Conscious Claremont

Legal Defense for Field Station

2010-11-22T19:50:00.000-08:00

Recently, council actions were taken approving new lot adjustments adjacent to (& part of?) the field station. Although the colleges claim no current plans for development, obviously some are concerned about just such actions. A legal defense group has begun, and the website is active at: http://bfslegaldefensefund.bbnow.org/index.php. The group has found fault in the approval of the lots' subdivisions.

Yao's Departure Announced

2010-11-20T09:23:00.000-08:00

Tuesday's meeting will include: New Building Codes, Restaurant Fat & Grease Sewer Release Rules, Smoking in Public Plazas, Housing Rehab & Energy Retrofit Program.

The Courier this morning had a piece announcing Council member's Yao's inclusion on the new Ca. Redistricting Commission. Both he and Mayor Elderkin will not be seeking re-election, so it looks like there will definitely be new leadership. Some will be relieved for a change, although it's difficult to tell in what direction that might be.

The Courier also put forward names for the new election including Mr. Nasiali & Keenan, who are regulars at council meetings. Ed Leavell & Robin Haulman were also mentioned. Sam Pedroza will also be seeking re-election.

24 hour construction project set for Indian Hill

2010-11-13T18:01:00.000-08:00

Looks like North Claremont is getting some major construction in the form of a well development at 3039 Indian Hill, where a reservoir tank now sits. It's hard to tell from the technical language, but it looks like some major additions will be undertaken because other sites are not functional, including an underground well & pump. Construction is set to take up to 120 days & sometimes around the clock. Apparently a neighborhood meeting was conducted this summer inviting 120 people, with 9 showing up. The city only has to notify residents within 300 ft, which is only about .05 of a mile. The Golden State company is seeking a noise variance, to temporarily increase past legal limits during construction.

If you have questions, you may want to attend the Planning meeting Tuesday night.

Sports Team Fees, Dumping Competition, Cell Tower Invasion

2010-11-03T07:58:00.000-07:00

If you remember awhile back, the city was hoping to raise it's residence rates for teams who could use its fields, & then charge the teams. I suppose all the sports teams protesting may have had something to do with the new decision to go ahead and increase residency ratios for any new sports teams (to 65%), except the Foothill Storm & Starts soccer team with 23 teams total, & allow them to utilize the old rate (51%).

Also, to update the sanitation issue, it looks like our current landfill in Orange has come in with a match to the Mid Valley price. The two contracts will be presented at the next Community Services meeting.

And the cell towers are back, for new locations at Alexander Hughes and Wheeler Park, which is right next to Vista School. The community disagrees about whether these towers are harmful, despite scientific studies demonstrating effects, and telecom's desire to distort information. But more than that, because of their recent introduction, we are not sure what the effect will be on children in the long run. People in the community claim they are not dangerous unless one is close to them. Well, some children spend a lot of time in the actual park, not to mention the ones who will be in school. Furthermore, the issue that disturbs me is the city utilizes these for revenue. This seems like a careless way to raise income. Awhile back they approved a company to recruit these towers for us. With even the slightest evidence that these could harm us, not to mention their visually unappealing nature, this is questionable policy. Lastly, our current code is very loose and un-protective. It allows the company to make the proof of necessity, they can manipulate the data to do. What we need is an independent engineer to verify the finding, so we are not placing these in un-necessary locations. Not only that, but we ought to have better evaluations of the actual emissions; including cummulative measurements and more frequent updates.

I also have to wonder whether the city would put a tower at a school like Condit. Is there any bias here, to put the tower at a lower-income school? Would the parents reactions be any different? I certainly hope the parents and the school are officially and publicly notified.

This weekend I was watching a talk on a new book: Disconnect the truth about cell phone radiation. The author presents evidence about cell phone radiation's ability to damage DNA, break down the brain's defenses, and reduce sperm count, while increasing memory loss, the risk of Alzheimer's disease, and even cancer. The growing brains of children make them especially vulnerable. She describes the trillion-dollar industry, an how health experts are not allowed in the policy-making decisions, and regulatory standards are set by the cell phone industry. "Cell phone manufacturers have borrowed the playbook of the tobacco industry".

I've heard a councilmember say if we shouldn't worry about the towers because they are no more dangerous than using a cell phone. Given the possible side effects of the devices, his argument would be rendered null.

A number of other communities have protested the towers in their neighborhoods. I like Burbank's site on it. Apparently there is also a documentary on this issue, Full Signal.

Masters of PR

2010-10-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

Came across this quote from Tony Ramos, after being asked about the correlation of landfills being located in low-income neighborhoods [like our new dump the MidValley Landfill}:

“If I lived in Rialto I’d tell you it’s a great community,” he said. “We all love our communities.”

Ramos also pointed to the economic benefits of landfills, which bring money and jobs to a community.

Forget about the noise, pollution, smells, & contaminated water! His quote appeared in This Student Life article about the city's recent sanitation actions. Maybe he was unaware of the site's local opposition to expansion: Stop the MidValley Landfill- http://www.midvalleylandfill.com/.

The journalist only interviewed city staff/council, however; but shows you what the pr position is. It even claims the city never discussed privatization, but only solicited RFP's. L. Elderkin is also quoted. The difference in tipping fees is apparently from Alpha Olinda to new site is $28.06 (current) to $26.75 per ton.

Elderkin says the trash by rail system is planned for the desert. It might be more expensive, but at least it would be removed from people's neighborhoods & lower contamination. What about the emissions differences from trucks compared to rail, and the higher carrying capacity of a train?

Apparently the Mid Valley site, built before the neighborhoods, did not put down appropriate liners, & this has complicated the problems there.

7-11 Settlement/ Park Updates

2010-10-19T21:10:00.000-07:00

Saw this interesting item on the expense report: $10,000 to Kiran Se corporation; the company that had applied for the 7-11 permit, & filed a claim against the city about a month ago. Don't know the details or if there is access to information as to the reason for the settlement.

Another attention worthy item: the Rivers & Mountain Conservency paid the city $440,190 in grant reimbursements. Now where do you think this money ends up going? Since part of Padua Park was paid for out of the general fund, will it go back to that account?

The update also said that new work will begin with the other $360,000 of the grant. I don't remember the specifics of the grant right now, but either way, if you look at the cost spent on the park, you know that the city has already spent upwards of 4 million. I can't figure out the accounting on this project [& I think the public should be informed], & am wondering why the grant money can't all go towards reimbursement?

Landfill Issues Create Confusion, Criticism

2010-10-15T18:28:00.000-07:00

I found out more about the landfill contract. The most important piece of the puzzle is this: the reason that we had to sign a new contract, & quickly, is because the leaders decided to keep the disposal 'in-house'. You may think that if we had privatized, the city would still be concerned about dumping fees. But the private contract would have included the entire operation- pick-up, transportation & dumping- so any issues relating to disposal sites would no longer be a city concern.

At the same time the city was beginning their cost-benefit analysis, they were also negotiating this contract [in case the privatization didn't pan out]. Supposedly it will save the city $30,000 a year over the Orange site, & the over-all miles traveled should decrease 4,500. The timing is a 5 yr. plan with 3 5 yr. options; at the end of each period, the landfill can, obviously, increase their rates.

The Mid-Valley landfill does appear to have some social issues. In 08, reportedly, the county started expanding the site, by digging up old waste & transporting it to a new site. The head of the county's solid waste management, Peter Wulfman, was fired last March. The site has historical problems, & there is ample net articles about associated water contamination. I wish there was more time or research into these issues, so we could be confident the site is environmentally upstanding, but I don't think enough citizens or council members are concerned about these concerns to really investigate.

So, if the staff had been working on the new landfill agreement for four months, why did has it come up so suddenly? Is it, because, at least on some level, the city manager took the privatization agreement as a given? [Look at the other facts, the re-shuffling of Community Services division, & desire to utilize the city yard for other operations]. I initially did not assume that the privatization could be stopped. Most definitely, the public involvement criticizing the process had some impact.

Mr. Calaycay made a defense of the city manager, claiming Parker was open throughout this process. But I think this issue has left some citizens to question that assertation, & take a slightly harder look at the city's bureucracy (or so I've heard).

Sanitation Privatization Taken Off Table

2010-10-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

Tuesday's Council Meeting, Update on Sanitation Issue:

As some know, Tuesday was supposed to be the day for public discussion of the process of the cost-benefit analysis of the waste privatization.

But, actually, there was no need for comment on this, because the problem disappeared. In the closed session meeting, the council decided (3-2, no Calaycay, Yao), to contract with our sanitation department for another 5 years. Surprise! [The department will pay 8% PERS contribution, & a 2 tier retirement].

But, decisions will still be made about other important questions the citizens have brought up, like where we will dispose of our waste in the long term. And guess what, citizens will not be in on this process now!

Yes, even though the public participation process would have included analyzing our long term waste solution, that decision is reported to be up on the next Council agenda for a 20 year contract! Apparently, we now have a contract with the County of San Bernardino to dispose of our solid waste in the Mid-Valley Landfill for 20 years.

How the question turned from sanitation privatization to a 20 year solid waste contract disposal is a slight of hand, smooth move Mr. City Manager. Divert attention by the privatization; if you can't find your cost savings there, do something quick & make a move somewhere else.

Am I being cynical? Residents can decide on their own. But how do we move from a discussion about public participation in waste issues to the announcement that a contract will be approved in the next meeting. And because it needs to be done quickly, not even the Community Services Commission will be able to analyze it.

A quick search of the Mid Valley Landfill turns up a wealth of information. In 2008, the county introduced plans for the site's expansion, despite local opposition. Serious environmental concerns have plagued the area, including contaminated drinking water.

The site is expected to close by 2025 anyways, so this idea of a 20 year contract is not realistic.

Why shouldn't the city have a serious analysis of the various waste disposal options? Why rush this through in one meeting. Is this a case of, we gave you your sanitation workers, now turn your head the other way?

Besides being concerned about environmental issues at Mid Valley, we deserve to look at a range of options, especially if this includes a 20 year deal. Yes, it is nice to gain that savings now; & yes government looks for short term solutions. But if we have this savings temporarily & later down the line this cost explodes, & we have no room in the budget to economize in other places, we will have trouble for the next generation.

Maybe this is the great deal that everyone says it is. But the way this issue all of a sudden changed is confusing to me.

For an interesting site about Mid Valley, you may want to read this blog: midvalleylandfill.com

Sanitation, Land Sale on Agenda

2010-10-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow's council meeting has an interesting closed session item; a conference with property negotiators for land APN 8671-001-016 & 018. The negotiating party is John Schatz. The county auditor's map shows this land being somewhere in the Padua, north Baseline area---it's hard to tell from the map. It is vacant land, valued at around $100,000. The only item I could find on John Schatz was an article on the Claremonters Against Strip Mining site, mentioning he was an attorney for Pomona Valley Protection Association.

Also on the Agenda:

A report on the Chamber of Commerce's activity over the year. One interesting statistic, the center had 8,000 walk in visitors, averaging about 200 a day. Does this seems inflated to anyone else?

A item granting the city engineer blanket authority on project decisions involving right of ways. This is for the work on the Citrus bike trail. The project is being executed with a $1.2 million grant, and $300,000 from our capital project budget [which I believe is partially paid out of the general fund].

Designation of a League of California cities voting delegate to a business meeting in December. Will try to post the conference agenda in the future.

Western Christian is attempting to issue $17 million in new bonds, in part to pay off $12 million in bonds issued in 2009.

And, of course, a hearing to speak about the process for evaluation of the sanitation outsourcing. Besides just needing public input on this, we really need to examine the scientific and empirical evidence on outsourcing. This could include a task force, a conference, a sub-committee. But it needs to go past the simple analysis of the proposals & the ideological community stances.

Regional Group Action Should be Highlighted

2010-10-10T07:35:00.000-07:00

With all the discussion about contracting out, I decided to check up on the Independent City Association & the Contract Cities Association, groups to which the city belongs. Sounding somewhat contradictory, the IPA is for cities who provide their own public safety & the CCA is for cities who contract out services. Apparently the CCA was formed as a result of the 'Lakewood Plan' which allowed that city to be incorporated while contracting for most of its municipal services. Mr. Schroeder, remember, was formerly a public employee in Lakewood.

