a grade of 84/B with and received a grade of 84/B with

one critical violation: Some shrimp, fruit salad and boiled eggs in a refrigeratorone critical violation: Some shrimp, fruit salad and boiled eggs in a refrigerator

weren’t at a safe temperature. Among the eight lesser violations, the cook didn’tweren’t at a safe temperature. Among the eight lesser violations, the cook didn’t

know the proper cooking temperature for chicken or chopped beef, there was noknow the proper cooking temperature for chicken or chopped beef, there was no

soap at a handwashing sink and there was a black substance inside the icesoap at a handwashing sink and there was a black substance inside the ice

machine.machine.

Toro Bowl Bistro & BarToro Bowl Bistro & Bar, at 12045 5th St. Suite A in Yucaipa, which , at 12045 5th St. Suite A in Yucaipa, which was closed Aug.was closed Aug.

2121 for receiving a score of 69, low enough to be considered a health hazard, has for receiving a score of 69, low enough to be considered a health hazard, has

not been listed as reopened.not been listed as reopened.

All food facilities in the county are routinely inspected to ensure they meet healthAll food facilities in the county are routinely inspected to ensure they meet health

codes. A facility loses four points for each critical violation and one to three pointscodes. A facility loses four points for each critical violation and one to three points

for minor violations. An A grade (90 to 100 points) is considered “generallyfor minor violations. An A grade (90 to 100 points) is considered “generally

superior,” a B grade (80 to 89) is “generally acceptable” and a C grade (70 to 79) issuperior,” a B grade (80 to 89) is “generally acceptable” and a C grade (70 to 79) is

“generally unacceptable” and requires a follow-up inspection. A facility will be“generally unacceptable” and requires a follow-up inspection. A facility will be

temporarily closed if it scores below 70 or has a critical violation that can’t betemporarily closed if it scores below 70 or has a critical violation that can’t be

corrected immediately.corrected immediately.

This list is published online on Fridays. Any updates as restaurants are reopenedThis list is published online on Fridays. Any updates as restaurants are reopened

will be included in next week’s list. For more information on inspections of thesewill be included in next week’s list. For more information on inspections of these

or any restaurants in San Bernardino County, visitor any restaurants in San Bernardino County, visit

www.sbcounty.gov/dph/ehsportal/FacilityList/foodwww.sbcounty.gov/dph/ehsportal/FacilityList/food. To file a health complaint, go. To file a health complaint, go

to to www.sbcounty.gov/dph/ehsportal/StaticComplaintwww.sbcounty.gov/dph/ehsportal/StaticComplaint or call 800-442-2283. or call 800-442-2283.

9/3/2019 Police use of force data 'a huge mess' across the U.S. - News - Bucks County Courier Times - Levittown, PA

https://www.buckscountycouriertimes.com/news/20190831/police-use-of-force-data-a-huge-mess-across-us 1/5

By Kenny Jacoby / GateHouse MediaPosted Aug 31, 2019 at 8:15 AM

The Department of Justice has been required to trackexcessive force complaints since 1994 but has little toshow for it.

The federal government recently released what some hoped would be the mostaccurate data on how police departments resolve civilian complaints of policebrutality.

Collected from nearly 4,000 law enforcement agencies across the country,including several from Bucks and Montgomery counties, the data shows fewerthan 1 in 15 excessive force allegations in 2015 met the threshold for disciplinaryaction against the accused officer.

But a GateHouse Media analysis found flaws calling into question the accuracy ofthe one-year snapshot, which was released in June as part of a 2016 survey by theU.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics about adoption of body-worn cameras. Somepolice departments and sheriff’s offices dispute the data, which conflicts withtheir own numbers. For other agencies, the survey showed no complaints ofexcessive force, even though their own annual reports show otherwise.

The problems underscore a more salient issue: Despite decades of credibleallegations of police brutality, and a 25-year-old federal law requiring thegovernment to collect national data on excessive force, the United States still haslittle or no reliable information to show for it.

“It’s a huge mess, there’s no question about it,” said Matthew Hickman, a SeattleUniversity professor and former BJS statistician. “There’s no regulation at thenational level. We’ve got 18,000 police departments and they can each dowhatever the hell they want.”

Police use of force data ‘a huge mess’ across

the U.S.

9/3/2019 Police use of force data 'a huge mess' across the U.S. - News - Bucks County Courier Times - Levittown, PA

https://www.buckscountycouriertimes.com/news/20190831/police-use-of-force-data-a-huge-mess-across-us 2/5

The Bureau of Justice Statistics would not answer questions about GateHouseMedia’s findings.

“BJS is still examining the 2016 data and has no further comments,” a spokesmansaid.

Data collection falls flat

The U.S. Attorney General’s Office has been required by law to “acquire dataabout the use of excessive force by law enforcement officers” and publish anannual summary of the data since 1994, when President Bill Clinton signed thecontroversial Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act.

But the mandate came without funding, which is one reason why the federalagency has never done it.

In a response to questions, the U.S. Department of Justice cited a decades-longeffort to capture various aspects of law enforcement use of force, which BJS saidhas partially fulfilled the requirements.

In the early 2000s, Hickman was one of two staffers in the law enforcementdivision of BJS. He decided it was time for the agency to start collecting the dataon its own.

In 2016, the agency undertook the effort again.

But GateHouse Media’s analysis of the results indicates the data is still unreliable.

For instance, the survey shows the Fayetteville Police Department in NorthCarolina substantiated 42 out of 46 excessive-force allegations, meaning it agreedwith 91% of the claims compared with a national rate of about 7%.

Gina Hawkins, who became Fayetteville’s police chief in 2017, said that someonemust have incorrectly entered the information.

“I think whoever entered the data on the survey halfway read the question andentered the number that was the opposite,” Hawkins said, adding that herdepartment is looking into resubmitting the 2015 numbers.

9/3/2019 Police use of force data 'a huge mess' across the U.S. - News - Bucks County Courier Times - Levittown, PA

https://www.buckscountycouriertimes.com/news/20190831/police-use-of-force-data-a-huge-mess-across-us 3/5

The department’s own records show only one allegation of excessive force,which was not sustained, a spokesman said.

The survey also shows the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, serving the Houstonarea, sustained 195 of 256 allegations, or 76%. Spokesman Jason Spencer said thetrue number is seven out of 267 allegations, or 2.6%.

Spencer said he was unable to determine the source of the numbers that appearin the federal data, but a different administration was in charge at the time.

“The bottom line,” Spencer said, “is that we believe the data in the report isextremely inaccurate.”

The Miami-Dade Police Department also disputed the numbers, which show itreceived 78 excessive-force allegations, all of which were pending an outcome atthe time of survey. But the department said it received 282 allegations, none ofwhich were pending. Only seven, or 2.5%, were sustained.

Of the 4,000 agencies included in the federal report, one-fourth of them did notprovide data at all because they did not “formally document and storecomplaints,” their complaint records were not “easily retrievable” or thosequestions were left blank, the survey said.

Among this non-reporting group were the Los Angeles and Chicago policedepartments, both of which said their complaint records were not easilyretrievable, even though both submit their own use-of-force reports each year.

Neither the LAPD nor CPD responded to requests for comment.

Of the other 3,000 agencies, two-thirds reported no excessive-force complaintsin 2015, including police departments in San Diego and San Jose, California.Both agencies pointed to local reports that show dozens of force allegations thatyear.

San Diego said it wasn’t able to find a copy of the survey it submitted, but SanJose was able to obtain its copy from the DOJ, which indeed showed zeroes inthe questions about excessive-force allegations.

Brian Matchett, a commander in the San Jose internal affairs unit, said the stafferwho filled out the form had no recollection of doing so.

9/3/2019 Police use of force data 'a huge mess' across the U.S. - News - Bucks County Courier Times - Levittown, PA

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“Clearly those are not accurate numbers,” Matchett said. “I don’t know why thatperson wouldn’t have reached out to internal affairs for the actual numbersversus putting in zero.”

What the data tells us

The data could provide insights for the nearly 1,000 agencies whose reportednumbers appear, at least on the surface, to be reliable.

For one, only about 7% of formal excessive-force allegations are sustained. Whilesome will suspect police bias, Hickman cautions that the majority of excessive-force allegations likely don’t meet legal threshold.

“The courts and the police, how they define excessive force, are very differentfrom the public’s understanding of what may or may not be ‘excessive,’” Hickmansaid.

Still, Hickman said he’s skeptical of agencies with high rates of unfoundedallegations, in which they determined the incident didn’t occur or the allegationwasn’t based on facts.

Available data from police departments in Bucks and eastern Montgomerycounties showed few, if any, civilian complaints.

Police departments in Lansdale, Cheltenham, Lower Moreland, Richland, NorthWales and Langhorne, along with Pennridge Regional, reported zero civiliancomplaints against officers in 2015.

Bensalem and Northampton police each reported one excessive force complaintagainst an officer; both were deemed unfounded, according to the reports.

Four departments reported that they received civilian complaints against officersin 2015, although none involved use of force. Montgomery Township Policereported 11 such complaints; Warminster reported six; Yardley reported threecomplaints; and Lower Makefield reported a single civilian, non-forcecomplaint.

While reports were filed by Bristol Borough and Horsham police departments,neither contains data on complaints.

9/3/2019 Police use of force data 'a huge mess' across the U.S. - News - Bucks County Courier Times - Levittown, PA

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Nationwide, around 26% of complaints are unfounded; among the rest, 34% endwith exoneration and 22% are not sustained.

“In my experience, the majority of complaints are unfounded,” said Sgt. JeffAllison of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, which ruled 87% ofits complaints unfounded. “It’s almost as if the complainant will make as manyallegations as possible, but they’re not based on what actually occurred.”

No national standard

The wide disparities in how complaints are resolved can be explained in part bythe lack of national standards. For example, some agencies accept complaintsonline while others require sworn complaints in person.

Uniform definitions as to what constitutes force and excessive force still do notexist.

“Why would use of force in Seattle be defined differently than use of force inBaton Rouge?” Hickman said. “There’s no good reason for that. It should be thesame.”

The FBI is trying to fix that problem with its new National Use-of-Force DataCollection program launched in January. It will cover only incidents where theofficer discharged a firearm in a person’s direction, caused a death or inflictedserious bodily injury.

But with such a threshold, it’s likely that most use-of-force incidents and theoutcomes of civilian complaints won’t be captured.

Fayetteville (N.C.) Observer sta�f writer Michael Futch contributed reporting to this story.

9/3/2019 San Bernardino NAACP president John McKinley Futch Jr. remembered for giving voice to all – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/08/31/san-bernardino-naacp-president-futch-remembered-for-giving-voice-to-all/ 1/7

By By BRIAN ROKOSBRIAN ROKOS | | brokos@scng.combrokos@scng.com | The Press-Enterprise | The Press-EnterprisePUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 31, 2019 at 12:55 pmAugust 31, 2019 at 12:55 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 31, 2019 at 4:18 pmAugust 31, 2019 at 4:18 pm

John McKinley Futch Jr., president of the San Bernardino NAACP, died Aug. 11,John McKinley Futch Jr., president of the San Bernardino NAACP, died Aug. 11,2019. (Greg Vojtko, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)2019. (Greg Vojtko, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

John McKinley Futch Jr., president of the San Bernardino NAACP, is beingJohn McKinley Futch Jr., president of the San Bernardino NAACP, is being

remembered as a vital and inclusive voice in the community.remembered as a vital and inclusive voice in the community.

Futch died on Aug. 11 at 69. A celebration of life was held Aug. 24 at Cal StateFutch died on Aug. 11 at 69. A celebration of life was held Aug. 24 at Cal State

San Bernardino, where Futch earned bachelor’s and masters degrees. ASan Bernardino, where Futch earned bachelor’s and masters degrees. A

longtime friend, Barbara Babcock, said Futch died from cancer.longtime friend, Barbara Babcock, said Futch died from cancer.

NEWSNEWSCRIME + PUBLIC SAFETYCRIME + PUBLIC SAFETY

San Bernardino NAACPSan Bernardino NAACPpresident John McKinley Futchpresident John McKinley FutchJr. remembered for giving voiceJr. remembered for giving voiceto allto all

9/3/2019 San Bernardino NAACP president John McKinley Futch Jr. remembered for giving voice to all – San Bernardino Sun

Futch also served as a trustee for the San Bernardino Community CollegeFutch also served as a trustee for the San Bernardino Community College

District and founded a scholarship in 2007 to assist students who are involvedDistrict and founded a scholarship in 2007 to assist students who are involved

in community service, are first-generation college students and are membersin community service, are first-generation college students and are members

of historically underserved groups.of historically underserved groups.

Assemblyman James Ramos, a Highland resident Assemblyman James Ramos, a Highland resident who represents the state’swho represents the state’s

40th Assembly District40th Assembly District, said in a news release Friday that he hired Futch as a, said in a news release Friday that he hired Futch as a

field representative and chief of staff when Ramos was a San Bernardinofield representative and chief of staff when Ramos was a San Bernardino

County supervisor. They met at Cal State, where Futch urged leaders to nameCounty supervisor. They met at Cal State, where Futch urged leaders to name

the student union building after Ramos’ great, great grandfather Santosthe student union building after Ramos’ great, great grandfather Santos

Manuel, leader of the Yuhaviatam Indians in San Bernardino County.Manuel, leader of the Yuhaviatam Indians in San Bernardino County.

Cal State President Tomas Morales said Futch worked there for eight years asCal State President Tomas Morales said Futch worked there for eight years as

coordinator of the Cross Cultural Center, interim director of the Women’scoordinator of the Cross Cultural Center, interim director of the Women’s

Resource Center & Adult Re-Entry Center and director of Cultural &Resource Center & Adult Re-Entry Center and director of Cultural &

Community Development.Community Development.

“It is always difficult to lose such a vital member of the CSUSB community,“It is always difficult to lose such a vital member of the CSUSB community,

and John had a long and proud legacy of service to our students, our missionand John had a long and proud legacy of service to our students, our mission

and the essential connection we enjoy with the people of the Inland Empire,”and the essential connection we enjoy with the people of the Inland Empire,”

Morales said in a written statement.Morales said in a written statement.

Futch received a Futch received a special recognition awardspecial recognition award from Cal State in 2006. The from Cal State in 2006. The

university held a dinner in 2007 to launch a $100,000 textbook endowmentuniversity held a dinner in 2007 to launch a $100,000 textbook endowment

fund in his honor.fund in his honor.

Kristine Scott, public affairs manager for the Southern California Gas Co.Kristine Scott, public affairs manager for the Southern California Gas Co.

office that serves San Bernardino County, wrote in a Twitter message: “Foroffice that serves San Bernardino County, wrote in a Twitter message: “For

those of us lucky enough to have known John Futch, no need to tell you what athose of us lucky enough to have known John Futch, no need to tell you what a

good man he was. I will miss seeing and talking to him. Rest In Peace John.”good man he was. I will miss seeing and talking to him. Rest In Peace John.”

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/08/31/san-bernardino-naacp-president-futch-remembered-for-giving-voice-to-all/ 4/7

The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians said Futch helped bring the tribe’sThe San Manuel Band of Mission Indians said Futch helped bring the tribe’s

biggest event of the year, the San Manuel Pow Wow, to Cal State.biggest event of the year, the San Manuel Pow Wow, to Cal State.

“His leadership and contributions in support of these events have ensured that“His leadership and contributions in support of these events have ensured that

they will continue to enlighten Californians for generations to come,” the tribethey will continue to enlighten Californians for generations to come,” the tribe

said on its Facebook page.said on its Facebook page.

