rialtonow

City Clerk/Rialto Network

The State of Women

The 6^th Annual “The State of Women” event is scheduled for Saturday, March 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., located at the Rialto Senior Center, 1411 S. Riverside Avenue.  Keynote Speaker is B. Darcel Lee, Executive Director of the California Black Health Network. Our local legislators will be on hand for Q&A. The event is free with vendor booths, morning refreshments, and a light lunch will be provided.  Seating is limited.  Please RSVP to the City Clerk’s office at (909) 820-2519 or mrodriguez@rialtoca.gov.

Passport Day in the USA

If you are planning to travel outside of the United States plan on joining the City Clerk’s office during Passport Day in the USA, Saturday, March 10.  You can apply for your passport and learn more about travel requirements.  And, if you process your passport that day, you’ll get a free hot dog!  So, join us on March 10 to prepare for your upcoming travel.  For more information contact (909) 820-2519 or visit the City website at www.rialtoca.gov/cityclerk_passports.php.

Administrative & Community Services

Finance Division

The Finance Division is working with the Redevelopment Agency to wind down the operations of the Rialto Redevelopment Agency.

Finance will also be working to complete the midyear analysis based on the activities through December 2011.  The final result and budget update will be presented at the March 13, 2012 City Council meeting.

The 2010/11 Redevelopment Agency Financial Statements have been received and are available on the City’s Website at www.rialtoca.gov.

Recreation Division

The Rialto Recreation Winter/Spring 2012 Brochure is now available!  You may have already received your brochure in the mail at home.  Please take a look at what we have to offer and sign up for a class today!  The brochure can also be viewed at our website www.RialtoRec.com.

Police Department

Department Promotions

Please join me in congratulating the Rialto Police Department’s newest command staff members and supervisors: Lieutenant’s – Dean Hardin and Andy Karol; Sergeant’s – Josh Lindsay, Paul Stella, Johnny Partida, Chris Hice and Robert Smith; and Corporal’s – Rory Scalf, James Mills, James Massey and Carl Jones.

Department Strategic Plan

With new staff in place, YOUR Police Department will begin working hard to develop an organizational strategic plan. We will be working closely with City leaders, community members, local business, and faith based organizations to help us fight crime in our community. Please join us at the Area Command Meetings to find out how you can help. For more information visit the Police Department website at www.rialtopd.com.

Rialto PD e-Desk

The e-Desk kiosk is a user friendly data terminal used to develop a more efficient method of handling citizen traffic inside police stations. The kiosk acts as an assistant to desk officers during high-traffic hours; allowing citizens with general inquiries to get the answers they need while allowing the desk officers to focus on higher priority cases. Some of the capabilities are: citizen generated non-offense reports, submitting anonymous crime tips, requesting vacation watch, leaving messages for officers/detectives, making payments for report requests and other related fees through use of a credit card/debit card, access to the Police Departments website, and other related information.

Cop-Book – Connecting police officers with each other and the communities they serve and protect.

For too long, local police departments have relied on email, outdated systems, or word of mouth to identify experts and relevant content in local and regional areas. Data is trapped across systems, people’s minds, or languishing in archives – making it almost impossible to get work done. Separated by both time and distance, limited interaction between officers on the beat slows the decision-making process between the officers in the field and headquarters.

Cop-Book is a secure collaboration environment that unshackles users from the narrow confines of email, telephone conference calls, endless meetings, and departmental bottlenecks – and puts them into an interactive online community where they can securely harness the collective intelligence and work of their peers in real time.

City-Sourced App – Coming Soon

City-Sourced is a real time mobile civic engagement platform. City-Sourced provides a simple and intuitive platform empowering residents to identify civic issues (public safety, quality of life, environmental issues, etc.) and report them to City Hall for quick resolution; an opportunity for government to use technology to save time and money plus improve accountability to those they govern, and a positive, collaborative platform for real action.

NIXLE- Community Notification and Information

The Rialto Police Department is proud to announce the incorporation of NIXLE to enhance communications within our community. NIXLE is a free service that allows community members to receive trusted, up-to-the-minute neighborhood information. You choose the information that you want to receive from urgent public safety information to less time sensitive community information. You can receive this information over your cell phone, by text message, or by email. Sign up at www.NIXLE.com.

Fire Department

Homeland Security Grant

The Rialto Fire Department has been awarded $26,627 through a grant from the Department of Homeland Security. These grant funds were provided for the advancement of interoperable communication systems that are used during emergency operations. The Fire Department will use these funds to purchase communication devices that fit inside a firefighter’s Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) face piece. Because the SCBA face piece forms an airtight seal around the firefighter’s mouth and face, it is difficult to achieve clear verbal communication over a radio or face-to-face. Because these devices are located inside the masks, and because they are connected directly to the firefighter’s radio, all verbal communications are clear and audible to other rescue workers. This greatly improves efficiency and safety for our firefighters.