Then we have the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments. Mr. Pedroza is the city rep, & serves on its Energy, Environment, & Natural Resources, and Transportation committee. His involvement with the former committee again raises questions about potential conflicts of interest---he is an employee of a sanitation district & votes on legislation pertaining to waste. In July Mr. Pedroza led a motion for the group to opposes AB 737.

AB 737 would shift the current diversion rate to 75%, and would require certain businesses to arrange for recycling and require local governments to implement commercial recycling program. The bill also makes a number of technical and procedural changes to the laws governing solid waste facility regulation.

Because Pedroza is employed by an agency that operates landfills, it seems this legislation could impact their business.

Another organization which was brought to my attention is the California City Management Association, formed to support city management. Mr. Ramos & Arrula are members. Two of the Corporate Benefactors of the organization, Joe A. Gonsalves & Son [Professional Legislation Representation] & the HDL Companies, have both been hired by the city; Gonsalves is a re-occurring expense, although what legislative representation they provide is unknown.

Other organizations to which council members belong are the League of California Cities & the Southern Ca Association of Governments.

These types of organizations allow for inter-municipal cooperation & allow for wider address of economic development & service provision. At the same time, because most locals are unaware, & the Claremont council does little to share their involvement [save an update at the end of meetings], it does seem these organizations create problems for democratic participation.

At the local levels, it is difficult to identify organizations who can keep up with California legislation & advocate for citizens. Obviously we have the opportunity to choose a representative we believe will look out for us. Yet locally, it is more difficult to hold these members to any set policy, as they do not have party lines to keep them within a certain agenda.

I hope that other citizens will push for a better communication system in our city, & the posting of all agendas & minutes to these regional groups on-line. I've also felt & publicly suggested that we invest in an update of our website to make it more user-friendly & have public information more easily accessible & visible. If it were up to me, I would invest funds in a communication department, whose main focus would be information sharing.

Economic Sustainability Discussed Behind Closed Doors

2010-10-08T15:47:00.000-07:00

The recent budget process focused on economic development. I've been concerned about the lack of citizen involvement in our budgetary matters; the Bell scandal substantiated my concerns & I have been a proponent of an business & economic development and/or finance & budget commission.

I was quite interested when I heard Mr. Schroeder's plans for a 'blue ribbon' economic development committee, followed up by the mayor's announcement of such a committee.

When I didn't hear anything about it for the past few months, I followed up & found out she had appointed an ad hoc committee. This appears to have been formed without invitation for public participation. Members were sent letters in the mail announcing they had been appointed. The committee also does not appear to have any female community members, & its focus changed from 'economic development' to 'economic sustainability'-a subtle but distinct difference.

Ad hoc's operate outside of the public's view; they do not post agendas nor have open meetings. This makes our fiscal matters seem like an inside/elitist issue, & adds an air of secrecy.

Furthermore, one wonders if there are more problems that the leaders don't want the public to examine, or perhaps the recent program cuts & eliminations were not completely appropriate.

The irony here is that the Elderkin has ties to the League of Women Voters [in fact she often sounds like she's speaking directly to the members in her council comments], & that no one from the group has taken issue with her exclusion of females.

Last Year [08-09], the City had $32.5 million in revenue [in governmental funds--exclude sanitation, cemetery, sewer], & expenditures of $36.7, creating a $4.2 million deficit. The change in net assets report [including change in net revenue & use of money & property] showed a decrease of $7.719 million, the largest decrease since 2003 when the number was $5.132.

The general fund came out fairly balanced, but the focus on the general fund only provides us with a partial insight into the budget, since money is transferred between non general fund accounts, and investment & savings accounts are also altered. Additionally, the city provides loans to the redevelopment agency, to purchase property & assist with debt payments.

Our total debt [including redevelopment debt] decreased slighting from 2008-2009 from $37.926 to $39.095 million; still a significantly larger amount than previous years.

The economic sustainability committee includes the mayor, Mr. Schroeder, Bob Walton, Bob Tener, Paul Held, Opanyi Nasiali, Roberto Flores, Jack Meek, Mike Shea.

Update: Thanks to a reader, who informed me there is one woman, Amy Fass on the committee. Still, one out of eight is not very representative.

Design Standards Remain Intact; Commission--not so much

2010-10-04T11:50:00.000-07:00

I finally had a few minutes to piece together the architectural commission issue; umm make that an hour or more! It started July 27th, when re-appointments were to be [Mark Schoeman & James Sink], recommended by Calaycay & Schroeder.

The manager of the Doubletree companies made a public comment regarding an un-named commission member, whom he wanted evaluated more closely.

This provided an avenue for Mr. Pedroza to air his concerns about the commission. There was a constant reference to some meeting in which a commissioner was inappropriate.

The discussion lasted 40 minutes. To see an example of self-indulgent communication, take a look at the video.

The issue of economic development is already one of fourteen points considered by the commission, --"a project should further the city's economic development goals".

The commission appointments were then not accepted; & subsequently Mr. Schoeman resigned.

At the September 7th meeting, Mr. Pedroza's suggestions were considered for changes in the commission's criteria. The first was to make the standard of review only two meetings, a preliminary one & a follow-up on changes. Putting a time constraint on the commission doesn't necessarily seem like the right move---we can see that Pedroza was trying to give more power to the business community &, in his view, economic development. Some pointed out that in fact the commission already tries to be considerate of time constraints, even speeding things through at the risk of compromised design. [If you need evidence, look how fast they approved the affordable housing].

The 2nd change didn't seem so bad: that the commission develop a mechanism to evaluate the economic feasibility or paramaters of the proposed project'. [For example, Mr. Yao pointed out that the 7-11 building was not designed to be operationally succesful].

This type of analysis could turn out to be complicated though, & would probably bring the committee far further into project review---which would in turn make the process longer [something Pedroza wanted to avoid].

The council decided against his recommendations. After reading letters & the Courier, I feel the details of this issue were poorly understood & something was most definitely lost in translation.

One thing that did seem disapointing was that in the 2nd meeting, Mr. Pedroza started emphasizing that this was something done out of a desire to advocate for South Claremont, a reason he never gave in his first discussion. His first actions really seemed more like a bold pro-business move that he assumed would be welcomed; however he found out that others in the community, interpreting this as a desire to sacrifice design for economic concerns, did not feel the same.

LA Times Focuses on Redevelopment Agencies

2010-10-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

The LA Times has recently published two in depth articles about redevelopment.

A state audit found that dozens of agencies had failed for year to share money with schools and counties, as required.

A recent report by the Senate Office of Oversight & Outcomes concluded that no state agency ovesees redevelopment. Instead, "oversight is left largely to the city council members and county supervisors who sit as local redevelopment agency board members."

In many projects even the most basic accountability is lacking, said George Lefcoe, a professor of real estate law at USC.

"What we really want to know as taxpayers is, what kind of public funds were involved - what did we give and what did we get?" he said. "You cannot get those answers anywhere."

I have found this to be the case with our affordable housing project, where different financial numbers have been used over time.

The city said their total contribution was $6 million, while the state report says $7 million. There was also the item in July, when the city temporarily increased their loan amount by $825,000 until state funds came in, & changed $1.6 million in loans paid back immediately to a contribution, payable in 60 years [in a blink-and-you-miss-it council item]. Original estimates showed a state tax credit would be $18 million & it came out to be $11 million---where was the 7 million cost difference made up?

[An interesting connection to the Insider's City of Industry post--- $2 million for this project comes from that city's Affordable Housing program]

The same lack of accounting applies to redevelopment/economic development projects, like Peppertree Square. Awhile back, the staff showed new design plans for the site, & at a recent council meeting it looked like an architect spoke about the project. What are the costs for these items, both the outside ones and staff time? It is also impossible to comprehend how the staff hours for redevelopment agency matters are accounted.

Another point of the article is the transactions granted between redevelopment agencies & firms connected to the agency members. I didn't follow it at the time, but I have heard that the developer of the Old School House & the Doubletree had ties to Mr. Yao. I wonder how many people know the city [or agency] owns part of the Doubletree property. The developer also recently presented lot changes to arrange for future condos. A recent comment at the council meeting had a public member claiming that the process for which the School House was passed was done in a very conciliatory way to the developer. Another benefit to the property was the formation of the Tourism Business Improvement District, allowing the hotel to charge patrons a 2% tax which will be used for marketing.

The Time site has an interactive database with our city's spending on affordable housing from 06-08. Of the $4.7 million spent on affordable housing in those years, $2.5 was spent on land acquisition & $1.3 on planning & administration.

The Arrested Development articles are definitely worth a look; also includes picture galleries.

Lots of Cash & Little Scrutiny in City Redevelopment

Cities Often Give Short Shrift to Affordable Housing

Privatization Process + Community Involvement

2010-10-02T23:31:00.000-07:00

The mayor announced a future agenda item on public involvement in the sanitation privatization, after citizens expressed concern.

Months ago, I asked an inside source about this & was told 'the writing is on the wall'. The evidence seemed there, with the expressed desire to change the city yard, the comm. services re-organization, & Scott Carroll's departure.

This action comes after years of financial issues & I ask, why the push now? Is there possibly a financial problem that hasn't been completely explained [even though we've heard about pension issues], & that the million per year revenue [that the city will gain from this action] will go to some expense or bulking up the anemic savings accounts?

We should examine some scientific studies about contracting out. Here are some relevant points:

Privatization through contracting is

-part of a larger ideological crusade to reduce the size of government

-driven by management fads imported from the private sector

-influenced by the general shift in American society towards greater mistrust of government coupled with a renewed faith in the textbook model of free markets

Privatization raises concerns about

-service quality

-social equity

-employment conditions

The gains from privatization should be a result of competition, creating market pressures for efficiency. However, theory also predicts that private owners will seek to maximize profit at the expense of quality if careful monitoring is not conducted.

What explains the lack of cost savings under privatization?

Lack of Competition

Consolidation in the waste sector threatens real efficiency gains as competition erodes & price increases are forced upon local governments.

Need to Manage Markets

Governments can not contract out & walk away but must monitor service delivery.

Increased Attention to Citizen Participation

Public bureaucracies, like private firms, can improve service delivery, especially if the citizens are able to participate (along with planning & technical management).

Professor Mildred Warner at Cornell University has done extensive research on contracting out: Taking the High Road, Local Government Infrastructure & the Quest for Quality,

her site, article

UPDATE

2010-09-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, I had to take a short break from this blog to busy myself with other things. I started following local issues a year ago. After observing the College Ave. affordable housing action, & the difference between the Baseline Road consideration-- the disregard of the neighborhood's concerns, and the lack of citizen input, surprised me. Coupled with watching the inspirational film, Lions for Lambs, which high-lights individual responsibility we have for our country, I decided to get involved. The blog started as some sort of personal project, but I have found out that I am serving as a citizen journalist, and if the Bell crimes don't inspire us, then we probably weren't much interested in the first place.

The council was out of session for the past month, & I was considering ending this project. But, a few comments have come to me lately, words of encouragement, so I think I will try to keep writing. Will try to come back with comments about the past meetings & actions----but don't know if I can watch the whole five hour meeting!!!

This is the student from Lions for Lambs, who becomes disillusioned with government. His professor in the film, Robert Redford, tries to wake him up and realize by 'doing nothing', he contributes to the problem. Side note: The scene was filmed at CGU.

TechnOrganic ~ Karim Rashid Exhibit

2010-07-23T16:29:00.000-07:00

Design is about the betterment of our lives poetically, aesthetically, experientially, sensorially, and emotionally. My real desire is to see people live in the modus of our time, to participate in the contemporary world, and to release themselves from nostalgia, antiquated traditions, old rituals, kitsch and the meaningless. We should be conscious and attune with this world in this moment. If human nature is to live in the past - to change the world is to change human nature.

Top Community Survey Results; Pt. 2

2010-07-20T15:04:00.000-07:00

I have approached city council members at the farmers market and have expressed some concerns. My information was taken and I… never heard a response. It is really nice that the city council members will spend a Sunday morning at the farmers market but it is not clear why they are doing so.

You have a young adult community raising their families…Put some people in our age group on a committee. Human Services commission is made up of a median age of 55 and a single mom who is supported by the league of women voters. The City is clearly run on political appointments via commissioners committees and the chamber to name a few.

