09/09/2004 FILE Ao=mzb�' COPY
CITY
0
RAND TERR C September 9, 2004
22795 Barton Road
Grand Terrace
California 92313-5295
Civic Center
(909)824-6621
Fax(909)783- 6
Fax(909)783-2600 CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
Herman Hilkey
Mayor
CRAXITY COUNCIL
Maryetta Ferre
Mayor Pro Tem REGULAR MEETINGS
Lee Ann Garcia
DonLarkin 2ND AND 4TH Thursday - 6:30 p.m.
Bea Cortes
Council Members
Thomas J.Schwab
City Manager
Council Chambers
Grand Terrace Civic Center
22795 Barton Road
Grand Terrace, CA 92313-5295
CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COUNCIL MEETING
AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS SEPTEMBER 9, 2004
GRAND TERRACE CIVIC CENTER 6:30 PM
22795 Barton Road
THE CITY OF GRA-NTD TERRACE COMPLIES IVITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT OF 1990.IFYOU
REQUIRE SPECIAL ASSISTANCE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS MEETING,PLEASE CALL THE CITY CLERK'S
OFFICE AT(909)824-6621 AT LEAST 48 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.
IF YOU DESIRE TO ADDRESS THE CITY COUNCIL DURING THE MEETING,PLEASE COMPLETE AREQUEST
TO SPEAK FORM AVAILABLE AT THE ENTRANCE AND PRESENT IT TO THE CITY CLERK. SPEAKERS WILL
BE CALLED UPON BY THE MAYOR AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME.
* Call to Order-
* Invocation-
* Pledge of Allegiance-Pastor John Brunt,Azure Hills Seventh-Day Adventist Church
* Roll Call-
S1 AF- C,Ot'><CIi
AGENDA ITEMS RECOMMENDATION ACTION
CONVENE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
1. Approval of 08-26-2004 Minutes Approve
ADJOURN COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
CONVENE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
1. Items to Delete
2. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
3. CONSENT CALENDAR
The following Consent Calendar items are expected to be routine and
noncontroversial. They will be acted upon by the Council at one time
without discussion. Any Council Member,Staff Member,or Citizen
may request removal of an item from the Consent Calendar for
discussion.
A. Approve Check Register Dated September 9,2004 Approve
B. Ratify 09-09-2004 CRA Action
C. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
D. Approval of 08-26-2004 Minutes Approve
E. Notice of Completion-Combined Roadway Project(EGN) Approve
F. Request for Temporary Street Closure for Block Party Tanager Street
COUNCIL AGENDA
09-09-2004 PAGE 2 OF 2
AGENDA ITEMS STAFF COUNCIL
RECOMMENDATIONS ACTION
G. Participation in the Federal Surplus Personal Property
Program
4. PUBLIC COMMENT
5. ORAL REPORTS
A. Committee Reports-None
B. Council Reports
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Specific Plan SP-04-01 and E-04-03 to Develop
Approximately 123 Acres as Mixed Use Commercial and
Open Space Uses
7. UNFINISHED BUSINESS-None
8. NEW BUSINESS -None
' ChOSED SESSION - 'Non
ADJOURN
THE NEXT CRA/CITY COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE HELD
ON THURSDAY.SEPTEMBER 23,2004 AT 6:30 P.M.
.......................................................................................................................
AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS FOR THE 09-23-2004 MEETING
MUST BE SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO THE CITY CLERK'S
OFFICE BY NOON 09-16-2004.
RENDING C R A A'FPi"�.d V'ALW
CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING -AUGUST 26, 2004
A regular meeting of the Community Redevelopment Agency, City of Grand Terrace,was held in
the Council Chambers,Grand Terrace Civic Center,22795 Barton Road,Grand Terrace,California,
on August 26, 2004 at 6:30 p.m.
PRESENT: Herman Hilkey, Chairman
Maryetta Ferre, Vice-Chairman
Lee Ann Garcia,Agency Member
Don Larkin, Agency Member
Bea Cortes,Agency Member
Tom Schwab, Executive Director
Brenda Stanfill, City Clerk
Steve Berry, Assistant City Manager
Larry Romnow, Finance Director
Terry Glander, Building & Safety Director
Gary Koontz. Community Development Director
. i-Iec'-10- VucT, . Sheriff Depann;e:
ABSENT: John Harper, City Attorney
APPROVAL OF 08-12-2004 MINUTES
CRA-2004-27 MOTION BY AGENCY MEMBER CORTES, SECOND BY VICE-CHAIRMAN
FERRE,CARRIED 5-0,to approve the August 12,2004 Community Redevelopment
Agency Minutes.
Chainnan Hilkey adjourned the Community Redevelopment Agency Meeting at 6:45 p.m., until the
next CRA/City Council Meeting scheduled to be held on Thursday, September 9,2004,at 6:30 p.m.
SECRETARY of the Community Redevelopment
Agency of the City of Grand Terrace
CHAIRMAN of the Community Redevelopment
Agency of the City of Grand Terrace
CRA AGENDA ITEM NO.
vchlist Voucher List Page: 1
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRANS TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54105 8/20/2004 005702 PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT 08 13 111 PERS FOR PAYROLL END 8 13 04
10-022-62-00 8,900.41
Total : 8,900.41
54106 8/23/2004 010097 NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS 41057"25-02 June-July cell phones/service
10-180-240-000-000 551.27
10-440-235-000-000 74.20
Total : 625.47
54107 8/23/2004 006285 RIVERSIDE HIGHLAND WATER CO June/. June/July water service/fees
10-190-238-000-000 651.18
10-440-238-000-000 102.80
10-450-238-000-000 7,314.66
10-805-238-000-000 251.18
26-600-239-000-000 268.44
26-601-239-000-000 46.00
34-500-724-000-000 66.31
34-700-709-000-000 9.08
34-700-710-000-000 9.08
34-700-750-000-000 31.48
34-700-767-000-000 172.62
Total : 8,922.83
54108 8/24/2004 010290 KAISER PERMANENTE Sept. %^1)4 GARCIA HEALTH INS
10-110-142-000-000 241.41
10-110-120-000-000 66.01
r �
Total : 307.42
[54109 8/24/2004 001699 CALIF. STATE CONTROLLER for at FOR AUDIT REQUEST
j 10-140-250-000-000 100.00
Total : 100.00
�54110 8/24/2004 010399 COMER, NICHOLE 08310,' BIRTHDAY BONUS
10-440-110-000-000 50.00
Total : 50.00
104111 8/24/2004 005529 SBC CALIFORNIA 080821'14 July pay phone-Pico Park
Page: 1
vchlist Vour l-er List Page: 2
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GP^vD TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invo;ce Description/Account Amount
54111 8/24/2004 005529 SBC CALIFORNIA (C,_;-Lied)
10-450-235-000-000 53.96
Total : 53.96
54112 8/31/2004 010194 HINKLEY & ASSOCIATES, INC. 17 ROLLINS PARK/TERRACE HILLS SCHOOL
32-600-207-000-000 72,458.00
Total : 72,458.00
54113 8/31/2004 001206 ARROWHEAD CREDIT UNION Jule ^,iq, 20 July/Auq VISA charges
10-022-56-00 479.52
10-110-270-000-000 3,734.20
10-120-270-000-000 841.03
10-180-210-000-000 50.79
10-180-218-000-000 268.67
10-180-270-000-000 299.66
10-180-272-000-000 45.49
10-190-220-000-000 50.96
10-440-223-000-000 136.56
34-400-210-000-000 17.95
34-800-218-000-000 157.24
Total : 6,082.07
54114 8/31/2004 010340 BLUE CROSS OF CALIFORNIA, PERS-CH00' ')58321 HEALTH INS CORTES
10-110-142-000-000 303.67
10-110-120-000-000 52.73
Total : 356.40
54115 8/31/2004 005529 SBC CALIFORNIA 081,"1004 July/Auq phone usage/charqes
10-190-235-000-000 1.70
10-440-235-000-000 16.15
Total : 17.85
54116 9/9/2004 001074 A E P SEr 19 Annual Dues-Koontz
10-370-265-000-000 100.00
Total : 100.00
54117 9/9/2004 001040 ADDINGTON, MATTHEW Aura'lct, 2004 Auq Planninq Comm. Stipend
10-801-120-000-000 50.00
Page: 2
vchlist V(,uchP• t-ist Page: 3
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRAN^ TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54117 9/9/2004 001040 ADDINGTON, MATTHEW (Conti ,-1) Total : 50.00
54118 9/9/2004 001 156 AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION 0607r ^ 14573 Annual Member dues-Koontz
10-370-265-000-000 230.00
Total : 230.00
54119 9/9/2004 010119 AON, INC 5274, DEMO & ASBESTOS
34-500-724-000-000 27,000.00
Total : 27,000.00
54120 9/9/2004 010084 BIDNEY, ROBERT AuquF-' ?004 Aug. Planning Comm. Stipend
10-801-120-000-000 50.00
Total : 50.00
54121 9/9/2004 010404 C B TYRES RECYCLING RESOURCES 1776 Recycle tires
16-900-253-000-000 39.00
Total : 39.00
54122 9/9/2004 001759 C H J 65071 July srvs-11891 Preston
34-700-750-000-000 488.00
Total : 488.00
54123 9/9/2004 001683 CA. STATE DEPT OF CONSERVATION 08/20/2")n4 4TH QTR STRONG MOTION/MAPPING FEES
10-700-01 -2.36
08202^"A 4th Qtr Strong Motion/Mapping Fees
23-200-21-00 47.16
Total : 44.80
54124 9/9/2004 010102 CALIF. ASSOC. OF CODE ENFORCE. 082420n4 CACE 2004 Annual Seminar Reg-Owens
34-800-268-000-000 275.00
Total : 275.00
54125 9/9/2004 010403 CITY OF REDLANDS AR10R '16 CNG fuel
34-800-272-000-000 14.13
Total : 14.13
54126 9/9/2004 001840 COLTON, CITY OF June/, 20 WASTEWATER TREATMENT SERVICES
21-570-802-000-000 189,050.14
Page: 3
vchlist Vour.hPr List Page: 4
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GP AND TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54126 9/9/2004 001840 COLTON, CITY OF (Cr -';-1ued) Total : 189,050.14
54127 9/9/2004 010108 COMMUNITY WORKS DESIGN GROUP 70 OAC renderings
32-600-205-000-000 _ 6,179.69
Total : 6,179.69
54128 9/9/2004 001875 COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING SVCS. 7-2 ',4-GT Housing Element update
10-370-255-000-000 1,530.00
Total : 1,530.00
54129 9/9/2004 010086 COMSTOCK, TOM Ai-—t, 2004 Aug. Planning Comm. Stipend
10-801-120-000-000 50.00
Total : 50.00
54130 9/9/2004 001913 CREDIT MANAGEMENT SERVICES 28" ',51 Return NSF amount collected
10-440-28 136.27
Total : 136.27
54131 9/9/2004 001930 DAILY JOURNAL CORPORATION B71OR06 PUBLICATION OF PUBLIC NOTICE IN THE SAN
10-370-230-000-000 94.85
B70nR06a Public Hrq Notices
10-370-230-000-000 18.12
Total : 112.97
54132 9/9/2004 001937 DANKA OFFICE IMAGING COMPANY 7n, ,2478 COPIER CHARGES
10-172-246-000-000 3.46
10-175-246-000-000 4.32
34-400-246-000-000 9.50
Total : 17.28
54133 9/9/2004 001960 DELL MARKETING L.P. A8?"g0143 DELL Computer-C. Care
10-440-700-000-000 1,781.94
Total : 1,781.94
54134 9/9/2004 003210 DEPT 32-2500233683 02^n40/52908 Park equip maint
10-450-246-000-000 76.97
02r 1 1 0/3291 1 HARDWARE AND SUPPLIES
10-450-245-000-000 113.40
Page: 4
vchlist Voucher List Page: 5
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRANn TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54134 9/9/2004 003210 DEPT 32-2500233683 (Contir, ^-I) Total : 190.37
54135 9/9/2004 010366 DUDEK & ASSOCIATES 20043^"0 OAC
32-600-205-000-000 - - 2,065.00
Total : 2,065.00
54136 9/9/2004 002280 EVER READY EMBROIDERY 2866°' UNIFORM SUPPLIES
10-180-218-000-000 100.08
Total : 100.08
54137 9/9/2004 002740 FRUIT GROWERS SUPPLY 32065"q CREDIT ORIG INV#32064940
10-450-245-000-000 -6.14
10-450-245-000-000 6.37
32065' 17 MAINT SUPPLIES
10-450-245-000-000 31.69
32065r'72 MAINT SUPPLIES
10-450-245-000-000 22.41
3543P ?3 MAINT SUPPLIES
10-450-245-000-000 91.97
Total : 146.30
54138 9/9/2004 002901 G.T. AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 3976 July lunch-S. Berry
10-180-270-000-000 8.00
Total : 8.00
54139 9/9/2004 010402 HEADSETS.COM 4504, Wireless phone headset
10-180-210-000-000 380.25
Total : 380.25
54140 9/9/2004 003213 HONEYW ELL ACS SERVICE 7878P - Sr. Ctr A/C repair 8/12/04
10-805-246-000-000 266.94
78792' C. Care A/C repair
10-440-246-000-000 241.94
Total : 508.88
54141 9/9/2004 003224 HYDRO-SCAPE PRODUCTS INC. 35167Q 00 LANDSCAPE/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES
10-450-245-000-000 290.35
Page: 5
vchlist Vouc11er List Page: 6
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Inv-ice Description/Account Amount
54141 9/9/2004 003224 HYDRO-SCAPE PRODUCTS INC. (C-' 'inued)
35-'rr;13-00 LANDSCAPE/MAINTENANCE SUPPLIES
10-450-245-000-000 1,492.82
Total : 1,783.17
54142 9/9/2004 003856 JON'S FLAGS & POLES F5" '39 12' x 18' US flaq-Rollins Pk
10-450-245-000-000 370.12
Total : 370.12
54143 9/9/2004 004620 MCI TELECOMMUNICATIONS 0P" 1 141 July/Auq phone usaqe/charges
10-190-235-000-000 33.78
10-440-235-000-000 383.50
10-805-235-000-000 36.95
10-450-235-000-000 16.94
Total : 471.17
54144 9/9/2004 010041 NOLTE ASSOCIATES INC. 41"^l31 OAC
32-600-205-000-000 935.00
412^222 PREPARE AN ALTA SURVEY FOR—
34-500-726-000-000 3,000.00
Total : 3,935.00
54145 9/9/2004 001456 OFFICE MAX-A BOISE COMPANY 71 r r95 Office supplies
10-120-210-000-000 18.22
82 '"'19 Office supplies
10-172-210-000-000 66.48
8P "04 Office supplies
10-140-210-000-000 15.55
9anR53 Office supplies
10-440-210-000-000 12.77
10-190-210-000-000 40.75
10-440-210-000-000 0.99
10-190-210-000-000 3.16
Total : 157.92
54146 9/9/2004 005450 OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY S/\I 'n6425V904 ELEVATOR MAINTENANCE
10-180-245-000-000 266.43
- Page: 6
vchlist Vuuche- list Page: 7
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRANr" TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoicn Description/Account Amount
54146 9/9/2004 005450 OTIS ELEVATOR COMPANY (Conti- —i) Total : 266.43
54147 9/9/2004 005584 PETTY CASH 08232^ 14 Replenish pettv cash
10-110-270-000-000 12.00
10-172-210-000-000 9.00
10-180-245-000-000 5.12
10-180-246-000-000 25.00
10-180-268-000-000 25.00
10-180-272-000-000 6.87
10-190-210-000-000 5.94
10-190-224-000-000 15.00
10-450-245-000-000 8.60
10-450-246-000-000 23.01
10-808-246-000-000 22.60
Total : 158.14
54148 9/9/2004 005586 PETTY CASH 083120 '4 Replenish pettv cash
10-440-210-000-000 5.33
10-440-221-000-000 34.58
10-440-223-000-000 50.97
10-440-228-000-000 60.42
10-440-270-000-000 35.00
Total : 186.30
54149 9/9/2004 010031 Q-STAR TECHNOLOGY, LLC 11427 VANDALISM DETRRENT
10-410-701-000-000 11,473.00
10-410-701-000-000 882.03
Total : -12,355.03
54150 9/9/2004 010256 RIVERSIDE YMCA Augus"M Julv/Aug lifeguard srvs
10-180-250-000-000 3,930.00
Total : 3,930.00
54151 9/9/2004 006310 ROADRUNNER STORAGE Sept., qn04 Sept. storage fee
10-140-241-000-000 89.00
Total : 89.00
54152 9/9/2004 006335 ROQUET PAVING INC. 0811 STREET REPAIRS
Page: 7
vchlist VOurhPr List Page: 8
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54152 9/9/2004 006335 ROQUET PAVING INC. (0 -"•sued)
16-900-257-000-000 6,245.00
Total : 6,245.00
54153 9/9/2004 006524 S.B. COUNTY AUDITOR/CONTROLLER 08') '')004 Lien release APN0277-423-06
21-572-210-000-000 12.00
Total : 12.00
54154 9/9/2004 006557 S.B. COUNTY DEPT. PUBLIC WORKS FC ^^r)/05 NPDES FLOOD CONTROL SERVICE AGREEMEN
12-903-701-000-000 2,650.00
Total : 2,650.00
54155 9/9/2004 006531 S.B. COUNTY SHERIFF 49n" 04 05 LAW ENFORCEMENT CONTRACT
10-410-255-000-000 3,179.76
10-410-256-000-000 97,194.66
14-411-256-000-000 5,617.58
49R°-� SHERIFF CONRACT
14-411-256-000-000 13,198.84
50n' SHERIFF OVERTIME
10-410-250-000-000 2,746.95
50n" 4th Qtr Gen Srvs Expense
10-410-256-000-000 251.42
50n 04 05 LAW ENFORCEMENT CONTRACT
10-410-255-000-000 3,179.55
10-410-256-000-000 97,188.25
14-411-256-000-000 5,617.20
50n'-- SHERIFF CONRACT
14-411-256-000-000 13,198.84
Total : 241,373.05
54156 9/9/2004 006720 SO.CA.EDISON COMPANY Au'-' ?004 Auq. Electricity
Page: 8
vchlist Vc,Ljche- List Page: 9