Recruitment and Retention of Diversity Workshop

On February 2^nd & 3^rd, the City ofRialto sent a five-member team of key stakeholders to participate in a workshop focusing on recruiting and retaining diversity in the Fire Department. The workshop was sponsored by Fire 20/20, a non-profit organization, and was be held inAnaheimCA. The two-day workshop presented an overview of strategies, tactics, and practical aids that Fire Departments can use to more effectively recruit and retain a qualified, diverse, inclusive, and safety-conscious workforce that respects and represents the communities they serve.  They also developed a framework for strategies that supports retention, enrolls the community as recruitment partners, and maximizes the effectiveness of outreach campaigns.

TheRialtoteam members included CouncilwomanDeborah Robertson; George Harris, Director of Administrative and Community Services;Nash Briones, Rialto Firefighters Local 3688 President;Cindy Balderas, Human Resource Manager; and Mat Fratus, Fire Chief. They joined similar teams fromLos AngelesCity,SacramentoCity,Pasadena,Alhambra,Novato,Glendale, andOrangeCounty.

Promotions

The Fire Department is very pleased to announce the promotions of four personnel to key positions within the Fire Department. Congratulations to the following:

• James Bender                Fire Captain
  • DeWayne Frederick      Engineer
  • John Heffelfinger          Engineer
  • Thomas Stephenson    Engineer

Each of these individuals has demonstrated the highest level of commitment and competency throughout the testing and evaluation process.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training

Rialto Fire Department is pleased to provide Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training to the residents of the City of Rialto who are sixteen years of age and older. The CERT program educates community members about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area, and trains them in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. Using the training learned in the classroom and during exercises, CERT members can assist when professional responders are not immediately available to help others in their neighborhood or workplace following a major emergency event. CERT members also are encouraged to support emergency response agencies by taking a more active role in emergency preparedness projects in their community.

The next CERT classes will be held in March on the following dates and times:

Thursdays, March 1 and 8, 6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Saturdays, March 3 and 10, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

The classes will be held at Rialto Fire Station 204 (3288 North Alder Avenue). To sign up, e-mail your name and phone number to RialtoCERT@gmail.com or call (909) 421-4964. There is no charge for the twenty-hour training.  Participants will receive a CERT Participant Manual, CERT Backpack, CERT Helmet and CERT Safety-vest (provided by the Homeland Security Grant Program). For more information, contact Battalion Chief Frank Bekkerat (909) 820-2501 or on the internet at www.rialtoca.gov/cert.html.

Development Services Department

State of California Dissolves Redevelopment Agency

On February 1, 2012 the Redevelopment Agency of the City ofRialtoceased operations as a result of the California Supreme Court’s decision to uphold AB1X 26, which dissolved redevelopment agencies statewide. The City ofRialtohas elected to serve as the successor agency, which will have the commission of completing contracted obligations and then liquidating all assets for disposition to various taxing jurisdictions.  The Successor Agency will be governed by an independent Oversight Board, subject to further review by theCountyAuditor-Controllerand the State ofCalifornia.  The housing functions of the former Redevelopment Agency were assumed by the Rialto Housing Authority on February 1, 2012.

The Redevelopment Agency of the City ofRialtowas established in 1979 to alleviate blighting conditions and facilitate economic development and housing.  Since 2004, over $150 million has been invested in public infrastructure, economic development, and affordable housing projects.  Key projects funded by the Redevelopment Agency included the Riverside Avenue/I-10 Interchange ($30 million); Pepper Avenue Extension ($13 million); Fergusson Park Improvement ($6.3 million); Library Expansion ($1 million); New Fire Station 202 ($5.9 million); West Jackson Neighborhood Revitalization ($8 million); and TELACU #2 and 3 Senior Housing projects ($5.9 million).

All Redevelopment Agency programs and projects, except those that are subject to binding contracts, have been terminated.  The housing programs formerly funded by the Agency, including home rehabilitation programs, may resume in the future, subject to funding.   The State Senate recently approved SB 654 which would allow the Rialto Housing Authority to keep all remaining affordable housing funds of the former Redevelopment Agency for use in creating or improving the housing stock.  This cash infusion is a one-time event, and when the cash has been exhausted the programs will once again cease.

The Redevelopment Agency office at131 S. Riverside Avenuewill operate for a short while to help wind down the affairs of the former Agency.  The former staff of the Agency will be assimilated into the Development Services Department of the City.