Sgt. Jeff Allison, who joined the Sheriff’s Department’s public affairs unit inSgt. Jeff Allison, who joined the Sheriff’s Department’s public affairs unit in

October, said Futch was one of the first community members he met andOctober, said Futch was one of the first community members he met and

considered him “a very reasoned voice.”considered him “a very reasoned voice.”

Futch wanted to make sure that people of color were well represented in theFutch wanted to make sure that people of color were well represented in the

Sheriff’s Department. Futch and Allison would share ideas about hiring andSheriff’s Department. Futch and Allison would share ideas about hiring and

promotions. They could also have constructive conversations after what policepromotions. They could also have constructive conversations after what police

call “critical incidents” such as officer-involved shootings, Allison said.call “critical incidents” such as officer-involved shootings, Allison said.

In an online interview withIn an online interview with Lolita Harper of the Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit Lolita Harper of the Sheriff’s Employees’ Benefit

Association this year, Futch praised Sheriff John McMahon for his relationshipAssociation this year, Futch praised Sheriff John McMahon for his relationship

with the NAACP and said he hoped to build on it.with the NAACP and said he hoped to build on it.

“One of the plans that I would like to see into fruition is that we have an“One of the plans that I would like to see into fruition is that we have an

advisory of some sort with law enforcement that we as a community can workadvisory of some sort with law enforcement that we as a community can work

with all of the agencies and be a part of making sure that if we have a problemwith all of the agencies and be a part of making sure that if we have a problem

that they have key players to get in touch with. We would also like to see (with)that they have key players to get in touch with. We would also like to see (with)

some of the training programs, to see if we can add anything to them.”some of the training programs, to see if we can add anything to them.”

Futch concluded the interview by saying, “We do want to be there to let peopleFutch concluded the interview by saying, “We do want to be there to let people

know the NAACP, though it may have been set up for African-Americans, it isknow the NAACP, though it may have been set up for African-Americans, it is

one of those organizations that benefits everyone.”one of those organizations that benefits everyone.”

Babcock said she was hired by Futch at Home of Neighborly Services, whichBabcock said she was hired by Futch at Home of Neighborly Services, which

assists people are struggling financially and considered Futch one of herassists people are struggling financially and considered Futch one of her

closest friends.closest friends.

“He was one of the most real people I have ever met in my life. He treated“He was one of the most real people I have ever met in my life. He treated

everyone with respect, but his first love was students,” she said Saturday.everyone with respect, but his first love was students,” she said Saturday.

Futch, in fact, said he’d rather have money for textbooks for poor studentsFutch, in fact, said he’d rather have money for textbooks for poor students

such as he once was instead of accolades, Babcock said.such as he once was instead of accolades, Babcock said.

Babcock said that whenever Futch was warned that some action was politicallyBabcock said that whenever Futch was warned that some action was politically

unwise, he’d laugh and retort, “What are they going to do, fire me?”unwise, he’d laugh and retort, “What are they going to do, fire me?”

According to a biography provided by Ramos, Futch was born June 15, 1950 toAccording to a biography provided by Ramos, Futch was born June 15, 1950 to

an Air Force family. He went to work at 17 for the FBI as a fingerprintan Air Force family. He went to work at 17 for the FBI as a fingerprint

examiner. examiner. He became a police officer forHe became a police officer for the Metro D.C. Police Department in the Metro D.C. Police Department in

Washington before leaving at 23 after four years because of an injury.Washington before leaving at 23 after four years because of an injury.

Futch is survived by brothers Terry and Stan Futch, sister Lois and son MarcusFutch is survived by brothers Terry and Stan Futch, sister Lois and son Marcus

Futch Sr.Futch Sr.

9/3/2019 Two West Nile virus cases confirmed in Riverside County desert – Press Enterprise

https://www.pe.com/2019/08/30/two-west-nile-virus-cases-confirmed-in-riverside-county-desert/ 1/3

By By JEFF HORSEMANJEFF HORSEMAN | | jhorseman@scng.comjhorseman@scng.com | The Press-Enterprise | The Press-EnterprisePUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 30, 2019 at 2:22 pmAugust 30, 2019 at 2:22 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 30, 2019 at 2:24 pmAugust 30, 2019 at 2:24 pm

A 65-year-old woman from Mecca and a 71-year-old Coachella man tested positiveA 65-year-old woman from Mecca and a 71-year-old Coachella man tested positive

for for West Nile VirusWest Nile Virus in Riverside County’s first confirmed cases of the disease this in Riverside County’s first confirmed cases of the disease this

year, public health officials said.year, public health officials said.

Officials with Riverside University Health System – Public Health were notified ofOfficials with Riverside University Health System – Public Health were notified of

the cases this week and both patients are expected to recover, the departmentthe cases this week and both patients are expected to recover, the department

announced in a Thursday, Aug. 29, news release. West Nile is spread to humans byannounced in a Thursday, Aug. 29, news release. West Nile is spread to humans by

mosquitoes that contract the disease from infected birds.mosquitoes that contract the disease from infected birds.

The disease is usually not life threatening, although it poses a serious illness riskThe disease is usually not life threatening, although it poses a serious illness risk

for the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Riverside Countyfor the elderly and those with compromised immune systems. Riverside County

had 33 confirmed West Nile cases in 2017 and 15 in 2018. There has not been ahad 33 confirmed West Nile cases in 2017 and 15 in 2018. There has not been a

death in the county from the disease since 2015.death in the county from the disease since 2015.

San Bernardino County has had two West Nile cases this year, neither of whichSan Bernardino County has had two West Nile cases this year, neither of which

were fatal, said Lana Culp of the county’s public health department.were fatal, said Lana Culp of the county’s public health department.

People can reduce their risk of contracting West Nile by wearing long-sleevedPeople can reduce their risk of contracting West Nile by wearing long-sleeved

shirts and pants and avoiding outside activities at dawn and dusk whenshirts and pants and avoiding outside activities at dawn and dusk when

mosquitoes are most active. Other preventative measures include eliminatingmosquitoes are most active. Other preventative measures include eliminating

sources of standing water and making sure doors and windows have tight-fittingsources of standing water and making sure doors and windows have tight-fitting

screens.screens.

West Nile information: 951-358-5107.West Nile information: 951-358-5107.

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

Two West Nile virus casesTwo West Nile virus casesconfirmed in Riverside Countyconfirmed in Riverside Countydesertdesert

9/3/2019

Mosquito abatement information: Mosquito abatement information: www.rivcoeh.org/Programs/vectorwww.rivcoeh.org/Programs/vector..

9/3/2019 $25 million Hilton-branded hotel planned for San Bernardino entertainment corridor – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/08/31/25-million-hilton-branded-hotel-planned-for-san-bernardino-entertainment-corridor/ 1/4

By By BRIAN WHITEHEADBRIAN WHITEHEAD | | bwhitehead@scng.combwhitehead@scng.com | San Bernardino Sun | San Bernardino SunPUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 31, 2019 at 9:00 amAugust 31, 2019 at 9:00 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 31, 2019 at 4:56 pmAugust 31, 2019 at 4:56 pm

Guests visit Montebello’s new Home2Suites Hotel during their ribbon cutting celebration on Thursday September 27, 2018. Guests visit Montebello’s new Home2Suites Hotel during their ribbon cutting celebration on Thursday September 27, 2018. (Photo by Keith(Photo by KeithDurflinger, Contributing Photographer)Durflinger, Contributing Photographer)

A $25 million Home2 Suites by Hilton is planned for San Bernardino’s entertainment corridor, and while the approval process still is inA $25 million Home2 Suites by Hilton is planned for San Bernardino’s entertainment corridor, and while the approval process still is in

its infancy, Greens Group, the Irvine-based developer behind several sleek new hotels in downtown Riverside and elsewhere in theits infancy, Greens Group, the Irvine-based developer behind several sleek new hotels in downtown Riverside and elsewhere in the

region, anticipates breaking ground in June 2020.region, anticipates breaking ground in June 2020.

Planned for a vacant lot near the California Highway Patrol office on East Brier Drive in the Hospitality Lane commercial corridor, thePlanned for a vacant lot near the California Highway Patrol office on East Brier Drive in the Hospitality Lane commercial corridor, the

120-room hotel would generate more than $500,000 a year in transient occupancy tax alone, said Atman Kadakia, Greens’ managing120-room hotel would generate more than $500,000 a year in transient occupancy tax alone, said Atman Kadakia, Greens’ managing

principal.principal.

Additional fiscal benefits, including property and utility taxes, would generate another $250,000 annually for the cash-strapped city,Additional fiscal benefits, including property and utility taxes, would generate another $250,000 annually for the cash-strapped city,

Kadakia said.Kadakia said.

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

$25 million Hilton-branded hotel planned for San$25 million Hilton-branded hotel planned for SanBernardino entertainment corridorBernardino entertainment corridorDeveloper Greens Group says the 120-room hotel would generate more thanDeveloper Greens Group says the 120-room hotel would generate more than$500,000 a year in transient occupancy tax alone$500,000 a year in transient occupancy tax alone

9/3/2019 $25 million Hilton-branded hotel planned for San Bernardino entertainment corridor – San Bernardino Sun

The Home2 Suites by Hilton would be Greens’ first hotel in San Bernardino.The Home2 Suites by Hilton would be Greens’ first hotel in San Bernardino.

RELATED: RELATED: Does Southern California need 571 more hotels?Does Southern California need 571 more hotels?

Should the developer remain on schedule, construction would conclude in December 2021, Kadakia said.Should the developer remain on schedule, construction would conclude in December 2021, Kadakia said.

“We like the fact the site is near restaurants, as well as its proximity to the freeway, proximity to major demand drivers like the Loma“We like the fact the site is near restaurants, as well as its proximity to the freeway, proximity to major demand drivers like the Loma

Linda Medical Center and downtown San Bernardino,” Kadakia added. “We’re excited about the market, about the opportunity. WeLinda Medical Center and downtown San Bernardino,” Kadakia added. “We’re excited about the market, about the opportunity. We

believe it’s a great fit and will be an asset for the city of San Bernardino.”believe it’s a great fit and will be an asset for the city of San Bernardino.”

As Greens navigates the design and entitlement phases, Kadakia expects to formally submit plans to the city’s Development ReviewAs Greens navigates the design and entitlement phases, Kadakia expects to formally submit plans to the city’s Development Review

Committee within the next month. From there, the project would go to the Planning Commission and the City Council for approval.Committee within the next month. From there, the project would go to the Planning Commission and the City Council for approval.

The planned Home2 Suites would offer travelers an affordable extended-stay alternative to some of the upscale hotels in the area,The planned Home2 Suites would offer travelers an affordable extended-stay alternative to some of the upscale hotels in the area,

Kadakia said.Kadakia said.

“What I like about this project is (Greens) is expanding opportunities beyond Hospitality Lane,” said Mayor John Valdivia, who“What I like about this project is (Greens) is expanding opportunities beyond Hospitality Lane,” said Mayor John Valdivia, who

represented the area before being elected mayor last year. “It’s a burgeoning new opportunity for the Hospitality corridor. … Thisrepresented the area before being elected mayor last year. “It’s a burgeoning new opportunity for the Hospitality corridor. … This

means more jobs, more opportunities, more tax revenue.means more jobs, more opportunities, more tax revenue.

“We welcome (Greens) with open arms.”“We welcome (Greens) with open arms.”

In business for more than 30 years, Kadakia said Greens tried to build in San Bernardino a couple of years back, but hit a brick wall withIn business for more than 30 years, Kadakia said Greens tried to build in San Bernardino a couple of years back, but hit a brick wall with

city staffers, a common occurrence in California, he added.city staffers, a common occurrence in California, he added.

This time around, Kadakia said, Valdivia helped the developer in the early stages of planning.This time around, Kadakia said, Valdivia helped the developer in the early stages of planning.

Current city staffers “have been great to work with,” Kadakia added.Current city staffers “have been great to work with,” Kadakia added.

“One of the main things about coming to these markets is getting answers, being able to fundamentally know whether or not your“One of the main things about coming to these markets is getting answers, being able to fundamentally know whether or not your

project is feasible,” Kadakia continued. “When you hit brick walls, it’s almost as if the city is doing you a favor by talking to you aboutproject is feasible,” Kadakia continued. “When you hit brick walls, it’s almost as if the city is doing you a favor by talking to you about

the project.the project.

“It becomes difficult and challenging for you to want to invest millions of dollars in capital and risk in that market.”“It becomes difficult and challenging for you to want to invest millions of dollars in capital and risk in that market.”

9/3/2019 $550 million price tag for the Gold Line to Claremont and Montclair – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/01/550-million-price-tag-for-the-gold-line-to-claremont-and-montclair/ 1/7

By By STEVE SCAUZILLOSTEVE SCAUZILLO | | sscauzillo@scng.comsscauzillo@scng.com | San Gabriel Valley | San Gabriel Valley

Plans to extend the Gold Line light-rail from Pomona through Claremont and toPlans to extend the Gold Line light-rail from Pomona through Claremont and toMontclair will cost $550 million. The big rail track like ones here at the ClaremontMontclair will cost $550 million. The big rail track like ones here at the ClaremontStation will need to be moved for the 12.3-mile light-rail extension from Glendora toStation will need to be moved for the 12.3-mile light-rail extension from Glendora toMontclair, Monday, Aug. 26, 2019. (Photo by John Valenzuela, ContributingMontclair, Monday, Aug. 26, 2019. (Photo by John Valenzuela, ContributingPhotographer)Photographer)

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

$550 million price tag for the$550 million price tag for theGold Line to Claremont andGold Line to Claremont andMontclairMontclairMontclair segment draws skeptics in SanMontclair segment draws skeptics in SanBernardino CountyBernardino County

2/7

Now that funding for an Now that funding for an extension of the Gold Line to Pomonaextension of the Gold Line to Pomona is secure, the is secure, the

spotlight shifts to getting the light-rail train to Montclair.spotlight shifts to getting the light-rail train to Montclair.

One would think that the last 3.2 miles of the longest light-rail line in the regionOne would think that the last 3.2 miles of the longest light-rail line in the region

would be easy, but that’s not so.would be easy, but that’s not so.

This leg will cost more than half a billion dollars, about $1 million per mile moreThis leg will cost more than half a billion dollars, about $1 million per mile more

than the Azusa-to-Pomona leg — and less than one-fifth of the money is secured.than the Azusa-to-Pomona leg — and less than one-fifth of the money is secured.

The approved extension to Pomona, as well as the one to Claremont and to theThe approved extension to Pomona, as well as the one to Claremont and to the

Los Angeles-San Bernardino county line and on to Montclair, has been slammedLos Angeles-San Bernardino county line and on to Montclair, has been slammed

by skyrocketing costs.by skyrocketing costs.

Gold Line Foothill Extension approved to Pomona. To get to Claremont andGold Line Foothill Extension approved to Pomona. To get to Claremont andMontclair, more funding is needed. (courtesy Metro Gold Line Foothill ExtensionMontclair, more funding is needed. (courtesy Metro Gold Line Foothill ExtensionConstruction Authority).Construction Authority).

On top of higher costs, comes political opposition from the San BernardinoOn top of higher costs, comes political opposition from the San Bernardino

County Transportation Authority. SBCTA is not convinced a light-rail extension toCounty Transportation Authority. SBCTA is not convinced a light-rail extension to

Montclair is cost effective.Montclair is cost effective.

9/3/2019 $550 million price tag for the Gold Line to Claremont and Montclair – San Bernardino Sun

3/7

Follow the moneyFollow the money

When the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority awarded the extensionWhen the Foothill Gold Line Construction Authority awarded the extension

contract on Aug. 14, Ray Wolfe, executive director of the SBCTA, said increasedcontract on Aug. 14, Ray Wolfe, executive director of the SBCTA, said increased

cost estimates were a big concern.cost estimates were a big concern.