09101/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRANn TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54156 9/9/2004 006720 SO.CA.EDISON COMPANY (Conti,-I)
10-450-238-000-000 714.29
16-510-238-000-000 291.20
10-190-238-000-000 4,205.23
34-400-238-000-000 113.95
10-175-238-000-000 41.44
10-172-238-000-000 51.80
10-440-238-000-000 1,371.20
15-500-601-000-000 19.49
Total : 6,808.60
54157 9/9/2004 006778 STAPLES CREDIT PLAN 91473 7'582 Transcription Headset
10-370-210-000-000 21.56
Total : 21.56
54158 9/9/2004 006898 SYSCO FOOD SERVICES OF L.A. 4081 7'?n6 1 C. Care FOOD SUPPLIES
10-440-220-000-000 21.12
4081 P'^R9 9 C. Care FOOD SUPPLIES
10-440-220-000-000 647.52
Total : 668.64
54159 9/9/2004 010091 TELEPACIFIC COMMUNICATIONS 10347A ' 0 July/Auq phone usaqe/charges
10-190-235-000-000 944.22
Total : 944.22
54160 9/9/2004 010390 TIMEMARK INC 10703" MONITOR TRAFFIC
10-410-701-000-000 1,829.37
Total : 1,829.37
54161 9/9/2004 007005 TOM & KATHY'S ANY HOUR 10507' Locks/Keys-Rollins Pk
10-450-245-000-000 103.63
Total % 103.63
54162 9/9/2004 007032 TRAFFIC CONTROL SERVICES INC. 56732P BLUE REFLECTORS FOR CITY STREETS
16-900-220-000-000 462.50
- 16-900-220-000-000 35.84
56861r, 2 barriers-Canal
10-180-240-000-000 168.00
Page: 9
vchlist Vour:her List Page: 10
0910112004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
54162 9/9/2004 007032 TRAFFIC CONTROL SERVICES INC. (C,- ")ued) Total : 666.34
54163 9/9/2004 007400 U. S. BANK TRUST N.A. 1 67 G.T. RDA/Rollins Park fee
33-300-250-000-000 _ 750.00
Total : 750.00
54164 9/9/2004 007579 VARELA, CATALINA 08'a2004 Mileage expense
10-440-271-000-000 81.00
Total : 81.00
54165 9/9/2004 007854 WESTERN EXTERMINATORS CO 19r,"r,1 PEST CONTROL
10-180-245-000-000 76.00
10-440-245-000-000 65.00
10-805-245-000-000 29.00
34-400-246-000-000 33.50
Total : 203.50
54166 9/9/2004 007905 WHITLEY, BRIAN Aun-qt, 2004 Aug Planning Comm. Stipend
10-801-120-000-000 50.00
Total : 50.00
54167 9/9/2004 007920 W ILLDAN 06% '315 July plan review/inspection srvs
10-172-250-000-000 1,472.50
34-400-251-000-000 1,505.00
Total : 2,977.50
54168 9/9/2004 007925 W ILSON, DOUG Ai -st, 2004 Aug. Planning Comm Stipend
10-801-120-000-000 50.00
Total : 50.00
54169 9/9/2004 007987 XEROX CORPORATION 004',2516 COPIER CHARGES
10-190-700-000-000 530.01
00A?g2517 COPIER USAGE
10-190-700-000-000 318.22
Total : 848.23
65 Vouchers for bank code : bofa Bank total : 618,407.43
Page: 10
vchlist Voucher List Page: 11
09/01/2004 1:13:49PM CITY OF GRANrn TERRACE
Bank code : bofa
Voucher Date Vendor Invoice Description/Account Amount
65 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers : 618,407.43
I certify that, to the best of my knowledge, the afore-listed cb-cks for payment of City and Community Redevelopment
Agency liabilities have been audited by me and are necessary an-' -ppropriate expenditures for the operation of the
City and Agency.
"&i4__MZ -
Larry Ronnow, Finance Director
Page: 11
CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES -
"b
REGULAR MEETING-AUGUST 26, 2004
A regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Grand Terrace was called to order in the Council
Chambers,Grand Terrace Civic Center,22795 Barton Road, Grand Terrace, California,on August
26, 2004, at 6:30 p.m.
PRESENT: Herman Hilkey, Mayor
Maryetta Fen-e, Mayor Pro Tem
Lee Ann Garcia, Councilmember
Don Larkin, Councilmember
Bea Cortes, Councilmember
Tom Schwab, City Manager
Brenda Stanfill, City Clerk
Steve Berry, Assistant City Manager
Larry Ronnow, Finance Director
Jerry Glander, Building & Safety Director
Gary Koontz. Community Development Director
L.�. redo. L7ill-i1u, rr
Si;er E Deparin;er
ABSENT: John Harper, City Attorney
The City Council meeting was opened with invocation by Councilman Don Larkin,followed by the
Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilwoman Bea Cones.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
2A. Beverly Powell, Southern California Edison Update
Beverly Powell, Southern California Edison, gave an update on Edison's plan to
upgrade the Devers-Palo Verde Transmission Corridor, which cuts through Grand
Terrace. She indicated that there will be an open house that will be held on
September 7"'at the Loma Linda Senior Center where they will discuss the proposed
proj ect.
CONSENT CALENDAR
CC-2004-88 MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM FERRE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
CORTES, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the following consent calendar items:
3A. Approval of Check Registers Dated August 26, 2004
3B. Ratify 08-26-2004 CRA Action
WUNCL AGENDA [7� �: .
Council Minutes
August 26,2004
Page 2
3C. Waive Full Reading of Ordinances on Agenda
3D. Approval of 08-12-2004 Minutes
3E. Award of the Street Slurry Contract to American Asphalt South,Inc. for the
2004-2005 Slurry Seal Program
3F. Award ofthe CityParking Lot Reconstruction Contract to the Lowest Bidder,
Roquet Paving
PUBLIC COMMENT -None
ORAL REPORTS
5A. Committee Reports
1. Crime Prevention Convnittee
A. Minutes of 07-12-2004
CC-2004-89 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER LARKIN,SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
CORTES, CARRIED 5-0, to accept the July 12, 2004 Minutes of the Crime
Prevention Committee.
COUNCIL REPORTS
Councilmember Larkin, indicated that he has been on vacation over the last two and a half
weeks. He visited Fire Station#23 in New York and took some pictures and will share them
with the Council at the next meeting. He reported that the San Bernardino County Board of
Supervisors extended the Safe Haven Law so that Fire Stations can now accept new born
babies when the parents who have legal custody want to surrender them within 72 hours
without any prosecution of child abandomnent. He congratulated Mayor Pro Tem.Ferre for
her recent endorsement from the County Republican Party on her re-election. He indicated
that he took a position two and a half years ago as the Executive Director of the First Five
San Bernardino which has taken up a lot of his time and that after considering his family and
responsibilities he feels that at this time he will not seek re-election. He thanked everyone
who has helped him along the way. He expressed his appreciation to the Council for their
dedication and hard work. He feels that one of the reasons that Grand Terrace is such a good
community is because of staff and their dedication and hard work for the City. He stated that
Grand Terrace residents Qet involved and are active in making Grand Terrace a great
community. He stated that he plans on staying involved in the community. He wished those
on the Council and those running for Council luck.
Mayor Pro Tern Ferre,thanked Councilmember Larkin for his comments and expressed her
appreciation for his efforts. She feels that adding Fire Station to the Safe Haven Law is a
worthy cause. She reported that she along with Councilmembers Cortes and Garcia,attended
Council Minutes
August 26,2004
Page 3
the Grand Terrace Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon. The topic was the West Nile
Virus. There were two speakers from San Bernardino Vector Control, a speaker from
Redlands Community Hospital and Assistant City Manager Berry gave an update on how the
City of Grand Terrace is monitoring this problem. The program was very interesting,
educational and timely. She reported that she attended the dedication at Richard Rollins
Park. She felt that it was a fabulous event and thanked Mayor Hilkey,City Manager Schwab
and Assistant City Manager Berry for a nice dedication.
Councilmember Garcia, indicated that she feels the dedication of the Richard Rollins Park
was very special and she is so proud of the community. She reported that there is a great
brochure available on the front counter on who are you going to call and encouraged that this
information be placed on the website. She reported that on September 10`h the Perris Hill
Line Dancers will be the program at the Senior Center. She requested an update on the
upcoming Halloween Haunt.
Assistant City Manager Berry,responded that staff is on track for the Halloween Haunt. He
indicated that the Foundation of Grand Terrace is paying for an International Children's
Performer to come in and entertain This year the event will be held on Saturday. October
3( . Ttie) arc iooj.rn,- ioi comrnunnr\ sponsors ana calm} aor;all;on:
Councilmember Garcia, encouraged bakers to participate in the 23rd Annual Country Fair,
which will be held on November Oh. She also reported that the Grand Terrace Toastmasters
will be holding an open house on Friday at 7:00 a.m.in the community meeting room at the
Grand Terrace Civic Center. She thanked Councilmember Larkin for his cornments.
Councilmember Cortes, indicated that she attended the Grand Terrace Area Chamber of
Commerce luncheon and felt that it was very informative. She also attended the Richard
Rollins Park Grand Opening and felt that it was a great event. She thanked Mayor Hilkey
for all of his efforts for had it not been for him we wouldn't have the wonderful park. She
congratulated Mayor Pro Tem Ferre for receiving an endorsement from the Republican Party.
She expressed her respect for Councilman Don Larkin and sadness with him not seeking re-
election. She feels that he has been her mentor and thanked him for helping when she was
a newly elected councilmember. She wished City Manager Tom Schwab a Happy Birthday.
Mayor Hilkey,stated that he will miss Councilmember Larkin. He feels that the relationship
between the City of Grand Terrace and the School District is going very well. He feels that
the park is gorgeous. He reported that Assistant City Manager Berry is working on some
water drainage issues throughout the community. He feels that it is very important for the
City to stay on top of the standing water issues and to coordinate efforts with residents. He
expressed his appreciation for staffs efforts on getting the information together on the West
Nile Virus.
Council Minutes
August 26, 2004
Page 4
PUBLIC HEARING
6A. Tentative Tract Map No. 04-02(County Recorder's Number 16985)and E-04-04 to
Create a 55 Unit Condominium Project on 4.8 Acres
Councilmember Larkin indicated that he will be abstaining from this item due to a Conflict
of Interest. He indicated that he resides within 1,000 feet of the project.
John Lampe,Associate Planner, stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing
on July 15, 2004 to consider the proposal by applicant, NBD Development, to construct a
total of 55 single family,paired homes to be sold to individual home buyers. The prof ect will
have a homeowner's association. The tentative tract map (TTM-04-02) has been filed for
this condominium development. The subject site, consisting of 4.8 acres, is located on the
north side of DeBer y Street between Reed Avenue on the west and the Gage Canal right-of-
way on the east. He indicated that the only matter that is before the Council is the proposed
tentative tract map to create the condominium subdivision and that it is the recommendation
of the Planning Conunission and staff that the City Council approve the Resolution
approving Tentative Tract Map No. 04-02 (TTM 16985) for a 55 unit Condominium
Development in the Cite of Grand Terrace with mandatory findings and conditions or
apprm,a, ioi ..i eniai.�k raci l 4ap lac. 04-G_ aS a coi oominiun, subaivisioi,.
Mayor Pro Tern Ferre, confinned that the entrance to the condominiums will be off of
DeBery and the emergency entrance will be on Reed.
Associate Planner Lampe, responded in the affinnative.
Councilmember Cortes, questioned if it is sufficient to have one entrance.
Associate Planner Lampe, responded in the affirmative.
Mayor Hikey, questioned who was notified of the project.
Associate Planner Lampe, responded that per City Code and requirements every property
owner within a 300 feet of the site. The public hearing for the Planning Commission and the
City Council were both published in the local press. The applicant held a community
meeting to discuss the proposed project as well as knocking on doors to talk to people.
Mayor Hilkey opened the Public Hearing for discussion.
Chris Gerold,NBD Development Inc., indicated that they have proposed a project and have
been working with staff for a number of months. Be stated that he is available to answer any
questions that the Council may have and would like them to approve the project.
Council Minutes
August 26,2004
Page 5
Councilmember Garcia,requested a visual of the proposed landscaping.
Mr. Gerold,responded they employed the same landscape architect that did Richard Rollins
Park. He stated that they submitted a complete landscape plan and that one of their
conditions is to follow the plan.
Mayor Pro Tern Ferre, questioned what type of a response he received after holding the
public meeting and meeting with the neighbors regarding the proposed project.
Mr. Gerold,responded that the majority of the people were there to get on a reservation list
and find out how big they are going to be and how much they are going to cost. Thirteen
people showed up with nine signing the registration form. The main issues that he heard was
that they didn't like the idea of having a solid block ,vall surrounding the project and were
they really going to make it a for sale project.
Mayor Hilkey returned discussion to the Council.
CC-2004-90 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER CORTES. SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM
TERR_. CAI:RIEL '-0-0 (COUNCILl4FM13L-F -.kR-KTN ABSTAINED). ir
approve the Resolution approving Tentative Tract Map No. 04-02 (TTM 16985)for
a 55 Unit Condominium Development in the City of Grand Terrace.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS -None
NEW BUSINESS
8A. Rules of Procedures for Council Meetings
CC-2004-91 MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER LARKIN,SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
CORTES,CARRIED 5-0,to continue the Rules of Procedures for Council Meetings
to a future meeting at the discretion of staff.
CLOSED SESSION -None
ORDER OF ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Hilkey adjourned the City Council Meeting at 8:35 p.m., until the next CRA/City Council
Meeting which is scheduled to be held on Thursday, September 9, 2004 at 6:30 p.m.
CITY CLERK of the City of Grand Terrace
Council Minutes
August 26,2004
Page 6
MAYOR of the City of Grand Terrace
STAFF REPORT
CRA ITEM ( COUNCIL ITEM (X ) MEETING DATE: September 9, 2004
FUNDING REQUIRED: ( ) NO FUNDING REQUIRED ( X )
SUBJECT: Notice of Completion of Combined Street Project
RECOMMENDATION: Accept project. Direct City Clerk to record the Notice of
Completion
Background.