City Council Rescinds Purchase and Sale Agreement with Agency for Airport

On January 24, 2012 the City Council authorized the City Attorney to notify the Redevelopment Agency of the City ofRialtothat the purchase and sale agreement between the parties would be rescinded due to the Agency’s inability to perform its obligations.   Under the purchase and sale agreement, the Agency was obligated to pay the City upwards of $32 million when the last parcel of land was sold pursuant to the Contract of Sale with Lewis-Hillwood Rialto LLC.  Because the state has dissolved the Redevelopment Agency, the Agency will be unable to perform its obligations to the City.  As a result, the City ofRialtoexpects to reclaim title of theRialtoMunicipalAirport.  Effective February 1, 2012 the Airport resumed operations as a City enterprise.

Target Freezer Distribution Center Commences Grading

Construction is underway on the 450,000 square foot freezer distribution center for Target Stores at Renaissance Parkway andLaurel   Avenue. Completion is scheduled for the summer of 2013. Street improvements forAlder   Avenue, Renaissance Parkway andLaurel Avenueinclude curb, gutter, sidewalks, streetlights and street widening (paving). In addition, a new traffic signal will be installed at Renaissance Parkway andLaurel Avenue. Street construction will begin onAlder Avenueand Renaissance Parkway. Lane closures may occur any time during construction.Laurel Avenuewill be closed to through traffic at Renaissance Parkway for construction ofLaurel Avenue. Further information of theLaurel   Avenueclosure will be provided as construction progresses. Please adhere to all construction safety notices and speed limits during construction.

County of San Bernardino Commences Street/Landscape Improvements on Alder Avenue

Construction of street and landscape improvements at the entry to theCountyLandfillis underway. The project is funded and administered by theCountyofSan Bernardinoand the City ofRialto. Street Improvements forAlder   AvenueandCasmalia Avenueinclude curb, gutter, sidewalks, streetlights and street widening (paving). In addition, the Alder/Casmalia intersection will be widened on the northwest corner. Lane closures onAlder AvenueandCasmalia Avenuemay occur at any time. In addition, landscaping is being installed alongCasmalia AvenueandAlder Avenue. Please adhere to all construction safety notices and speed limits during construction.

Under Armour Occupies Warehouse in Prologis 210 Industrial Park

Under Armour announced that they secured a long term lease on a 1.2 million square foot warehouse distribution facility at the ProLogis I-210 industrial park.  City staff met with representatives from Under Armour recently to discuss how to expedite permit issuance for tenant improvements.  Under Armour indicated that it would begin operations this year in approximately 400,000 square feet then ultimately expand into the entire 1.2 million square foot facility over the next few years.  This site will become Under Armour’s West Coast Distribution facility.

Under Armour, headquartered inBaltimore,Maryland, founded in 1996 by formerUniversityofMarylandfootball player Kevin Plank, is a multi-billion dollar company that supplies a wide range of sportswear and casual sports-oriented apparel focusing on hi-tech sportswear to keep athletes cool, dry and light throughout the course of a game, practice or workout.

Revised Lytle Creek Environmental Impact Report to be Released for Public Comment

The Planning Division is scheduled to release the revision to the Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the Lytle Creek Ranch Project in February 2012.  The Lytle Creek Ranch community is comprised of 2,447 acres of land, divided into four distinct neighborhoods and 103 planning areas. Approximately 694 acres within the Specific Plan area are located within theRialtoCitylimits and 1,753 acres within the Specific Plan area are located within unincorporatedSan Bernardino.  The neighborhoods are described as follows:

• Neighborhood I includes approximately 417 acres of land. A portion of this land (“Sycamore Flats East” and “Sycamore Flats West”) is located within the boundaries of the 3,400 acre Glen Helen Specific Plan (CountyofSan Bernardino). The remaining land in Neighborhood I includes acreage located within the boundaries of the Lytle Creek North Planned Development (CountyofSan Bernardino).

• Neighborhood II includes an adult golf course community on approximately 802 acres and includes the entire 221-acre El Rancho Verde Specific Plan area.

• Neighborhood III is located south of the I-15 will include a mix of single-family detached and attached homes, as well as Village Center Commercial development on approximately 969 acres.

• Neighborhood IV includes multi-family residential and Village Center Commercial development on approximately 259 acres located north of the I-15.

On August 26, 2010, a lawsuit (Endangered Habitats League; Save Lytle Creek Wash v. City of Rialto) was filed challenging the previously certified EIR for Lytle Creek.  On September 30, 2011 Superior Court Judge Frank Gafkowski issued a Tentative Ruling which deemed certain sections of the previously certified EIR deficient.  The Tentative Ruling was finalized by a Writ of Mandate and a Judgment issued by the Court on October 7, 2011.  To satisfy the Court requirements, the City will prepare additional analysis for the EIR including revisions to the Green House Gas Emissions Analysis, the Traffic Impact Analysis and the project alternatives section of the Draft Environmental Impact Report.