“It’s unfortunate that the cost to extend the service 3 ½ miles in the Metrolink“It’s unfortunate that the cost to extend the service 3 ½ miles in the Metrolink

Corridor from Pomona to Montclair is now nearly a half-billion dollars,” WolfeCorridor from Pomona to Montclair is now nearly a half-billion dollars,” Wolfe

wrote in an emailed response. “SBCTA plans to have a more in-depth conversationwrote in an emailed response. “SBCTA plans to have a more in-depth conversation

with the Board of Directors to ensure that this investment remains the best use ofwith the Board of Directors to ensure that this investment remains the best use of

public dollars when more cost efficient alternatives exists.”public dollars when more cost efficient alternatives exists.”

SBCTA and certain mayors from San Bernardino County cities are considering aSBCTA and certain mayors from San Bernardino County cities are considering a

different way to get commuters out of their cars and off crowded freeways. Indifferent way to get commuters out of their cars and off crowded freeways. In

particular, the SBCTA has proposed using the same type ofparticular, the SBCTA has proposed using the same type of low-emission diesel low-emission diesel

trainstrains that will run on the same tracks as larger Metrolink trains from that will run on the same tracks as larger Metrolink trains from SanSan

Bernardino to the University of RedlandsBernardino to the University of Redlands..

Unlike the Gold Line, running the diesel trains would not require the constructionUnlike the Gold Line, running the diesel trains would not require the construction

of new track. But some experts say it may require new train bridges.of new track. But some experts say it may require new train bridges.

“We are not focused on a singular platform,” said Otis Greer, director of legislative“We are not focused on a singular platform,” said Otis Greer, director of legislative

and public affairs for SBCTA, during an interview Tuesday, Aug. 27. “We areand public affairs for SBCTA, during an interview Tuesday, Aug. 27. “We are

focused on what is a high frequency transit system.” He said the low-emissionfocused on what is a high frequency transit system.” He said the low-emission

diesel trains should be looked at.diesel trains should be looked at.

While the SBCTA is leaving the door open for something other than a Gold LineWhile the SBCTA is leaving the door open for something other than a Gold Line

light-rail, the Metro Gold Line Construction Authority is pushing to build tolight-rail, the Metro Gold Line Construction Authority is pushing to build to

Montclair, creating a tug-of-war between the two counties.Montclair, creating a tug-of-war between the two counties.

The Gold Line Construction Authority has required its contractor to keep open theThe Gold Line Construction Authority has required its contractor to keep open the

option of building to Claremont and Montclair after the option of building to Claremont and Montclair after the Pomona segment isPomona segment is

complete in 2025complete in 2025 — if the agency secures funding. — if the agency secures funding.

Of the $550 million it will cost to extend Gold Line from Pomona to Montclair, theOf the $550 million it will cost to extend Gold Line from Pomona to Montclair, the

bulk — around $450 million — is needed to build the line to Claremont. Thatbulk — around $450 million — is needed to build the line to Claremont. That

money has yet to be secured.money has yet to be secured.

From there, getting the line to Montclair costs only $100 million, according toFrom there, getting the line to Montclair costs only $100 million, according to

Habib Balian, CEO of the Gold Line Construction Authority.Habib Balian, CEO of the Gold Line Construction Authority.

Engineering and construction in Claremont, he said, must include:Engineering and construction in Claremont, he said, must include:

• Demolishing the existing Metrolink station and moving it across the street, with• Demolishing the existing Metrolink station and moving it across the street, with

a Gold Line station built in its place;a Gold Line station built in its place;

9/3/2019 $550 million price tag for the Gold Line to Claremont and Montclair – San Bernardino Sun

4/7

Costs risingCosts rising

• Laying temporary tracks for both Metrolink and freight rail, which will be• Laying temporary tracks for both Metrolink and freight rail, which will be

removed when permanent tracks are laid;removed when permanent tracks are laid;

• Erecting four train bridges over Monte Vista Avenue, Garey Avenue, Towne• Erecting four train bridges over Monte Vista Avenue, Garey Avenue, Towne

Avenue and Indian Hill Boulevard. Each will cost about $30 million, Balian said.Avenue and Indian Hill Boulevard. Each will cost about $30 million, Balian said.

“It is very expensive to go from Pomona to Claremont,” he said. “The cost per mile“It is very expensive to go from Pomona to Claremont,” he said. “The cost per mile

is very high.”is very high.”

While building to Claremont is a huge hurdle, money is not as much of an issueWhile building to Claremont is a huge hurdle, money is not as much of an issue

getting from there to Montclair, Balian said.getting from there to Montclair, Balian said.

The SBCTA has secured $41 million from a state grant it received in partnershipThe SBCTA has secured $41 million from a state grant it received in partnership

with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, said Greer.with the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority, said Greer.

Also, it has earmarked $39 million from Measure I, a countywide half-cent salesAlso, it has earmarked $39 million from Measure I, a countywide half-cent sales

tax, to bring the total to $80 million, he said.tax, to bring the total to $80 million, he said.

The cost to build to Montclair will be about $95 million, he said, so the agency hasThe cost to build to Montclair will be about $95 million, he said, so the agency has

a $15 million gap. “We are concerned about how we will fill that difference,” hea $15 million gap. “We are concerned about how we will fill that difference,” he

said.said.

On top of the transit options and cost overruns, a hot economy is impactingOn top of the transit options and cost overruns, a hot economy is impacting

construction bids.construction bids.

Original bids to extend the Gold Line 12.3 miles from Glendora to Montclair wereOriginal bids to extend the Gold Line 12.3 miles from Glendora to Montclair were

$570 million over budget. The overrun originally shortened the project to La$570 million over budget. The overrun originally shortened the project to La

Verne, but after getting Verne, but after getting $126 million from the San Gabriel Valley Council of$126 million from the San Gabriel Valley Council of

GovernmentsGovernments, the construction authority was able to award a contract for the line, the construction authority was able to award a contract for the line

to Pomona.to Pomona.

The rising cost for labor and materials drove up the Gold Line project by 38%,The rising cost for labor and materials drove up the Gold Line project by 38%,

bringing the full cost to extend the light-rail all the way to Montclair to just underbringing the full cost to extend the light-rail all the way to Montclair to just under

$2.1 billion.$2.1 billion.

From September 2017 to September 2018, material prices nationwide roseFrom September 2017 to September 2018, material prices nationwide rose

dramatically, including a 29.3% increase in diesel fuel and 22% for steel,dramatically, including a 29.3% increase in diesel fuel and 22% for steel,

according to Kenneth Simonson, chief economist for the Associated Generalaccording to Kenneth Simonson, chief economist for the Associated General

Contractors of America.Contractors of America.

Tighter immigration policies “make it difficult to attract and retain foreign-bornTighter immigration policies “make it difficult to attract and retain foreign-born

workers,” adding to the shortage of qualified train-builders, Simonson reported. Aworkers,” adding to the shortage of qualified train-builders, Simonson reported. A

shortage resulted in higher labor costs, he concluded. Also, the ongoing trade warshortage resulted in higher labor costs, he concluded. Also, the ongoing trade war

with China that includes tariffs drove up the cost of materials.with China that includes tariffs drove up the cost of materials.

9/3/2019 $550 million price tag for the Gold Line to Claremont and Montclair – San Bernardino Sun

Prices on materials droppingPrices on materials dropping

And because California is building numerous rail projects, bidders are selectiveAnd because California is building numerous rail projects, bidders are selective

and are charging more, economists say.and are charging more, economists say.

“In Northern California, we are seeing some bids come in on public projects that“In Northern California, we are seeing some bids come in on public projects that

are higher than several public agencies thought they would be,” explainedare higher than several public agencies thought they would be,” explained

Matthew Hargrove, senior vice president of the California Business PropertiesMatthew Hargrove, senior vice president of the California Business Properties

Association, a trade group based in Sacramento. “You are seeing that across theAssociation, a trade group based in Sacramento. “You are seeing that across the

board – from the bullet train to light-rail projects.”board – from the bullet train to light-rail projects.”

LA Metro’s board has approved 160 projects costing $18 billion, said Rick Clarke,LA Metro’s board has approved 160 projects costing $18 billion, said Rick Clarke,

chief program management officer. That amounts to $2 billion a year being spentchief program management officer. That amounts to $2 billion a year being spent

on rail and bus projects, but mostly rail, he said.on rail and bus projects, but mostly rail, he said.

The “massive commercial construction and the demand for skilled workers isThe “massive commercial construction and the demand for skilled workers is

outstripping supply by a wide margin — which drives up costs and slowsoutstripping supply by a wide margin — which drives up costs and slows

progress,” wrote LA Metro CEO Phil Washington in a recent article for The Enoprogress,” wrote LA Metro CEO Phil Washington in a recent article for The Eno

Center for Transportation.Center for Transportation.

Simonson’s recently released 2019 report indicates material price increases haveSimonson’s recently released 2019 report indicates material price increases have

slowed. Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican steel have been lifted, but tariffs remainslowed. Tariffs on Canadian and Mexican steel have been lifted, but tariffs remain

on steel from Korea and Japan, he said in an interview Wednesday, Aug. 28.on steel from Korea and Japan, he said in an interview Wednesday, Aug. 28.

But labor shortages will continue to drive up bid prices, he said. “Wages andBut labor shortages will continue to drive up bid prices, he said. “Wages and

benefits (of bidding companies) have continued to go up, about 3% a year,”benefits (of bidding companies) have continued to go up, about 3% a year,”

Simonson said.Simonson said.

The SBCTA is awaiting a full report on the Pomona-to-Montclair segment. WithThe SBCTA is awaiting a full report on the Pomona-to-Montclair segment. With

more information, Greer said, the agency will present the Gold Line andmore information, Greer said, the agency will present the Gold Line and

alternative options to its board for approval. He could not say when that wouldalternative options to its board for approval. He could not say when that would

happen.happen.

9/3/2019 Brosowske residency on Hesperia council agenda - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

https://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20190902/brosowske-residency-on-hesperia-council-agenda?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_cam… 1/3

By Rene Ray De La Cruz Staff Writer Posted Sep 2, 2019 at 6:07 PM

HESPERIA — The City Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday to discuss avariety of agenda items, including a possible investigation into the residency ofCouncilman Jeremiah Brosowske.

At an Aug. 20 meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Bill Holland requested an agenda item todiscuss and possibly vote on vacating the seat held by Brosowske.

The council will discuss the appointment of special counsel to investigateBrosowske’s residency before any action is taken.

Holland alleges that Brosowske, 28, did not live in Hesperia in July 2018, whenhe applied to replace the seat left vacant by Mayor Russ Blewett. Blewett died inMay of that year.

Holland also alleges that Brosowske still does not live in Hesperia, and did notreside in the city last year when the councilman ran for and won the District 4council seat, the Daily Press reported.

A city staff reports indicates that during the upcoming meeting, guided by CityAttorney Eric Dunn, the council will discuss the residency/domicile law andcourt cases that have dealt with the issue.

Two recent attorney general opinions that reached opposite conclusionsillustrate the AG’s interpretation of “domicile” and whether the allegations raiseda substantial question as to whether Brosowske actually resided in the city, thereport said.

Brosowske residency on Hesperia council

agenda

9/3/2019 Brosowske residency on Hesperia council agenda - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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During the August meeting, Hesperia Mayor Larry Bird noted that there hasbeen speculation about Brosowske’s residence. He added that the proposedagenda items are a “golden opportunity” for Brosowkse to provide evidence ofhis Hesperia residency.

Brosowske has referred questions from the Daily Press to Chad Morgan, his legalcounsel. Morgan released a statement saying “Hesperia gadfly Bill Jensen” hasbeen complaining about Brosowske’s residency, and has continued to repeat“defamatory allegations” even after the state Fair Political Practices Comissiondenied his baseless complaint.

“Mr. Jensen is motivated by the citizens’ recall drive targeting CouncilmemberBill Holland,” Morgan said.

Brosowske has called any legal action against him “frivolous and baseless.”

“This is unfortunate because Mr. Jensen and Brosowske used to be very close.Mr. Jensen supported Brosowske’s appointment and election to the CityCouncil,” Morgan said. “He even let Brosowske stay at his home whenBrosowske was between residences. Now he claims that did not happen.”

Morgan cited a recent case in which the attorney general considered a similaraccusation against a city councilmember in Orange County who was accused ofmoving out of the city for three months before returning. The accusations wereunfounded because the intention of moving is the primary question whendetermining residency, Morgan said.

Morgan said “as a matter of law” Brosowske became a Hesperia resident when hetook appropriate actions to move to the city.

“Councilman Brosowske decided to make Hesperia his permanent home longbefore Mr. Jensen helped him make that transition, and that decision is all thatmatters,” Morgan said. “Brosowske thanks Mr. Jensen for his help during histransition to his present home and urges him to set petty politics aside and focusless on personal attacks and more on the important policies that will helpHesperia reach its potential.”

Other agenda items:

9/3/2019 Brosowske residency on Hesperia council agenda - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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The acceptance of the Hesperia Animal Control Facility remodel projectcompleted by Abboud Diamond Construction.

The modification of an existing agreement to increase a contract by$50,000 to fully execute a three-year professional services agreement withLasting Images Landscape Inc. to provide maintenance, irrigation repairand plant replacement for a limited amount of $255,404.

The approval to amend the fiscal year 2019-20 adopted CapitalImprovement Program Budget by appropriating $590,341 of unusedproject funds from FY 2018-19.

A second reading and adopt by title waiving the text of an ordinanceregarding the Hesperia Municipal Code related to the Local Appeals Boardand Housing Appeals Board.

The Council meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at Hesperia City Hall, 9700Seventh Ave. For more information, visit https://www.cityofhesperia.us.

Reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227,

RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com, Instagram@renegadereporter, Twitter

@DP_ReneDeLaCruz

9/3/2019 Former Rialto chief comes out of retirement to clean up dysfunction at Police Department – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/01/former-chief-comes-out-of-retirement-to-clean-up-dysfunction-at-rialto-police-department/ 1/7

Then, now and again. Rialto Police Chief Mark Kling came out of retirement inThen, now and again. Rialto Police Chief Mark Kling came out of retirement inDecember 2017 to reform the department after years of dysfunction. He led theDecember 2017 to reform the department after years of dysfunction. He led thedepartment from 2006-2011 in picture. Photographed outside his office at Rialtodepartment from 2006-2011 in picture. Photographed outside his office at RialtoPolice Dept. on Thursday, July 25, 2019. (Photo by Cindy Yamanaka, The Press-Police Dept. on Thursday, July 25, 2019. (Photo by Cindy Yamanaka, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)Enterprise/SCNG)

NEWSNEWS

Former Rialto chief comes outFormer Rialto chief comes outof retirement to clean upof retirement to clean updysfunction at Policedysfunction at PoliceDepartmentDepartmentMark Kling was asked to reform the agency heMark Kling was asked to reform the agency heled from 2006 to 2011, and the reviews have beenled from 2006 to 2011, and the reviews have beenpositivepositive

9/3/2019 Former Rialto chief comes out of retirement to clean up dysfunction at Police Department – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/01/former-chief-comes-out-of-retirement-to-clean-up-dysfunction-at-rialto-police-department/ 2/7

By By JOE NELSONJOE NELSON | | jnelson@scng.comjnelson@scng.com | San Bernardino Sun | San Bernardino SunPUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: September 1, 2019 at 8:30 amSeptember 1, 2019 at 8:30 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: September 1, 2019 atSeptember 1, 2019 at8:31 am8:31 am

Rialto Police Chief Mark Kling came out of retirement and returned to hisRialto Police Chief Mark Kling came out of retirement and returned to his

former department to make sure of one thing: that it never goes back to theformer department to make sure of one thing: that it never goes back to the

way it was.way it was.