The City Council awarded a contract to E.G.N. Construction to provide improvements to four
projects. These included:
1. Widening of the intersection of Mount Vernon Avenue and Grand Terrace
Road/Canal Street.
2. Constructing a storm drain along the north side of the Highlands Apartments.
3. Widening the intersection of Barton Road and Grand Terrace Road.
4. Improving the northeast corner of Preston Street and Victoria Street.
The projects were completed in August 2004 to the satisfaction of City staff.
Recommendation:
Staff requests that the City Council:
1. Accept the projects
2. Direct the City Clerk to record the Notice of Completion
COUNCIL AOE1 'DA F �.
STAFF REPORT
CRA ITEM ( ) COUNCIL ITEM(X) MEETING DATE: September 9, 2004
SUBJECT: REQUEST FOR TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURE FOR BLOCK PARTY -
Tanager Street
The residents on the Tanager Street between Michigan and Royal Avenue are requesting approval
to block off a portion of the street on October 2nd for the purpose of holding a Block Party.
The letter of request is attached including details of the event.All of the residents have been notified
and agree to the street closure.
The Sheriff Department and Fire Department would be notified of the event.
Staff Recommends Council:
Consider the closure of Tanager Street between Michigan and Royal Avenue on October 2,2004 for
the purpose of a Block Party.
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM 6��aF
COUNCIL PERSONS,
GARY AND MELODY MEWES A 12 YEAR RESIDENT OF GRAND TERRACE,WOULD LIKE TO
HAVE A BLOCK PARTY CELEBRATING BIRTHDAYS,ANNIVERSARIES OR ANY OTHER
SPECIAL EVENT OF THE TANAGER STREET RESIDENTS. WE ARE PLANNING THIS EVENT
TO BE ON OCTOBER 2ND 2004. MUSIC WILL BE A LIVE BAND AT 22032 TANAGER STREET
WITH A MODERATE VOLUME.ALL EFFORTS WILL BE MADE TO MAINTAIN THIS EVENT IN
A SAFE AND ENJOYABLE MANNER. THE TIME WE ARE REQUESTING IS FROM 4:00 PM TO
9:30 PM. SO WE DO NOT DISTURB ANY OF THE NON-ATTENDING RESIDENTS. PLEASE LET
US KNOW IF THERE IS ANY LAWS ON GUIDELINES WE MUST FOLLOW PERTAINING TO
ALCOHOL. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION.
GARY AND MELODY MEWES
r ,
� 'L Cl VEL
AUG 2004
CITY OF CRAI�-D TERRACC
- JCPA Tt!,,[:_
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First Annual Tanager A Block Part�y
This is c first annual Tanager st. block party. We are planning
this event so our neighborhood car better aquainted. We have
planned many events such as.
1 . Live Classic Rock music supplied by the "Jab Band".
2.Ken & Tammy at 22022 Tanager are supplying a jumper
for the kids.
3. BBQ for even ( We still need a few more grills )
4. Dancing and open mic for those who want to sing or
play with the band.
5. Talent contest for all ages with prizes.
6. Special event recognition for birthdays, anniversaries.
Please let us know what special event you have for the
month of October.
All efforts will be made to keep this event enjoyable and safe for all
attendee€ VVe are havinc OUr bane supriied by Gann .MeweF a� 220""'1"
1 anager st, play from 5-9 so we do not bother any non-attending
residents or adj,, neighbors. We understand that no alchoholic
beverages will be allowed. Those wanting to drink alchohol will have
to do it in their own yard. Please make us aware of any other laws
or regulations we must follow.
Thanks
Gary & Melody Mewes
ON OCTOBER 2"D2004 THE BLOCK PARTY FOR TANAGER STREET-NEEDS TO SIGN THIS, SO
THAT WE CAN CLOSE THE STREET OFF TO HAVE HAVE OUR PARTY.
THERE WILL BE A LIVE BAND AND A$fly FOR THE KIDS TO BOUNCE IN.
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,5V5AIJ CP-Al (-, )4-AkC 1S 22l9 q TArIAH-k ST,
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RHMD TERR C
Community Services Department
Staff Report
MEETING DATE: September 9, 2004
CRA ITEM ( ) COUNCIL ITEM (X)
SUBJECT: Resolution to participate in the Federal Surplus Personal Property
Program
NO FUNDING REQUIRED
BACKGROUND:
The City of Grand Terrace is a participant in the Federal Surplus Personal Property Program. This
program allows authorized organizations to purchase federal surplus property at a substantial discount.
To continue our program participation in the next three-year period, the city must submit(1) Eligibility
Renewal Application and (2)Resolution authorized by the City Council.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff requests the City Council to:
1. Approve the attached Resolution authorizing the City of Grand Terrace to participate in the
Federal Surplus Personal property Program.
State of California • Department of General Services • Arnold Schwarzenegger,Governor
PROCUREMENT DIVISION
r Federal Surplus Personal Property Program
701 Burning Tree Road, Suite 1 • Fullerton, CA 92833
Telephone: (714) 449-5900 • Fax: (714) 449-5917
July 26, 2004
Dear Federal Surplus Personal Property Client:
Our records indicate that your organization's eligibility to participate in the Federal Surplus Personal
Property Program expires in September 2004. In order for your organization to retain eligibility for
the next three-year period, the enclosed Eiigibiiity Renewal Application must be completed.
In the RESOLUTION section of the application, please provide the name(s) of the individual(s)you
are authorizing to obtain federal surplus personal property on behalf of your organization, and
include their titles and signatures. Please be aware that only the individuals you list will be
recognized as your organization's representatives. All previous authorizations of personnel will be
rescinded.
If your organization has a governing board or council, the RESOLUTION section (not the OR
section) of the application must be signed by vour organization's governing board or council
secretary, as applicable.
If your organization does not have a governing board or council, please have your organization's
authorized official sign under the OR section.
In addition to completing the Eligibility Renewal Application, please have your organization's board
or council secretary, (or your organization's authorized official, as applicable), read and sign the
enclosed federal form, "CERTIFICATION REGARDING DEBARMENT, SUSPENSION,
INELIGIBILITY AND VOLUNTARY EXLUSION—LOWER TIER TRANSACTIONS."
To ensure your organization's eligibility will continue on an uninterrupted basis, please submit the
original completed application and federal government certification to my attention at the above
address as soon as possible. We cannot accept copies; and incomplete or incorrectly
submitted documents will be returned.
If no response is received within 60 calendar days from the date of this letter, your organization will
be permanently removed from our roster of eligible organizations.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at(714) 449-5907.
Sincerely,
James B. Curran, Eligibility Coordinator
Federal Surplus Personal Property Program
Enclosure: 2
State of California SASP Form 201-A 3/92
Deportment of General Services
State Agency for Surplus Property
701 Burning Tree Road ELIGIBILITY RENEWAL APPLICATION
Fullerton,CA 91633 (714)449-5900 FEDERAL SURPLUS PROPERTY PROGRAM
Name of orgganization City of Grand Terrace Telephone 909-824-6621
Address 2Z795 Barton Road Citv Grand Terrace County San Bern ZIP 92313
Organization is a:
PUBLIC AGENCY X NONPROFIT AGENCY
A. Conservation J. Private Education
B. Economic Development K Private Health
C. Education L. Older Americans Act for Sr. Citizens
D. Parks and Recreation M. Homeless Program
E. Public Health
F. Public Safety
X G. 2 or more listed
H. Other (includes NOTE: Categories J—K—L—M
library/museums) Number of sites
I. Homeless Program Enrollment or number of clients served
RESOLUTION
"BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Board. OR by the Chief Adminisrative Officer of those
organizations which do not have a governing board, and hereby ordered that the official(s) and/or
employee(s) whose name(s), title(s), and signature(s) are listed below shall be and is (are) hereby
authorized as our representative(s) to acquire federal surplus property from the California State
Agency for Surplus Property under the Terms and Conditions listed on the reverse side of this form."
NAME—(Print or type) TITLE SIGNATURE
Thomas
Steve Berry Assistant City Manager
Larry Ronnow Finance Director
Michael Mullins Maintenance Supervisor'
PASSED AND ADOPTED this day of 119 by the Governing Board of
by the following vote:
Ayes: ; Noes: ; Absent: .
I, ,Clerk of the Governing Board of
do hereby certify that the foregoing is a full,
true, and correct copy of a resolution adopted by the Board at a meeting thereof held
at its regular place of meeting at the date and by the vote above stated, which resolution is on file in
the office of the Board.
(Signed)
OR
AUTHORIZED this day of , 19 , by:
Name of Chief Administrative Officer
(Signed)
FOR STATE AGENCY USE
Application approved: Application disapproved:
Comments or additional information:
Date: Signed:
(Title)
STAFF REPORT
i
CRA ITEM ( COUNCIL ITEM ( X ) MEETING DATE: September 9, 2004
FUNDING REQUIRED NO FUNDING REQUIRED X
SUBJECT: Specific Plan SP-04-01 and E-04-03 to develop approximately 123
acres as mixed use commercial and open space uses.
RECOMMENDATION: Certify E-04-03 and approve Specific Plan SP-04-01 as
recommended by the Planning Commission.
BACKGROUND
The City of Grand Terrace Redevelopment Agency is proposing the development of a master
planned outdoor recreation-oriented commercial project on approximately 123 acres of property
lying generally south of Barton Road, west of Michigan Street, north of Pico Street, and east of
11;1erstat, 21 ` )3, order- tc A,Inlemen;t tier "aronosee protect, the Redevelopment Agency. througl
the Community Development Department, has prepared a Specific Plan of Land Use (SP-04-01)
-- the Outdoor Adventures Center (OAC) Specific Plan. Based upon the OAC Specific Plan, an
Environmental hnpact Report (E-04-04)was prepared per CEQA guidelines.
During the week of February 23, 2004, copies of the Specific Plan, E1R, and Appendices were
delivered to the Plamling Connnission members as part of the CEQA public comment period.
Copies were also distributed to the state's CEQA clearinghouse and directly to affected local
agencies. Copies were also made available for public review at City Hall. Although the legal
time requirement for receiving convnent is 45 days, the Department extended it to April 20,
2004. All continents were incorporated into the final draft E1R.
The public hearing before the Grand Terrace Plamling Commission was originally scheduled for
May 6, 2004. After the Department received comments from the general public regarding public
advertisements, the Department readvertised on April 28, 2004 and rescheduled the public
hearing for May 20, 2004.
On May 20, 2004, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on SP-04-01, the Outdoor
Adventures Center Specific Plan. The Planning Commission took testimony from the general
public and continued the hearing to Tune 3, 2004. Following additional testimony on June 3,
2004, the Planning Commission voted to approve the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan
and its accompanying Environmental hnpact Report on a vote of 4-1-0.
The purpose of this City Council agenda item is to certify the environmental impact report and
approve the specific plan for the Outdoor Adventures Center as recommended by the Planning
Commission.
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM NO:
SITE AND SURROUNDING AREA
The OAC project area includes approximately 30 individual parcels. Four parcels covering
approximately 45 acres are currently owned by the City Redevelopment Agency. The remaining
parcels are either privately owned or under the jurisdiction of government agencies such as the
City of Riverside or the San Bernardino County Flood Control District.
Existing Land Uses'
Existing land uses within the subject area are a mix of rural residential, commercial/industrial,
agriculture and vacant property. Table I-1 summarizes the existing land uses by acreage.
Table I-1: Existing Land Uses
Existing Land Use Acres
Rural Residential 16.6
Comm erci al/Industrial 10.6
Aericultural 28.8
Vacant 66.8
Total 122.8
Surrounding land uses include the following:
North: Con-unercial. Industrial
Soutl- ]ndu�rr�
East: Residential
West I-215 freeway, Commercial, Industrial
General Plan
As noted in Figure 1, the General Plan designations within the project area are General
Conu»ercial, north of Van Buren Street, and Industrial south of Van Buren Street. Surrounding
General Plan designations include the following:
North: General Commercial, Public
South: Industrial, Public
East: Low Density Residential, General Commercial'
West I-215, City of Colton
Zoning
As noted in Figure 2, the Zoning designations within the project area are C-2 (general
Commercial, MR (Restricted industrial), and M-2 (Industrial). Surrounding zoning designations
include the following:
North: C2 (General Commercial)
South: MR (Restricted Manufacturing)
East: RI-7.2 (Single Family Residential), CM (Commercial Manufacturing)
West I-215, City of Colton
2
Access
Site access is provided by a series of surrounding existing publicly-maintained streets including
the following:
Table I-2: Primary Street System
General Plan Ultimate Ultimate Existing
Street Designation R/W Lanes Lanes
Commerce Way Secondary 88, 4 4
Barton Road Major 100' 5 5
Main Street Major 88' 5 2
Van Buren Street Collector 66' 4 2
Michigan Street n/o Secondary 88' 4 2
Van Buren Street
Michigan Street s/o Collector 66' 2 2
Van Buren Street
De Berry Street Collector 66' 2 2
Taylor Street Local 60' 2 1 2
GENERAL PLAN & ZONINC, C'ONSISTENC )'
Under Article 8 of California Planning and Zoning Law, a Planning Agency may prepare a
specific plan for the systematic implementation of the General Plan. All specific plans must be
consistent to the City's adopted General Plan. As part of the EIR, the OAC Specific Plan was
reviewed for consistency with the City of Grand Terrace General Plan. This discussion is
included in the Land Use and Planning Section (Section 4.1).
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The purpose of the Outdoor Adventures Center plan is to provide a general guideline for the
development of the last major undeveloped commercially zoned area in the city into a viable
commercial project that:
1. Provides for the highest and best use of the property.
2. Assists in balancing the housing to jobs ratio of the city.
3. Provides a long-tern taxable revenue base for the city.
4. Provides adequate buffers between proposed commercial uses and adjacent
residential uses.
5. Maximizes the use of fi-eeway frontage to enhance the commercial base of the
city.
6. Mitigates all potentially significant environmental impacts of the proposed land
uses.
3
LAND USE PLAN
As noted in Figure I-4, the proposed specific plan creates seven planning areas. These are:
Planning Area 1 (Gateway Commercial)
Planning Area 1 consists of approximately 11 acres located in the northeast portion of the site. A
portion of this area is currently developed with commercial and industrial uses including service
stations, limited retail commercial, a skating rink, and wholesale distribution businesses.
Proposed uses include, but are not limited to general retail; wholesale trade; service commercial;
entertainment-oriented commercial; and restaurants.
Planning Area 2 (Hospitality Commercial)
Planning Area 2 is approximately 13 acres. It is intended to provide service and travel-oriented
commercial uses anchored by a hotel/motel. Uses within this Planning Area may include, but are
not limited to hotels/motels; restaurants; fitness clubs; conference facilities; and service stations.
Expansion of the Essco Electric facility is also a potential land use for this Planning Area.
Planning Area 3 (Waterfront Recreation Commercial)
Planning Area 3 is approximately 46 acres. Primary uses focus on recreation-oriented
commercial retail facilities. Planned uses for this area include, but are not limited to: boat and
j:erSGlia. Nvaiercrat- S:;Ie: nwi tc'- Spon' Sa1C` C:l: C S1l-. SDOAV171obileS. AT` S. etc.,
recreational vehicles sales; sporting goods retail; outdoor lifestyle retail. Pads will also be
available for restaurants.
Planning Area 4 (Specialty Retail)
Planning Area 4 is approximately five acres. It is intended to provide general retail commercial
services designed to support the primary recreation conunercial land uses. Typical uses that
would be developed in this Planning Area include: general retail; restaurants; and indoor
recreation facilities.
Planning Area 5 (Vehicle Retail/Support)
Planning Area 5 is approximately 10 acres. Primary uses focus on retail and service commercial
activities designed to support recreational vehicles. Planned uses for this area include,but are not
limited to: automobile, RV, and boat supply outlets, off-road vehicle, and boat repair and
customizing services; and event parking lots.