Our neighborhood's trees were needlessly butchered in recent years when green technology was available which would have saved them. City leadership on such [sustainability] issues is far too conservative and uninformed.

Parks and landscaped areas don't seem to be taken care of as well as the were 4-5 years ago. We once had a beautiful neighborhood park that was used by the residents in the area. Now AYSO owns the park, the street and many of our driveways evenings and weekends. The park is dominated by rude adults screaming and yelling through the day, trash is left blowing into our yards.

The City has to do better with redevelopment and planning Period. The City Planners have put together projects that have huge utilities bills and continue to be vacant. Claremont Village West has never been filled and the Tolkien Group does not show any effort to do anything about it.

Very upset that the City appears to be giving serious consideration to eliminating/ privatizing the ABCs preschool program. Shows a shocking disregard for the importance of early childhood education, an educated citizenry and the needs of working families.

Our neighborhood has many homes without street trees now and the whole character of the street has changed. Not fair for people to move in because of the beauty and then not take care of the trees because they don’t want to clean up.

When you get the lowest bidder for any service contract, particularly road maintenance or pipe maintenance, [staff should] also include quality of service into the equation.

Many of my neighbors and our family included feel as if the city is allowing Padua Hills to be used as a place to have parties, instead of a quiet neighborhood of professionals.

Top Community Survey Results

2010-07-20T15:01:00.000-07:00

A sampling of resident responses to the city's on-line survey:

Claremont became what it is because of well established programs and Policies. Has the current need to secure more revenue been caused by recent developmental changes in the city? In an effort to bring in more revenue The City has exponentially created a much greater need for Revenue. In the short term the global economic crisis is having its negative effect on Claremont but there is a deeper rooted crisis caused by the The City.

Crime seems to become a growing problem. In particular stories of home invasions and armed robberies seem to appear in the Courier on a weekly basis now.

Pursue economic development with unique businesses that support healthy cities and sustainability goals in a manner that protects and enhances our community’s identity and character. Not chains, not 3 mini marts in 1/4 mile and not 7-Eleven anywhere. Do not allow college expansion goals to devastate neighborhoods as has happened in Arbol Verde. Protect the Field station. The City receives no property tax of college land so limit expansion to where there is not existing community.

A great majority of my neighbors and I feel as if city officials have their own Agenda. When officials are making decisions that impact a certain neighborhood, they appear to not give importance to the actual residents of the neighborhoods that are being affected.

Priorities: Equity in access to resources, power, respect. Access to information, reasoned Discourse, educated society. Most of the things we should be able to take them for granted. Where is education, shared literacy, open and reasonable discussion of problems, opportunities, use of resources etc.?

I think that the city should do a better job at being more cutting edge in their attempt to promote and support sustainability in Claremont, & seek to [fund] green sustainable technologies. Maybe partner with local companies, colleges, organizations to get funding for green projects.

Waste money more so than any other city I have ever seen and, as a result, our taxes are higher than they need to be. A prime example of this would be the round about debacle several years where the city wasted over 1 million, or the ridiculously priced [City yard] facility.

Community services is slacking on lots of things, such as no supervision of the crew that caused the loss of a major tree on Indian Hill. I have lived in Claremont since 1972 and have always been proud of our city but lately not so much. We had a fiasco with the FIOS installation and the streets conditions afterwards are completely unacceptable.

I think it is important to have a city run trash department since the trash haulers are part of the community and become the eyes and ears, they spot problems and care enough to deal with them effectively. Also our trash services are far and away better than any I have ever experienced in living all over the country in many different communities. We have more services, free green waste, free recycling, bulk item pick up etc. etc. etc.

Full Agendas

2010-07-18T18:45:00.000-07:00

I guess the sports groups have some clout here! After what looked like more than 100 of them & their offspring showed up at the human services commission & protested the change in residency rates, the matter has been referred to a sub committee, called the Public Facilities Needs ad-hoc committee. Unfortunately, ad-hoc’s are not open to the public, though, if I were the parents, I’d definitely push for access. Or, we could pass a new ordinance that would open up these meetings [Sunshine Ordinances].

On other fronts, it appears development has picked back up, with the plan review for the 42 Baseline Road Condos, the College Ave. Affordable Housing, new Harvey Mudd master plan, new Pitzer dorm plans, Norms restaurant at the corner of Indian Hill & Auto Center, & a 13 condo development on San Jose, across from the District building. Mr. Desatnik is now the acting development director; although his name isn't in the new city structure graphs, the manager said Desatnik was being promoted, although to what position or how the redevelopment agency is affected, is unclear.

A new college parking ordinance is also up, which will allow the schools to reduce parking requirements by 20% for each class banned from bringing cars to campus. I was under the impression some colleges already have those rules informally in place since they have limited spots available. Right now the requirement is one parking spot for every 2 students. The council has held meetings a few times over the past years to draft a ordinance to help the problem, but common ground was unreachable, and though a ‘more thorough ordinance’ was envisioned, it has now been reduced to this streamlined version.

I’ve heard the management likes to pack the meetings in June & July, when public attention is on other issues & to ensure passage of items before the August council break, although city leaders refute that accusation. The number of significant items like the department restructuring, sports fee increase, and half a dozen development plans almost seem like evidence for the aforementioned claim. Last year I was particulary surprised at quick approval of the afforable housing passage in July, despite serious neighborhood opposition. I guess residents can make their own evaluation of this claim.

~wave of heat~

2010-07-18T15:19:00.001-07:00

Photo by lizardclique7

Notes from the Weekend

2010-07-18T14:37:00.000-07:00

Claremont Forum recently moved to the exhibition room, at the end of the Packing House. The larger (& cooler) space has tall ceilings which showcase the book collection. I've heard the new location is more visible & has increased visitors. Supposedly, the wine bar will expand into the old spot.

The Laemmle is showing I Am Love, an Italian drama with Tilda Swinton, who was also a producer. An absolutely stunning piece, the themes are change, both on the personal & global levels, & the essential aspects of life that ground us. One criticism recently has been the theatre's lack of art & foreign films; hopefully they'll continue to include them.

Objct Gallery has a new exhibition titled Technorganic, & on Thursday will host one of the artists, designer Karim Rashid.

Casa Moreno looked pretty packed on Friday & had Female mariachis, not that they were audible in the busy dining room. Although some may not agree with granting an owner $150,000 to start up a new enterprise, it looks like it has become a popular spot, at least on the weekends.

Eureka Burgers, the new Packing House restaurant just applied for their alcohol permit. Not sure what the hours will be, but hope no noise problems start for the facing condos.

Poem for July 13th City Council Meeting

2010-07-14T00:21:00.000-07:00

Tempo: click---click---click

Room full --------->>> empties out

question after clarification after summary.

Queen of Hearts

The Rabbit Hole

What's happening @ the Tea Party?

We're running late for all the dates

The blocks are being re-structured

but don't worry why

it's all for your own good anyways.

Some will drive Mercedes

some take the bus

same as it ever was.

New Parking Credits Might Worsen Problem

2010-07-11T19:33:00.000-07:00

A new parking report on the Village East is out, & includes proposals for new + lowered-cost parking credits.

Last summer, a restaurant/lounge wanted to open at Casa Flores's old spot, but it needed to increase the parking spot allotment from the store's present number. I'm uncertain if they could have purchased another organization's surplus spots. But one option seems to be purchasing 'parking in-lieu' credits from the city. The $9,000 per-spot price tag proved cost prohibitive, however.

The city's response is now to lower the fee to $1,000 per spot, for those with sales revenue over half a million or who will employ more than 5 people.

In general, decreasing the entrance fee to start an enterprise in the Village is not necessarily a good move, because this can be used as a signal to the new owner's viability or committment. The new amount also won't help contribute to purchasing a private lot.

But, after taking a longer view, I suspect this policy may be created specifically for the Casa Flores location---there are few cases with usage change [i.e. retail to restaurant]. I was told the $150,000 CDBG grant has been earmarked for this property---the proof seems to be the lack of advertising about the funds availability, & a year has gone by with no takers. This would fit the pattern of altering general policy to facilitate specific plans.

Another aspect of this move is the creation of 125 new credits for the Village East. This is the amount reported as a current surplus, even though the count includes outlier streets like College, & Harrison & private lots, inaccessable to the general public. In a way, this info seems to refute the idea of a Village parking problem; although it doesn't address specific issues.

At any rate, decreasing the fee will primarily benefit the new businesses, & the creation of new credits will allow merchants to skip out on providing 'real' parking for customers.

It comes as no surprise, though. Lowering the hurdles for business, and granting special favors, looks to be common with our leadership, no matter if we create other messes in the process.

*I've also been informed a similar short-sightedness has been present in parking negotiations with the colleges; in exchange for banning Freshman or Sophomores from bringing vehicles to the schools, the city has lowered the total required amounts by 10% per each class banned.

Innovations for Building Community

2010-07-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

The college-town relationship has received attention lately, regarding their interaction or responsibility to the community. Universities like UNC's School of Government offer educational resources to municipal employees. We also should utilize CGU to provide teachings on relevant issues like the state of the economy, innovative business practices, & arts management. The Drucker school could provide seminars to local businesses.

There are so many creative ideas we could pursue to improve the city, not only economically but socially, as well.

I really like the insights of Richard Florida, who advocates a focus on 'the creative class'-those who create for a living. Cities following his program have implemented programs for art promotion, internship creation, social networking, talent retention & more.

The non-profit Sprout Fund model seeds small projects that are started by youth. I'd like to see part of the Community Development Block Grant Funds go towards micro-financing, to help with those who may want to start-up a small or at-home business.

I know of a few community groups, but I can't say it seems like there is visible civic engagement unified towards tangible pursuits; young adult involvement seems especially lacking. Awhile back Councilman Schroeder announced the creation of economic development committee & later I was told Mrs. Elderkin was appointing one. On that action, some of us are concerned about who she may choose & what variety of opinions will be valued.

The city should also give some thought to the building of a social media component to improve citizen communication & insight. Government can work with others like non-profit groups & local media to support an on-line version of the public square.

Fiscal Crisis to Overwhelm Municipal Governments

2010-07-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

There are some very grave issues in American politics that simply can not be addressed or resolved without a substantially greater measure of cooperation across party lines than we now see. And, case in point, mainly the fiscal crisis that is about to overwhelm the government of the United States and all the state governments and municipal governments. Steni Hoyer, the majority leader, came to Brookings & delivered a speech & the first paragraph ended like this-Don’t think what happened in Greece can’t happen here and if we don’t change course it will happen. And he is right about that, and there is no way that liberal activists in the Democratic party or conservative activists in the Republican party can solve that problem by themselves. There is no single party solution to that problem; clarity of vision is not the point, cooperation across the political system is the point and that’s what we don’t have right now.

There is a clear relationship between the level of political condensation that exists today and the abysmally low trust in our political institutions that the citizens of the United States are manifesting, and I maintain that a system in which 80 % of the citizens hold their governing institutions in contempt is a fundamentally unhealthy system. That was not the case when I was your age and it is not an accident because the political parties did not relate to each other the way they do today, there is a causal link between the polarization, that I regret, and the contempt for government that has spread across the country in my lifetime. And I find that, as a citizen, almost impossible to bare.

-William Galston
Brooking Institute
Senior fellow governance studies

Wheregoes Mr. Witt?

2010-07-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

The answer to this question, is in an Courier article last month, that I must have missed.

The report says Mr. Witt has worked for the city for 25 years, so that helps me understand why he wants to retire~

And yet, the timing is coincidental; coming right before the proposed re-organization. Whether this was a personal decision, pushed by management or a mixture of both is only known by those with inside knowledge.

Long time planner Lisa Prasse has also left.

Should Colleges Donate to City?

2010-07-09T11:52:00.001-07:00

The Daily Bulletin ran an article this week about the University of Redlands donating $50,000 to the city, to go to an adjacent park, internships, library & programming.

At two budget meetings, residents have brought up this college-town transaction, citing Harvard
University's voluntary payments of $1.9 million to the City of Boston.

As non-profits, the Claremont Colleges receive benefits for-profits forgo. They do not pay taxes on their investment gains, nor do they pay real estate taxes. They also benefit from tax-deductible donations by outside sources.