“This is an all-end game,” Kling said in a interview at the Rialto Police“This is an all-end game,” Kling said in a interview at the Rialto Police

Department. “We’re not going back where we were. We’re not. What we’reDepartment. “We’re not going back where we were. We’re not. What we’re

doing is moving forward.”doing is moving forward.”

Years of dysfunctional leadership and plummeting morale at the departmentYears of dysfunctional leadership and plummeting morale at the department

prompted the City Council to persuade Kling to return in December 2017 andprompted the City Council to persuade Kling to return in December 2017 and

whip the department back into shape. Kling, who served as Rialto’s top copwhip the department back into shape. Kling, who served as Rialto’s top cop

from 2006 to 2011, said he agreed so long as the city provided three things:from 2006 to 2011, said he agreed so long as the city provided three things:

commitment, money and personnel.commitment, money and personnel.

“I said, ‘You give me those three things, watch what we do,’ ” he said.“I said, ‘You give me those three things, watch what we do,’ ” he said.

Kling said the city has been very supportive. Within the past two years, theKling said the city has been very supportive. Within the past two years, the

number of police officers on the force has climbed from 99 to 116, and Klingnumber of police officers on the force has climbed from 99 to 116, and Kling

said he plans to ask for more in February when the City Council budgetsaid he plans to ask for more in February when the City Council budget

process ramps up.process ramps up.

He also hired two commanding officers from outside the department —He also hired two commanding officers from outside the department —

Anthony Vega, a former lieutenant at Cal State San Bernardino and nearly 20-Anthony Vega, a former lieutenant at Cal State San Bernardino and nearly 20-

year veteran of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, and Markyear veteran of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, and Mark

Adams, a former lieutenant at the Baldwin Park Police Department, whereAdams, a former lieutenant at the Baldwin Park Police Department, where

Kling formerly served as chief of police from 2001 to 2006.Kling formerly served as chief of police from 2001 to 2006.

Collectively, Vega and Adams have 45 years of law enforcement experienceCollectively, Vega and Adams have 45 years of law enforcement experience

between them, and both were promoted to the rank of captain when theybetween them, and both were promoted to the rank of captain when they

joined the Rialto police force. They likely will be leading the department afterjoined the Rialto police force. They likely will be leading the department after

Kling departs as part of his succession plan.Kling departs as part of his succession plan.

Kling and his command staff also have bolstered  police officer training to notKling and his command staff also have bolstered  police officer training to not

only meet, but exceed state Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST)only meet, but exceed state Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST)

standards. An standards. An internal auditinternal audit in May revealed that most of the department’s in May revealed that most of the department’s

officers — 95 of 99 — failed to meet basic POST training requirements in 2017officers — 95 of 99 — failed to meet basic POST training requirements in 2017

and 2018.and 2018.

9/3/2019 Former Rialto chief comes out of retirement to clean up dysfunction at Police Department – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/01/former-chief-comes-out-of-retirement-to-clean-up-dysfunction-at-rialto-police-department/ 3/7

Years of dysfunctionYears of dysfunction

Damning manifesto leakedDamning manifesto leaked

Years of leadership dysfunction, complacency and plummeting moraleYears of leadership dysfunction, complacency and plummeting morale

underscored Kling’s return to the department. The chief was reluctant tounderscored Kling’s return to the department. The chief was reluctant to

discuss the problems that existed prior to his return.discuss the problems that existed prior to his return.

“I really don’t want to put an emphasis on the past. Going forward, it doesn’t“I really don’t want to put an emphasis on the past. Going forward, it doesn’t

concern me or this Police Department other than historical data we can learnconcern me or this Police Department other than historical data we can learn

from,” Kling said.from,” Kling said.

Glen Anderson, a former Rialto police K-9 officer who is suing the city, hisGlen Anderson, a former Rialto police K-9 officer who is suing the city, his

former chief, Randy DeAnda, and Councilman Ed Scott in federal court forformer chief, Randy DeAnda, and Councilman Ed Scott in federal court for

wrongful termination, claims dirty politics factored into his firing and that hewrongful termination, claims dirty politics factored into his firing and that he

was the victim of a “witch hunt.”was the victim of a “witch hunt.”

He said a spate of internal affairs investigations were launched against himHe said a spate of internal affairs investigations were launched against him

after he told someone via text message that some city officials were underafter he told someone via text message that some city officials were under

scrutiny for misappropriating public funds, and that it was “politics as usual inscrutiny for misappropriating public funds, and that it was “politics as usual in

Rialto.”Rialto.”

“I was an honorable police officer, and I care about the men and women there,“I was an honorable police officer, and I care about the men and women there,

and this is typical Rialto politics,” Anderson said in a telephone interview. “Andand this is typical Rialto politics,” Anderson said in a telephone interview. “And

I hope the feds are taking a look at this, because the stuff here needs to beI hope the feds are taking a look at this, because the stuff here needs to be

brought to the forefront.”brought to the forefront.”

But Anderson said he has no qualms with Kling. “I worked for Mark Kling forBut Anderson said he has no qualms with Kling. “I worked for Mark Kling for

many years,” he said. “I think Kling is a very fair man.”many years,” he said. “I think Kling is a very fair man.”

According to a trial brief filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on behalf ofAccording to a trial brief filed in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles on behalf of

the city, DeAnda and Scott, Anderson was the subject of four internal affairsthe city, DeAnda and Scott, Anderson was the subject of four internal affairs

investigations from March to October 2016. He was fired in February 2017investigations from March to October 2016. He was fired in February 2017

after the investigations concluded Anderson violated 24 police departmentafter the investigations concluded Anderson violated 24 police department

policies in connection with “unauthorized construction projects,” whichpolicies in connection with “unauthorized construction projects,” which

sources close to the investigation say had to do with a K-9 training facilitysources close to the investigation say had to do with a K-9 training facility

Anderson was heading.Anderson was heading.

A federal judge dismissed four of Anderson’s five claims, leaving intact theA federal judge dismissed four of Anderson’s five claims, leaving intact the

allegation of hostile work environment. Anderson appealed to the Ninthallegation of hostile work environment. Anderson appealed to the Ninth

Circuit Court of Appeals, which agreed to hear the case. A hearing is scheduledCircuit Court of Appeals, which agreed to hear the case. A hearing is scheduled

for Nov. 6 in Pasadena, he said.for Nov. 6 in Pasadena, he said.

9/3/2019 Former Rialto chief comes out of retirement to clean up dysfunction at Police Department – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/01/former-chief-comes-out-of-retirement-to-clean-up-dysfunction-at-rialto-police-department/ 4/7

Confronting the past, facing the futureConfronting the past, facing the future

In August 2016, a lurid 10-page “manifesto” by an anonymous author wasIn August 2016, a lurid 10-page “manifesto” by an anonymous author was

leaked to the public alleging widespread corruption and unethical conduct inleaked to the public alleging widespread corruption and unethical conduct in

the city and at the Police Department. Among the myriad allegations includedthe city and at the Police Department. Among the myriad allegations included

a police corporal accused of cloning and selling cellular phones and a sergeanta police corporal accused of cloning and selling cellular phones and a sergeant

suspected of embezzling thousands of dollars from the city using asuspected of embezzling thousands of dollars from the city using a

department-issued credit card to regularly fill the gas tanks of his personaldepartment-issued credit card to regularly fill the gas tanks of his personal

vehicles.vehicles.

Also alleged was widespread cronyism, nepotism, and sexual harassment. AndAlso alleged was widespread cronyism, nepotism, and sexual harassment. And

Scott, the councilman,  was accused of using police officers as his ownScott, the councilman,  was accused of using police officers as his own

security force for the Irish pub he formerly owned, O’Leary’s.security force for the Irish pub he formerly owned, O’Leary’s.

Scott called the allegations about him “fake news.”Scott called the allegations about him “fake news.”

“Absolute bull and untrue,” he said in a telephone interview. He said he is“Absolute bull and untrue,” he said in a telephone interview. He said he is

certain the information was leaked from someone inside the Policecertain the information was leaked from someone inside the Police

Department, but he doesn’t know who. “If I ever find out who, I will sue them.Department, but he doesn’t know who. “If I ever find out who, I will sue them.

The stuff they said about me and about others is absolutely untrue,” Scott said.The stuff they said about me and about others is absolutely untrue,” Scott said.

However, Scott did acknowledge problems with cronyism, nepotism andHowever, Scott did acknowledge problems with cronyism, nepotism and

excessive use of force at the Police Department.excessive use of force at the Police Department.

“About a year ago, maybe two years ago, we had our HR director implement a“About a year ago, maybe two years ago, we had our HR director implement a

nepotism policy,” Scott said. “While it’s not illegal and does exist in just aboutnepotism policy,” Scott said. “While it’s not illegal and does exist in just about

every city, it’s not always a good thing to do, so we instituted a policy whichevery city, it’s not always a good thing to do, so we instituted a policy which

essentially says we don’t allow nepotism. This issue is all over the city, it’s justessentially says we don’t allow nepotism. This issue is all over the city, it’s just

not in the Police Department.”not in the Police Department.”

“We’ve had some excessive-force issues, and I don’t want to see that going on“We’ve had some excessive-force issues, and I don’t want to see that going on

in the department, nor does Kling or any of our officers,” Scott said. “I want toin the department, nor does Kling or any of our officers,” Scott said. “I want to

see lawsuits cut to a bare minimum. I just want to see an efficient, well-runsee lawsuits cut to a bare minimum. I just want to see an efficient, well-run

department, and we’ve left that up to Kling to do.”department, and we’ve left that up to Kling to do.”

Both Kling and Scott do not blame the problems on any particular official orBoth Kling and Scott do not blame the problems on any particular official or

police chief.police chief.

“Each police chief has had a different management style,” Scott said.“Each police chief has had a different management style,” Scott said.

DeAnda, the former chief who retired in December 2017, added: “Every chiefDeAnda, the former chief who retired in December 2017, added: “Every chief

faces their challenges, internally and externally. Mine happened to be somefaces their challenges, internally and externally. Mine happened to be some

personnel issues I inherited from the previous chief. Different police chiefspersonnel issues I inherited from the previous chief. Different police chiefs

handle their disciplinary policies differently.”handle their disciplinary policies differently.”

9/3/2019 Former Rialto chief comes out of retirement to clean up dysfunction at Police Department – San Bernardino Sun

‘Excited to be here’‘Excited to be here’

During a recent tour of the police station, Kling pointed out enhanced securityDuring a recent tour of the police station, Kling pointed out enhanced security

with surveillance cameras in just about every common and highly sensitivewith surveillance cameras in just about every common and highly sensitive

area and a new, more spacious watch commander’s office in a more visiblearea and a new, more spacious watch commander’s office in a more visible

location.location.

Although the department still occupies an antiquated building and houses itsAlthough the department still occupies an antiquated building and houses its

investigations and traffic details in modulars, Kling makes do, and points outinvestigations and traffic details in modulars, Kling makes do, and points out

the department facilities’ strengths, not weaknesses. They include anthe department facilities’ strengths, not weaknesses. They include an

underground, in-house firing range where officers hone their shooting skills.underground, in-house firing range where officers hone their shooting skills.

Morale appears to be on the upswing, according to some of the rank-and-file.Morale appears to be on the upswing, according to some of the rank-and-file.

“We’re all excited to be here,” Officer Jorge Brambila said before heading into“We’re all excited to be here,” Officer Jorge Brambila said before heading into

the basement firing range for some target practice. He said one of the mostthe basement firing range for some target practice. He said one of the most

noticeable differences since Kling’s return is the increased staffing levels andnoticeable differences since Kling’s return is the increased staffing levels and

the value placed on each and every employee, sworn and civilian.the value placed on each and every employee, sworn and civilian.

“I think Kling came back because we needed someone who could hit the“I think Kling came back because we needed someone who could hit the

ground running,” said Sgt. Richard Royce, president of the Rialto Policeground running,” said Sgt. Richard Royce, president of the Rialto Police

Offices Association. “As a union leader, I’ve heard zero complaints from thisOffices Association. “As a union leader, I’ve heard zero complaints from this

administration. Discipline that has come down has been fair. I really haven’tadministration. Discipline that has come down has been fair. I really haven’t

heard anything negative. What I’ve seen is things starting to move.”heard anything negative. What I’ve seen is things starting to move.”

Kling said he will continue pushing to hire more officers so the residents andKling said he will continue pushing to hire more officers so the residents and

business owners of Rialto get the best policing and protection possible. And hebusiness owners of Rialto get the best policing and protection possible. And he

will be very selective about who he hires.will be very selective about who he hires.

“We’re going to hire the best of the best, not the best of the rest,” he said.“We’re going to hire the best of the best, not the best of the rest,” he said.

9/3/2019 High Desert survey extended to mid-September - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

https://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20190831/high-desert-survey-extended-to-mid-september?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_campai… 1/1

By Staff ReportsPosted Aug 31, 2019 at 2:20 PM

The timespan for local residents to voice their thoughts on life in the HighDesert has been extended by two weeks.

The High Desert Survey, commissioned by the Bradco Companies PresidentJoseph W. Brady, has been extended from Aug. 31 to Sept. 15.

“When we started, it was told to us that we probably wouldn’t reach 10,000responses,” said Tailor Titus, of the Bradco Companies. “We are now over10,000.”

Once the survey is complete, the data will be compiled by California StateUniversity, San Bernardino professor Dr. Barbara Sirotnik, and sent to InlandEmpire economist Dr. John Husing who will utilize the information to create areport on possible solutions.

The survey can be taken at https://highdesertsurvey.com.

For more information on the survey or to sponsor the project, call 760-951-5111Ext, 101 or email jbrady@thebradcocompanies.com.

High Desert survey extended to mid-September

9/3/2019 Memorial for Steve Hunt scheduled - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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By Scott Nordhues Posted Sep 2, 2019 at 7:34 PM

A memorial service has been scheduled to remember the life of Daily Presspublisher and editor Steve Hunt.

The service will be Sept. 17 at 1 p.m. at Life Bible Church, 2426 N. Euclid Ave.,in Upland, said Hunt’s widow, country/folk singer Luanne Hunt.

Steve Hunt died Aug. 27 of complications from congestive heart failure. He was64.

Since her husband’s death, Luanne Hunt told the Daily Press, “The outpouring oflove and support I have received is awe-inspiring. I always knew Steve touchedcountless lives, but his impact was stronger than either of us could’ve imagined.”

Steve Hunt worked for several Southern California newspapers during his 45-year career, including the Pasadena Star-News and San Gabriel Valley Tribune.He was serving as Senior Editor at Los Angeles News Group when the DailyPress hired him to become its Editor in February, 2014. He became President andPublisher of the Daily Press in October of 2017.

Luanne Hunt said people’s reaction to his death delayed her choice of a locationfor the memorial.

“In the aftermath of his death, I realized the 250-seat chapel I was going to holdhis memorial service in might be too small, so I found a much bigger venue,” shesaid. “I wanted to make sure I could accommodate everyone who wanted to helpme celebrate Steve’s incredible life.”