Planning Area 6 (Support Services)
Planning Area 6 is approximately 14.5 acres. Berns along the north, east, and west associated
with Interstate 215 and adjacent railroads would effectively buffer this area from view from the
freeway. Therefore, uses within this area include those that do not require freeway visibility and
focus on providing support to higher intensity conunercial uses. Planned uses for this area
include, but are not limited to: RV and boat repair and servicing; RV parking/self-store facilities;
4
and light industrial uses associated with RV and boat accessories and support such as
warehousing and mail order facilities.
Planning Area 7 (Freeway Open Space)
Planning Area 7 is approximately 23.3 acres. Primary uses focus on providing an open space
buffer to the freeway and support services to the commercial activities. Planned uses for this area
include, but are not limited to: natural open space; lakes and water features; test trails for off-
road motorcycles and bicycles; and site identification, signage and monuments.
CIRCULATION PLAN
The project's circulation plan has been designed to allow efficient access from the I-215 freeway
while protecting local residential streets. Circulation through the site is provided by an extension
of Commerce Way south to Taylor Street. Commerce Way, referred to as Adventure Way in the
Specific Plan,will have a right-of-way of 122 feet and an improved section of 82 feet. Class II
bikeways will be provided on each side. Parking will not be permitted. Existing right-of-way on
the currently improved section of Commerce Way will be maintained.
A secondary loop street will serve the south and central portions of Planning Area 3. It will have
a 92 foot right-of-way with a 52 foot improvement. The southerly extension of Commerce Way
will connect to Taylor Street. Taylor will be widened to a 68 foot improved section within an 84
ioOt 12h—t-O�-«a`, . ., .S`- ._ uiJ, lanes will bC COIISI UC-ieC on boil- si6e:
Northbound access from I-215 will require the construction of new northbound on and off ramps
feeding traffic directly into the project area along the De Berry Street alignment. Existing De
Berry Street will be cul-de-sac'd at the eastern limit of the project to restrict commercial traffic
from accessing the existing residential area.
Access to Van Buren must be maintained to accommodate existing industrial traffic generated by
Wilden Pump and the adjacent business park. Within the project area, Van Buren Street will be
improved to a"modified collector"with a 92-foot right-of-way and a 52 foot improvement. No
widening is proposed for the existing improved section of Van Buren Street. The design goal is
to avoid directing any project traffic toward the Van Buren Street/Michigan Street intersection
while directing existing industrial traffic from Wilden Pump to Commerce Way.
CONCEPTUAL GRADING
The project site will be mass graded, terracing commercial pads to the east for freeway visibility
of all commercial sites. Grading will generally follow the existing slope from west to east.
Based upon the conceptual grading plan, it is estimated that approximately 1.2 million cubic
yards of dirt will be moved. The site is expected to balance.
DRAINAGE PLAN
The site is traversed by two major natural drainage courses. The northern drainage course enters
the site approximately half way between Commerce Way and De Berry Street. It moves in a
general east to southwest direction and enters the San Bernardino County flood control channel
5
at the westerly terminus of De Berry Street. A second drainage course enters the site at the
terminus of Van Buren Street and flows in a general east to west direction emptying into the
County flood control channel near the southwest corner of the project site. A portion of this
southern drainage course has been identified as a potential wetlands area.
The offsite tributary area consists of a watershed of approximately 2,320 acres including the
majority of the developed areas of the City of Grand Terrace. All flows are directed to the
southwest corner of the project area. Ultimately, drainage from the project's watershed flows to
the Santa Ana River.
The proposed lakes will be designed to accept storm flows and meter the release of excessive
stonnwater. The main lake will be equipped with a riser at the western edge to release flows into
the County flood control channel. The lower lake will be enhanced to serve as a wetlands area
and will also serve as a"first flush"basin,ultimately releasing storm flows into the unimproved
wetlands area of the County flood control channel. In addition, landscaped areas surrounding the
lake in natural drainage channels will assist in managing offshe and onsite urban pollutants and
sediments prior to release in to the Santa Ana River. Bioswales along the primary street system
will also serve to slow stornlflows while assisting in the removal of urban pollutants.
UTILITIES
Domestic water service for the City of Grand Terrace is provided by the Riverside Highland
Water Company (RHWC). It is produced by a series of vertical wells located in four separate
Nvaie,, bearrn- uaSAJ V, atEY .. :LITJ .iii 10 i;l� ])!QJec: Sllc i1 70 ;�- _ 4 Fvsiel7, 01 exlsilnt
subsurface pipelines,primarily located within public street rights-of-way.
-In addition, the City owns an agricultural well along Pico Avenue on the south side of Pico Park.
This well was originally proposed as the source of irrigation and lake water for the project.
However, recent discussions with the City of Riverside indicate a willingness by its Public
Utilities to use the OAC as a groundwater recharge project using water from the Riverside Canal.
Sanitary sewer services are provided by the City of Grand Terrace. The City maintains an
agreement with the City of Colton to provide treatment capacity for Grand Terrace's use at the
Colton regional Wastewater Treatment Facility. Connection and capacity fees are charged to all
new land developments to assure adequate capacity and treatment of planned wastewater from a
new project.
All sewer lines within the City are maintained by the City. Presently, the project area is provided
with sewer service from a series of lines that traverse the site. The primary line is a 10-inch
vitrified clay pipe (vcp) trunk line entering the site within the existing Commerce Way right-of-
way and paralleling I-215, then extending south along Taylor Street. Sewage gravity flows from
both the north and south in this line to a point at the tenninus of De Berry Street. The main then
extends west beneath I-215 to an 18-inch main that carries the wastewater to the Colton
Treatment Plant.
6
CONCEPTUAL LANDSCAPING DESIGN
The landscape design will also continue the"outdoors"theme with the incorporation of a"soft"
feel. Compacted decomposed granite paths will be used throughout the project for pedestrian
circulation. Landscape berms will be required and coordinated with the planning and
engineering functions noted above. Landscaping and beans will be used for screening between
the various usages. Boulders varying in size from 3'diameter to 6' diameter shall be
incorporated in all landscape areas throughout the project. All plant materials will be selected
from the plant palette provided for the OAC (see Table I-6). Landscape design should encourage
the selection of plant materials which will provide the function required of the material without
relying on pruning. Hedged plant materials shall not be permitted. In addition, large areas of
mowed grasses will be discouraged. Screening, if required,will be provided with plant materials
which will, in their natural form, provide the desired screen effect.
ARCHITECTURE
Architecture shall also be naturalistic in design, respecting the outdoor theme of the OAC.
Architectural facades should incorporate the "woodsy" or"lodge" look through the use of wood
or simulated wood materials (board form concrete textures), earth tone colors and stains, low
pitched roofs with overhangs, along with Craftsman-style detailing (see OAC monument design
section). Visual relief and design shall be incorporated with 360' architecture. It is anticipated
that certain primary tenants will be"big box"retailers. Efforts will be made to mitigate the "big
bo),' appearance 11ll-OUL1< archnect-Lira, lcaiare.� ilic1Li6in; entranci ireati;iei;t a11C extensiN t
landscaping.
'-ENVIRONA7ENTAL REVIEW
An Initial Study was prepared by the City in order to identify potential significant environmental
effects of the proposed project. A Notice of Preparation of an Environmental Impact Report for
the proposed project was prepared and circulated to all responsible agencies and interested
parties beginning on July 21, 2003 for a period of 30 days as required by CEQA Guidelines
Section 15082. On August 7, 2003 a public scoping session was held to obtain additional input
regarding enviromnental issues to be evaluated. The draft EIR was circulated for public
comment on February 26, 2004. The public comment period ended April 22, 2004. As part of
the CEQA review process, the Draft EIR was transmitted to the State Clearinghouse and issued
State Clearinghouse Number 2003071120. Responses to all comments received are included in
the Final EIR. The Final EIR is attached to this report.
The section of the EIR summarizing impacts and mitigation measures described in the EIR is
attached. Responses to comments are also attached.
Statement of Overriding Consideration
A Statement of Overriding Consideration for air quality impacts is generally adopted for any
large project in the region. Grand Terrace lies within the South Coast Air Basin. This basin has
been classified as a non-attainment basin for particulate matter (PMIo) and ozone, primarily due
to vehicular emissions. Since the basin is currently a non-attainment area that is already
impacted, any additional emissions will result in a further degradation. Without a Statement of
7
Overriding Consideration, no new development could occur within the basin. Such a statement
is cominon for any significant project and indicates that there are other benefits to the
community and region that override the incremental impact to regional air quality.
MAJOR ISSUES RAISED AT THE PLANNING COMMISSION HEARINGS
The following are the primary issues raised at the Planning Commission by those residents
opposed to the project.
Michigan Street
Residents along Michigan Street east of the project site raised concerns about the project's need
to widen Michigan Street to four travel lanes. This potential issue was identified during the
initial project development phase. Throughout project development, efforts were made to limit
any potential impact to Michigan Avenue.
Historically, Michigan Street has been designated on the City's General Plan Circulation
Element as a Secondary Highway between Barton Road and Van Buren Street. This designation
calls for a four-lane undivided street improvement within an 88-foot right-of-way (44 foot half
width right-of-way). South of Van Buren to Main Street, Michigan Street is designated as a
collector Highway with two travel lanes within a 66-foot right-of-way (33 foot half-width right-
of-way).
}clllit 1�f (,"s'.Lc.} C11PC: t]'Cn Ecinior 'lC viaiii vane iron- fool half
width to a 44 foot half-width.
The OAC's Circulation Plan is designed to avoid directing project traffic onto Michigan Street
south of Convnerce Way. The traffic study indicated that the only traffic that might use
Michigan Street to access the project would be local residents traveling to the project site for
either shopping or employment opportunities.
The project's Circulation Plan proposes the buildout of Convnerce Way as a four-lane divided
highway from the existing Commerce Way improvement south to Taylor Street. It also proposes
the expansion of existing Taylor Street to a four-lane improvement to connect Commerce Way to
Main Street. Commerce Way will also be connected to the planned I-215 off/on ramp allowing
for a smooth traffic flow pattern. The result of these improvements will be a logical alternative
to Michigan Street for traffic moving through the west side of the City. This includes a viable
alternative route for employee and truck traffic from Wilden Pump that now must use Michigan
Street.
In addition, De Berry Street is proposed to be cul-de-saced at the east project boundary to
prohibit project traffic from accessing the residential area along De Berry Street east of Michigan
Street.
It is proposed that Michigan Street at Commerce Way be widened to accommodate additional
turn lanes to allow a smoother turning movement onto and from Barton Road. This will coincide
with the widening of the Barton Road freeway bridge and assist in relieving congestion at the
8
interchange. The actual design and configuration of the Barton/Michigan intersection will be
included in final engineering tasks for the project.
The traffic study performed for the OAC Specific Plan determined that the proposed project will
not require the widening of Michigan Street south of Commerce Way. However, the Circulation
Plan for the City and other potential regional development may ultimately require widening the
remaining length of Michigan Street sometime in the future.
NOISE
Noise from Test Vehicles
Residents have raised concerns that vehicle testing within the OAC could produce excessive
noise. While it is still unclear whether or not vehicle testing will be permitted at all within the
OAC, the Specific Plan and EIR have provided safeguards against this. If vehicle demon-
strations are pursued as part of the project, they will require a separate entitlement application
that must be brought before the Planning Commission. It will include a supplemental
environmental assessment that could include additional noise analysis and site specific
mitigation measures.
It is important to know that the off-road trails shown in the project plan are not a motocross
racing track. They are meant to provide an area where small, off-road vehicles—including
mountain bikes. molorcvcle_ and ATV — could be lest ridden. In am, case. these trails are not
certainty. The Specifc Plan only mcivaes them as a possible nana use in; a Planning Area. Tlin:
area was selected as the most suitable area for this potential use since it lies immediately east of
1-215 and more than 1,000 feet away from homes on Michigan Street. Cumulative sound impacts
from the heavy truck and other traffic on the freeway are far in excess of the intermittent sound
likely to be generated by small motorized vehicles or mountain bikes.
Customer demonstrations, if they are ultimately permitted, will not be a major activity at the
OAC. The main lake is only eight acres in size and will allow only small boats to be driven at
low speeds. The trails are also small and allow only a couple of vehicles at a time to be tested.
Reasonable Noise Levels
Virtually all of the activities proposed for the Outdoor Adventures Center would not operate
during the nighttime hours (10 PM to 7 AM). In addition, the City's Noise Ordinance restricts
certain activities to daytime hours (7 AM to 10 PM). These include operation of equipment,
automotive repair, and truck loading/unloading. Additional noise restrictions may be incurred on
individual projects as part of project specific entitlement conditions of approval.
TRAFFIC
Number of vehicle trips per day
The OAC Traffic Study projected the project, at buildout, to generate 26,891 vehicle trips per
day. One vehicle trip is equal to the movement of one vehicle between two points. They can be
a trip to the project area, a trip from the project area or a trip within the project area. Therefore,
one person visiting the OAC from a surrounding city accounts for at least two vehicle trips, and
possibly more if he/she visits more than one store within the OAC. These trips also include
9
employees coming and going from work, and trips by local residents to destinations in the OAC.
For comparison, an average Wal-Mart -- by itself-- can be expected to generate more than
12,000 trips a day.
It is important to note that 21 out of 22 intersections near the project have service levels that will
either improve or stay the same after the project is built out. This is due to the fact that the
project will bring with it much needed roadway and freeway on/off ramp infrastructure
improvements that will benefit regional circulation.
Residents accessing their homes from the new on/off-ramp
F
Travel patterns for residents coming and going from Grand Terrace may change somewhat.
Modifications to the northbound I-215 offramp will require northbound traffic to exit within the
project area. Depending upon where they are going, some residents may be required to make one
or two additional turning movements; others, particularly those in the southerly part of the city,
will find a route through the OAC more convenient than using Michigan. Traffic movement from
the northbound offramp to Barton Road will be a similar configuration to that of the current I-10
Hospitality Lane/Waterman Avenue exit in San Bernardino. Construction of a traffic signal at
Commerce Way and Michigan Street, additional turn lanes onto Barton Road, and the
synchronization of all local signals will assist smooth traffic flow.
Southbound 1-215 traffic will use identical traffic flow patterns that currently exist with the
benefit of fewer conflicts due to the removal of the current northbound offramp that currently
causeF conflictz -with eastbound traffic turning onto >\41chi2an Street Southbound traffic headed
east will also benein from a proposeda wnaenrng of the briage over 1-21
CALTRANS and SANBAG are currently in the preliminary design and environment review
process for a major expansion of the I-215 segment between I-10 and the 60/91/215 interchange.
This. will include widening of the entire segment and the reconstruction of most interchanges.
Since studies have just begun, there is no formal design concept for the segment through Grand
Terrace or the Barton Road interchange. Project engineers have agreed to use the interim
improvements proposed by the OAC as a base for their ultimate improvements. Construction of
all planned freeway improvements on this segment are not expected to be complete until
sometime after 2015.
REQUIRED FINDINGS
Under Section 18.90.040 of the Zoning Ordinance, certain findings must be made when
amending the Zoning ordinance. Since the adoption of a Specific Plan is classified as a Change
to the Zoning Ordinance, the Planning Commission and City Council must find that:
A. The proposed amendment will not be:
1. Detrimental to the health, safety, morals, comfort or general welfare of the persons
residing or working within the neighborhood of the proposed amendment or within the
city; or
10
2. Injurious to property or improvements in the neighborhood or within the City.
B. The proposed amendment will be consistent with the latest adopted General Plan.
In addition, CEQA Guidelines Section 15093 requires the lead agency to balance the benefits of
a proposed project against its unavoidable significant impacts and to determine whether the
impacts are acceptably overridden by the project benefits (outlined in Section E). As described in
Section D.3, the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan project would produce project specific
unavoidable significant impacts in one environmental area: air quality. Cumulative unavoidable
significant impacts would occur for long-term air quality in the region related to truck trips
associated with warehouse and distribution facilities, residential vehicle trips, proposed project
trips and other commercial project trips. Similarly long-term impacts to noise associated with
area-wide growth in general would occur. Additionally, cumulative future development would be
constructed on currently undeveloped land and would create an incremental loss of wildlife
habitat.