From the Harvard University paper: "We argue that these benefits bring added responsibility. If Harvard is to avoid hundreds of millions of dollars in taxes each year and economically dominate the towns of Cambridge & Allston, it must support these stakeholders at best it can during times of economic uncertainty". Certain Massachusetts legislators have even advocated a taxes on large universities.

With five different colleges in the city, this seems like an arrangement that ought to be investigated. Yes, the college's provide the city with visitors & students who patronize our business & increase sales tax & they provide numerous community events & library access. But, they also are becoming a larger portion of the city space, with their expansion plans & property purchases. Their reputations have also advanced considerably over the years, along with the media attention, in which the've come out on the top of lists like Return on Investment, Happiest College, & Most Expensive. Their growing alumni amounts have also increased their endowments substantially. Tuition alone approaches $40,000 a year.

Why doesn't someone put together a committee, task force, community/research group or conference to investigate this? The city is known to bend to the colleges, maybe it's time they did the same.

A interest group from the colleges who would be in support of this action also has to be formed, as it should be a decision that reflects the values & desires of the students there.

* An interesting side note, the recent facility usage report recommended that the college athletic departments strengthen their support of youth programs & the city pursue joint use field agreements with the schools.

Harvard's Role As a Non-Profit, Crimson Article

7-11 Back in News?

2010-07-09T01:41:00.001-07:00

Kiran-Se, the same company that applied for the 7-11 permit, has shown up on the closed session agenda under a discussion of a liability issue. Could they possibly be pursuing a lawsuit against the city-maybe the refusal for the conditional use permit left room for legal objection?

While on the topic of lawsuits, nothing has shown up in the press about the latest Palmer Canyon action suit over the amount of property they were given.

This is Disclosure

2010-07-08T22:41:00.000-07:00

Well, at least they're spelling out the proverbial 'writing on the wall' ahead of time. An agenda item for Tuesday's meeting includes a presentation about the new organization of city departments, which includes transferring cemetery, park, facility maintenance & transportation to human services, & adding engineering to community services, which will have the new name of community/public services. Engineer Craig Bradshaw will become the head of this department.

Mr. Witt, the community development director, is said be retiring, & previous community services director Scott Carol left recently, and the position itself was eliminated in the new budget. How can we help but see these actions as pre-emptive moves towards this new set-up?

The report mentions the possibility we 'may' contract out sanitation. And, even though the 'cost-benefit analysis' that is supposed to break down financial considerations hasn't been presented, proposals are already being sought from companies. It's slightly confusing why a report can't be created with available data-----or why Requests for Proposals are sought before the decision is made.

I can't pretend to believe the council members don't already know how they will vote--indeed Mayor Elderkin has publicly stated her position against outsourcing trash & I'd take the liberty of assuming the other 4 feel opposite; but still, the way the staff has gone about the process, limiting disclosure & public participation, has not gone unnoticed, least of all by the community services commission, who took issue with their role in the matter at a past meeting.

Privatization isn't a simple decision, as some in the city might want us to believe. Power structures, quality of service, & labor considerations all come into play.

While watching a conference on running state government today, I heard a former governor say:
POLICY MATTERS ^ it may not seem like it in this day of 30 second sound bites & the tendency to come up with very aggressive & extreme rhetoric, but if you get through all that policy matters.

Is this new policy of restructuring the departments going to fix the problems we have, is it going to prevent them in the future? What is the real reason & how will it effect us? I believe other cities already have this type of organization, & I don't want to rule out that it may be a productive model, but the effects need to be spelled out.

How can we look at this without seeing a game type strategy?

1) General Fund revenues can't keep up with expense increases; Although sanitation currently covers its expenses, contracting to a private company will create a profit to use for future deficits.

2) Removing sanitation from city yard will create a near empty building, recently built at a cost of $5 million.
3) Current police facility needs upgrades or a new facility---funds not being available, & the vacant yard property enables a switch to this location, although it appears logistically un-optimal.

***If the city were being completely transparent, they ought to give a true timeline for the cost analysis & the decision process, & the council owes it to stake-holders [residents] to seek out our opinions on this.

This re-organization was previously phrased as a action taken if we privatize trash; however here it is presented irrespective of that decision, to add even more to the confusion.

City to Charge for Use of Parks

2010-07-07T12:37:00.000-07:00

A new public facilities report is out detailing issues surrounding city parks. Apparently, there is a problem with funds for maintenance & upgrades, & the new policy calls for a $5 charge per sport participant, as well as $25/hr fee for teams comprised of less than 75% residents.

I continue to see small changes like this, in services that used to be covered by property taxes. If you lived in Claremont, you were entitled to use its parks for free. This, along with the proposed meters in the Wilderness Park, are debatable.

The report calls for complete field & watering upgrades, & increased lighting. It also claims more participants, coupled with year-round sports, have increased the burden on the fields. [I've always observed year-round play, though].

Maybe we should require residents to pay for these improvements, & those outside the city who use our fields. Although, it seems like an equal exchange, as we also visit or play in other cities. I'm used to this pay-for-recreation strategy, after living in Los Angeles where you have to pay to park almost everywhere you go. The freedom of movement we enjoy is one of the primary reasons I choose to live here.

On one hand, I understand that the fees are being charged to make improvements. On the other hand, I can't figure out how we struggle to afford park upkeep, but we have one fund in the redevelopment agency, that brings in 4 million dollars a year, and pays out 1 million on new affordable housing & 1 million on commercial center revitalization.

This type of strategy is apparent everywhere in our society---there is sufficient funding for the redevelopment activity & its benefits for private industry, but we have to start charging people to use the parks. I don't know enough to figure out this curiousity, but living here most of my life, this is one issue that bothers me.

One also wonders from where the funds came to pay the increased Padua Park's maintenance costs? I hope this new fee increase is not necessary just because of Padua Park.

Additionally, the city wants to start selling advertising in the parks in the form of banners to raise money. When I'm in the park, I want to relax & enjoy the outdoors; I don't especially want to read ads for insurance or real estate. This, on the heels of new plans for cell towers in parks, makes me feel like our city is running itself more like a for-profit corporation, at times. The city's recreation department also gave a presentation on its plans to 'build its brand', in part by focusing on revenue generating programs.

What's Being Decided in Your Name?

2010-07-06T15:50:00.000-07:00

Have you ever heard of the California Contract Cities Association, the Independent Cities Association, League of California Cities, San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments, Southern California Association of Governments? These are a few of the regional groups to which Claremont belongs.

The idea behind them seems innocent enough; the groups can plan and advocate on a wider level than the individual city, and share ideas & innovations.

But, spend some time on the websites, & we see that these associations often advocate positions that Claremont citizens may not support. For instance, the Contract Cities Assoc. works to strengthen redevelopment agency powers, & the SGVCG partners with economic development groups that seek to weaken the California Environmental Quality Act's (CEQA) reach.

There are 19 independent committees outside of the City Council of which council members & staff participate. Although all of these groups hold open meetings & publish agendas, the city does not provide one information source to provide this data, save for posts in front of city hall---certainly an in-effective means of communication.

That our officials often perform actions within these groups of which most residents have no knowledge, is disturbing enough, but what frightens me is how some of these groups serve as platforms from which big corporations & industry can gain access to officials & push their agenda's through local & state government. Even a precursory look at their goals shows they often are pro-development & expansion, be it land, transportation, infrastructure etc.

Developers, financiers, & business interest is so well-organized & focused that they are able to use government groups like these to pursue their individual strategies.

As big business & corporations become ever more powerful, & the average American citizen's financial situation worsens, these formal organizations who act as if they are making decisions in our name, are disconcerting. And, like the cell tower issue, if our council members are going to take debatable action, we should be provided with clear web-available content on the relevant decisions.

List of Committees & their apointees

Do Party Lines Influence our City?

2010-07-05T22:33:00.000-07:00

The day care contract has recently started through the Human Services Commission. The city will pay utilities, custodial, + other upkeeps, while the new company will pay $6,000 a month in rent.

This issue highlights two relevant points. The first is a trend that we have seen, both in our local scene and beyond, of contracting out government-provided services to the private sector. Some may question if it is a legitimate function of government to provide child care, but that is another topic. The action at hand is that we have decided to allow a private company to use government owned property and to provide a service that was previously the city's responsibility.

These contracting-out decisions appear to often be motivated by staff + council's political allegiances & philosophies. Though councils are said to be non-partisan, on issues like privatization, leader's political ideologies can't be discounted. I hope that residents will become more aware of council member's political affiliations & the way these often impact their voting decisions.

The second trend this action demonstrates is the way in which the city often presents data that clouds our ability to comprehend the issue. In 2009, when they first raised day care prices, they claimed the program was making $13,000. After the price increase, it started running at a deficit. Now, it will raise $6,000 a month, minus building upkeep & scholarships. I've never been able to quite figure out the how's and why's of this decision, but one thing seems certain, these families appear to have been given a continuous run-around.

Cell Towers as a Revenue Source

2010-06-29T09:40:00.001-07:00

I want to give resident's a head up that the city has plans to put even more cell towers in parks. If you haven't been by the La Puerta site, the equipment is very serious, high energy machinery, & other cities have taken the steps to ban the towers in parks. At the very least, we could strengthen our cell tower code & citizen protections, like placing a burden of proof that the tower is necessary, and adding greater electromagnetic measurement criteria.

Studies do exist that cell towers affect human health, & furthermore, the true health effects on sensitive or growing body systems will not be know until 15 or 20 years from the tower's implementation.

If citizens have time, they ought to consider requesting a cell tower code that protects citizens. To use the towers as a revenue raiser, to me is offensive. I won't forget the woman and her daughter who came to the meetings, and said they had moved to Claremont because they thought it was a town that valued health and children. The kids who grow up here often have the parks as their only connection to nature. Is this really a place to be placing heavy electromagnetic technology?

Berkeley's website about their towers: here

Affordable Housing

2010-06-29T08:53:00.000-07:00

The city's affordable housing project was approved for the federal tax credit.

The state report had some interesting info:

The Financing includes construction financing by the agency of $4.6 million, & permanant financing of $5.3 million & a 'subsidy note' (the gap financing) of $1.6 million.

The project will have 40 1 bedroom, 12 2 bedroom, and 24 3 bedroom units.

The report also has the price breakdown for the apartments.

I haven't read much about affordable housing, & I support the idea, in general. But, $7 million on one project seems like it may be removing funds from spending we need for general operations. Maybe this is a large amount because the city had a large balance in their account.

On another note, as other's have pointed out, with the large family units of the 2 & 3 bedrooms, we also create a greater need for schools & family support services. The seniors, as well, will have a need for senior services. This, at a time, where we do not have any further funds in our budget, & have cut community service staff.

Items like affordable & high density housing are value judgements. We are now obligated to spend $1 million a year on affordable housing. Whether some believe this is justified or is an expense we should be undertaking, is open to debate. As far as I can tell, the pass through rate, or tax increment funds that filter through to public safety or schools is zero, which makes the amount set aside for housing large. Perhaps, with the school & public safety budget problems, some of the tax increment could accrue to those two groups, instead of housing.

Read the report from the state tax credit department: here

Public Funds for Private Business

2010-06-28T19:48:00.000-07:00

I went by Padua Park today; also the Wilderness Park-where at least 30 cars looked to be lining the street [+ made me think maybe we should use meters-but people will probably park streets away]. Padua Park is stellar-although it's not long before it will be crowded-but when you're there, again one thinks about costs and employee losses. The city says the park cost had nothing to do with the financial issues, even though the grant originally counted on was frozen and at least 1.5 million came from the general fund. Projects like these, while giving a benefit to the community, financially benefit business companies like the construction firm when big public dollars go to them. They also create externalities-for the adjacent neighborhood, like the affordable housing project on College, and the 210 freeway. A project that benefits one person harms another.

Then, I was thinking about Jeff Parker and all the projects that have been completed under him, like the Village West. I think our citizens should realize, especially since the expansion of the redevelopment project area in 2000, what a large percentage of public funds go towards business enterprises that enrich business owners. Yes, they benefit the community with added options, but they also take away funds from other things, hence the crisis in our general fund and school district.

While the budget process provided summaries, the individual items did not get much coverage. I hope at least a few people in the community will read the 200+ page report so we have at least some citizen education on how our funds are spent.