Memorial for Steve Hunt scheduled

8/30/2019 Old rail tracks in Redlands will soon be gone, and no, you can’t have the ties – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/08/30/old-rail-tracks-in-redlands-will-soon-be-gone-and-no-you-cant-have-the-ties/ 1/4

By By JENNIFER IYERJENNIFER IYER | | jiyer@scng.comjiyer@scng.com and and JESSICA KEATINGJESSICA KEATING | |jkeating@scng.comjkeating@scng.com | Redlands Daily Facts | Redlands Daily FactsPUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 30, 2019 at 12:27 pmAugust 30, 2019 at 12:27 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 30, 2019 at 12:28August 30, 2019 at 12:28pmpm

Workers stand near one of the rails from West Cumberland Steel, from 1887, asWorkers stand near one of the rails from West Cumberland Steel, from 1887, aswork continues on removing the old railroad ties and tracks in Redlands onwork continues on removing the old railroad ties and tracks in Redlands onMonday, Aug. 26, 2019. The work is being done in preparation for the RedlandsMonday, Aug. 26, 2019. The work is being done in preparation for the RedlandsPassenger Rail Project, slated to begin operations in 2022. (Photo by JenniferPassenger Rail Project, slated to begin operations in 2022. (Photo by JenniferCappuccio Maher, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin/SCNG)Cappuccio Maher, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin/SCNG)

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

Old rail tracks in Redlands willOld rail tracks in Redlands willsoon be gone, and no, you can’tsoon be gone, and no, you can’thave the tieshave the tiesThe work is part of ongoing construction on theThe work is part of ongoing construction on the9-mile passenger rail service dubbed Arrow9-mile passenger rail service dubbed Arrow

8/30/2019 Old rail tracks in Redlands will soon be gone, and no, you can’t have the ties – San Bernardino Sun

Crews are wrapping up work to remove railroad track and ties – some datingCrews are wrapping up work to remove railroad track and ties – some dating

back more than a century – to make way for the new passenger rail service toback more than a century – to make way for the new passenger rail service to

Redlands.Redlands.

The results of that work have been especially visible in recent weeks at aThe results of that work have been especially visible in recent weeks at a

Church Street lot just south of the 10 Freeway underpass. There, workers haveChurch Street lot just south of the 10 Freeway underpass. There, workers have

been stacking rail ties that must be removed as part of the 9-mile been stacking rail ties that must be removed as part of the 9-mile RedlandsRedlands

Passenger Rail ProjectPassenger Rail Project that will use clean diesel- and possibly battery-powered that will use clean diesel- and possibly battery-powered

trains.trains.

These modern trains, however, will travel along lines These modern trains, however, will travel along lines established in the lateestablished in the late

1880s to bring Santa Fe1880s to bring Santa Fe rail from San Bernardino to Redlands. Some of the rail from San Bernardino to Redlands. Some of the

track and ties removed in recent weeks date back to the early 1900s, accordingtrack and ties removed in recent weeks date back to the early 1900s, according

to a San Bernardino County Transportation Authority report.to a San Bernardino County Transportation Authority report.

Nydia Doolittle, a spokeswoman for SBCTA, said in an email that the old trackNydia Doolittle, a spokeswoman for SBCTA, said in an email that the old track

and ties will be stored on the Church Street lot until crews can dispose of themand ties will be stored on the Church Street lot until crews can dispose of them

properly; the materials will not be available for sale.properly; the materials will not be available for sale.

Meanwhile, Meanwhile, mainline construction of the $355.4 million passenger rail servicemainline construction of the $355.4 million passenger rail service,,

dubbed the Arrow, is ongoing since SBTCA broke ground in July. In addition todubbed the Arrow, is ongoing since SBTCA broke ground in July. In addition to

removing rail track and ties, crews are performing grading and undergroundremoving rail track and ties, crews are performing grading and underground

utility work at various spots along the rail line between South Tippecanoeutility work at various spots along the rail line between South Tippecanoe

Avenue south of East Victoria Avenue in San Bernardino to Seventh StreetAvenue south of East Victoria Avenue in San Bernardino to Seventh Street

south of East Stuart Avenue in Redlands.south of East Stuart Avenue in Redlands.

Once construction is complete, equipment will be tested before operations getOnce construction is complete, equipment will be tested before operations get

underway. The launch date for service is now projected to be in early 2022.underway. The launch date for service is now projected to be in early 2022.

For an up-to-date list of construction projects and associated road closures,For an up-to-date list of construction projects and associated road closures,

visit visit redlandsrailproject.orgredlandsrailproject.org online. online.

9/3/2019 Reading Rally field trip scheduled Sept. 10 at Cal State SB - Inland Empire Community News

iecn.com/reading-rally-field-trip-scheduled-sept-10-at-cal-state-sb/ 1/2

Reading Rally �eld trip scheduled Sept. 10 at Cal StateSB

On Sept. 10, the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools will hold a reading

rally field trip for approximately 2,300 pre-kindergartners to third-graders on the campus of

California State University, San Bernardino.

The reading rally, which will feature students from 18 schools in eight San Bernardino

County school districts, takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sept. 10.

The event is in support of San Bernardino County’s Vision2Read Initiative, which looks

to promote early literacy and support all children from cradle to career. As part of the

By Maryjoy Duncan - September 2, 2019

Photo SBCSS: The field trip for pre-kindergarten - 3rd grade students from 18 elementary schools within the county is an effort topromote literacy among early readers in support of the county’s Vision2Read Initiative.

9/3/2019 Reading Rally field trip scheduled Sept. 10 at Cal State SB - Inland Empire Community News

iecn.com/reading-rally-field-trip-scheduled-sept-10-at-cal-state-sb/ 2/2

Vision2Read Initiative and Footsteps2Brilliance early literacy program, there is a reading

challenge for children now taking place to have more than 5 million words read this

summer.

Since the kickoff to the Footsteps2Brilliance reading program began in 2017, more than 117

million words have been read with more than 389,000 books by county early readers. To

enroll children into the free Footsteps2Brilliance program, go

to www.myf2b.com/register/SanBernardinoCounty

The reading rally field trip on Sept 10 at Cal State San Bernardino is located at 5500

University Parkway in San Bernardino.

For more information about the reading rally, call the County Schools’ Student Events at

909.386.2775.

Maryjoy Duncan

Maryjoy Duncan, Managing Editor of IE Community News (comprised of the El Chicano, Colton Courier and Rialto Recordweekly papers), was chosen as one of 25 recipients from over 1,000 school districts in the State of California to receive

the California School Boards Association’s 2018 Golden Quill Award, presented in recognition of fair, insightful andaccurate reporting on public school news. Maryjoy is also a Guest Teacher with the San Bernardino City Unified School

District. For news leads, she can be reached by email: editor@iecn.com, or by phone: (909) 381-9898 ext. 207.

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

https://enewspaper.latimes.com/desktop/latimes/default.aspx?&edid=8ba2b93b-a54c-4695-8158-610b2a6b51f7 1/6

State steps in for rat species as U.S.weakens protectionsCalifornia decision could block Rialto development

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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CALIFORNIA may add the San Bernardino kangaroo rat to the state’s endangeredspecies list. (AEI–CASC Endangered Species Gallery)

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

https://enewspaper.latimes.com/desktop/latimes/default.aspx?&edid=8ba2b93b-a54c-4695-8158-610b2a6b51f7 3/6

BY LOUIS SAHAGUN

Southern California developers have long sought relief from regulations protectingwildlife, and earlier this month the Trump administration obliged, formally moving toweaken the federal Endangered Species Act.

But any boon for business could be short-lived — California is stepping in to protectspecies left vulnerable by federal rollbacks.

The California Fish and Game Commission, for example, recently declared the SanBernardino kangaroo rat a candidate for the state endangered species list, a decision thatcould create legal obstacles for an 8,407-home development in Rialto.

The panel issued its decision after a nonprofit group, the Endangered Habitats League,argued that intervention was urgently needed to protect the rodent, a federally listedspecies, from threats including urban sprawl and President Trump’s “politicization offederal regulatory agencies.”

No one was more astonished by the commission’s 4-0 vote than a group of developmentopponents, who thought they had lost a 10-year effort to bolster protection for the rat.

That came after federal biologists reversed themselves in July — concluding that theRialto development would not be the death knell for the rat — even though thesubdivision would cover 1,048 acres of critical habitat.

For Lynn Boshart, 72, whose home overlooks the disputed property, the state’s action wasa stay of execution.

“We were stunned — then jubilant,” Boshart said. “Presenting our case to the commissionwas an act of desperation after we’d exhausted all other options.”

Breaking into a smile, she added, “This fight isn’t over after all.”

At the center of the fight is a 3-inch-tall rodent that had lost 95% of its habitat by the timeit was listed as a federally endangered species a decade ago.

The San Bernardino kangaroo rat, named for the way it hops across the ground, isadapted to a sage-and-sand habitat of meandering flood plains, rocky channels,grasslands and low shrubs.

It shares this landscape with an array of predators, including great horned owls, coyotesand snakes. But its biggest long-term threat is habitat fragmentation caused by sand-and-gravel operations, highway construction and new homes.

In 2002, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service had designated 33,295 acres as critical habitatfor the rat, but by 2018 only 16,000 acres were considered functional, including a portionof Lytle Creek Wash, where the Rialto homes are planned.

“We’re not saying don’t build that development,” Boshart said. “Just scale it back a bit,and move it away from the wash.”

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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While running for president, Trump railed against the Endangered Species Act, accusingit of stifling development and harming farmers. During a 2015 campaign rally in Fresno,he complained about water regulations designed “to protect a certain kind of 3-inch fish,”the delta smelt, which has complicated the pumping of water from the Sacramento-SanJoaquin Delta to Central Valley farms.

After months of signaling its intention to weaken federal protections for species, theadministration unveiled its rollback on Aug. 12. Among other things, it for the first timewill allow federal authorities to take into account the economic cost of protecting aparticular endangered species.

Prior to that action, the Endangered Habitats League had spent months investigating theadministration’s connections and communications with the Lytle Creek Development Co.,based in Irvine.

Through a Freedom of Information Act request, the group learned that Ron Pharris, thecompany’s chairman, had reached out via email on July 12, 2018, to Ian Foley — then alegislative assistant for Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Corona) — asking for help in “moving thisimportant project forward.”

Pharris asked Foley to arrange a personal meeting with Assistant Interior Secretary SusanCombs, a Trump appointee who has referred to endangered species listings as “incomingScud missiles.”

He planned to use graphs and maps, he said, to “help her better understand the key issueswhich we have been unable to satisfactorily resolve” with locally based federal biologistsreviewing the environmental impacts of the planned development.

Those biologists, he said, were “NOT using the best available science and informationgathered about this project; rather, they seek ways to view the project through the lens oftheir preconceived belief of what biological conditions on the site ‘should’ be. ”

Pharris was particularly worried that they were preparing a “draft biological opinion” thatwould call for removing as much as one-third of the project’s footprint in an effort toprotect the rats and their habitat.

On July 26, 2018, Paul Souza, regional director of U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s PacificSouthwest region, sent an email alerting his staff that the developer had bypassed theoffice and taken its concerns directly to Washington.

“Please make the point that the regional office is prepared to work with the developer,” hesaid, “and find a fair and reasonable solution.”

A year later, the service issued a draft biological opinion that said the “proposed action isnot likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the San Bernardino kangaroo rat,” northe value of critical habitat in the area.

It pointed out that the developer planned to avoid and conserve at least 892 acres ofnatural open space, more than half of which would be for the benefit of the rat.

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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Contacted by The Times, Pharris said: “I just do my thing — and yes, that includesconversations at both the state and federal level.”

Combs was unavailable for comment.

Souza declined to say whether Combs had contacted him about the project. In astatement, he said it was not uncommon for interested parties to communicate withsenior officials.

“We are creating a conservation strategy for the species and expect to finalize ourtechnical review in the weeks ahead,” Souza added.

When the Endangered Habitats League petitioned the California Fish and GameCommission to intervene, the group argued that the Trump administration’s politicizationof federal environmental agencies threatened the rat’s survival.

“State listing is a necessary backstop to the disregard of law and science by federalgovernment agencies under the current administration,” said Dan Silver, executivedirector of the Endangered Habitats League.

In issuing its decision, the state commission declined to endorse Silver’s argument aboutthe politicization of federal agencies. But it did agree the rat might be in trouble.

“The fact that the species continues to decline after being federally listed for all theseyears suggests to me that something about the federal Endangered Species Act may not beworking right,” said Melissa Miller-Henson, acting executive director of the commission.

The commission’s action provides interim protection for the San Bernardino kangaroo ratuntil a final decision is made on listing within the next year, officials said.

California could soon make other moves to backstop the Trump administration’sweakening of environmental laws.

State Senate leader Toni Atkins (D-San Diego) has introduced legislation, SB 1, thatdecrees California will step in and adopt any federal environmental protection the Trumpadministration attempts to gut.

“This bill’s purpose is simple and clear,” Atkins said. “It gives the state Fish and GameCommission discretion to safeguard protections for our endangered species rolled back bythe current federal administration.”

Atkins aims to push her bill through the Legislature before it adjourns for the year in mid-September.

That won’t be easy.

“SB 1 is under attack,” said Kim Delfino, California program director for the nonprofitDefenders of Wildlife, “by opponents including the California Chamber of Commerce, theCalifornia Farm Bureau Federation and big water districts.”

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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To hear the chamber tell it, the bill is a “job killer” that “would negatively impact thegrowth, employment and investment decisions of almost every major California business.”

On Wednesday, seven environmental groups filed a federal lawsuit challenging the Trumpadministration’s rollback of the Endangered Species Act.

In the meantime, conservationists are waiting to see how skirmishes between Californiaand the Trump administration will play out on the ground.

Boshart has been leading strolls through the rat’s remnant kingdom of buckwheat, yuccas,sage and soft, loose sand on the northern edge of Rialto in San Bernardino County to winmore support for her cause.

“Just after we moved here 12 years ago,” Boshart likes to say, “I saw a San Bernardinokangaroo rat stand up on its hind legs and say, ‘Hello!’ to me. We’ve been good neighborsever since.”

9/3/2019 Rift with mayor prompts Evans' removal as Adelanto mayor pro tem - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

https://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20190831/rift-with-mayor-prompts-evans-removal-as-adelanto-mayor-pro-tem?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=… 1/4

By Garrett Bergthold Staff Writer Posted Aug 31, 2019 at 2:15 PMUpdated Aug 31, 2019 at 2:25 PM

ADELANTO — Councilwoman Stevevonna Evans has been removed from herpost of mayor pro tem.

After a dramatic back-and-forth verbal exchange between Evans and MayorGabriel Reyes during Wednesday’s meeting, the Adelanto City Council voted 3-2to replace Evans with Gerardo Hernandez.

“I don’t trust you,” Reyes told Evans, who was seated to his right. “You have liedto me. You plotted behind my back.”

Reyes and Evans campaigned together during the 2018 election. They oftenvoted alike on contentious issues, including City Manager Jessie Flores’reinstatement from administrative leave and various high profile contractextensions.

At the heart of the disagreement between the two council members is a $15,000donation by a cannabis event organizer that helped pay for rings for AdelantoHigh School’s 2018-19 championship football team.

In separate interviews with the Daily Press, Reyes and Evans accused each otherof conspiring to trade the donation for a special credit at Adelanto Stadium, anarrangement the event organizer took advantage of after Kushstock 7 in Apriluntil earlier this month, when the stadium debt was paid directly.

The rift between council members surfaced on Aug. 14, when Evans could beseen entering council chambers wiping tears from her eyes. Minutes later, Reyes,along with council members Joy Jeannette and Gerardo Hernandez, voted toplace on Wednesday’s agenda a vote to choose a new mayor pro tem.

Rift with mayor prompts Evans’ removal as

Adelanto mayor pro tem

9/3/2019 Rift with mayor prompts Evans' removal as Adelanto mayor pro tem - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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As Reyes tells it, the issue goes back to January, when he, Evans, Flores and theorganizer of the cannabis-themed festival Kushstock, Kadan Borg, met at CityHall regarding the 4/20 Kushstock event.

At the meeting, Reyes suggested that Borg donate money to pay for the footballteam’s championship rings. At that time, no one had offered to pay for the ringsafter the Saints’ memorable season.

Borg had previously said he wanted to help the city however he could, Reyessaid.