The Planning Commission found that the previously stated major benefits of the Outdoor
Adventures Center Specific Plan project as contained in the proposed action and described in
Section E outweigh the unavoidable significant adverse environmental impacts noted above.
Each of the separate benefits of the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan project cited in
Section E is herebv determined to be. in itself and independently of the other project benefits, a
bast` jo= overnaili, L, un;ra oiGablc environ]meiiiL impact` IOentIIICC n the EIR and ll' thes;
findings.
The Planning Commission findings set forth in the preceding sections have identified all of the
adverse environmental impacts and the feasible mitigation measures which can reduce impacts to
insignificant levels where feasible, or to the lowest feasible achievable levels where significant
impacts remain. The findings have also analyzed alternatives to the project (Section F) to
determine whether they are reasonable or feasible alternatives to the proposed action or whether
they might reduce or eliminate the significant impact (air quality) of the proposed action. The
EIR presents evidence that implementing the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan may
cause significant adverse short-term and long-term impacts for air quality, which cannot be
substantially mitigated to a less than significant level. This significant impact has been outlined
above and the Plamiing Commission found that all feasible alternatives and mitigation measures
have been adopted or identified for implementation by the City or other responsible agencies.
The Planning Commission found and recommends to the City Council that the project's benefits
are substantial and override the following unavoidable impact of the project:
a. The Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan would have a significant adverse impact on
both short-term and long-term air quality. During construction, emissions will exceed
SCAQMD thresholds of significance for NO, and PM10 emissions. However, impacts to air
quality during construction of the Outdoor Adventures Center would be short-term and
would cease once construction activities were completed. During operation of the Outdoor
Adventures Center vehicles traveling to the facility would result in emissions exceeding
SCAQMD thresholds for CO, NO,, and ROG. Mitigation measures would decrease
emissions,but not to a level below SCAQMD thresholds.
11
i
Unavoidable Cumulative Impacts
a. Cumulative projects resulting from truck trips associated with warehouse and distribution
facilities in conjunction with residential vehicle trips, the proposed project trips and other
commercial projects would result in significant cumulative impacts to air quality.
b. Noise impacts associated with the proposed project are related to 1) introduction of new
commercial uses to an existing underdeveloped area; and 2) vehicle trips that when
combined with other related projects would increase the ambient noise levels in the vicinity.
c. Long-term noise is associated with new commercial uses and associated new vehicle trips.
Over time area roadways are expected to experience significant noise impacts due to area-
wide growth in,general. Therefore, increases in ambient noise levels in the area would be
cumulatively significant.
d. The project site does not contain suitable habitat for any rare, threatened or endangered
species. The wetlands features identified on-site will be preserved or replaced on-site. Other
cumulative projects would incrementally increase the use of currently undeveloped land
uses by various wildlife species, including rare, threatened or endangered species, such as
the Delhi Sands flower-loving fly, the San Bernardino and Stevens kangaroo rats, or the
Santa Ana 'sucker. Incremental loss of wildlife habitat is considered to be a significant
cumulative impact.
As the CEOA lead agency for the proposed action. the City of Grand Terrace Planning
C 01111333SSIOn hay revie�.N ed Inc pro��c; descr,puo" in tiie FIF anc .ecno this document anc
fully understands the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan project. Further, the Planning
Conunission finds that all potentially adverse envirorunental impacts and all feasible mitigation
measures to reduce these impacts have been identified in the Draft EIR, the Final EIR (the EIR),
and public testimony. These impacts and mitigation measures are discussed in Section D. The
Planning Connnission also finds that a reasonable range of alternatives was considered in the
EIR and this document (Section F), and no feasible alternatives that substantially lessen project
impacts are available for adoption.
The Planning Commission has identified benefits and objectives (Section E), which will result
from implementing the proposed project. The Planning Commission has balanced these benefits
against the unavoidable significant adverse effects of the proposed project. Implementation of
the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan would benefit the community by developing the
proposed project area with land uses that would be compatible with existing zoning, provide the
local and regional community with commercial recreational type businesses, assist in balancing
the housing to jobs ratio within the City, and provide a long-term tax revenue base for the City.
The Planning Commission finds that the benefits identified herein override the unavoidable
environmental effects.
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Upon approval by the City Council, the proposed project will be subject to the requirements and
guidelines of the Specific Plan document and mitigation measures of the Environmental Impact
Report and Mitigation Monitoring Plan.
12
RECOMMENDATION
The City Planning Commission recommends that the City Council certify E-04-03, an
Environmental Impact Report for the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan and approve SP-
04-01, the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan.
GLK:gk
13
Grand Terrace Outdoor Adventures Center
Fiscal Impact Analysis
Prepared by Empire Development Solutions
Summer 2004
Background
The Grand Terrace Outdoor Adventures Center(OAC) is a proposed freeway-oriented
commercial development occupying approximately 123 acres next to the I-215 freeway. This
acreage represents the largest single assemblage of commercially-zoned land within the city and
is the community's last major opportunity to create a project that can generate significant levels
of sales tax and fee revenues for local services such as police,fire,parks and libraries. This is an
important issue for the city since it is a small, predominately residential community incorporated
after Prop 13's limitations on revenues from property taxes went into effect.
The purpose of this analysis is to identify net economic and fiscal impact of the project on the
city. It will examine revenues from new property and sales taxes, the potential receipt of
transient occupancy taxes from a proposed hotel, and miscellaneous fees on businesses and
services. It will also quantify new costs that the OAC could cause the City to incur, including
the costs for public safety and other services.
New Revenues
Jaieb I axes; il, 1 hl)li Lia SaiP` 13 eb Eeneratec b\ t1w 1uh niliLt o-. pja nneG retail anC servii_
uses at the OAC are estimated. This projection reflects the full build-out of the OAC, a
condition that would likely take two to four years after its opening. The sales estimates are based
on industry standards for similar kinds of retail and services in this region. It was further"reality
tested" by comparing the individual store sales numbers to the known sales figures for existing
stores selling comparable merchandise in Southern California. In gross, the 857,655 square feet
of commercial space at the OAC is projected to generate an annual sales level of$157,665,300.
These sales would result in $1,576,653 a year in revenues from the OAC.
Given the nature and range of goods and services offered in the OAC, it is unlikely that any
significant portion of the sales represent a "cannibalization" of existing sales in Grand Terrace.
However, the projection discounts the total sales by 3% -- about $4.73 million --to account for
the possibility that some existing sales -- principally restaurant meals and automotive-related
retail, including gasoline -- might be captured by businesses in the OAC. This lowers the total
for new annual sales taxes to$1,529,353.
Transient Occupancy Taxes: Table 1 also provides a projection of the potential revenues from
a tax on hotel rooms at value-priced lodging—a Fairfield Inn or Comfort Inn -- within the OAC.
The occupancy and average daily room rates (ADR) are based on stabilized levels after two or
three years of operation; the ADR is an estimation of what the market is likely to bear in the
2007 to 2010 period. The projected rate of 10% is actually slightly less than what neighboring
cities currently levy. The TOT generated on an annual basis by the proposed hotel is $201,042.
At present, the City of Grand Terrace does not have a TOT and recent legislation requires that
any adoption or change in rate for the TOT requires an election. Given the fact that a transient
Fiscal Impact Analysis- Outdoor Adventures Center-Page 1
occupancy tax would have virtually no effect on the citizens of Grand Terrace—it is almost
exclusively paid by out-of-town visitors—it seems likely that it would be approved if submitted
to a vote. For this reason, its impact will be considered in this analysis.
Business Fees/Licenses: The City of Grand Terrace assesses local businesses a license fee to
operate within the city limits. The nature and amount of these fees varies with the kind and size
of business. Table 2 provides an estimation of what revenues might be generated by the
collection of business in the OAC; it totals $21,460.
New Revenues NOT Included
There are two new and potentially significant revenues streams created by the OAC that are
specifically excluded from this analysis:
• Revenues from Property Taxes: Table 3 estimates the total new assessed value created
by the new development within the OAC. The total increase in value is projected to be
$92,303,000. This would translate into$923,030 in new annual property tax receipts.
These revenues are not considered part of the fiscal impact analysis because these
property taxes are captured as tax increment revenues to the city's Redevelopment
Agency and would not be available to pay for general fund expenses for at least fifteen
years. However, the tax increment generated by the OAC may play an important role-in
building infrastructure associated with the project. thus improving the economic
I als bi n-, o- tl,c C!, Tliti lr. 1nQeCtl\. Il]C t8r lllCre17lC1'e', Ifs el-we, help support thf
generation of other revenues such as sales taxes.
• Revenues from Publicly Owned Land: Nearly half of the land needed for the
commercial development of the OAC is currently owned by the City's Redevelopment
Agency. The sale, lease, or other disposition of this real estate has the potential to
generate new revenues,but the only direct effect will be to the City's Redevelopment
Agency. Again, however, these funds may help pay for infrastructure within the OAC
that will have an indirect impact on the project's level of economic success. They could
also result in public improvements such as roads and open space that can be used and
enjoyed by the citizens of Grand Terrace.
New or Increased Costs to the City
The construction and operation of the OAC will create some new demands for City services and
support; however, some costs will be directly borne by the project, not the public sector. The
breakdown of these expenses includes:
• Police Protection: The OAC will almost certainly operate its own uniformed security
services as a convenience for its tenants and patrons; this will be solely an expense of the
private developer. However, it is reasonable to expect that there will be a need for
additional police coverage. The exact level of additional services is difficult to project,
but for the purposes of this analysis,it has been estimated that the OAC will require 1.5
additional full-time sheriff deputies.
The fully burdened cost of a sheriff deputy to the City of Grand Terrace—including
salary,benefits, management, car, communications systems, and other overhead—is
Fiscal Impact Analysis• Outdoor Adventures Center•Page 2
approximately$185,000. Consequently,the annual cost of additional police protection
created by the OAC is $277,500.
• Fire Protection: The City of Grand Terrace participates in a county fire district funded
by special assessments on property taxes. Under this system,the commercial
development in the OAC pays for its fire protection by simply paying its annual property
taxes. There is no new burden, direct or indirect, on the government of Grand Terrace.
• Street & Landscape Maintenance: The OAC will be financially and operationally
responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the landscaping and public open space—
including the lake and trails—within its boundaries. In all likelihood, the mechanism for
this will be a combination of developer-borne expenses and a landscape maintenance
district that'covers only the OAC. Under this arrangement,there should be no new costs
to the City. Streets, street lighting, and signalization are in the public right-of-way and
would be City expenses; the projected cost of these services is roughly $100,000 a year.
• Other Services: The City is the chief provider of"soft"public services such as parks,
recreation, and libraries that can be affected by new development, especially residential.
However, this analysis can find no meaningful link between the demands on these
services and a purely commercial development such as the OAC. To the extent there is
any impact at all, it is included in the next item.
• General Overhead: Given the size and importance of the OAC, it is reasonable to
assume that its presence will create new demands on the time of the City employees. In
practice. this can probably be absorbed without additional employees or other new costs:
howevel. I01 Ilitr ]7UrpOse: Oi lhl� anal sja. n naJ heel, eslinlatcu im i the OA( NN I]
indirectly lead to a 5% increase in the overall cost of running the City. At future general
fund budget levels, this means that the City would incur approximately $220,000 a year
in additional expenses—not including policing costs -- due to the existence of the OAC.
Summary of Fiscal Impact
Based on the annual estimates made here, the net fiscal impact on the City of Grand Terrace is:
New sales taxes $ 1,529,353
New transient occupancy taxes 201,042
New business license fees 21,460
Total $ 1.751,855
New policing costs $ 277,500
New street maintenance costs 100.000
New overhead expenses 220,000
Total $597,500
Net Positive Fiscal Impact (annually) $1,154,355
In short, the on-going economic benefit to the City of Grand Terrace is roughly equivalent to
one-quarter of its current annual general fund budget. These are new financial resources that
could be used to significantly expand public services for all of the citizens of the community.
Fiscal Impact Analysis• Outdoor Adventures Center•Page 3
Table 1: Sales Tax Analysis
Building Area Outdoor Area Sales/SF Total Sales Taxable Sales Sales Tax
Outdoor Recreational Retail 150,000 40,000 300 62,641,800 62,641,800 626,418
Essco Relocation/Expansion 25,000 50,800 500 12,500,000 12,500,000 125,000
BoatlWatersport 12,155 22,480 100 3,463,500 3,463,500 34,635
BoatlWatersport 60,000 17000 100 7,700,000 7,700,000 77,000
BoatlWatersport 34,000 10000 100 4,400,000 4,400,000 44,000
BoatlWatersporl 49,000 14000 100 6,300,000 6,300,000 63,000
BoatlWatersport 31,000 9000 100 4,000,000 4,000,000 40,000
BoatlWatersport 20,000 40000 100 6,000,000 6,000,000 60,000
Molorsports Retail 20,000 10,000 100 3,000,000 3,000,000 30,000
Specialty RV&Trailer 10,000 100,000 40 4,400,000 4,400,000 44,000
Boating 25,000 57,000 100 8,200,000 8,200,000 82,000
Restaurant 3,500 14,000 350 1,225,000 1,225,000 12,250
Restaurant near hotel 8,000 2,000 300 2,400,000 2,400,000 24,000
Restaurant 5,000 2000 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000
Restaurant 5,000 1,000 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000
Restaurant/Convenience 5,000 1,500 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000
Restaurant 7,000 2,000 300 2,100,000 2,100,000 21,000
Restaurant 5,000 1,500 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000
Fitness Center 43,000 5,000 20 960,000 960,000 9,600
Specialty Retail 50,000 5,000 150 8,250,000 8,250,000 82,500
Retail near hotel 20,000 7,000 150 4,050,000 4,050,000 40,500
AulolRV aftermarkel retail 25,000 0 185 4,625,000 4,625,000 46,250
Mechanics Alley 25,000 10,000 50 1,750,000 1,750,000 17,500
Inventory Storage and Support 200,000 50,000 6 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000
RV Storage and Service 20,000 200,000 10 2,200,000 2,200,000 22,000
Total 857,655 1,528,935 184 157,665,300 157,665,300 $ 1,576,653
Table 2: Transient Occupancy Tax
Rooms TOT ADR Occupancy Days TOT Tax
Hotel 90 10% $85 72% 365 $ 201,042
Table 3: Business License Fees
Building Area Outdoor Area Sales/SF Total Sales Taxable Sales Sales Tax Business Fees
Outdoor Recreational Retail 150,000 40,000 300 62,641.800 62,641,800 626,418 1,200
Essco RelocalionlExpansion 25,000 50,800 500 12.500,000 12,500,000 125,000 1,200
BoatlWatersport 12,155 22,480 100 3,463,500 3,463,500 34,635 936
BoatlWatersport 60,000 17000 100 7,700,000 7,700,000 77,000 1,200
BoatlWatersport 34,000 10000 100 4,400,000 4,400,000 44,000 1,200
BoatlWatersport 49,000 14000 100 6,300,000 6,300,000 63,000 1,200
BoatlWatersport 31,000 9000 100 4,000,000 4,000,000 40,000 1,200
BoatfWatersport 20,000 40000 100 6,000,000 6,000.000 60,000 1,200
Motorsports Retail 20,000 10,000 100 3,000,000 3.000,000 30,000 820
Specialty RV&Trailer 10,000 100,000 40 4,400,000 4,400.000 44,000 1,200
Boating 25,000 57,000 100 8,200,000 8,200,000 82,000 1,200
Restaurant 3,500 14,000 350 1,225,000 1,225,000 12,250 376
Restaurant near hotel 8,000 2,000 300 2,400,000 2,400,000 24,000 670
Restaurant 5,000 2000 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000 445
Restaurant 5,000 1,000 300 1.500,000 1,500,000 15,000 445
Restaurant/Convenience 5,000 1,500 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000 445
Restaurant 7,000 2,000 300 2,100,000 2,100,000 21,000 595
Restaurant 5,000 1,500 300 1,500,000 1,500,000 15,000 445
Fitness Center 43,000 5,000 20 960,000 960,000 9,600 310
Specialty Retail 50,000 5,000 150 B,250,000 8,250,000 82,500 1,200
Retail near hotel 20,000 7,000 150 4,050,000 4.050,000 40,500 1,200
Auto/RV aftermarket retail 25,000 0 185 4,625,000 4,625,000 46,250 1,200
Mechanics Alley 25,000 10,000 50 1,750,000 1,750.000 17,500 508
Inventory Storage and Support 200,000 50,000 6 1,500,000 1,500.000 15,000 445
RV Storage and Service 20,000 200,000 10 2,200,000 2,200,000 22,000 620
Total 857,655 1,528,935 184 157,665,300 157,665,300 $ 1,576,653 $ 21,460
Fiscal Impact Analysis• Outdoor Adventures Center•Page 4
GRAND TERRACE PLANNING COMMISSION
MINTUES OF REGULAR MEETING
May 20, 2004
The regular meeting of the Grand Terrace Planning Commission was called to
order at the Grand Terrace Civic Center, 22795 Barton Road, Grand Terrace,
California, on May 20, 2004, at 7:00 p.m., by Chairperson Doug Wilson.