Through studying the city, I've realized how complex some issues are & also that it does apear that our society's income inequality is increasing, hence contractors and public funds going to enterprise. The local government is one of the few places we have substantial control, so I hope that more people will join in on the complex discussions, and I do hope for some new ideas and insight, because what's happening now seems questionable.

The Redevelopment Conundrum

2010-06-16T01:02:00.000-07:00

Politics refers to the activities associated with government, while economics deals with those activities occurring in the market---though often overlapping, politics & economics are two different processes.

We often see the city government acting as an economic institution. The idea is that they can contribute to efficiency by responding to imperfections in the market; for example, in the pursuit of policies to create jobs, or providing goods that citizens may not be able to afford, like housing.

This strategy exhibits certain pitfalls----government lacks the internal pressure for efficiency created by the market’s competing forces, while self-interested politicians & bureaucrats often pursue higher incomes & increased power over efficient government.

With Claremont’s case, especially the Redevelopment Agency, their activities have altered property rights + incentives, & reallocated resources.

Let’s take a few of their big projects:

1) Auto Center Drive—One of the agency’s main activities was investing in the dealerships, including selling discounted property & spending over $300,000 in street + sign improvements. While this temporarily stimulated the sales tax revenue, it also led to an over-reliance on auto sales &, the erroneous prediction of continued revenue increases led to unsustainable employee levels & operating expenditures.

2) Village West--- The city focused on this new property, but we’ve seen significant vacancies here, in prime locations. Does this not lend itself to some questioning about the design or development strategy? No evidence exists that the increased sales tax has actually covered the cost of the investment, and while efforts focused here, other neighborhood centers began to decline, creating greater need for revitalization.

3) The Affordable Housing Project--- We have $5 million invested in this project. While this is a noble goal, the $1 million we must set-aside each year decreases the amount we can spend on city-wide operations.

The Redevelopment Agency has been operating since the 70’s, but in 2000 all of the land was organized into one plan, and now contains 542 acres, much commercial real estate. The Agency has also issued significant debt to finance itself, & spends $2 million annually to pay it off.

The Agency’s revenue will be $4 million the next year or 20% of the General Fund. The funds come from property tax increment which normally would go to the city & school’s operations.

I wonder if the current city & district's budget problems have any basis in the loss of these tax increment funds to the agency?

This city council said now is not the time to stop economic development. While this may be obvious to some, it is most definitely a value judgement on their part. Numerous non-mainstream voices advocate steady-state economics and much more creative development innovations than we've tried are in existence. So much of the last five years has centered on commercial ventures, while the focus seems to have shifted off the local residents.

The agency works as an investment mechanism, & analyzing its benefits & drawbacks is complicated. But, it seems unfair if the funds are leaking out on private investments that don't cover their costs, or on projects that come at the expense of existing residents. Sometimes it looks like a case of robbing Peter to pay Paul.

The Growth-Machine

2010-06-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

With the recent attention to the budget puzzles, talk has again focused on future ‘economic development’. Those good-intentioned residents shouldn’t act like amnesiacs, but ought to first examine the tough questions: what have the last ten years of our development looked like, who has the growth benefited, what are the problems it has brought?

Research shows growth costs exiting residents more money, while exhibiting points of diminishing return, such that additional expense increments lead to net revenue loss. The process tends to transfer quality of life and wealth from the local general public to a certain segment of the local elite.

Impressive projects have been completed- the Auto Center, Doubletree, Old School House, Padua Theatre, the Depot & the Village West [consisting of the Packing House, a hotel, theatre, retail prop., + a parking lot] and most were premised on boosts in sales.

Yet, what about the costs of these under takings? Outflows go not only to start-up, maintenance, event, marketing, and staff costs but to consultants, lawyers, property managers & brokers. The city owns the parking structure & shops, the Doubletree property, the Back Abbey and fronted the costs for the Village Square buildings, hotel & theatre, to be paid back from the owner’s operational profit. We’ve also invested 4 million in a new affordable housing development & will remodel Peppertree Square.

But wait, there’s more---we re-did the City Hall & Alexander Hughes center, expanded the senior center, built a new city yard and Padua Park.

We’ve been able to do this because we’ve undertaken substantial debt—to the tune of 37 million, making our payments at least 2 million a year.

Throughout the city, private development has also increased with new housing developments in north Padua, on Mills & Baseline, and in the West Village, and commercial expansion on Monte Vista. Future plans include 42 townhouses [Baseline/ Towne], & condos north of the Old School House. Let’s not forgot all of the college developments both finished (CGU apartments, sports fields), in-process (1st ave. parking structure, new dorms), & future (large expansion onto pits & north of Foothill).

We don’t need to necessarily assume growth is a public good. Even with all our new developments, fiscally we are struggling, and other issues arise. For example, with the increase in downtown visitors, we have created a parking problem. There is also a trend toward higher density development, seen in the 42 homes on 2.6 acres on Baseline, and 60+ for College Ave’s 3 acres. The increased activity causes strain on the physical and social environments, when the increased populations require additional police, schools, and social assistance. When our resources are focused on rejuvenating certain areas, our neighborhoods decline at a faster rate. We can see this in the recent cuts in city wide maintenance services.

Besides needing to take a wide-view on development, and allowing in alternative ideologies (such as no or slow growth), and framing economic development in terms of improving our quality of life, not just our revenue base, we need to recognize the planning process is open to manipulation and politics. Unless more objective residents participate and a more sophisticated analysis emerges, our city will remain unbalanced.

*We also could benefit from a less-biased and more in-depth media source, yet local papers are often invested in the growth of the city too.

Claremont's Budget Freefall

2010-05-24T14:40:00.000-07:00

Half way through the 2008-9 fiscal year, the city's budget projections were off by $2 million, because of lower sales/utility user tax & development fees, as well as higher operating costs.

Management allocated one-time revenue, eliminated open positions, and made minor operating account reductions. Employees forewent the yearly cost of living adjustments, merit payments, & health + fitness allocations. In all, long term savings only came to half a million, leaving a million dollar deficit to re-appear.

Six months later, in the beginning of the 09-10 fiscal year, management announced the state would be taking $1.2 million in Property Tax, + Highway User Tax Account funds, & $1 million in Redevelopment funds. They also claimed an additional half million revenue drop off the prior adjustment.

The reserve could have covered the prop. tax take-away, the transportation funds should have taken the HUTA hit, & the agency could have decreased spending and utilized its fund balance. [Through a securitization program, we also received the prop tax amount right back].

Instead, reductions centered on the general fund, with staff eliminations, implementation of a 4-day work week, decrease/elimination of community programs (school safety/drug education, tutoring, swim lessons), & fee increases for day-care & community classes. We also raised parking fines 30% & implemented a 2% assessment fee on hotel users.

The council claimed economic development could not suffer, so it took on half a million of the redevelopment agency's salary costs, & took another half mill from the agency's fund balance to cover the rest.

The 2nd round savings totaled $3 million. Yet, with the additional agency costs we now pay, and the left over deficit from the first actions, the savings were totally consumed; although since $1 million are only one time take aways, this should have created a future surplus.

The 2010-2010 budget is due in June. Because general revenue will remain flat the next two years, while costs obviously increase, management again has taken action by eliminating positions, contracting out more services [Day Care, additional maintenance, community grant program], and re-writing contracts at lower service levels [landscaping, maintenance, trees].

The national economy, in particular the development + housing bubbles, & the consumer spending decrease, is a partial cause of our local budget problems. Still, one wonders if management had any role in its depth. Councilman Yao commented that their spending may have been un-balanced in prior years.

Resident concerns seem to be the real world affects of these changes on service levels, experience, and morale. Additionally, questions have arisen about the long-term sustainability of our operating model. Issues about unfunded retirement liabilities, generous employee compensations, increasing insurance costs, and nebulous economic development strategies have all been raised. A deeper and more analytical review of the city's situation is in order.

Privatizing Child Care A Political Decision

2010-04-21T13:02:00.000-07:00

How important are our working families & young children? Last year, the city-run day care program was covering its operating expenses, & earning $13,000 in profit. Even so, mgmt raised fees from $590 to $813 a month, claiming the increase in revenue could pay for other human service programs. Either they didn't understand basic economics, or they were trying to make the program un-functional.

At the new price, the enrollment dropped, & staff now claims we should no longer operate the center. Instead, we are now seeking a private firm to run its own program out of our facility.

The question comes up why was the day care targeted for elimination? Is it because the parents are not politically connected or the employees powerful? Reminds me of the College Ave. affordable housing project, steam-rolled through without concern for the adjacent neighborhood.

This high-lights a broad city privatization movement. We already contract out tree care, custodial, landscaping, street-sweeping, & legal, & plans are underway to hire private firms to operate three community programs, and possibly sanitation services.

Privatization is better understood as a political phenomenon and we deserve to at least discuss its effects. While proponents claim cost savings & better choices, we are also changing rules, disclosure, and access.

Redevelopment Immune to Financial Hardship

2010-04-20T20:30:00.000-07:00

In tough economic times, while we lose staff & slash spending, it's good to know the redevelopment agency has sufficient funding for the really important stuff, like:

$24,000 --- Consultants

$22,000 --- Mortgage payment on Back Abbey property

$12,000 --- Brokerage (CBRichardEllis)

$8,000 --- Design fees (for prop. like the Auto Center)

$7,000 --- Legal Fees

$1,000 --- Signs

$500 --- Airport visitor's brochures

All Costs Per Month!

Last year, after the state took redevelopment funds, mgmt. could have scaled down their activities. Instead, the city took on half a million of the agency's costs & dipped into the agency's savings to cover another half million. [Even though, legally, the agency is a separate entity]. So the agency gets away with not compensating employees for work, & the residents have to give up valuable programs. Who knows if or when the agency will pay its fair share again?

The agency will soon have revenue of $4 million a year, the equivalent of 20% of our general fund. $1 million a year will be spent on commercial property renovations.

Of extra concern: Mr. Glen Southard, subsequently proven to be less than trustworthy, headed up the process of claiming almost every commercial property in town to be redevelopment property (after which, any subsequent increase in the prop. tax would accrue to the agency).

How do you feel knowing we have millions to spend on private property upgrades, but can't afford to operate aquatics program, child care, or schools?

Shock Doctrine Hits Town

2010-04-20T12:54:00.000-07:00

The Shock Doctrine is the idea that groups are able to remove regulations & operate without oversight when citizens are in a state of shock from a traumatic event, like a financial crisis.

Disturbingly, there has been a number of instances lately, where citizen participation has been eliminated & certain groups given more power.

Exhibit A: In September, the council voted to change our reserve policy. We used to ensure that 15% of our operating budget would be set aside for fiscal + natural disasters, with 10% set aside for un-forseen capital/operational needs. They decided to erase those stipulations, & now can spend the reserves as they deem appropriate.

Exhibit B: Elimination of the Investment Committee & transfer of investment decision authority to the treasurer [aka the finance manager]. The council & 2 citizens made up the group and were involved in choosing our investment vehicles. Now Mr. Pirrie (qualifications unknown), has the full authority on decisions, with the council to receive quarterly updates.

Exhibit C: Behind the scenes plans to privatize sanitation. The head of the community services department has been fired, & a cost-benefit analysis is in process. Even though sanitation funds are separate from the general fund, look for management to claim this as a solution to our money problems.

Park Opens, But At What Cost?

2010-04-18T19:39:00.000-07:00

Next week residents will be able to enjoy Padua Park with its wide-open spaces, mountain views, natural habitat & million-dollar neighborhood.

An observer can't help feeling strange at the vast & expensive construction occurring while we experience serious fiscal problems.

While in recent years we've terminated employees & funding, we were able to spend almost 4 million from the general fund to finance this site, including this year's costs of $1.7 million. Even with an $850,000 conservancy grant, projections of city spending are upwards of $4.7 million.

Will the city re-coup the expenditures by charging teams for usage, like CHS, or will they sell the naming rights to a corporate sponsor? stay tuned....

Striking Hilltop Home

2010-04-18T10:26:00.000-07:00

This Hartman-Baldwin home was re-done after the '03 wildfires. Designed to take advantage of the 365 degree views, & abundant sunshine, the structure includes 12 foot high ceilings with skylights, glass walls, & corners without posts. Deep overhangs keep it cool & protected.