“They want to do so much for the community of Adelanto, not just cannabisevents,” said Reyes, including community gardens and farmers markets.

Borg, who did not return a request for comment, agreed to help pay for therings, Reyes said. The mayor later connected Borg with Ghalee Wadood, theteam’s head coach, who handled the payment.

Reyes said he and Flores left the meeting, leaving Evans alone with Borg and hiswife.

It was this time, according to Reyes, “multiple sources” alleged Evans agreed togive Borg a $15,000 credit at the stadium in exchange for helping pay for therings. Evans denies the allegation, saying that everyone left the meeting at thesame time and that she did not stay to discuss a $15,000 credit.

Borg owed the city $15,000 in exchange for being allowed to use AdelantoStadium for the Kushstock event.

She showed the Daily Press text messages between her and Borg that she saidproved it was Reyes who negotiated the credit.

“We have already moved forward with the mayor for getting the football teamtheir rings,” the text read.

Evans contends Flores may have damaging information on Reyes, whichprompted him to protect Flores from Evans’ push in recent weeks to have himfired as city manager.

9/3/2019 Rift with mayor prompts Evans' removal as Adelanto mayor pro tem - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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“It’s a gift of public funds that Jessie tried to help him clean up,” Evans said,referring to Flores’ siding with Reyes against her.

In April, stadium management reported to Flores that the city was shorted$15,000 after the festival, saying Borg claimed he had a credit in connection withthe ring payment.

During Wednesday’s meeting, Reyes said his call to remove Evans as mayor protem had nothing to do with her effort to fire Flores, a move he said he does notagree with.

“Her reason for wanting to fire Jessie has nothing to do with work performance,”said Reyes. “Her reasoning is because Jessie has, she said, lied to her and shedoesn’t trust him.”

Reyes said Evans asked stadium management earlier this month to change astadium report set to be presented at the Aug. 14 meeting for “the sake oftransparency,” he said.

“She modified the stadium report to show there was a credit issued by the city,”Reyes said.

At the time, Kushstock organizers had not paid the $15,000 it owed the stadiumfor Kushstock 7.

At the Aug. 14 meeting, Reyes said, Evans and Councilman Ed Camargo plannedon bringing up the stadium report for discussion, intending to accuse Reyes ofthe crime of gifting public funds. The move was part of Evans’ effort to replacehim as mayor, Reyes said.

After finding out about the altered stadium report through city staff, Reyes saidhe brought it up during closed session, leading to the tears and call for herremoval as mayor pro tem.

Evans denied she asked stadium management to change the stadium report toshow a credit instead of an outstanding balance.

Last week, after the text messages were leaked on a Facebook group and to somecommunity members, Borg appeared at City Hall and paid the $15,000, multiplecity staff members confirmed.

9/3/2019 Rift with mayor prompts Evans' removal as Adelanto mayor pro tem - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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Reyes confirmed the city is opening an investigation into whether the $15,000donation and subsequent stadium credit was a gifting of public funds.

On Wednesday, Evans called the decision to remove her a “political powermove,” a charge also used by Reyes against her. She also said it was illegal to bereplaced without being officially removed first.

Camargo — who during the previous council meeting teamed with Evans toplace on the agenda the removal of the city attorney’s office and city manager —voted with Evans, saying the removal of a mayor pro tem was not a normalpractice.

Reyes still went ahead with the motion.

“What’s good for the goose is good for the gander,” Reyes said. “This is not afeeling, this is data.”

Garrett Bergthold can be reached at GBergthold@VVDailyPress.com or at 760-955-5368.

Follow him on Twitter at @DP_Garrett.

9/3/2019 Riverside County could settle lawsuit alleging racial slurs, retaliation in waste management department – Press Enterprise

https://www.pe.com/2019/09/03/riverside-county-could-settle-lawsuit-alleging-racial-slurs-retaliation-in-waste-management-department/ 1/5

By By JEFF HORSEMANJEFF HORSEMAN | | jhorseman@scng.comjhorseman@scng.com | The Press-Enterprise | The Press-EnterprisePUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: September 3, 2019 at 6:30 amSeptember 3, 2019 at 6:30 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: September 3, 2019 at 6:31September 3, 2019 at 6:31amam

Riverside County has tentatively agreed to settle a lawsuit in which a black landfillRiverside County has tentatively agreed to settle a lawsuit in which a black landfill

employee alleged co-workers called him racial slurs and that he faced retaliationemployee alleged co-workers called him racial slurs and that he faced retaliation

after complaining.after complaining.

The settlement amount between the county and Frederick Ejiofor was notThe settlement amount between the county and Frederick Ejiofor was not

immediately available. The lawsuit was filed in Riverside County Superior Courtimmediately available. The lawsuit was filed in Riverside County Superior Court

in June 2017, about five years after a in June 2017, about five years after a civilcivil grand jury reported a pattern of racismgrand jury reported a pattern of racism

— including by supervisors — in the county’s waste management agency.— including by supervisors — in the county’s waste management agency.

Court records show a notice of conditional settlement in Ejiofor’s case was filedCourt records show a notice of conditional settlement in Ejiofor’s case was filed

Monday, Aug. 19. The lawsuit was on the Riverside County Board of Supervisors’Monday, Aug. 19. The lawsuit was on the Riverside County Board of Supervisors’

Tuesday, Aug. 27, closed session agenda. The board made no publicTuesday, Aug. 27, closed session agenda. The board made no public

announcements after the closed-door session.announcements after the closed-door session.

Rob Rodriguez, Ejiofor’s attorney, declined to comment until the settlement wasRob Rodriguez, Ejiofor’s attorney, declined to comment until the settlement was

finalized.finalized.

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

Riverside County could settleRiverside County could settlelawsuit alleging racial slurs,lawsuit alleging racial slurs,retaliation in wasteretaliation in wastemanagement departmentmanagement department

9/3/2019 Riverside County could settle lawsuit alleging racial slurs, retaliation in waste management department – Press Enterprise

https://www.pe.com/2019/09/03/riverside-county-could-settle-lawsuit-alleging-racial-slurs-retaliation-in-waste-management-department/ 2/5

In court filings, lawyers for the county denied Ejiofor’s allegations. RiversideIn court filings, lawyers for the county denied Ejiofor’s allegations. Riverside

County spokeswoman Brooke Federico said county government has “a zeroCounty spokeswoman Brooke Federico said county government has “a zero

tolerance policy for any form of discrimination, and (will) investigate alltolerance policy for any form of discrimination, and (will) investigate all

complaints of discrimination.”complaints of discrimination.”

“The county is unaware of any pattern of racism or discriminatory behavior in“The county is unaware of any pattern of racism or discriminatory behavior in

any of its departments, including the Department of Waste Resources, and isany of its departments, including the Department of Waste Resources, and is

proud of its commitment to a discrimination-free workplace,” she said.proud of its commitment to a discrimination-free workplace,” she said.

Ejiofor, who lives in Riverside County, started work as a landfill safety monitor inEjiofor, who lives in Riverside County, started work as a landfill safety monitor in

June 2012, according to his complaint. The lawsuit doesn’t specify the landfill orJune 2012, according to his complaint. The lawsuit doesn’t specify the landfill or

landfills at which he worked.landfills at which he worked.

One co-worker called Ejiofor a racial epithet “on approximately forty … differentOne co-worker called Ejiofor a racial epithet “on approximately forty … different

occasions” while another employee once called Ejiofor “a stupid African” andoccasions” while another employee once called Ejiofor “a stupid African” and

used a racial slur to describe Ejiofor once in May 2014 and twice in Septemberused a racial slur to describe Ejiofor once in May 2014 and twice in September

2014, the lawsuit alleged.2014, the lawsuit alleged.

A third employee said “he did not like to hire black people because he viewedA third employee said “he did not like to hire black people because he viewed

them as a threat,” the lawsuit alleged. The lawsuit alleged that Ejiofor’s supervisorthem as a threat,” the lawsuit alleged. The lawsuit alleged that Ejiofor’s supervisor

in December 2015 said “You think you can come from Africa and file a lawsuitin December 2015 said “You think you can come from Africa and file a lawsuit

against us.”against us.”

Ejiofor “complained and reported these instances of discrimination andEjiofor “complained and reported these instances of discrimination and

harassment” to his supervisor and the county “on several occasions,” but to hisharassment” to his supervisor and the county “on several occasions,” but to his

knowledge, nothing was done, the lawsuit alleged.knowledge, nothing was done, the lawsuit alleged.

“In fact, (the) county’s employees, knowing that this conduct offended Mr. Ejiofor,“In fact, (the) county’s employees, knowing that this conduct offended Mr. Ejiofor,

continued and in some regards, escalated the unfavorable treatment,” the lawsuitcontinued and in some regards, escalated the unfavorable treatment,” the lawsuit

read.read.

In December 2015, the lawsuit alleges, Ejiofor’s supervisor told him to “stopIn December 2015, the lawsuit alleges, Ejiofor’s supervisor told him to “stop

complaining, or his peer evaluations would be negatively affected.” Around thatcomplaining, or his peer evaluations would be negatively affected.” Around that

time, he was notified he was being denied a raise.time, he was notified he was being denied a raise.

“Mr. Ejiofor contends he was denied a salary increase in retaliation” for“Mr. Ejiofor contends he was denied a salary increase in retaliation” for

complaining, the lawsuit alleged.complaining, the lawsuit alleged.

Ejiofor suffered a work-related injury stemming from the retaliation, the lawsuitEjiofor suffered a work-related injury stemming from the retaliation, the lawsuit

alleged. It’s not clear from the lawsuit how he was injured or how the allegedalleged. It’s not clear from the lawsuit how he was injured or how the alleged

retaliation led retaliation led to to him being hurt.him being hurt.

The injury caused Ejiofor to miss work between January 2016 and September 2016The injury caused Ejiofor to miss work between January 2016 and September 2016

and on Sept. 6 of that year, he was “wrongfully terminated … in violation of publicand on Sept. 6 of that year, he was “wrongfully terminated … in violation of public

policy,” according to the lawsuit, which seeks unspecified damages.policy,” according to the lawsuit, which seeks unspecified damages.

9/3/2019 Riverside County could settle lawsuit alleging racial slurs, retaliation in waste management department – Press Enterprise

This isn’t the first time the county’s Department of Waste Resources, whichThis isn’t the first time the county’s Department of Waste Resources, which

operates six landfills, has 260 authorized positions and a $115.1 million budget,operates six landfills, has 260 authorized positions and a $115.1 million budget,

has faced allegations of racism among its employees.has faced allegations of racism among its employees.

In 2012, the civil grand jury reportedIn 2012, the civil grand jury reported that at least two supervisors in the that at least two supervisors in the

department used racial slurs against black employees. A former equipmentdepartment used racial slurs against black employees. A former equipment

operator who is black reported being called a racial epithet and told to eat in a rat-operator who is black reported being called a racial epithet and told to eat in a rat-

and insect-infested trailer, the grand jury report said. Twenty-one harassment andand insect-infested trailer, the grand jury report said. Twenty-one harassment and

discrimination complaints were filed against the department between 2006 anddiscrimination complaints were filed against the department between 2006 and

2012, the grand jury said.2012, the grand jury said.

In a formal responseIn a formal response, county officials said two incidents of racial discrimination, county officials said two incidents of racial discrimination

in the department dating to 1989 and 2004 had been addressed. Thirteen of the 21in the department dating to 1989 and 2004 had been addressed. Thirteen of the 21

complaints referenced by the jury were filed in 2011, 11 of those 13 were filed bycomplaints referenced by the jury were filed in 2011, 11 of those 13 were filed by

two employees and no complaint alleged racial discrimination, the county’stwo employees and no complaint alleged racial discrimination, the county’s

response stated.response stated.

Lunch areas at the county’s Lamb Canyon landfill “are not crawling with rats andLunch areas at the county’s Lamb Canyon landfill “are not crawling with rats and

cats” and are clean, the response read. “Most importantly, the departmentcats” and are clean, the response read. “Most importantly, the department

strongly objects to the implication … that racially motivated discrimination,strongly objects to the implication … that racially motivated discrimination,

behavior or remarks are tolerated, overlooked or ignored,” the response added.behavior or remarks are tolerated, overlooked or ignored,” the response added.

9/3/2019 Scam letter tries to hook Hesperia senior - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

https://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20190830/scam-letter-tries-to-hook-hesperia-senior?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=G… 1/3

By Rene Ray De La Cruz Staff Writer Posted Aug 30, 2019 at 3:05 PM

HESPERIA — Red flags went up for Joyce Tate after the senior received a scamletter from Europe that promised her millions of dollars from a long lost familymember who supposedly died in a “ghastly car accident in Porto Portugal.”

“I still have my mind and I know about these scams, but other seniors might feellike this is a big deal and fall for it,” said Tate, who lives in Hesperia.“I reachedout to the Daily Press because these scams are everywhere and seniors need toknow about them.”

Last month, Tate received a letter from Maria Ricardo, the AdministrativeManager at “a Vault of a Financial & Security Institute” in Barcelona, Spain, whoinformed Tate about a “financial opportunity” in the form of $26.7 million foundin a bank safety deposit vault.

According to Ricardo’s letter:

- The money was left “abandoned” by a U.S. citizen who shared the last name ofTate and supposedly died along with his entire family in a car accident on March11, 2008.

- After the bank failed to find a benefactor, the security institute “exploited all itsethical possibilities” to contact a possible inheritor. Ricardo and a privateinvestigator wrote that they discovered that the deceased man, who left themoney, had been living in Spain for the last 22 years and never returned to theU.S.

- Ricardo also said she learned that the man’s wife and the couple’s 13-year olddaughter had also died with him in the accident. She was also nearly “110% sure”that no one is aware of the existence of the funds. Because of the “internationalfinancial crises” and reforms within the “Spanish Financial System,” the Bank ofSpain has ordered Ricardo to release the funds to the possible inheritor.

Scam letter tries to hook Hesperia senior

9/3/2019 Scam letter tries to hook Hesperia senior - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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- As a senior member of the institute and an “insider,” Ricardo told Tate she wasfully equipped with all “classified secret information” to release the funds to herwith one catch. “Upon your acceptance to cooperate, I agree that 40% of thismoney will be for you, 50% for me and 10% goes to any acceptable charityorganization in Spain or your country,” said Ricardo, who asked Tate to contacther via her husband’s email, FAX or phone number.

If Tate would have complied, the scammer would have probably asked her forpersonal information to send her the money. The result for Tate would be thescammer emptying her bank account and/or steal her identity. Or the scammerwould have asked Tate to send them money to cover taxes or fees.

Individuals should never share their bank account number, Social Securitynumber, birth date, or other personal information.

“Getting millions of dollars sounds tempting for a senior on a fixed income or alimited budget, but it’s a scam,” Tate said. “I get calls all the time from peoplesaying they’re from the IRS or Social Security office. They tell me I owe taxes orthat my Social Security number has been suspended. I found out from the DailyPress that these government agencies don’t call you.”

Some variations of cons:

- Family member: An individual claiming to be a grandchild or family memberwill call a senior asking them to wire bail money.

- Beneficiary of a will: An e-mail claims that you are the named beneficiary in awill, to inherit an estate worth a million or more, and your personal financialinformation is needed to receive the money.

- Donation solicitations: Some emails request “donations” to fight an evilgovernment or dictatorship in another country. The sender requests therecipient’s bank account to withdraw the donation directly from the bank andget immediate access to the “much-needed” contribution.

Remember these points:

- If the opportunity appears too good to be true, it probably is.

- Do not reply to emails asking for personal banking information.

9/3/2019 Scam letter tries to hook Hesperia senior - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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- Be wary of individuals representing themselves as foreign government officials.