PRESENT: Doug Wilson, Chairman
Matthew Addington, Vice Chairman
Brian Whitley, Commissioner
Tom Comstock, Commissioner
Robert Bidney, Commissioner
Tom Schwab, City Manager
John Harper, City Attorney
Gary Koontz, Community Development Director
Ralph Megna, Economic Development Director
John Lampe, Associate Planner
Michelle Boustedt, Planning Secretary
i;OL P'M CONVENE S11 L AND ARCH11 ECTURE REVIEW BOARD:
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Q
• Pledge of Allegiance led by Vice Chair Addington
• Roll Call
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:
None
ITEMS:
1. SP-04-01, E-04-03 To develop approximately 123 acres as mixed use
commercial and open space uses.
APPLICANT: City of Grand Terrace Redevelopment Agency.
LOCATION: Generally south of Barton Road, west of Michigan Street,
north of Pico Street, and east of Interstate 215
RECOMMENDATION: Open the Public Hearing on the Outdoor Adventures
Center Specific Plan (SP-04-01/E-04-03), receive
testimony, and recommend Certification of the
Environmental Impact Report and Approval of the
Ordinance to Adopt the Specific Plan to the City Council.
1
Planning Director Koontz: We are going to do things a lot differently than we typically do
with our Public Hearings with staff reports. We've got a power point presentation tonight
since this is a very large complicated project with an EIR. What we want to do is go
through the purpose of the meeting tonight so that everyone understands what we are
doing. Basically, this is a Planning Commission hearing. We're conducting a Public
Hearing on the Specific Plan which is Zoned as SP-04-01 and the Environmental Impact
Report that was prepared under California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines as
referred to as E-04-03.
The Planning Commission will make a recommendation to the City Council regarding
whether this project should be approved, denied or changed. The final decision will rest
with the City Council. There will be a full public hearing similar to this at the City Council
with the completion of this hearing and probably about at least thirty days after the Planning
Commission's decision.
Ralph Megna, our redevelopment consultant, is going to go through the overall plan, the
concept, and where it came from. Tom Schwab, the City Manager will discuss what we
consider the importance to the City of this project. I will come back and go through the
Specific Plan and then we'll be going through the actual Environmental Impact Report.
Nancy Ferguson is present and is from Lilburn Associates who prepared the overall plan.
We will be talking about traffic with Carl Ballard from Kunzman and Associates will be
discussing the traffic study with traffic issues and how the study was prepared in general.
Matt Jones is the noise consultant. Although, Nancy will discuss the general noise issues, if
there are any specific questions: Matt will be here to answer them
The staff will make the presentations and it will be up to the Planning Commission
Chairman to open the Public Hearing and receive public testimony. Once the public
testimony is closed, the Planning Commission will d,iscuss the specific plan and EIR
amongst themselves and with the staff. Following that, the Planning Commission shall
prepare a recommendation to the City Council regarding EIR Certification before any action
can be taken on the Specific Plan, the EIR must be certified. Following that action, the
Planning Commission will make a recommendation to the City Council concerning the
specific plan.
This project was duly noticed per the requirement of the California Environmental Quality
Act. The public notices were placed in the San Bernardino County Sun, the local Blue
Mountain Outlook publication, the City website, and the public television network. Notices
were also sent to all the people within the planning area as well as within 300 feet of the
proposed project.
Chair Wilson: Before we turn it over to Ralph Megna, let me just let you know a little
information in relation to this project. The reason why we are going through this process is
because this is an information scenario. This is for everybody that's involved in the City
that actually cares about what's going on to understand every particle of this particular
project. If you have not had a chance for whatever reason not to examine the public
documents or not to not to examine hearing notices or whatever else is out there, this is a
catch up round for you. Public testimony is very valuable to us. A lot of preparation has
gone into this and has actually been in the works for about one year. We will accept public
testimony, but we would like to do is we would like to be able to lay this whole thing out for
you to see what's going on and so that there isn't any question on whether anybody knows
2
about this project and you folks are great because you are here and I really appreciate your
participation. Thank you.
Ralph Megna: Thank you Mr. Chairman and members of the Planning Commission. My
name is Ralph Megna. I would like to take a second to recap how ] was involved in this
project. My involvement began several years ago whereas the City Redevelopment
Agency were acquiring real estate around the old Edison power plant. ' Over time,
extending all the way to 2003, the Agency acquired roughly 60 to 70 acres in the vicinity of
the power plant. At the time, the City was also concerned about what was going to happen
to approximately another 70 acres northerly of this real estate that was generally either
vacant or blighted.
My firm, Empire Development Solutions, was retained by the City of Grand Terrace in the
spring of 2002 to begin assessing possible development alternatives for this real estate.
The reason why this was so very important to the city was that with this real estate and
other parcels in the city, the total amount of commercially zoned land left in the City of
Grand Terrace is less than 250 acres, which is a very small amount of land for any
community. The reason why this is important is that by and large within a city, the
commercial real estate and the property taxes it pays and fees associated with the
operation of businesses that actually pay a substantial portion of what it costs to run the
City. Residential real estate is a wash for a city or a small loss.
The proper development for this remaining commercial real estate was vitally important to
the long term interests of the community of Grand Terrace. When I came on board, both
the senior staff of the City and the Council essentially sat me down and said here are our
expectations and hopes for what we want you to go out and look at. I think that it is
important io run through these t)ec,ause iL sets the irameworh tot everything that follow:.
First, I was told that it was very important to the community that whatever should happen
here; improve the civic image of Grand Terrace, and to improve the front door to the
community. Basically, the only part of Grand Terrace is seen from the freeway is that
segment that this property occupies. It was important to the community that it be
attractively developed and reflect well on the community and it not be something that looks
like the rest of the 1-215 corridor which is something of a disappointment in terms of its
visual appearance.
Secondly, it was important to the City Council and the City Manager that whatever we do
create benefit to the City and its citizens. In other words, they were asking me to generate
something that creates new employment, quality retail and restaurant alternatives that do
not exist in the community today and that it was important from August of 2002 that any
impact of the residential neighborhoods had to be limited. The third issues was the hopes
for creating significant value for the City, in terms of property and new taxes.
A thorough analysis of the site was begun. Various features of the site were mapped and it
was found that there were very serious development constraints on the site, and it was
immediately apparent that this area was the largest single empty parcel of land from the I-
215 through San Bernardino into Corona. The reason for this is because there are
multiple water lines and canals, electrical transmission lines and so forth.
My goal was to create a feasible use program where I had to identify both potential users in
terms of the developer and tenants. I explored a number of alternatives for this site. One
3
model was for industrial/warehouse. This type of use is currently modeled all up and down
the 1-215 freeway.
It was found that warehouse tilt-up construction would not be an attractive front door to
Grand Terrace and it would not reflect the community's values. Second, this type of
development would not generate significant new tax revenues. One of the problems with
warehousing is that they are large buildings with a lot of logistics and an employee base of
about 12 people. Bringing this type of use would create more truck traffic along with
pollution.
The second set of alternatives would be to build residential homes. This area could
potentially be used to build 500 to 600 homes. The pros for this type of use is that it would
be consistent with the surrounding area to the east. While it would be consistent with the
surrounding use, it would require to be re-zoned or an amendment to the General Plan. It
would also increase traffic on Michigan and Barton because the only way to get to these
residential areas is to have access from Michigan and Main Street. In all likelihood, all the
traffic from 500 to 600 homes would be from Michigan Street. Homes in this area would
also be subject to negative noise impacts from the close proximity to the freeway.
Chair Wilson added that the primary noise source is actually the railroad.
Ralph Megna: I will admit that the noise impact is from the freeway and the railroad.
Fourth, the additional families that would be in an area this size with 500 to 600 homes in it
would severely stress the already over burdened public school system in the City. We are
concerned that it would be very expensive to try to cure this
The third alternative was to do a traditional freeway oriented shopping center. Anchored by
Target or Wal Mart. The pros for this type of use is that it would be consistent with the
City's General Plan, and that it would create new revenue for the community through sales
and property taxes. But as we looked at it we thought that this would not be considered
unique or attractive. The second concern about this was that it may be hard to attract key
tenants. In other words, the key anchors such as Target, Wal Mart or Kohl's all have stores
relatively nearby. In some cases the stores are new and it would seem unlikely that the
stores would be convinced to come and anchor a store at this location. Also, the traffic
impacts would be negative on Michigan Avenue.
The discussion of the retail center did get us to think about the fact that the City is on some
very important travel corridors in the Inland Empire. The City's straddles the 10 and the 60
corridor as well as the 91 and 215 freeways. These corridors lead to the most important
recreational destinations in Southern California. The high desert, mountains, river, lakes
and to the low desert. People use these corridors to come and go to these recreational
destinations. Grand Terrace is naturally on the travel path where these people who are
seeking recreational opportunities. That also made us look at our next door neighbor, the
City of Colton. The Colton RV Center is one of the most successful highest grossing point
of sale for RV and motor homes in North America. Many of these people are going within
two miles of the City to buy recreational vehicles. We also realized that people do not buy
recreational vehicles to drive around on a daily basis. People use them to go boating,
fishing or camping. We also realized that some of these recreational vehicles are towing
other recreational vehicles such as boats, dirt bikes, or jet skis. And we thought, well,
where are these people buying these other recreational vehicles. What if we built a retail
center that catered around the outdoor lifestyle, with many types of recreational vehicles to
choose from. We felt that this concept would be expandable to include fitness and other
4
recreational pursuits like home gardening. When we did further research we found that
there were retailers in our target audience such as RV and boat dealers that wanted to be
in an all in one retail center. Hence, the Outdoor Adventures Center.
The'Outdoor Adventures Center would be a one stop outdoor shopping center that sells
goods and services related to sports, outdoor living and leisure activities. Because we
have that concentration of activities there, we also believe that it would be possible to have
a fitness center, hotel, restaurants, and quality fast food and a gas station. When all of this
was put together, this project began to take shape with a large central lake with smaller
bodies of water and a curvilinear road which was the extension of what is now Commerce
Way through the middle of the project and pad sites; large enough to accommodate major
services and retailers as well as smaller pad sites particularly those located next to the
proposed lake that could be used for feature restaurants. All of which would be sitting next
to the 1-215 Freeway which carries about 200,000 cars a day. We believe that this
combination of activities would meet the expectations that we have been handed by the
City Council. It was a great looking front door, creating real long term value for the
community and would return benefits of items that were not currently in Grand Terrace
such as restaurants and retail.
I would like to make clear what the Outdoor Adventures Center is not. The OAC is not an
amusement park. It is not a water park. It is not a boat racing venue, and it is not a place
to go waterskiing. If anyone is here because you are fearful that it is proposed to be one of
these items, it will not be. The OAC is a place where it would be possible to buy almost
every kind of recreational gear imaginable from some of the best retailers in the recreation
business. We are actively searching for retailers such as Outdoor World, or Bass Pro
Shops, or companies like REI. The OAC is a place that you would find many of the services
that arc- not currentlti available it Gran: i er,ace /-, hote, sr-ecwr auranl: aualit\ fass
food, and a major fitness center. These are all use types that we are actively soliciting for
this project. The OAC is one of the most beautiful major commercial developments in
Southern California. We are devoting a substantial amount of real estate of this to public
open space. Beginning with 8-10 acres in the primary'body of water. The body of water
would primarily be considered as an aesthetic feature while it would be possible for boats to
float on it. There is also a 1-2 acre pond that could be used by hobbyists, for example
those who have remote control boats. Paddle boats may also be able to be used in the
pond.
Connecting the larger and smaller body of water would be a stream. Because of the
elevation differences in the OAC, the water will actually run downhill from the large body of
water to the small. This stream will create a flowing body of water where people could
practice fly fishing, or maybe even try a kayak. There will also be an off-road trail up
against the freeway. One reason why this proposed track was placed there was to provide
a buffer between the freeway and the railroad tracks, the chief generators of noise, and the
rest of the project. That track can be used for off-road bicycle testing. Finally, we expect
that there will be a water fall as an entry feature into the project as well as a way of
refreshing the water in the lake.
The OAC is probably the most environmentally friendly commercial development in
Southern California. The planting of over 1,400 new trees would be proposed where there
are fewer than 100 trees currently on the site. These trees will help to filter some of the
dust and pollutants that drift in from the freeway. In addition, a level of landscaping along
the streets that is unheard of in most commercial project. The land that also comes with its
own water rights and we will be able to use that water to maintain landscaping here that
5
most projects could not afford because they would have to buy the water to maintain this
type of landscape.
In addition, we are going to be creating an enhanced wetlands. There is a pathetic
wetlands on the site at current. The City will be working together with the Department of
Fish and Game to create an enhanced wetlands that can be a habitat for birds and other
creatures that can benefit from a wetlands environment. Pollution reducing swales along
the sides of the street will be used as suggested by the Regional Water Quality Board that
will allow us to meet our pollution control goals for the project. Finally, the City will be
working with the City of Riverside and their Public Utilities Department to engage them to
use this lake and a permeable bottom of the lake to recharge the local aquifer that they
would like to use at this site. They will use the canal that is currently located on the site to
bring the water to the site and fill the lake with water in which will seep down the bottom of
the lake and recharge the local aquifer. Again, we think that features like this distinguish
this project from most commercial developments in its strong emphasis in environmental
values and environmental quality at this site.
The OAC has a number of economic and civic benefits associate with it. At full build-out,
this project will generate more than a million dollars a year in sales taxes for the City. It will
generate nearly a million dollars a year in incremental property taxes. It should create over
500 new jobs that would be a particular interest to the youth in the community. Or perhaps,
employment for our retired citizens. It will create lodging and meeting facilities that the City
does not have.
The OAC will also create improved and safer freewav access A freeway on and off-ramp
will be proposea that wili go straight trom the treeway, into the project, ano not into inc-
neighborhood around it. The improvements to the Barton Road bridge will also significantly
improve both the access and the safety of the come and go traffic from the freeway. This
will' be done at least a decade before any of the planned improvements to the 1-215 ever
take place. This project will help these benefits take place at least 10-12 years before they
are scheduled to take place.
If the project were approved by the Planning Commission, and the City Council the
estimated time schedule for the project would be over the next six months. A preliminary
agreement would be entered into with the master developer, and refinements would be
initiated to the plan, including the financial strategy and the engineering for the project.
Initial tenant commitment would be secured, and the design and engineering plans for the
freeway on and off-ramps would be done during this time period. Due to the hard work of
Congressman Lewis, we have already received sufficient funds to pay for all the design
engineering and environmental issues associated with the on and off-ramps. We have a
commitment from the Congressman's office that the money for the construction of the on
and off-ramp will be included for next year's federal budget. This is an opportunity to
secure funds that the City would otherwise not be able to acquire.
In the first half of 2005, the final engineering for grading and infrastructure would be
completed. Sale agreements would be finalized with the various major tenants, and we
would expect to see the financing put in place for the public works improvements that would
take place, and we would expect approval from Caltrans for the freeway improvements and
secure the federal funding for the on and off-ramps.
In the second half of 2005, the grading and infrastructure work would begin along with the
construction of the freeway on and off-ramp.
6
During the first 8-9 months of 2006, the grading and infrastructure would continue along
with the store and restaurant construction. The freeway access improvements would be
completed.