The Developer will host a community meeting at 5:30 PM on Thursday, February 16, 2012 atHughbanksElementary School, Multi-Purpose Room,2241 North   Apple Avenue,Rialto,CA92377.  The community meeting will be one of several opportunities to comment on the revisions to the DEIR for the project.  The meeting will feature “go-at-your-own-pace” stations staffed by the applicant’s team to answer questions about the project.  City staff will also be present to receive public comments regarding the revised portion of the DEIR.

Code Enforcement Accolades for Burrtec Support
Code Enforcement Officers often come into contact with homes that have an abundance of trash and debris in and around the property.  Usually, the tenants or owners who have neglected the problem can take care of it themselves.  But on occasion we run into people who are overwhelmed and have little or no support including the elderly, the sick, and families under financial distress.  As an alternative to citing the resident with fines they cannot afford, we offer an option that not only eliminates the nuisance but also creates stronger relationships with our citizens.  The City ofRialto graciously offers a courtesy trash bin to our residents when it is deemed necessary and the violations are deemed detrimental to public health and safety.   That’s where Burrtec Waste Industries have been extremely helpful.

For the last 5 years, Burrtec has helped Rialto Code Enforcement Officers whenever assistance is needed.   Sometimes only a small 3 cubic yard bin eliminates the nuisance but often a 40 foot bin is needed to remove the extraordinary amount of debris.   Burrtec has allowed the Code Enforcement officers to quickly assist our residents in a “time of need.”   The City ofRialtoextends its gratitude to Burrtec Waste Industries who make it possible to assist disadvantaged residents while improving the quality of life for the citizens ofRialto.

Public Works Department

Facility Maintenance Division

The Facility Maintenance Division has been assisting the Police Department with the installation of surveillance cameras at all City parks in an effort to reduce issues with vandalism.

Fire Station No. 202

Fire Station No. 202 is currently under construction with an anticipated completion in late March.  Delay was due to SCE transformer pad issues.  The work remaining is the final painting, the concrete pavement and all finishing touches.  The installation of the new traffic signal onRiverside   Avenuein front of the new Fire Station 202 is scheduled to begin in February.

FY 2011/2012 Curb, Gutter & Sidewalk Program

As part of the department’s annual program, the next Curb, Gutter and Sidewalk project for FY 2011/2012 is currently in the design phase.

FY 2011/2012 Overlay Program

As part of the department’s annual program, the next Overlay project for FY 2011/2012 is currently in the design phase.

Fergusson Park Improvements Project

Construction of the Fergusson Park Improvements is scheduled to be completed by the end of February.  The park improvements included two lighted football fields with bleachers, a basketball court, skate park, and a new concession building in addition to other park amenities.

Pacific Electric Inland Empire Trail (Rails to Trails) Project from Maple to Cactus Avenue

The “Rails to Trails” project is in the final stage of design.  Public Works staff is reviewing the final design Plans and Specifications.  It’s anticipated that the project will go out to bid for construction in the coming month.  The project includes construction of an eleven (11) foot concrete trail along with landscape betweenMaple AvenueandCactus Avenue.

Trickleside Alley Improvements

The Trickleside Alley Improvements at the downtown area is in the design phase.  Public Works staff is reviewing the 50% Plans and Specifications.  The design is schedule to be completed by the end of April 2012.  The alley improvements include replacement of the water main and reconstruction of the alley pavement.

Solid Waste Management News

On January 28, 2012 Solid Waste held the free dump day for the first quarter of 2012.  They also served 191 residents at the Household Hazardous Waste site.  Below is a list of the stats from those events:

Free Dump Day:

• 572 tires were collected from residents or picked up by our crews in alleys and fields throughout the City.
• 9.25 tons of illegally dumped debris was cleaned up by our crews in alleys and fields.
• Cal Mirco Recycling assisted 217 residents by taking 186 CRT’s (TV’s/monitors) and 5,925 pounds of other electronic items at the drop off site in the Civic Center south parking lot.

Household Hazardous Waste:

• 780 gallons of used motor oil
• 9 pallets of paint
• 9 drums of misc. poisons and other toxic liquids
• Approx. 50 auto batteries.

In addition to the above items, residents brought a box-truck load of usable items that was collected by the Salvation Army.

Liga International – The Flying Doctors of Mercy:

• The special collection for January received 4 truckloads of usable medical equipment fromRialto residents which will be used to aide residents in rural locations inMexico.

Free Dump Day Voucher             

Due to the closure of the Mid Valley Landfill on the January 28^th Free Dump Day as a result of high winds, the City of Rialto will be issuing Free Dump Vouchers to Rialto residents.  The voucher will be good for the disposal of one free load at the Mid Valley Landfill and will be valid through Wednesday, February 29th.  Residents that are interested can come to the City Administrator’s office at City Hall,150 S. Palm   Avenue, or to the Waste Management office at246 S. Willow Avenue to pick up a voucher. Proof of residency must be provided at the time of obtaining a voucher.  For further information please call (909) 421-7221.