- Be wary when dealing with anyone from outside of the U.S.

- Beware when asked to help in placing large sums of money in overseas bankaccounts.

- Do not believe the promise of large sums of money.

- Guard your account information carefully.

- Be cautious when more fees are requested to further the transaction.

Report scams by contacting the FBI at www.ic3.gov or the BBB atwww.BBB.org.

Reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227,

RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com, Instagram@renegadereporter, Twitter

@DP_ReneDeLaCruz

9/3/2019 State issues staggering affordable housing numbers | News | championnewspapers.com

www.championnewspapers.com/news/article_085ed7dc-cb56-11e9-a850-5fabdf236063.html 1/4

http://www.championnewspapers.com/news/article_085ed7dc-cb56-11e9-a850-5fabdf236063.html

FEATURED

State issues staggering a�ordable housing numbers

By Marianne Napoles Aug 31, 2019

The Department of Housing and Community Development has determined that a six-county

region, including San Bernardino County, must provide 1,344,740 housing units over the next

eight years for four categories: very low, low, moderate, and above-moderate categories.

The numbers, released by the state Aug. 22, are three times the number determined in the

previous eight-year cycle that mandated 430,000 units.

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As a result, Chino would have to build between 5,045 to 13,104 housing units, depending on

the allocation method selected by the Southern California Association of Governments.

Chino Hills would have to build between 3,805 and 5,023, depending on the allocation method.

The numbers are not realistic, according to representatives of Chino, Chino Hills, and

numerous other cities.

“We don’t have a lot of land and I’m concerned what penalty will occur if we don’t meet the

numbers,” Chino Hills Councilman Ray Marquez said. 

“The only way is to build more apartments, which is the number one complaint from residents,”

he said. “I wouldn’t want to build apartments, but I don’t know what our options will be.”

Mr. Marquez serves on the Association of Government’s regional council.

The City of Chino Hills has met past state a�ordable housing mandates by zoning for high-

density multi-unit developments.

Not attainable

City of Chino spokesperson Vivian Castro said the allocation for Chino requires 3,260 to 8,469

a�ordable housing units to be delivered, which is neither reasonable nor attainable.

She said Chino experienced signi�cant growth during the previous eight-year cycle and

facilitated the construction of more than 2,940 homes, of which 340 are a�ordable.

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She said the state’s proposed allocation would require Chino to build 1.1 to 2.88 times as many

a�ordable homes in the upcoming cycle as the total number of homes built in all income

categories to date in the previous cycle.

“The Department of Housing and Community Development’s a�ordable housing numbers are

unrealistic given the region’s capacity and delivery during a period of tremendous growth,” Ms.

Castro said. “We believe the Southern California Association of Governments should continue

to work with the state to develop a reasonable, realistic target.”

Ping Chang, manager of compliance and performance monitoring at the Association of

Governments, said jurisdictions are responsible for updating their numbers to accommodate

housing need as measured by their allocation.

Legal action

As for penalties, Ms. Chang said a jurisdiction can be subject to possible legal action including

�nancial penalties for not complying with their assigned numbers.

Jurisdictions that do not adopt a housing element or are non-compliant may be ineligible to

receive certain grants and funding opportunities from the state.

On the implementation side, there are no direct penalties if the units are not built, Ms. Chang

said.

During the public meeting process, which ended Tuesday, more than 200 written comments

expressing a wide range of concerns were shared with the Association of Governments, Ms.

Chang said. 

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“It should be noted that the state’s number may be subject to change if the Association �les an

objection, and the allocation methodology is not �nalized yet,” Ms. Chang said.

After review, the Association will prepare a formal assessment and response.

“In the meantime, we’re soliciting community input on three di�erent methodologies for

allocating housing need at the local level,” she said.

Written comments may be sent by Sept. 13 to housing@scag.ca.gov.

To view the three methodologies, visit scag.ca.gov/pro grams/pages/housing.aspx.

9/3/2019 More proof that Southern California home-price gains are evaporating – San Bernardino Sun

By By JONATHAN LANSNERJONATHAN LANSNER | | jlansner@scng.comjlansner@scng.com | Orange County Register | Orange County RegisterPUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: August 31, 2019 at 9:00 amAugust 31, 2019 at 9:00 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: August 31, 2019 at 9:01 amAugust 31, 2019 at 9:01 am

STAFF GRAPHICSTAFF GRAPHIC

Southern California home-price gains are quickly evaporating, no matter who’s doing the counting.Southern California home-price gains are quickly evaporating, no matter who’s doing the counting.

This year’s falling mortgage rates gave house hunters more buying power. Instead, it appears buyers — unnerved by domestic andThis year’s falling mortgage rates gave house hunters more buying power. Instead, it appears buyers — unnerved by domestic and

global economic uncertainty — are not willing to pay up.global economic uncertainty — are not willing to pay up.

Reports published by CoreLogic, California Association of Realtors, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, S&P/Case-Shiller and the RealReports published by CoreLogic, California Association of Realtors, the Federal Housing Finance Agency, S&P/Case-Shiller and the Real

Estate Research Council of Southern California all tell the same tale …Estate Research Council of Southern California all tell the same tale …

CoreLogic:CoreLogic: Its six-county Southern California median selling price of $540,000 for all homes in July was up 1.9% over 12 months. A year Its six-county Southern California median selling price of $540,000 for all homes in July was up 1.9% over 12 months. A year

earlier, appreciation ran 5.8%.earlier, appreciation ran 5.8%.

Realtors:Realtors: Their six-county Southern California median of $550,000 for single-family resales in July was up 2.8% over 12 months. A year Their six-county Southern California median of $550,000 for single-family resales in July was up 2.8% over 12 months. A year

earlier, appreciation ran 5.2%.earlier, appreciation ran 5.2%.

FHFA: FHFA: What the agency’s local indexes say about the second quarter …What the agency’s local indexes say about the second quarter …

Los Angeles County saw the smallest increase since 2012’s fourth quarter, a 3.8% year-over-year gain vs. a 5.8% increase the previousLos Angeles County saw the smallest increase since 2012’s fourth quarter, a 3.8% year-over-year gain vs. a 5.8% increase the previous

quarter and an 8.4% rise a year earlier. Gains ran an average of 7.4% in the past five years.quarter and an 8.4% rise a year earlier. Gains ran an average of 7.4% in the past five years.

In Orange County, it was the smallest increase since 2012’s third quarter, a 2.6% year-over-year gain vs. a 4% increase the previousIn Orange County, it was the smallest increase since 2012’s third quarter, a 2.6% year-over-year gain vs. a 4% increase the previous

quarter and a 6.5% rise a year earlier. Gains have averaged 5.7% in the past five years.quarter and a 6.5% rise a year earlier. Gains have averaged 5.7% in the past five years.

For the Inland Empire, it was the smallest increase since 2012’s fourth quarter, a 4.2% year-over-year gain vs. a 5.6% increase theFor the Inland Empire, it was the smallest increase since 2012’s fourth quarter, a 4.2% year-over-year gain vs. a 5.6% increase the

previous quarter and an 8.1% rise a year earlier. Gains have averaged 7.5% in the past five years.previous quarter and an 8.1% rise a year earlier. Gains have averaged 7.5% in the past five years.

BUSINESSBUSINESSHOUSINGHOUSING

More proof that Southern California home-price gainsMore proof that Southern California home-price gainsare evaporatingare evaporatingFour different reports show slower appreciation.Four different reports show slower appreciation.

9/3/2019 More proof that Southern California home-price gains are evaporating – San Bernardino Sun

S&P:S&P: A second-quarter average of the index results for L.A. and Orange counties showed the smallest increase since 2012’s second A second-quarter average of the index results for L.A. and Orange counties showed the smallest increase since 2012’s second

quarter. Values rose 1.6% year-over-year vs. a 1.9% increase the previous quarter and a 5.4% rise a year earlier. Gains have averagedquarter. Values rose 1.6% year-over-year vs. a 1.9% increase the previous quarter and a 5.4% rise a year earlier. Gains have averaged

5.6% over the past five years.5.6% over the past five years.

RERCSC: RERCSC: The total value of the housing stock in the seven SoCal counties for the second-quarter was $3.73 trillion, up 3.4% vs. 9% aThe total value of the housing stock in the seven SoCal counties for the second-quarter was $3.73 trillion, up 3.4% vs. 9% a

year earlier. Biggest gain? Santa Barbara County, up 9.5%. Smallest gain? Orange County, 1.4%.year earlier. Biggest gain? Santa Barbara County, up 9.5%. Smallest gain? Orange County, 1.4%.

9/3/2019 Entry-level teachers will spend 85% of pay on median rental in LA-OC, report says – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/02/entry-level-teachers-will-spend-85-of-pay-on-median-rental-in-la-oc-report-says/ 1/5

By By KEVIN SMITHKEVIN SMITH | | kvsmith@scng.comkvsmith@scng.com | San Gabriel Valley | San Gabriel ValleyTribuneTribunePUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: September 2, 2019 at 8:00 amSeptember 2, 2019 at 8:00 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: September 2, 2019 atSeptember 2, 2019 at8:01 am8:01 am

Entry-level teachers in the Los Angeles-Orange counties area will spend 85.1% ofEntry-level teachers in the Los Angeles-Orange counties area will spend 85.1% oftheir salary to afford a median-priced apartment or home rental this school year,their salary to afford a median-priced apartment or home rental this school year,according to a new Zillow analysis. That 85.1%, which pays for a rental priced ataccording to a new Zillow analysis. That 85.1%, which pays for a rental priced at$2,836, far outpaces the nationwide average where 46.8% of a starting teacher’s$2,836, far outpaces the nationwide average where 46.8% of a starting teacher’spay will go toward a median rent of $1,483. In this file photo, thousands of UTLApay will go toward a median rent of $1,483. In this file photo, thousands of UTLAteachers rally on First Street in downtown Los Angeles Tuesday, January 15, 2019teachers rally on First Street in downtown Los Angeles Tuesday, January 15, 2019on the second day of the teachers strike. (Photo by David Crane, Los Angeleson the second day of the teachers strike. (Photo by David Crane, Los AngelesDaily News/SCNG)Daily News/SCNG)

BUSINESSBUSINESS

Entry-level teachers will spendEntry-level teachers will spend85% of pay on median rental in85% of pay on median rental inLA-OC, report saysLA-OC, report says

Learn today, lead tomorrow.

Evening, Executive & Online MBA

9/3/2019

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/02/entry-level-teachers-will-spend-85-of-pay-on-median-rental-in-la-oc-report-says/ 2/5

Better in the Inland EmpireBetter in the Inland Empire

It’s worse in Northern CaliforniaIt’s worse in Northern California

Entry-level teachers in the Los Angeles-Orange counties area will spend 85.1%Entry-level teachers in the Los Angeles-Orange counties area will spend 85.1%

of their salary to afford a median-priced apartment or home rental this schoolof their salary to afford a median-priced apartment or home rental this school

year, according to a new Zillow analysis.year, according to a new Zillow analysis.

That’s well beyond the 30% the industry has long recommend should goThat’s well beyond the 30% the industry has long recommend should go

toward housing.toward housing.

That 85.1%, which pays for a rental priced at $2,836, far outpaces theThat 85.1%, which pays for a rental priced at $2,836, far outpaces the

nationwide average where 46.8% of a starting teacher’s pay will go toward anationwide average where 46.8% of a starting teacher’s pay will go toward a

median rent of $1,483.median rent of $1,483.

The situation improves significantly for mid-career teachers in Los Angeles-The situation improves significantly for mid-career teachers in Los Angeles-

Orange counties; they’ll need to allocate 52.2% of their salary for rent. TheOrange counties; they’ll need to allocate 52.2% of their salary for rent. The

highest-paid teachers will spend 39.6% of their income on a rental.highest-paid teachers will spend 39.6% of their income on a rental.

Teachers who own homes face a similar predicament although percentagesTeachers who own homes face a similar predicament although percentages

are lower as a result of low mortgage interest rates.are lower as a result of low mortgage interest rates.

An entry-level teacher who owns a home in the Los Angeles-Orange countiesAn entry-level teacher who owns a home in the Los Angeles-Orange counties

area will spend 72.2% of their pay on a median mortgage payment of $2,410,area will spend 72.2% of their pay on a median mortgage payment of $2,410,

Zillow said. That drops to 44.3% for mid-career teachers and 33.6% forZillow said. That drops to 44.3% for mid-career teachers and 33.6% for

teachers earning the highest pay.teachers earning the highest pay.

The median price reflects the point at which half the rental prices are lowerThe median price reflects the point at which half the rental prices are lower

and half are higher. So teachers faced with paying 85% of their income onand half are higher. So teachers faced with paying 85% of their income on

rentals would likely seek lower-priced apartments or homes.rentals would likely seek lower-priced apartments or homes.

Venture east and living gets more affordable. The Inland Empires medianVenture east and living gets more affordable. The Inland Empires median

rental price is $2,017. Starting teachers in the two-county region will spendrental price is $2,017. Starting teachers in the two-county region will spend

60.5% of their income on that rent. For mid-career instructors, it drops to60.5% of their income on that rent. For mid-career instructors, it drops to

34.6%, and higher-paid teachers will need to allocate 26.9% of their pay.34.6%, and higher-paid teachers will need to allocate 26.9% of their pay.

The percentages drop even lower for Inland Empire teachers who areThe percentages drop even lower for Inland Empire teachers who are

homeowners. Starting teachers in the two-county region will spend 41.2% ofhomeowners. Starting teachers in the two-county region will spend 41.2% of

their income on a $1,370 median mortgage payment, while mid-careertheir income on a $1,370 median mortgage payment, while mid-career

teachers will spend 23.6%, and the highest-paid will spend just 18.3%.teachers will spend 23.6%, and the highest-paid will spend just 18.3%.

Teachers in other parts of the Golden State have it worse.Teachers in other parts of the Golden State have it worse.Learn today, lead tomorrow.

Evening, Executive & Online MBA

9/3/2019 Entry-level teachers will spend 85% of pay on median rental in LA-OC, report says – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2019/09/02/entry-level-teachers-will-spend-85-of-pay-on-median-rental-in-la-oc-report-says/ 3/5

The most affordable metroThe most affordable metro

Support for higher paySupport for higher pay

The Zillow report shows that starting teachers in San Jose and San FranciscoThe Zillow report shows that starting teachers in San Jose and San Francisco

would have to pay all of their salaries and more to afford median-pricedwould have to pay all of their salaries and more to afford median-priced

rentals. The same applies for entry-level teachers facing a median monthlyrentals. The same applies for entry-level teachers facing a median monthly

mortgage payment.mortgage payment.

High housing costs have made it increasingly difficult for school districts toHigh housing costs have made it increasingly difficult for school districts to

attract and retain teachers across the nation. School districts in Northernattract and retain teachers across the nation. School districts in Northern

California — including San Francisco Unified, West Contra Costa Unified andCalifornia — including San Francisco Unified, West Contra Costa Unified and

Mountain View Whisman School District — have approved or are consideringMountain View Whisman School District — have approved or are considering

employee housing for teachers that would be more affordable, according toemployee housing for teachers that would be more affordable, according to

EdSourceEdSource..

That movement is spreading throughout the Bay Area and also making its wayThat movement is spreading throughout the Bay Area and also making its way

into other parts of the state where housing costs are prohibitively high.into other parts of the state where housing costs are prohibitively high.

“This is a statewide problem,” said Dale Scott of Dale Scott and Co. in an April“This is a statewide problem,” said Dale Scott of Dale Scott and Co. in an April

interview with EdSource. His financial advisory firm works with schoolinterview with EdSource. His financial advisory firm works with school

districts to fund affordable housing.districts to fund affordable housing.