In October or early November of 2006, the first stores and restaurants would open at the
OAC.
I would like to conclude this presentation by re-iterating what the City Council and Staff
wanted to see happen on this property. There is nothing that says that it was the City's
goals to rape and pillage the real estate, or make as much money as you possibly can.
This begins with improving the civic image with a new front door. Create benefits for the
citizens. It is with that attitude that this project has been moving forward for the last year
and a half. My instructions were not to maximize the economic benefit, but to maximize the
overall benefit. With respect to the economics, we have had an example within the last
year or two that when the State should get into financial trouble, the first entities that the
State goes after are the Cities and the Counties. In this particular case, we are talking
about building a project that will help insure that this community has a stable and
substantial source of revenue well into the future.
In conclusion, the staff has worked for a year and a half trying to put together a project that
we are very proud of. I do not live in this community, but I can get here in less than 10
minutes from where I live. In the Inland Empire, I feel that it is important that we offer
facilities that not only offer the kind of retail, restaurants and other offerings that this project
has, but I think it is also important that we do projects that establish the standards for
quality that this project does. and that I can say that I am very proud of what we have
assembles hers. ano ir, meetinc, the expectation,- o, the Cite Counci, ano Staff.
Doug Wilson asked if the Commission had any questions for Staff at this point.
None of the Commission had any questions at this time.
Gary Koontz: I would like to turn the floor over to Tom Schwab, the City Manager.
Tom Schwab: I would like to talk a little bit about what is going on in the City at current. For
a long time this land has remained vacant. As everyone can see the development has been
moving from the west towards the east, and the City of Grand Terrace is under pressure by
developers and owners of this property to do something with the property.
Most of the 120 acres is privately owned. Eventually, this land will be developed. We think
that it is important to have a master plan; some sort of a vision to build something in this
area that makes some sense to provide some access in the roads and so forth to be able to
get in and out of this area. This area will eventually develop; either on its own or with each
parcel owner coming to the City with a project whether it be a warehouse use, or a
commercial building. If the City were to take a comprehensive approach to development, it
will be a better development in the end when it is done.
The do nothing approach would be that the most important infrastructure, the streets in this
area, will not be built until the latter part of the development. Commerce Way was only built
as businesses developed along Commerce Way, so it can take many years for that to be
built out to Taylor Street and eventually out to Main Street, which would mean all that traffic
from the developments would have no other alternatives but to use Michigan Street. We
7
would like to provide some alternatives that would take traffic away from Michigan Street. If
you read the Specific Plan, the City is planning to cul-de-sac De Berry and Pico Streets so
that pone of the traffic from this particular development can go into those residential streets.
The City is master planning this effort, and in order to do this, we think that we will have a
better project in the end. This project will not be completed all at once. The hotels,
restaurants, and retail will happen over time. But a blueprint has been utilized that the land
owner's and developers must follow to create something that has cohesiveness. If one
were to look at the Specific Plan, 50 acres will consist of open space in either forms of
lakes, or land that will not be utilized for buildings. This will also provide immediate
capacity and safety upgrades to the 1-215 on and off-ramps.
Unfortunately, because of how slow the development is and as well as the State's budget,
the current projection to widen 1-215 Freeway is the year 2015.
One other important point is that the taxes and fees generated by the OAC. We have
always had a difficult time with budgeting. But we have always had a very conservative City
Council. One additional Deputy was added and is used to control speeds on many of the
streets particularly Barton and Mt. Vernon Roads. We are able to keep that deputy this
year, but each year the State is taking money from the City. This year, $200,000 was given
to the State, to help fund schools. This money could be used in the City to buy Deputies
and other services. We have been able to sustain ourselves because the City has
maintained a prudent reserve. In the future, we either need to look at ways that we can
grow our own economy or we are going to have look at other ways to generate income
through taxes which in the City of Grand Terrace, has not been something that the
residents were willina to do which would mean taxing themselveE
If the City of Grand Terrace carefully develops this particular project, then it will help sustain
the City into the future and allow us to keep up with additional law enforcement and other
city services.
Gary Koontz: At this time, I would like to take the opportunity to go through the Outdoor
Adventure Center Specific Plan. In the City's General Plan, a Specific Plan Land Use is
required for all major developments. A Specific Plan includes a variety of requirements per
State Law. The requirements include location, standards for, the land uses, buildings and
infrastructure, streets, roads, public facilities, standards for population density and building
density, all of which come out of the States guidelines. Standards for conservation,
development; use of natural open spaces and provisions for implementing the open space
element.
The Specific Plan is a long range master plan that serves as a zoning ordinance for all
future developments within the plan area. Any future development that comes into this
area must be consistent to the specific plan, which would be considered the zoning for this
area. The land has been re-zoned. To develop anything, we would have to go through a
land development process which would mean public hearings before the Planning
Commission and possibly the City Council. So if someone were to come in and want to
build a restaurant or store, that particular company would have to come back to the
Planning Department and file all the necessary applications and provide site plans, building
elevations and floor plans. These applications are run through a standard review process,
and we have another public hearing in front of the Planning Commission. Also, any retail
project must go through another Environmental Review because they will need to be
refined down to specific uses that will be compatible and abide by the Project EIR that is
8
approved for this. Many times, we may ask for any supplemental information such as traffic
studies or noise analysis.
Chair Wilson: So what you are trying to tell us is that this a Specific Plan is set up so that
we may take a large area that is probably going to affect a lot of citizens within the City and
plan around the various impacts that are present and use them as a tool to customize the
zoning for that particular condition.
Gary Koontz. Exactly. So the objective for this Specific Plan is to provide a general
guideline for development for basically the last major undeveloped commercially zoned
piece of land in the City into a viable commercial project. We would like a project that
provides the highest and best use of the property. We also would like to balance the
housing and jobs ratio in the City. At current, we are a bedroom community. We are
required by State Law and the General Plan laws of the State to try to balance out the
number of jobs and houses so that we are not a commuting City.
We would like to provide for long term tax revenue base. We would like to provide buffers
between proposed commercial uses and adjacent land uses. We want to maximize the
freeway frontage to enhance the commercial base for the City. The freeway frontage and
commercial development is very good within our area. We also want to make sure that we
mitigate all potentially significant environmental impacts that are associated with land
development.
This project was not thought of overnight. Between 2000 and 2003, the City of Grand
Terrace Redevelopment Agency acquired property in the area. Edison owned a lot of
aaricultural land within the area that was associated with water rights. In April of 2002.
naiph Megna was hires ze r,egrr. woming on this project. Betweer, 2002 ano April of 200;.
the City conducted environmental analysis, engineering constraints studies and other
studies. The result of these brought this conceptual land use plan.
On March 25, 2003, the City Council held a priority session in which they prioritize the
issues that are considered to be important to the City. The two top priorities at that meeting
were the Outdoor Adventures Center and the new high school. We had our marching
orders to move forward with both of them. In April, 2003, the City hired Lilburn and
Associates to prepare the environmental impact report per CEQA Guidelines. On August
7, 2003, we had a public scoping session where notices were mailed out and the project
was presented and the environmental issues that we felt we needed to address. As part of
that scoping session, we also sought input from the general public with regard to anything
that needed to be addressed. The EIR that was written covers every possible issue under
CEQA Guidelines.
In March 1, 2004, the Draft EIR was released for public review. Under CEQA Guidelines,
we were required to do a 45 day review period. On April 22, 2004, the review process
ended and comments were received responding to the EIR.
The project area is on the west side of the City. The 1-215 is our western boundary. Barton
Road is the northern boundary. Pico is the southern boundary. A few hundred feet from
Michigan would be considered the westerly boundary. The existing land uses in the area
are a mix of vacant property, agricultural property, older industrial area, existing residential
which are considered pre-existing non-conforming land uses. In terms of the General Plan,
the area up on the northerly part is designated as Commercial. It has been designated as
Commercial since the General Plan was approved by the City Council in the early 1980's.
9
The area to the south is zoned industrial. The General Plan is the general land use. The
land uses are implemented based upon zoning. A lot of different zones can exist within the
land use designation of the General Plan. The northerly area also known as the
commercially zoned area is zoned CM or Commercial Manufacturing. The area to the south
is zoned MR or Restricted Manufacturing. An excerpt was placed before the Commission
with regard to the CM, MR and C2 Zones. The CM zone does allow any use in the C2
zone which is General Commercial Zone. I would like to point out that everything that we
have proposed as a land use is consistent with the existing zoning on this property. The
land uses are being refined and not changed.
The Specific Plan has been cut into seven different planning areas. They are defined by
their land uses and their design guidelines. Planning Area 1 is located at Commerce Way.
There are some existing industrial commercial wholesalers and such in that area. Because
of these existing uses which are considered to be valuable development in the City, such
as the Cal Skate, Essco Electric, Riverside Winnelson, and Superior Pool Supply. Those
businesses have existed in that area and are very good revenue to the city. The overall
concept is called Gateway Commercial. There is some property along Barton Road that
could be included with this area. There has been some discussion with regard to Essco
Electric possibly moving and expanding their operations, giving another business to locate
to their building. There are also existing properties such as the two gas stations and the
small retail center that are covered by the Barton Road Specific Plan. Because of their
proximity in the circulation pattern of the area, they will allowed to be zoned under the
Barton Road Specific Plan, but should one of the stations go out of business, and be torn
down, we want any building to be built to the similar standards of the remaining portion of
the OAC
There was a clause that was found in the EIR with regard to some of the existing buildings
would be removed. We are not proposing to touch any of these buildings and have no
intent to touch those existing buildings. We are in hopes of working with the skating rink to
enhance their landscaping.
Another issue is with regard to the proposed median on Commerce Way. Those medians
will not be built, so that truck traffic will be allowed to turn in to driveways.
Planning Area Two will be known as Hospitality Commercial. The freeway on or off-ramp
will be located in this area. This area will be more oriented toward people who want to stop
off and rest. Hotel, restaurants and gas stations will be placed in this area and will serve as
the buffer between the outdoor retail areas and the freeway and industrial areas.
Planning Area Three would be considered the major retail areas. The major users will be
placed in this area such as the boat and RV dealers. A pavilion is proposed to be built in
this area that will be visible from the freeway and will be an area that would showcase
boats or another type of recreational vehicle.
The lake would consist of 8 acres. It is not intended to hold a high powered jet boat and
race it across the lake. There is no intent to drive any boat around at high speed.
Chair Wilson: Mr. Koontz, what is the estimated depth of the lake.
Gary Koontz: About ten feet. The biggest issue is that if the lake is too shallow, an algae
problem would occur. We want to make sure that the lake will stay clean. Ralph
mentioned that a creek flow into the lower lake which would be the passive lake. This area
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would be used for passive uses such as paddle boats, remote control boats or fishing. A
park can also be proposed to provide for a picnic area. This area would be used for a
possible RV dealer with lots of parking areas to show the vehicles.
Another area would be considered a specialty retail area and would be used to be a buffer
between the existing industrial areas and the major retail areas. A small mall that would
consist of a bicycle shop or an ice cream parlor would be used to serve all of the smaller
uses that would be devoted to this type of a facility.
The vehicle retail and support area could possibly be changed according to what the Colton
Unified School District would want to do because their proposed site would be located next
to that particular area. The primary use of this area would be for vehicle support and would
be used for smaller retailers such as boat customizers, auto detailers, or off-road type of
customizers.
The support services area would be used for RV storage or possible mini-storage area.
This area could also be used for RV maintenance, warehousing or mail order for the
outdoor retailers. This area would be used for more industrial type uses and would not be
visible along the freeway.
The final area or Planning Area 7 would be used for open space along the freeway. This
area would be a landscaped area and would provide the visual use of the project from the
freeway. It would consist of landscaping and the lake. This area has also been proposed
to be the bike track testing area. Water courses and lake areas would be maintained. Bear
in mind, that the test track would be considered as a conceptual use and does not mean
that it will be built
The infrastructure is designed to keep the traffic within the project area as much as
possible. Eventually removing the existing off ramp on Barton and moving down to where
the DeBerry alignment is. The remaining area or the southbound off ramp and onramp
would remain under this program. Ultimately, SANBAG and CALTRANS will probably
come in and do something to change this. But for all purposes at current, it will serve the
needs without getting into a twenty million dollar reconstruction project. Part of the freeway
improvement is to add another west bound lane.
The key to the project is the upfront construction to all of Commerce Way. Taylor Street
will be expanded to a four lane improvement and will go all the way down to Main Street. A
continuous system will be running down through to Main Street.
Van Buren Street has been discussed at length. It is not the City's intent to do anything
with the existing piece of Van Buren off of the project site. It is the City's intent to expand it
within the site and widen it out to four lanes to put in left turn pockets and ease access to
this project. We must provide access to Willdan Pump and the industrial park located on
Michigan. The truck traffic and the employee traffic will be siphoned off through Commerce
Way instead of flowing on to Michigan Street.
The high school is looking at a particular piece of property adjacent to the site. We are
looking at moving the existing Pico crossing of the railroad up to the cul-de-sac area of Pico
and allow the high school to be built in that area.
SANBAG is proposing to do a traffic signal synchronization through Barton Road into Loma
Linda in the year 2006. This project will build out Commerce Way to a four lane
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improvement. A median will be proposed through the middle with left turn pockets where
necessary. We are not proposing to widen Michigan and are not proposing to take any
right-of-way. In order for the City to take such property, then the City would have to go
through the City Council for condemnation. I can guarantee that the City Council will not let
us take residential property.
A master grading plan has been done with regard to how much dirt would have to be
moved to make pads. The intent of the grading is to show that when it is done the lake will
be at the same grade,as the freeway, so the view from the freeway would be straight out to
the lake. Everything else will be terraced up so that each of the pads will be visible from
the freeway.
Based upon the grading plan the total amount of dirt that would need to be moved would
consist of 1.2 million cubic yards. There are a few soils issues that need to be re-visited
and re-compaction to make the soils suitable for foundations.
At current, there are two major storm drains. One is at DeBerry Street, and one coming in
from the north between the plumbing supply and the pool supply company. Both storm
drains tie in together at DeBerry Street and go out into the County flood control channel. It
is our plan to take the County flood control channel and put it into an enclosed culvert so
that it will remain enclosed underground.
The Riverside Canal is a domestic water supply for the City of Riverside. The City of
Riverside is in agreement to subterrane the existing segment that runs through the City of
Grand Terrace
At current, the existing culvert is not capable of handling a 100 year storm. What the City is
proposing to do is use the lakes as a retention area during a major storm. The lake will be
designed where they will have flow pipes with freeboards that will remain open during the
wet season, so that when there is a major rain, the storm water will fill up the lakes and the
water will flow into pipes that will be regulated into the existing County flood control
channel. When water is coming off of the streets, there will be a lot of waste run-off that
will come along with that water. According to National Pollutant Discharge and Elimination
Systems or NPDES, the City is federally required to catch that material and clean it up
before it gets into the Santa Ana River. What we are proposing is to build a series of first
flush basins which are small basins that will catch waste that will flow with the first rain
water. The remainder of the waste will flow off accompanied with hydraulic separators or
storm scepters. It is a structure in the ground that captures any of the floating material or
trash before it goes into the lake.
A waterfall will also serve as an aeration system before the water will flow into the lake.
There will be additional aeration as the water will flow down the stream and into the
proposed pond. The water will then be pumped back into the water fall to keep the water
flowing.
The existing open channel for the flood control district is considered to be wetlands, and we
will not be touching that area at all. Those will remain in their natural state. There is a
wetlands area that we will be re-locating. This proposal will benefit the overall City storm
water system.
There are two City of Riverside wells. These two wells are tied together with a 16 inch
water main that goes up to a 42 inch water main that is owned by the City of Riverside.
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This is one of the major transmission corridors for the City from their well sites off of
Tippecanoe Street in San Bernardino to the City of Riverside. The City of Riverside is
allowing us to relocate this line to put it out of the way from the rest of our development.
This same water line also runs through the proposed high school site. At current, the City
is working with the School District to see how we can relocate the entire line all at once.
We have been required to relocate this line only during the wet season because this line is
mainly used during the summer months when water usage is at its highest. There will be
new water lines installed through the streets and the domestic water will be provided by
Riverside Highland Water Company. Everything that has been mentioned will be designed
to provide fire flows for the buildings and will be part of the final engineering process.