Crampin' the Style of Tobacco Aficionados

2010-04-18T09:09:00.000-07:00

Smoking may soon be prohibited @ the following: All restaurant & bar patios, sidewalk tables, Village Plaza (+ adjacent walkways). A number of cities have passed the ban, though the severity varies.

Must point out---> while ban would reduce smoking, it would probably not eliminate it, as patrons may duck out to nearby sidewalks.

2 reasons for the ordinance: 1) decrease second-hand smoke exposure, & 2) induce smokers to lower their consumption///send a message of unacceptability.

This seems like a disadvantageous time to potentially impact the restaurant's customer base. While business may increase from those preferring non-smoking environment, it may decrease from those who prefer to patronize tobacco friendly establishments.

LA's ban will allow smoking in bar & club patios, a pass we should consider, perhaps allowing restaurants operating after a certain hour [i.e. 10 p.m.] to follow suit.

A smoke-free environment sounds oh-so-healthy. Simultaneously, luxury vices have long been known as agents of economic stimulus (think drinking, gambling, dancing, caffeine).

Other considerations: intrusions into private property rights, health of restaurant workers.

Baseline AH Project Comes to Final End

2010-04-11T15:56:00.000-07:00

Tuesday predicts a loss of almost a quarter-million tax payer dollars & the end of an ill-conceived affordable housing project on Towne & Baseline.

In all likelihood, Mr. Buckland, founder of Olsen Co. & now City Ventures will be gifted, I mean sold, 2.66 acres of North Claremont real estate for $1.75 million, some six years after the initial acquisition.

The 2004 purchase occurred without detailed plans for the future housing project & despite resident concerns about practical & land use issues.

Ironically, then Mayor Baldonado predicted even if a project was never built, there would be no way the city would lose a dime on the purchase. Appearing fairly wise in hindsight, councilman Yao voted against the action, citing worries about the process & lack of attention to potential problems.

Is it merely a coincidence that Olsen co. was initially slated to purchase the Courier property, but backed out right before the city decided to buy it, and a few years later, the founder is being sold the original a.h. property? Just curious....

*Need further proof redevelopment benefits friends of city hall? The lot's first developer was going to be Southern California Housing Development Corporation, of which resident Andrew Wright is a founder.

Historic Home Made Even Cooler

2010-04-10T13:35:00.001-07:00

A historic & famous home has been brought into the 21st century.

On the corner of College & 8th, you may have noticed much activity this past year.

Owners Andy & Blenda Wright hired Harman Baldwin architects to renovate the property. They planned for an energy efficient & sustainable design, an aspect the original builders, Greene & Greene, also found important. Two brothers, they were innovators in 1903, & factored in the environment & future function. They incorporated cross-ventilation & broad-overhanging roofs to combat the summer heat (before air-conditioners). Windows look out onto vistas, & doors lead easily into gardens.

Read the Times piece on the new design: here.

Dome Nears Completion

2010-04-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

The Dome @ the Pomona College Farm nears its final stages, six years in the making.

The community has come together to spend hours crafting the door. The scene is a tribute to the farm & farmers, with plants, mountains, crops, flowers & a shovel for the handle. Local artist Louis, a 3rd generation wood-worker, has overseen the project.

The dome's design was created by Iranian-American architect, Nadir Khalili. Using material from the earth, the structure demonstrates a sustainable & cost-effective mode of building. Plus, when inside, you feel like you're in a fairy tale.

One Size Fits All for City Trees

2010-04-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

The city is proposing a change from cutting trees according to their species & growth habits, to cutting all of them every 7 years, on a grid system.

They claim those needing more frequent trimming will be addressed on an 'as needed' basis [some require care every 4-7 years].

The obvious result---> those species necessitating more attention will either a) not receive it, or b) will receive it, but at the same time, the trimmers will be acting out of grid, same as the current situation.

Supposed savings is $30,000/yr. My guess is the real saving will come in extending the timeline & cutting trees less often.

There ought to be more discussion about changing the service to one of our most precious resources, & one identified as a high priority. How will tree health be effected?

Claremont For Sale

2010-04-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

The council recently finalized the 'Fundraising, Sponsorship & Contribution Guidelines', whereby businesses can trade $, products, or services, for naming rights, event hosting, advertising, & just pure association with our city.

In most cases, the city manager will broker the agreements, meaning the exchanges will happen outside the public eye.

Increased possibilities for corruption & conflicts of interest are troubling. 'It's a telltale sign that corporations have wormed their way into government so well that they're now even official partners,' says the watchdog group Commercial Alert.

Another pitfall: the erosion of government's obligation to fund what are traditionally considered public services. A Harvard professor explains it this way: 'It decreases the necessity of public funding in ways that can have an ultimately corrosive effect on lots of public activities. It leads us to abandon, step by step, down a slippery slope, a commitment of public tax dollars to certain things that are not deemed high priorities.'

Exhibit Space Gets Modernized

2010-04-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

Dropped by the Claremont Modernism exhibit, & met Objct Gallery director, David Shearer. Originally from Glendora, he is a trained architect & has curated shows in nyc.

Spending a half hour in the space is a thought-provoking & sublime experience.

On April 15th, the gallery will host architect Alan Hess, speaking on Forgotten Modern in Claremont.

The exhibit is set to run through the 25th, & possibly longer.

Ole' Boys Club

2010-03-29T16:02:00.000-07:00

In 2005, the Redevelopment Agency wanted to purchase the Indian Hill Chile's site, so they could develop a Chrysler, Dodge, or Jeep Dealership. They changed course though, when they made a deal with Roger Hogan to expand his Toyota operations there.

The transaction went like so:

The agency threatens Chile's prop. with eminent domain. Then, for $3 million, they simultaneously buy & sell it to Hogan. He is also given $200,000 to improve it & $100,000 in consideration to agree to operate the business there.

Fast forward 4.5 years, past the auto industry, consumer debt, & Toyota crisis.....

Mr. Hogan doesn't need the land anymore & even would like to sell it to a restaurant chain. The citizens of course feel badly that his business is in distress; however, so is the city. We've given him a deal on the purchase, we've paid him to set-up the project, & we are owed 7 years of auto sales tax. If he can't deliver on that, we we also have the right to take the property back & sell it ourselves, as well as possibly recover the funds given.

Staff didn't bother including details in their report, nor provide the original contract. They recommended the council terminate the agreement, which all but Calaycay were willing to do.

City employees may want to be more thoughtful of their actions next time; when three of them follow Mr. Hogan out with smiles on their faces, it could be misconstrued as a sign of partiality.

The Curious Case of Sam Pedroza

2010-03-29T12:24:00.000-07:00

Even his wife asks him, 'what is it that you do?'...

Council member Pedroza works for the Sanitation Districts of Los Angeles County (SDLAC), as an environmental planner. Describing the position, he says, 'I work with private firms, Waste Management, Athens, Valley Vista, & other public agencies. My job is to deal with making sure our environmental impact reports are being addressed & that there's a lot of exchange of info with these organizations.' [a.k.a. public relations]

Formed for a single purpose [like our tourism business improvement], districts can issue debt & levy tax. SDLAC is a group of 24 independent districts who share a central management & are involved in wastewater + solid waste---treatment facilities, disposal sites, & transport (using railways).

So, what happens when the city has to choose a landfill & the law prohibits officials from participating in actions that may effect their employer? In 2008, Mr. Pedroza recused himself from said discussion, citing conflict of interest. But, when the same item appeared in Dec, he participated.

Last month, during a closed session, the council moved to perform a cost benefit analysis on our sanitation service. We hire city employees, not a private firm.

What if the private firms have contracts with his employer's landfills? What if he's tempted to bring them a contract, in exchange for them utilizing his employer's sites?

After flags were raised, the councilman recited a statement claiming no conflict, whilst providing unclear reasoning for the assertion. Besides, merely citing the Political Reform Act is insufficient, as common law is applicable as well.

Ad Hoc's Need Sunshine

2010-03-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Council members were recently appointed to the Commission Nominating & Audit Ad Hoc Committees----these are not subject to the Brown Act, nor open to the public.

Ad hoc's are limited to a single purpose, not perpetual, & to be dissolved once their specific tasks is completed. One wonders why the above committees are temporary, since the related tasks continually necessitate completion.

Furthermore, these deliberations should be conducted before the people & open to their review. [Especially when the very council member calling for a review of current audit company, also has a career in public finance......... revolving door, anyone?]

Cities are free to enact greater rights of access than state law---often called Sunshine Ordinances. These can include items like:

All subcommittees, whether or not otherwise subject to the Brown Act, are open to the public.

Greater provision of information regarding litigation.

Strong Public Records access, including open city employee compensation data.

Provisions to seek input of stake holders affected by any significant policy matter.

More info on sunshine ordinances: First Amendment Coalition, Sunshine Week.

'Mediocre Practices List'

2010-03-27T23:31:00.000-07:00

The city's 'Best Practices List' states the following expectation: officials & staff will subscribe to a certain decorum during public meetings and other interactions.

Meeting participants shall refrain from disturbing the proceedings, e.g.:

Speaking or whispering when another has the floor

Walking in front of speakers

Passing notes

Using blackberries/personal devices [*author added]

Ask a frequent meeting attendee if the criterion is being met.

Dysfunctional Proceedings

2010-03-26T12:11:00.000-07:00

1) Resident alleges damage to his historic home, caused by the adjacent Padua Park construction project. The home rests on a stone foundation & the industrial equipment's vibrations caused shifts in the base & structural cracks. Owner had to move out.

2) He meets with city manager & councilman Calaycay & is assured he will be compensated.

3) A claim's adjustor reviews & rejects the claim.

4) The resident goes before the council & emotionally pleads his case.

5) Having detailed knowledge, Mr. Calaycay hesitates to deny city liability.

Confusion abounds, the city attorney is quizzed on relevant procedure.... it appears they've never disagreed with the adjustor's decision before.

Mr. Pedroza's has trouble understanding why the council would ever act contrary to the adjustor [as if he's never heard of an unfair denial].

Corey is asked to further explain his stance, but, lacking patience, he just tells Sam

not to be affected by his decision.

Attorney whispers to manager & switches from giving pure legal analysis to providing her opinion: that the council should affirm the expert's verdict.

6) The resident will now have to sue the city in court.

The city is self-insured [they set aside money in case of future liabilities] & a member of the California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (CJPIA) [a group of local governments that pool their funds & share their risk].

Watch for yourself: 3-23 Meeting; Minute 41

Weak Bonds on Council

2010-03-25T13:16:00.001-07:00

In the 59th Assembly District Republican race, council member Peter Yao is endorsing Chris Lancaster, over fellow councilman Corey Calaycay.

One wonders, with the time Calaycay must be spending on his campaign, how much is left over to devote to the position he already holds.... It appears he is not employed full-time elsewhere, so that may help. He reportedly fronted $50,000 of his own funds to start-up the campaign.

The primary elections are in June.

Read more about his campaign here: coreycalaycay.org

More Corporate Expansion on Foothill

2010-03-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

Petco is set to open a store in the Sprouts center. They have more than 990 U.S. locations, + are owned by 2 huge private equity firms [TPG Capital + Leonard Green & Partners].

The firms purchased Petco in a leveraged buyout [meaning they borrow $, buy the stock in enormous quantities, & gain control of the shares. After which, they take the company private, pay off the debt w. Petco's profit & assets, then sell the company to the public again]. They took Petco private once more in '06.

These private equity outfits exist to make money for their investors. Past purchases have included: Rite Aid, Neiman Marcus, Harrah's Entertainment, Univision, All Tell Wireless, Big 5, Sports Authority, David's Bridal, FTD Group, Wholefoods, J. Crew, + Asian banks.

Unleashed by Petco is smaller than the big-boxes, and will not sell animals. Numerous reports exist detailing allegations of animal cruelty, poor labor relations, and illegal pet food conditions.

Americans will spend an estimated $38.4 billion per year on food, veterinary car, and supplies for their pets & 63% of American households own a pet. Petco makes $60 million per year in profit.

Favored Developer Set to Gain Millions

2010-03-21T19:46:00.000-07:00

Mark Buckland is the co-founder of the Olson Co., the builders of the Village West townhomes. Last year, he started another company with the focus of buying land acquired at a discount because of the downturn.