The metro area with the most affordable housing for teachers is Pittsburgh.The metro area with the most affordable housing for teachers is Pittsburgh.

A starting teacher there will spend just 29.5% of his or her pay on a median-A starting teacher there will spend just 29.5% of his or her pay on a median-

priced rental of $1,108. Entry-level teacher/homeowners will spend 14% ofpriced rental of $1,108. Entry-level teacher/homeowners will spend 14% of

their salary on a median-priced mortgage payment, and high paid instructorstheir salary on a median-priced mortgage payment, and high paid instructors

will only need to put 7.6% of their income toward a  mortgage payment.will only need to put 7.6% of their income toward a  mortgage payment.

Six out of 10 Californians say teachers’ salaries in their communities are tooSix out of 10 Californians say teachers’ salaries in their communities are too

low and they support teachers striking for higher pay, according to a surveylow and they support teachers striking for higher pay, according to a survey

from the from the Public Policy Institute of California.Public Policy Institute of California.

Teachers from Los Angeles Unified and Oakland Unified went on strike earlierTeachers from Los Angeles Unified and Oakland Unified went on strike earlier

this year, seeking higher pay and better classroom conditions. The walkoutthis year, seeking higher pay and better classroom conditions. The walkout

resulted in higher salaries for teachers as well as other concessions.resulted in higher salaries for teachers as well as other concessions.

In March, presidential candidate Kamala Harris proposed spending $315In March, presidential candidate Kamala Harris proposed spending $315

billion over 10 years to boost teacher pay throughout the nation. That influx,billion over 10 years to boost teacher pay throughout the nation. That influx,

she said, would give the average American teacher a raise of $13,500.she said, would give the average American teacher a raise of $13,500.Learn today, lead tomorrow.

9/3/2019 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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Gov. Newsom gets aggressive onhousingBy requiring Southern California to plan for more homes,he sends a message to the rest of the state.If Southern California leaders were questioning whether Gov. Gavin Newsom is seriousabout ending the state’s housing crisis, he’s given them a very clear answer. He is.

His administration recently overruled a long-term housing plan from Southern Californialeaders that vastly underestimated the number of homes needed to ease the existingshortage and to shelter the next generation of Californians. Instead, the state Departmentof Housing and Community Development declared that cities and counties in SouthernCalifornia will have to plan for the construction of 1.3 million new homes in the nextdecade. That number is more than three times larger than what local elected officials hadwanted to commit to.

By overruling Southern California leaders’ slow-growth impulses, Newsom made clearthat his administration is going to be far more aggressive in requiring cities and countiesto make room for new housing. And that’s a very good thing.

Housing and Community Development is required to set housing targets under the state’s“fair share” housing law, which instructs cities and counties to plan and zone every eightyears for enough development to house their share of the state’s growing population.Cities aren’t required to build the homes — that’s up to the private sector — but they haveto plan and zone for them.

For decades, some local governments have looked for ways to shirk that responsibility,bending to complaints from not-in-my-backyard groups that want to hold down traffic,discourage development and preserve the region’s low-slung suburban character. That’sone reason California has a deep housing shortage that is fueling poverty, displacementand homelessness.

As the housing crisis has worsened, however, state officials have begun to exert moreauthority. State lawmakers began passing bills to add teeth to the fair share housing law.Newsom has also sought to strengthen the process with penalties of up to $600,000 amonth for cities that refuse to zone enough land to accommodate sufficient housing forlow-income families as well as for those who can afford the market’s going rate.

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At the heart of the fair share process is the estimate each community makes for how muchhousing it needs. A higher number means cities have to zone for more housing, a portionof which has to fill the need for affordable units.

In June, the board of the Southern California Assn. of Governments, which is composed ofcity and county elected officials from across the region, voted to set a woefully lowestimate for the amount of housing the area would need: 430,000 homes by 2029.Housing advocates and some regional leaders, including Mayor Eric Garcetti, complainedthat such a lowball target would only exacerbate the housing shortage that is driving uprents and home prices.

The Newsom administration heeded those complaints and, fortunately, the state sets thehousing target for each region. And although 1.3 million new homes in SouthernCalifornia between 2021 and 2029 is ambitious, it’s still less than some advocates andexperts say is necessary.

That works out to about 162,000 new units a year across the SCAG region, which is hometo half the state’s population. The entire state of California has averaged only 80,000 newhomes a year over the last decade. But state law demands a target that’s aggressive, bothto address the existing shortage created by decades of insufficient construction and tomeet the needs of the growing population.

SCAG will have to decide how to spread the planning for 1.3 million units across itsjurisdiction. To meet the target without sprawling deeper into open space, cities will haveto plan for more multi-family developments, including apartments, condos andtownhomes. That will be a big change in some communities that have refused to allowanything but single-family houses.

But Southern California, along with other urban areas around the state, has to transitionto greater density to ease the housing shortage. It makes sense to concentrate denserhousing near mass transit and jobs so people can get around without driving, which wouldease traffic congestion and cut the vehicle emissions that are polluting the air and fuelingglobal climate change.

For too long, Southern California leaders have tried to preserve a landscape of cars andfreeways and single-family homes, no matter the consequences for the next generation.That won’t fly anymore, especially if the governor will keep pushing cities to say “Yes inmy backyard.”

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CALIFORNIA JOURNAL

This five-course meal was no piece ofcakeYoung chefs aging out of foster care finish culinary training

MELANIE Gamboa, left, Breanne Collier, Ricky Porter and Christina Mojahedi preparea meal as part of a culinary training program created by Hillsides, a Pasadena-basedfoster care and mental health charity. (Photographs by Liz Moughon Los AngelesTimes)

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ROBIN ABCARIAN

On a hot summer afternoon, the spacious kitchen of Pasadena’s First United MethodistChurch was bustling. Culinary students and their chef-teachers were chopping basil,crushing watermelon, and laying slices of rustic bread on baking sheets.

The students — in their late teens and early to mid-20s — were in high spirits. It wasSaturday, and they were preparing a five-course meal for dozens of lucky guests, whowould gather for dinner in the church’s courtyard on Sunday.

Under the supervision of professional chefs who had volunteered their time, the youngcooks would stuff mushroom caps, marinate carrots for a vegetarian ceviche, slow roasttomatoes for rigatoni, make arugula shallot chimichurri for grilled flat iron steak, andwhip up a dessert of brown sugar blackberry upside down baby cakes.

The dinner would be a graduation of sorts for these young adults, who had spent the last10 weeks in a new culinary training program created by Hillsides, the Pasadena-basedfoster care and mental health charity. Twelve of them started; 10 finished.

“We weren’t sure how many were going to stick it out,” said Correnda Perkins, whodreamed up the program with her colleagues. “Our population can be transient, especiallywhen housing isn’t stable.”

COLLIER is acknowledged after helping serve dinner to dozens of guests at First UnitedMethodist Church in Pasadena. ()

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Perkins oversees Hillsides’ programs for “transition age youth” between 18 and 25, whohave aged out of foster care but still need support, including housing and workforcetraining. Two of her aspiring chefs are homeless or couch surfing. Six live in transitionalhousing that allows them to stay for only two years.

The Culinary Apprenticeship Program, which pays the students $13 an hour, will helpthem figure out if they are suited to restaurant work.

“They don’t always have time to follow their passions,” Perkins said. “They need apaycheck.”

Also, many former foster kids have nothing to put on resumés. “We want to give them afighting chance to get employment,” she said.

Over the course of the apprenticeship, the students learned how to use knives, how tokeep a kitchen clean, how to blanch vegetables, make sauces. They shopped at a farmersmarket and were invited to make their favorite drinks at Starbucks.

“The first time I brought in a purple carrot,” said chef Alexandra Poer of Alexandra’s Tablecatering, “you could see their minds exploding.” Many hadn’t ever seen an eggplant.

Her fellow volunteer chefs included local restaurateurs Charlie Negrete, Claud Beltran,Doug Fore and Geoff Jennings.

In the kitchen, Ricky Porter, a 23-year-old aspiring baker, was overseeing dessert.

He carefully topped batter-filled ramekins with blueberries, tiny slices of figs and brownsugar. The cake would be served with a cardamom gelato.

Suddenly, someone realized they forgot to add buttermilk, an essential ingredient for thiscake.

ChefPoer shrugged. Coping with catastrophe is a critical restaurant skill.

She directed the students to scrape off berries, figs and brown sugar, dump the batterback into a bowl, add the overlooked buttermilk, and start over.

“The cakes will be fine,” she said.

::

Having recently become a foster parent, I marvel at the children who bounce from hometo home, from social worker to social worker, from school to school, and still manage tobecome functioning, loving adults.

Take Ricky Porter, who dreams of owning his own bakery. He’d like to be an inspirationalspeaker too, he said. He’ll certainly have a story to tell.

From birth to age 21, he said, he lived in 25 foster homes. Some were wonderful, somewere awful. Almost every time he moved, he had to change schools. He thinks he attendedmore than 15 middle and high schools.

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In fact, when he started listing all his middle and high schools, my jaw actually dropped.

In 10th grade, he was expelled after blowing up at a teacher.

“I had a troublesome foster home at the time, so I didn’t get a lot of sleep,” he said, “andhe was my first-period teacher.”

He graduated from Quartz Hill High in Palmdale, where he had managed to spend hisentire senior year.

He discovered his love for baking during elementary school, when he lived with aSalvadoran family in Palmdale and was put to work in the family bakery, making peanutbutter cookies.

At 19, still a foster child, he became a father.

Jobless and homeless, he tried to steal a necklace and ended up in county jail for 40 days.

“I didn’t like the trajectory of my life,” he said.

He was determined to be the father he never had.

Six months ago, Porter found Hillsides.

Now in a transitional-housing apartment in Hollywood, he works two jobs and sees his 3-year-old daughter, Everleigh, two or three times a week.

::

Just before guests began arriving at dusk last Sunday, Heather Berg, a restaurant eventmanager, gave last-minute instructions to her young crew:

Serve on the right side, she said, and make sure water glasses are full. People will use theirutensils from the outside in: salad fork, pasta fork, meat fork, with dessert spoons on top.

“Are you going to let them know which forks to use?” asked Isaac Spence.

“No, they’ll figure it out,” Berg replied. “If they don’t, just take the fork they use and leavethem with the rest. We can’t teach everyone Emily Post stuff.”

Instead of cocktails (church rules), guests were offered strawberry mint popsicles —refreshing and not too sweet — made under the supervision of Jennings, who ownsNomad Ice Pops.

Each young chef was allowed to invite one or two guests.

Porter had invited Everleigh and his older brother.

Nearly two hours later, after dessert and coffee, among much whooping and hollering, thestudents received certificates of completion. Guests, who also included officials and stafffrom Hillsides, were impressed by the delicious meal.

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Porter stood smiling, his little girl perched on his shoulders. He’s already been hired towork for one of the chefs.

Oh, and those buttermilk baby cakes?

Just as chef Poer promised, they were delicious.

9/3/2019 Carroll County learns the hard way: Religion and government should not mix - Baltimore Sun

EDITORIAL OPINION

Carroll County learns the hard way:Religion and government should not mix

By BALTIMORE SUN EDITORIAL BOARDBALTIMORE SUN | SEP 02, 2019

Former commissioner Robin Frazier urged the board of commissioners not to settle the prayer lawsuit Thursday andtake the �ght to the Supreme Court instead. (Mary Grace Keller / Carroll County Times)

We know that the Carroll County Board of Commissioners is feeling the heat fromcitizens over its decision to settle a lawsuit and agreement not to lead prayers ath i i h l h i id d h lik lih d f h l i

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their meetings. But the law was not on their side and the likelihood of them losingthe case at a higher court was pretty high.

Carroll County has been fighting this lawsuit for years, dating back to a previousgroup of commissioners, but at the end of the day taxpayer funded governmentbodies should not espouse religious views and publicly host non-secular activities.Commissioners are there to represent every constituent, and promoting religionshows favoritism to a certain part of the electorate. It’s not fair to thrust thesebeliefs on people with different ways of thinking — and the most recent case lawbacks that up.

In 2013, two county residents filed a lawsuit against the commissioners in the U.S.District Court of Maryland arguing that the prayers violated their First

Amendment Rights. A subsequent decision in the Fourth Circuit Court of Appealssupported that assertion.

In Lund v. Rowan County, three residents demanded the Rowan County, N.C.,Board of Commissioners also stop opening government meetings withcommissioner-led prayers, which the plaintiffs said promoted Christian beliefsover those of other religions, or people who are atheists. The Fourth Circuitordered the commission to halt the practice.

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9/3/2019 Carroll County learns the hard way: Religion and government should not mix - Baltimore Sun

The judges wrote: “When a seat of government begins to resemble a house ofworship, the values of religious observance are put at risk, and the danger ofreligious division rises accordingly." We couldn’t say it any better.

Already, the issue of prayer has created a charged and ugly partisan political fightin Carroll County, with some Republicans reminding commissioners that themajority of their constituents are conservative and Christian. So, that means theother residents don’t matter?

It would not have been responsible for the commissioners to continue their pursuitof public prayer given the Rowan County decision and the fact that the U.S.Supreme Court decided not to review that case. Some commissioners said thelikelihood of losing in court influenced their decision to settle the lawsuit. As partof the settlement, they must pay the plaintiffs $125,000. Why continue on and leteven more legal fees mount?

Those angry with the commissioners point to a divided Supreme Court decision in2014 that ruled city councils and other legislative bodies can begin their meetingswith prayer even it leans toward a particular religion. But the circumstances of thatcase were different from the practice in Carroll County. Among other things, the2014 case involved a council in New York state that invited local clergy andlaypeople to give prayers. Carroll’s practice was more analogous to the RowanCounty case in that the commissioners themselves led the prayers. That may seemlike a fine distinction, but the courts have generally found that the limits of religionin government are highly dependent on circumstances, as in the recent Supreme

Court decision allowing the Bladensburg Peace Cross to stay on public land inPrince George’s County in large part because the government only acquired themonument incidentally and after the fact.

Peace Cross can stay »

None of that prohibits people from expressing their religious views. That is right isvery much protected. The various legal decisions don’t mean that people are not

9/3/2019 Carroll County learns the hard way: Religion and government should not mix - Baltimore Sun

entitled to their religious beliefs or that there is no room for Christianity, Judiasm,Islam or any other religion within the chambers of city hall or even in the middle ofa school yard. People are fully welcome to exercise their rights to religious freedomby praying privately in their government offices, quietly at their school desks andeven at their seats during a county commissioners meeting. A group can even holdtheir own prayer vigil on the lawn before a school board meeting. Just don’t put itin the hands of lawmakers to lead the effort, and certainly don’t force those viewson others. In Maryland, the state Senate hosts leaders from different religions toopen its sessions and has rules against sectarian messages (references to Jesus orAllah, for example), which is at least a reasonable attempt at compromise andinclusiveness. (Though not always successful; references to Jesus do occasionallyslip in.)

Some Carroll County residents have threatened to show their consternation at thepolls and vote commissioners out of office. This latest turn of events offers noreason for that. The commissioners’ views on the matter are still very much in linewith their constituents’ conservative values — their fiscally conservative ones, that

9/3/2019 Carroll County learns the hard way: Religion and government should not mix - Baltimore Sun

is. More appeals would probably have cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands ofdollars with little chance for success. And complying with the settlement meansholding a moment of silence at the beginning of a meeting rather than a prayer —something the current commissioners have been doing anyway. We wonder whatthe people mad about this decision really care about: prayer or picking fights?

Baltimore Sun Editorial Board

This piece is written by the Baltimore Sun Editorial Board. Editorials are the opinion of theBoard, which is separate from the newsroom. If you would like to submit a letter to the editor,please send it to talkback@baltimoresun.com.