Our redevelopment agency will facilitate his plans when it sells him 2.7 acres on Baseline & Towne, for the bargain price of $1.75 million (purchase price of $1.96 in '05/'06).

The price was arrived at after 'a limited appraisal' was undertaken, involving narrow market investigation and utilizing four comps in South Upland & Pomona.

Plans call for 42 units. With an expected 17% profit margin, Buckland will walk away with at least $4 million.

--By law, the redev. agency can only sell property to be used in conformity with the redevelopment plan; here the plan was for affordable housing. Not sure how/why they've ignored this.

---The city projects spending $2 million on affordable housing in the next five years. Why not hold onto the property and invest those funds here? Like last summer, they'll probably again end up w. funds to spend & need to purchase another property.

--Is it a coincidence that both Buckland & the appraiser are UC Irvine Alums?

--Could Jeff Ragland, the company's v.p. of land acquisitions, be related to Rob Ragland, a city planning commissioner?

Read more about City Ventures here: http://www.cvassets.com/index.html

City Bypasses Environmental Law . . . Again

2010-03-19T14:02:00.000-07:00

On Tues, the city council will consider issuance of a conditional use permit. Ca environmental law [CEQA] obligates them to evaluate the store's environmental impacts, including noise, traffic, & light.

But, once again, the city attempts to avoid this step by claiming the project falls into an 'exempt' category [& changing their minds about which category that is]....

Problem is, exemptions can be applied only if:

a) there is no reasonable expectation that there will be a significant effect on the environment, or

b) the project involves negligible or no expansion of use beyond that existing at the time of the determination,

(both of which are unfounded in this instance).

CEQA is supposed to empower local communities & ensure that public agencies make informed decisions---yet city hall consistently expands exemptions beyond their reasonable application.

Connect the Dots

2010-03-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

--7-Eleven has aggressive new growth plans in So. Cal & has hired CB Richard Ellis as its exclusive broker.

--The Claremont redevelopment agency pays CBRE $6,000 a month to recruit new business.

--In effect, taxpayer money is spent on attracting companies that citizen's don't want, + those that may adversely affect them.

7-Eleven is the world's largest chain store & is owned by a Japanese company.

Read about 7-Eleven--CBRE deal & their new plans here:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGYTEyMTljODAtYzA0MS00YTM3LWJmNzEtMDU2YmYxZTAxYTI2&hl=en

New Year's Resolution

2010-01-02T00:13:00.001-08:00

Ideal Points of Focus for Claremont:

Citizen Participation
-More, + more diverse.
-More dialogue btwn. city + residents.

Information Flows
-Increase communication modes; more relevant, direct info.
-Re-design + update city website.

Economic Development
-Diversify strategy; include knowledge industries, entrepreneurs, small/at home biz, alumni.
-Allow for citizen involvement, esp. affected neighborhoods; consider creation of Dev. + Budget committees.
-Create a common vision, esp. re. large corporate businesses.

City + College Relationship
-Encourage student + professor involvement; utilize their expertise.
-Partner with institutions & groups [e.g. policy, environment, business, etc.].

Redevelopment Agency
-Improve citizen awareness of the agency.
-De-concentrate spending on Village.

Specific Concerns
-Investigate 210 Freeway impacts; esp. noise & air-quality.
-Examine the city's concentration of events, classes, + resources in Village + N. Cmnt.
-Re-examine Village affordable housing project; consider office, retail, & lower density housing.
-Revise Wireless Telecom. Ordinance for greater citizen protection.

See the real City Council Priority List:
http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AZQ0Iy46WhaGZHNqbjJiMl81Y3N3c3RkY3I&hl=en

Cell Tower Invasion

2009-12-30T16:19:00.000-08:00

The city has a contract with Spectrum Engineering & Surveying, to develop wireless sites on city-owned/controlled property. The company will market the sites to telecom companies, coordinate the design + site selection, oversee construction, & perform inspections.

For this, Spectrum will earn 30% of the lease revenue [for 10 yrs].

Example: $23,390/yr earned by La Puerta Park cell tower --->

50%-School District: $11,970 30%-Spectrum: $7,182 20%-City: $4,788

When a company has financial incentives to import cell towers, we need a Wireless Telecommunications Ordinance that will protect us.

It would include items like:

An applicant must prove that there is a significant gap in the coverage area.

An independent engineer must verify the applicant's findings.

The site should be independently monitored [& operator should pay the cost].

No new free standing facility within 1,000 ft. of another.

No facilities should be sited at a public park.

The city should maintain a map & inventory of all proposed sites, including the address, number, type, power rating, + frequency range of all antennas at the site, & the name of telecom carrier owning, operating, or leasing each antenna at the site.

Radio frequency measurements on new sites must include cumulative impacts [from other nearby facilities].

Extend property owner notification past 300 ft. [frequencies reach much farther].

The city of Berkeley has an extensive Wireless Telecom. Ordinance. This website highlights the actions they have taken: http://www.ci.berkeley.ca.us/ContentDisplay.aspx?id=35318

City Spending

2009-12-20T13:58:00.000-08:00

Recently, a resident wrote an article about government over-spending. The city's econ. plans have mostly focused on business support, raising fines/taxes, or cutting jobs. But, financial + budgetary issues also deserve attention.

Research performed on spending over 1 month [11-13 to 12-10] showed the following:

The city spent $2.9 million.

Employee salaries -- $1.3 mill.

The city contracted out $120,000 of services (on items like custodial, landscaping, trees, street sweeping).

Utilities -- $135,000 (gas, water, electric, phone), legal fees -- $26,000, supplies -- $14,000, credit cards -- $13,000, vehicle maintenance -- $13,000, fuel costs -- $15,000.

Other notable expenses:

Padua Park -- $30,000, Housing rehab payments to families $27,000, Employee insurance -- $14,000, Unemployment -- $11,500, Towing Services -- $9,000, Instructors -- $8,000, Senior Meals - $8,000, Trolley Lease -- $4,500, Courier ads -- $4,000.

The Redevelopment Agency spent $66,000 on the following: salaries -- $20,000, loan payments Back Abbey prop. -- $20,000, marketing & entertainment -- $7,000, brokerage consulting -- $12,000, senior apt. subsidy -- $1,000, parking structure rent -- $500.

In one quarter of the fiscal year, the city & the RDA cashed out 23% & 27% of their total investments.

Other cities have established Business & Economic Development Commissions, and Finance & Budget Commissions, to provide a collective voice on issues & provide a forum for pubic input.

Where does our discussion on economic & growth issues occur?

Courier Article:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGZDkwMjgxOTAtNmM5MS00NmI3LWJiY2MtMjhlNDgwNWQ5OWJk&hl=en

CB Richard Ellis: Too Close for Comfort?

2009-12-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

CB Richard Ellis (a global real estate brokerage firm) works closely with the Redev. Agency. They recruit business + broker deals for retail vacancies, produce analysis, + manage city property.

[costs: $6,000/mo (consulting), $25,000 (retail leakage study), $2,000/mo (mng. Village West+Depot buildings)]

These public-private partnerships are inherently unequal in nature. Frequently, they exclude altogether the citizens most affected by the plans, while the principal beneficiaries are often large corporations. The most important public benefit--jobs--are low-paying, or in the case of good jobs, go to out-of-towners recruited by local business.

Additionally, since the RDA is not monitored by voters, its work with CBRE lies outside of the democratic process, and the public has limited ability to ensure its goals.

So far, CBRE has plans to recruit more banks, pharmacies, a 7-11, big boxes, & large retail stores (such as sporting good, electric/applicance, pet supplies, discount clothing). Foothill Blvd.'s recent development has already been mostly franchise/corporate (Citi-Bank, Trader Joe's, Robek's).

Strong citizen involvement & political leadership could balance development in our favor.......Yet without these, it looks as if CBRE will homogenize & corporatize the city even further, and be at the helm in the process.

Read about the city + CBRE's property management deal:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGNDlhZTcyZDgtNzg2MC00OTg0LWI3NjQtZTQzY2Q3M2M2MTQ2&hl=en

Read a former resident's letter urging caution when considering big-box stores:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGYzA0OWM2YzQtYWIyMi00MTFhLWE1YjgtYzEyZDc2YWUyODAx&hl=en

Open Letter Re: Drive-Thru's

2009-12-02T14:37:00.000-08:00

Economic interests, or community interests-which will influence our city government? Real estate, medicine, banking & commercial interests are attempting to control city hall & the community should unite to block proposed projects that will overdevelop local areas or threaten neighborhood tranquility.

Soon, six major neighborhood centers may allow drive-thru establishments. Not only will this affect the quality of community life; but will add to pollution & automobile dependence.

We proclaim goals like, 'make Claremont a model for the application of sustainable development practices', 'promote community identity & local history', 'maintain & enhance Claremont's unique character', 'create activity nodes as important destination areas, with an emphasis on public life within the community'. Corporate drive-thru's will not fulfill these functions. They will increase urban sprawl, car usage, oil consumption, & greenhouse emissions. If we acknowledge climate change to be a vital issue, we must act to reverse it, not add to it.

Tell the council to put the environment & community before private business...Write them here--------contact@ci.claremont.ca.us

C. Residents Voice Opinions

2009-11-30T11:22:00.000-08:00

A South C. resident [for +50 yrs. !] wrote about the C. Promenade Shopping Center: she wants a supermarket; not a big box..."How about thinking of the needs of people who live here, not just the sales tax?". She calls out Eldrkn on anti-99 c. store stance.

A pro-museum-bailout writer comments that Public Art Fund was an inappropriate financing source; believes city should restore the funds.

Both letters:

http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGYWUwMzk3MzAtNTI0Mi00MjczLTk4YTktM2QxNjE2ODc1NDAw&hl=en

Observer theorizes on C.'s uniqueness factor....& what would make it better.
http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGYjNmNTQ2Y2MtZjJiYy00YTIxLWJkMDktZjMzMzM2ZjUwODJj&hl=en

Snow Forecast?

2009-11-24T23:30:00.001-08:00

Mt_Baldy_CA

So, I'm dreaming about snow.......Two years ago it dumped first week of December.....Mt. Baldy is now open for tubing, & supposedly skiing/boarding December 2ndish.
A season pass is $100 right now (but you have to make reservations a day in advance each time you'll go). Here's to a good season...............

5 Yr Housing Plan Created w.out Citizens

2009-11-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

The Housing Element was updated last month. It is the long-term general plan to meet the existing & projected housing needs of the community, & spans 2009-2014. State law requires public participation in the process. Inadequate involvement leads to conflict down the line. Besides the affordable housing task force; no other citizen engagement was sought.

Few individuals are now aware of what constitutes our long term housing plan, although items like homeless shelters, transitional housing, financing, energy conservation, future development, & progress since '06, are part of it.

Citizen's should hold a post-draft meeting & together examine the element. The pattern of keeping citizen's in the dark is not worthy of this city. Supposedly, Claremont values inclusive government, & yet here is another example of important decisions being made w.out public participation.

See state's letter to city here, especially page 6, part D: http://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGMzdhYTJkZmEtMjFmMS00NzNhLTkxMzItMzI3YmRhOGViYzA0&hl=en

Procedures/Laws Disregarded by School Board

2009-11-23T15:18:00.000-08:00

In 1979, the school district & city signed an 'use' agreement. This is a special contract that allows school districts to let cities use their excess property for recreation programs.

The agreement was just amended to allow the city to use the property for something else: placement of a corporation's cell system.

Amendments are usually for minor changes. A totally different use (recreational to commercial) doesn't appear insubstantial. A new contract should have been drafted.

State law also has provisions to insure community involvement in decisions. An advisory committee, made up of various ethnic, ages, & socioeconomic groups; & including landowners, teachers, adminstrators, parents, persons with expertise in environmental impact, legal contracts, land use planning, etc. should have been formed.

(Education Code 17387)

The law also says that the district had to vote first to allow the city to act as it's agent [before the city signed a lease].

Ms. La Conte & Ms. Hamilton voted against the tower.

Read the State Board of Education's Memo on procedures & laws to be followed when considering wireless facilities: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/fa/sf/sfpd1298cellular.asp?print=yes

See 1979 agreement & Amendment: https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGNTQ4YzRhZDYtMGQ5NC00MWY1LWJiY2ItY2NlZjU4NzRiZDM4&hl=en

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AZQ0Iy46WhaGZHNqbjJiMl8xNjU5ejc4Zmo&hl=en

Tourism District to Raise Room Rate

2009-11-23T12:48:00.000-08:00

The Daily Bulletin ran an article about the tourism business improvement district, claiming the hotels are to pass the the 2% assessment fee onto guests, by raising room rates 2%. Readers had some interesting comments, as follows:
-My family and I have spent the last 12 yrs. vacationing in Claremont from Osaka Japan. Now with the recession taking its toll, we will move on to Palm Springs or other places nearby who are more sensitive to what is going on in the world thanks to your new tax. Shame on you City Fathers in Claremont. You will line your pockets at the expense of people who have loved Claremont.

-Claremont is trying to kill its small business. Why would anyone shop or spend the night in Claremont when they can drive 2 minutes to Upland and NOT pay any of these ridiculous taxes?

-Tax & Advertise...sounds all too familiar.
Whatever happened to the values of EARNING business through:
1. Hard Work
2. Strong Customer Service
3. Exceeding customers' expectations
4. Offering better service or products than the competition
Shame on the city of Claremont for taxing hotel customers while spending over $18,000 of taxpayer money to bail out the Claremont Art Museum!

-As I said, just another reminder of what a failure the new village is!

Read article here: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_13788404?source=rss

'Village in a Metropolis' is Vanishing

2009-11-22T10:41:00.000-08:00

Private business interests seem to have incredible power in the city. City hall is clearly dominated by economic interests to the detriment of citizen control. The latest example is lifting the ban on drive-thrus. A bank & pharmacy said they wouldn't locate here, unless we changed our laws.

Things to consider before supporting the lift:

Sustainability: cars idling in line contribute to pollution &, cumulatively, climate change (an extremely vital issue). Why lower our standards + encourage reliance on cars?

Necessity: current city count is 7 banks & 4 pharmacies. A drive-thru bank is 1/2 mile away & a pharmacy already exists from/at the proposed sites.

Quality of life: does the new business increase social interaction, or add a sense of pride? Of special note is the Mountain/Foothill corner (proposed bank). Located close to three schools, development should provide for students & neighborhood, & facilitate pedestrian/bicyclists. An eatery [like La Verne's Warehouse Pizza] would be ideal-students can hang out after school, families have a meeting place/meal option. 21 Choices has fulfilled some of those functions.

A drive-thru here also raises safety & health concern, as it's on the exact travel path of numerous students (traveling to/from El Roble, Mountain View, Condit).

Read a thorough Courier view-point here: https://docs.google.com/fileview?id=0B5Q0Iy46WhaGYjc3Y2Y2ODctMTU3NS00ZmU2LWJmNjEtZTFkNzY0MWU4OTU0&hl=en

Rudimentary Economic Development Plans

2009-11-20T16:02:00.000-08:00

The city has shared its most recent vision for econ. development. Goals center on retail development, w. emphasis on specific properties. The work plan include items like business retention, making the city more business friendly, and marketing/event creation.

The strategy is somewhat one-noted, & surely could be more sophisticated + detailed.

Remember, econ. growth is different than development. Growth means more development, more jobs, more taxes, and so on, while development means raising standards of living & improving the quality of life.

The city needs to define its version of economic development. Right now, its main strategy is to decrease retail sales leakage. We may be able to increase revenues but it appears we're compromising values in the process.

The Real Claremont

2009-11-19T10:44:00.000-08:00

An opinion piece was recently written by Mr. C. Rubel, in which he describes the unstructured time he spends musing & meeting here. His unique comments:

"[Claremont is] a social place wide awake with thoughtfulness, controversies & lots of energy; a venue for stimulating conversations, & it is a center for cutting-edge, profound scholarship, & vibrant controversy,...a place for 'a life of dialogue', or something akin to David Bohm's experiments in dialogue."

He describes the Claremont where the curious, the spontaneous, the sociable, & the creative overlap. And yet, those who've been here long, sense that the pace of change is accelerating, & the city Rubel describes may disappear and become like many others, lonely and disorienting. Imperial Claremont & Project Remodel Claremont are in full effect. Those who value the authentic community must get involved and re-work the project and be a part of history, so it's not just about the Business or Property Owners.

"In a place with a rich culture and cultural memory, an interchange is forever taking place between mind and material. When culture and memory are evicted from a city, its places, its locations and its products become mute commodities that can be purchased but not dreamed."*

*The book 'Hollow City', Solnit, was utilized in this entry.

Former Candidate's Candid Advice

2009-11-15T19:23:00.000-08:00

After the school board elections, Mr. Jeff Hammill wrote a letter to his supporters [published in the Courier]. He had this to say about his up close and personal look at Claremont politics:

'What Claremont needs is more new faces, more new ideas and new leadership. I hope that other new faces will be encouraged...and will throw their hats in the ring. This should not be limited to elective office [but should include] City Commissions.'

He will take practical action by allowing someone else to fill his planning commissioner seat when his term is up. 'I hope that the City Council will replace me with someone who has never served on a Commission. Let's open the door to new people with the desire to serve,' he wrote.

He also points out this serious issue:

'Claremont elections are too insular, the province of too few. I tried to break through that, offer something new and different, and was successful to a degree.'

Low voter participation rates also suggest public alienation from the political process.

As a strong & conscious community, we ought to start discussing how to create greater and more equal participation in public decision making.

Parking Violation Fees Raised 75%

2009-11-13T17:59:00.000-08:00

Don't enjoy the village for too long!

And better remember to bring the car in @ night!

If not, you'll now pay more for your mistakes!!!

Recently, the p.d.

increased the most common parking violation fees by 75%.

New prices are

$35, $70, $105, [per 1st, 2nd, 3rd offense], up from $20, $40, $60.

Why the change?

Well, the amount the city pays the state went up by $3.00/ticket;

& the city wants more revenue [due to that 4.7 million budget shortfall]!

Outcome: citizen's pay the price.................

Big Business to Trump Kid's Health?

2009-11-12T13:18:00.000-08:00

Wireless telecommunication systems (such as that proposed for La Puerta Park) produce EMFs [electromagnetic fields], specifically RF's [radio frequencies]. RF fields affect the body's electrical activity.

Prolonged exposure to children, whose nervous systems develop until late adolescence, is unknown at this time. Long term exposure may possibly effect thinking, judgement, memory, learning, behavior control.

Those chronically exposed to low-level wireless antenna emissions report symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, lack of concentration, + memory problems.

RF exposures- are considered genotoxic (will damage DNA), cause physical/emotional stress, cause inflammatory reactions, allergy reactions, + change normal immune functions.

A child who practices two times and plays one game will be exposed 6 hours/week. If they stay to watch a sibling/friend, the count will be 8 hours a week close exposure.

Is any amount of revenue enough incentive to jeopardize young people's health?

Update: The school board voted (3-2) in favor of the tower. +1 point for Corporate Claremont.

10-20

Read more about EMFs-http://www.bioinitiative.org/report/index.htm

Who's to Blame for Cell Towers in Parks?

2009-11-12T11:38:00.000-08:00

In researching the La Puerta park telecommunication system, a few interesting items arose:

Another city has a long history of placing wireless facilities in parks....

***Walnut***

[from whence the city mgr. + asst. mgr. hail]

Assistant City Manager Ramos is also a member of the National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors

Whose mission, in part, seems to be guiding officials through

laws and community concerns in order to support big telecom business.

Maybe he's to thank for all the cell towers in Claremont.

Councilmember Elderkin claims a discussion was undertaken to prohibit the systems in parks.

The community should move forward now with that request.

Because, if not, and staff's policy history is any indication, a park near you will probably be next. Schools could be after that.

Improvement District, sans Improvements

2009-11-11T20:50:00.001-08:00

Claremont hotels claim that the areas where tourism business occur are:

Economically disadvantaged, underutilized

& unable to attract customers

due to

inadequate facilities, services, & activities.

Something must be done---

Cue the 'Tourism Business Improvement District' ! ! !

Hotels will now be assessed a fee equal to 2% of their short term stay revenue.

By law, $$$ should be spent on:

construction & maintenance of parking facilities, benches, lighting, plazas, sidewalks, decor

providing security, sanitation, graffiti removal, street cleaning

$$$ will be spent on:

print, internet, tv, radio advertising

posters, fliers, brochures, billboards

office expenses, staff, consultants, legal + accounting fees

[Total $175,00/yr]

The district's formation will improve the hotelier's income.

Yet, in what ways is the city tangibly improved?

Additional note: The applicants have claimed the city's borders as the district's boundaries. This may be the first case an entire city is an improvement district.

Claremont's Very Own Bailout

2009-11-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

$29,100 of public funds provided to Claremont Museum of Art.
Museum reps. blame failure on economic downturn & 3 pledged donation reversals.
Did the management play any part in the failure?
Financial data provides some answers:

Operating Losses: 1/4 million (08), 1/2 million (07)

Top employee salaries:

08- $127,563 $73,500 $52,000

$99,000 (consultant fees)

07- $105,000 $42,000

$128,000 (consultant fees)

Gifts, grants, contributions, & membership fees earned:

06-08- $2 million. [Now gone]

Citizen Publicly Critiques Redevelopment

2009-11-09T15:12:00.000-08:00

The Nov. 7th Courier published a well-crafted & informed letter regarding redevelopment.

Top points---

Redevelopment diverts funds away from general fund (& therefore schools, community services).
Tax increment is a portion of the property tax revenue generated in a project area that reverts back to the agency.
Project area includes 543 acres of prime commercial real estate.
The property tax increment was $1.3 million (05/06), interim projection of $3.9 mill, and Total General Plan Buildout estimate of $5.2 million.
'Now is certainly not the time to be robbing our schools, paramedics and firefighters to build another walking plaza or strip mall.'
Suggests only continuing current projects.

Read full letter here -

http://docs.google.com/Doc?docid=0AZQ0Iy46WhaGZHNqbjJiMl8wZjJ2eDg0ZjY&hl=en

Mayor Accepts Challenge

2009-11-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

The Environmental Media Association (EMA), in cooperation with Green Seal, and the Institute for Local Government, will be issuing a challenge to ten southern California cities to be recognized as a “California Green Community” by 2012.
Acting as “thought leaders,” participating cities will develop Green Community Action Plans in fields including: energy efficiency, water management, green building, climate friendly purchasing, land use and community design, waste management, urban forestry, community and individual action, air quality, and transportation.
Participation is strictly voluntary and cities are not required to make any financial commitments up front, but they will be expected to establish local programs that achieve the objectives in as many fields over the next three years. The cities include: Claremont, Simi Valley, Redlands, San Gabriel, Riverside, Los Angeles, Monrovia, Santa Monica, Santa Clarita, and Culver City and will be recognized at either a Silver Level (basic city commitments), Gold Level (advanced city commitments), or Platinum Level (city and communitywide commitments).
See press photo here--- http://www.kansascity.com/934/gallery/1551330-a1551167-t3.html

Top 5 Concerns about the Redevelopment Housing Project

2009-11-03T16:52:00.000-08:00

The project plan was introduced and approved within approximately two months. At that speed, the ability to inform and engage citizens is limited.
The property was intended to be an extension of the Village and a destination for transit riders.
Disingenuous following of the mixed-use zoning designation. A true m.u. space would have been sustainable: economically (creating jobs + revenue), culturally (fostering creative + intellectual growth), socially (promoting gathering + public space), environmentally (using advanced green techniques + resource sensitive).
Potential bias exists for planners + decision makers. The staff + city council are member's of the redevelopment agency, whose requirements differ from the city's. When public sentiment conflicts with the agency's goals, which interest will the council defend? Similarly, might a report be written to favor the agency's position at the expense of the public's?
An Environmental Impact Report was never prepared. Affordable housing plans are exempt if a report already exists on a similar project. The one referenced belongs to the General Plan, which measures significance cumulatively. The project's true effects remain unknown.

raison d'être

2009-11-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

It's making sure that the words "public servant" are not forgotten. That's why I did it. 'Cause I thought, I don't need this. The fact that I didn't need it made me think I could do more. It's the people who need it that I'm suspect of.

Clint Eastwood