In addition, this system will assist the high school by providing an additional fire flow system
for their site.
There is a major sewer line that services the city and carries sewage to the Colton
Treatment Plant. A portion of that line will be relocated as necessary. If a building needs
to be relocated to leave the sewage ways in place, we will move the buildings. All of the
proposed areas will be provided with domestic sewer service to meet the needs of the
buildings. The businesses that will need the sewer service will be the hotel, and
restaurants.
The concept of the landscape plan is to make the project as rural looking as possible.
Dense foliage is proposed to be used. The water well system will be utilized for the
irrigation of the landscape. The main arterials will have a large landscape buffer that the
City will control and maintain so there would be continuous landscaping. Meandering' path
areas are proposed to be built rather than sidewalks. Hidden landscaping is proposed to
r,E installec alone, ah o: tht ar-reria, highway: i rie signage or the property will be rustic
looking to compliment the theme of the proposed project.
At this time, I would like to turn it over to Nancy Ferguson of Lilburn Corporation with regard
to the projects Environmental Impact Report.
Doug Wilson: In relation to the easements that need to be relocated, are any of them fee
ownership or are they easements?
Gary Koontz: A majority of them are easements. There is some fee ownership along the
Riverside Canal.
Doug Wilson: So we do have a potential for negotiating with those folks in relation to
relocation requirements.
Gary Koontz: Absolutely. We have contacted all of the utilities and they are more than
willing to work with us. As long as they have their utilities in place, especially if the utilities
will be placed underground. The City of Riverside has been extremely cooperative with us
and they are very interested in dealing with this ground water re-charger. They will provide
water from the Riverside Canal to fill the lake, with a portion of it to be percolated in to
recharge and the rest of the water would be to fill the lake.
Doug Wilson: Can you define what a mature tree is at least at the point of purchase and
installation?
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Ralph Megna: At the time that this project should go into service, it shouldn't look like its
ten years away at which the point will provide shade. 60 or 80 inch box trees will be
proposed to be planted at the principal locations so that from the beginning, it will look like
a forested area.
Doug Wilson: Please give us an example of a 60 inch box tree caliper with so far as the
trunk.
Ralph Megna: That would depend upon the species of the tree. A palm in a 60 inch box
will different than an oak in a 60 inch box tree. The proposed trees at the time of delivery
will vary anywhere from 15 to 25 feet in height and likely to be at minimum 8 to 10 inches in
trunk width or more per species.
Doug Wilson: Thank you Mr. Megna. This will also be subject to review before the
Commission in the future. The lighting issue has been an issue with regard to energy
consumption. Can you describe what type of lighting is proposed?
Ralph Megna: We are going to try our best to keep the lighting fully shielded to keep the
glare down. The County of San Bernardino has just passed a strict ordinance that all
lighting will be intended to light what needs to be lit, and not the surrounding area.
Doug Wilson: For safety, we realize that lighting is important for intersections. I would like
to suggest that in these planning stages, that we entertain the concept of Bullard lighting
along walkways and so on.
kaipn Megna. VVnat we are trying is accomplisr. t�: ine same ugnung plan as what way
installed at Jurupa Boulevard in the City of Jurupa. A compacted decomposed granite trail
with Ballard lighting along the street. The kind of relationship between this walkway surface
and the lighting is what I would imagine that we would propose for the project.
Doug Wilson: I wanted to ask these questions so that anyone in the audience had
questions in relation to some of those things, they can get the information from all parties
that will be involved in this project. There will be a public hearing in relation to all of these
matters, and there will be many more public hearings for the design of the project.
Gary Koontz: Before I turn this over to Nancy, I would like to talk about the overall planning
standards that I need to over quickly. First of all, any project that goes in to the OAC, must
be conforming with all of the other laws and requirements of the City of Grand Terrace.
Anything that we do not talk about in the specific plan falls back to the current zoning
ordinance of the City. All common open space areas will be maintained by a master
property owner or land owners association or a landscape management district. It is very
important to explain that the development and operation of the maintenance of this project
area will not have any impact or require any funds from the City's General Fund. It is
designed to maintain itself, and none of the City's General Fund will be utilized. We must
do an environmental assessment with every project that comes in. This will have to be
done by CEQA and the approved EIR. All of the lots that we create have to be consistent
to all of the current state subdivision laws. All of the street laws must be abided by as well
as all of the City laws. All development projects shall be accompanied by conceptual
landscape plans for common areas, and transitions with public rights of way, bikeways, and
sidewalks. Commerce Way and along Taylor will have two bikeways installed on the side
of the roadway to provide alternative access for bikes and pedestrians. We also want to
have bus access with bus stops.
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Doug Wilson: Will the trail be considered a multi-purpose trail for horses?
Gary Koontz: Because we are not really attached to any equestrian centers, I do not feel
that it would be used as a horse trail. Everything can be used with the exception of
equestrian. A requirement with passive solar lighting, cooling and heating techniques shall
be incorporated wherever possible. This would include shading the sides of buildings,
using certain building materials and the positioning of buildings to maximize the sun and
shade. Proposed development projects are encouraged to incorporate sustainable
development techniques. In other words, the use of anything that is energy efficient or
friendly to the environment. Every project is going to have to comply with the City's waste
collection. Every business will have an adequate amount of container areas for recycling
and trash bins. With that, I would like to introduce Nancy Ferguson of Lilburn Corporation.
Nancy Ferguson: Good evening. Gary and Ralph have already touched on the
environmental issues, and I will try to keep it as brief as possible. The issues addressed to
the EIR followed by a brief discussion on how the mitigation measures would be monitored,
and the alternatives and conclusions of the EIR.
An initial study was performed and it was determined that there were issues of land use,
geology and hazards related to public health and safety. Those findings were specifically
with regard to the types of uses that were going to be in the specific plan. Hydrology and
water quality was touched on by Gary Koontz with regard to drainage and the NPDES
requirements that should be met.
With regard to land use and plannino we stuck to how the proiect in relation to compatibility!
to planning documents were adaresseo in other areas, specifically the noise section, all
quality section and the traffic section.
For geology and soils, we are all living in an earthquake hazard zone, so the risks
associated with seismic events are similar to this project that there would be to adjacent
neighborhoods. The uniform building code has certain standards that have to be met for
seismic safety and the buildings would have to meet those standards.
With regard to wind erosion during grading and construction and especially during the
Santa Ana wind conditions; the Air Quality Management District has several rules and
regulations regarding how grading can be done especially during windy weather conditions.
There are also best management practices for water erosion that are established by the
NPDES permitting process and are administered by the Regional Water Quality Control
Board. These control measures would have to be in' place during construction.
Gary talked about expansive soils, or soils that are unsuitable for development. There are
a couple of pockets in the development that are clay based and those areas would have to
be excavated and removed with fill brought in or fill used from another area on the site and
then compacted.
The hazards issue is resolved by making businesses responsible for preparing a business
emergency response plan that must be approved by the County Fire Agency. The plan
must be in place prior to occupancy. Should a tenant move out and a new tenant moves in,
they must come up with a new emergency response plan.
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With relation to biological resources; most of the site has been disturbed by various uses in
the past. Agriculture is still taking place as well as residential and industrial development.
A biplogical survey done of the site and the biologists found that there were not any rare or
endangered species on site.
Burrowing Owls were not found on the site, but they are known to migrate frequently. It is
suggested that prior to grading, staff will go back out and make sure there are none on site.
If burrowing owls are found on site, there are certain California Department of Fish and
Game protocols that must be followed to disperse the owls.
There are two small wetlands within the site. These are somewhat natural and are related
to run-off from agriculture that was in the area of the past. Historic aerial photos were
looked at, and those wetland features did exist and was related to the run off of the citrus
groves. The wetland that is located to the north of the site will be removed and relocated to
Planning Area 7. The City of Grand Terrace will have to consult with the Department of
Fish and Game and determine how many acres would have to be restored. It is possible
that the relocated wetland area will be larger than what it currently is.
The archeological associates did a cultural resources survey of the site. The only historic
feature that was found was the Riverside Warm Creek Channel that is still in operation.
Prior to under grounding the feature, the Channel will have to be documented and
photographed; and sent to the San Bernardino County Museum. The second cultural
resources issue that was discussed was with regard to paleontology. The City of Grand
Terrace as well as most of the areas from Grand Terrace through to Loma Linda and
Redlands is part of the San Timeteo Formation The San Bernardino County Museum
paleontologists have founa many fossils in the San 1 rmeieo iorrriaiior, in taco, the Sar,
Timeteo landfill, a mastodon was found along with various other fossils. Since the area is
known to be rich in fossils, they are suggesting that prior to doing any grading that a
mitigation plan be established on how the grading will be performed and monitored and
what will happen to the resources when they are salvaged.
Construction noise will be more noticeable during planning areas 2 and 3 due to the
proximity of the construction to the existing neighborhoods and less noticeable once the
construction moves to planning areas 6 and 7. The City has established hours of which
construction can occur which is 7 am to 8 pm.
The most westerly residents are affected by the noise from the 1-215 freeway. Once the
retail buildings are put in place, the buildings would soften the noise. The way the project is
designed with regard to the building placement, the buildings would protect the surrounding
residences from some of the noise that may occur.
The on and off ramps would be designed so that northerly traffic would be directed into the
site and not go through any of the existing neighborhoods. The on and off-ramps are
proposed to be built in the year 2006, should the project be approved.
There will be air quality impacts during the grading process and construction. These air
quality impacts will be mitigated by the Air Quality Management District rules and
regulations. Such rules and regulations require that watering of the site to keep dust down,
and turning off the equipment and vehicles when they are not in operation.
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A mitigation monitoring program must be adopted with an EIR certified with the City
Council. What this program will do is to lay out the mitigation measures are, and who
would be responsible for the measures.
Some alternatives would include no project, no development alternative. Should the project
not be approved, the existing conditions would be present at the site, but this does not
preclude any other type of development from occurring.
Another alternative was to build out under the current existing General Plan which would be
4.1 million gross square feet under warehouse and distribution uses. The same impacts,
results and traffic issues would occur under this scenario, but without benefit of any control
through a specific plan.
Residential development such as single family and multi family housing could also be
introduced in the area, but that would also require a specific plan. The impacts would be
different in that the development of such would be considered a lower density. There will
also be impacts to schools, police and fire.
The conclusion of the EIR based on the cumulative projects within the area was that there
would be significant impact on biological resources. Carl Ballard, our traffic engineer will
now speak before the Commission.
Carl Ballard: Good evening, my name is Carl Ballard; I am the senior associate with
Kunzman and Associates. We have prepared the traffic studies for the project. I will
provide a brief synopsis of the conclusions of the traffic study. The OAC is likely to have a
regional appeal and drams rnosf of it's customers from many mileF away The OAC will
encourage consolidation of regional trips to one-way, multi-use recreational themea
development, or one stop shopping. A majority of the traffic will be absorbed from the
freeway. The project will be served by the three interchanges, consisting of Barton Road,
the Iowa/La Cadena interchange and the proposed new Commerce Way Interchange. One
vehicle will travel to multiple uses during one visit to the site. For instance, a consumer will
visit a dealership and then go to a restaurant at the site.
The new on and off ramps from the 1-215 Freeway into the OAC will add substantial new
capacity to the existing Barton Road and Iowa/La Cadena Avenue interchanges. This
interchange is very similar to a project design on the 1-10 Freeway at Washington Street of
the Sun City Del Webb project. This project will have three interchanges compared to the
other development that only has two interchanges. Most of the customers from this site will
be able to directly enter and exit the site without using Barton or Michigan. The project has
been designed to have a major intersection that will bisect the project. For instance,
visitors of the center will be able to drive directly into the site and continue to exit the site
getting back onto the 1215 without going into the local streets. Anyone traveling south on
the 1215 will exit Barton or Iowa and be able to enter the site without having to travel any of
the two lane roadways. The new interchange capacity far exceeds that required for the
project. The interchanges at current are reading at a "D" or an "F". The projected
interchanges within the area will bring the grade level for those interchanges to a "B" to a
.,C.t
Residents who live in the immediate area can take advantage of the employment
opportunities of the OAC. Local residents will also patronize restaurants and auto services
rather than travel out of town. These conclusions were based upon traffic modeling that
was performed in the area, in which the modeling was taken from SCAG. The traffic model
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showed very little trips traveling to the south and the southeast directly adjacent to the
project. The trips that we did see traveling to the east and the southeast were actually
home to work trips. Residents that lived very close to the development will be able to travel
5-10 minutes to work. At current, local residents are traveling outside the area to go to
most of the land uses that are proposed for the site. There will be no through travel traffic
through DeBerry Street. We have made an effort to make it inconvenient for outside traffic
to travel through the residential areas surrounding the proposed project. Both De Berry
Street and Pico Streets have been changed from through streets to cul-de-sacs. This will
keep the users from the OAC from traveling through the nearest residential area into the
OAC. Van Buren Street will connect into Commerce or Adventure Way. This will allow
traffic to use those routes other than Michigan Street.
Michigan was not mitigated to go from a two-lane undivided to a four lane undivided.
Improvements were made along Commerce Way and a portion of Michigan between
Barton and Commerce Way with signalization and inter connection. We are also
anticipating that Commerce Way will be made into a four lane roadway. Taylor Street
would also be made into a four lane roadway down through to Main. The signals will be
interconnected to the Iowa/La Cadena interchange. Many users will be encouraged to go
south and west towards Main Street when the upgrades to Taylor Street will occur.
This concludes my report. I will show the Commission a graphic of the proposed
improvements surrounding the site. Thank you.
Matthew Addington: I have a couple of questions for the traffic engineer. For clarification
purposes, on Michigan Road between Barton and Commerce Way, did your traffic report
analyze upgrading ihai po,dark of the roaa from a iwo lane to a Tour iare
Carl Ballard: That is correct; we made no recommendations for improvements along
Michigan south of Commerce.
Matthew Addington: With regard to Van Buren Avenue, near the residences, is there a way
where we can direct truck traffic away from residences and into the OAC and back out into
the freeway.
Gary Koontz: From Van Buren south, since that is a residential area, we could theoretically
through the City Council designate that area as a non truck route to prohibit large trucks
from using that roadway. We've also discussed looking at the Van Buren and Michigan
intersection where it comes into the project; do a design to let traffic flow in as a one-way
street and not allowing traffic to come back out. This would reduce the flow of traffic in that
area. This is something that the traffic engineers would need to evaluate and the City
Council will have to approve in terms of using a one way street.
Carl Ballard: The term that is used for Mr. Koontz was speaking of is called "traffic
calming". It would be used so that it would make it inconvenient for through traffic,
however, it could be considered an inconvenience to local residents, but it may actually be
beneficial to the local residents as well.
Gary Koontz: There is an existing trucking company, called Swertsfeger Equipment that is
located at Michigan and Van Buren. It is an improved land use and uses Michigan to bring
his trucks in and out of the business. If there was a way that we can relocate his driveway,
it would be an issue that would have to be worked out between the City and the business
owner.
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Gary Koontz: Throughout this presentation a number of departments and agencies have
stood up and given reports before the Commission. This project is not just a City project,
but also a County project requiring a lot of permits and coordination with many different
agencies. The agencies include: The State Fish & Game, Federal Fish and Wildlife, Corps
of Engineers, Regional Water Quality Control Board, Air Quality Management District,
County Flood Control District, County Fire District, SANBAG, CALTRANS, County
Environmental Health, Riverside Highland Water Company, and the City of Riverside. A lot
of agencies are involved that have a lot of oversight with this project.
With that, the staff is concluding the presentation with regard to the Outdoor Adventures
Center. We are requesting that you open the public hearing, and receive public testimony.
Once the testimony is received, close the public hearing, discuss the OAC Specific Plan
and Final EIR and ask questions of staff. At that point, we are asking that you make a
recommendation to the City Council for certification of the EIR and the Specific Plan. Staff
is also recommending to the City Council that they certify the Environmental Impact Report
known as E-04-03, and approve and adopt the Ordinance for the Outdoor Adventures
Center Specific Plan also known as SP-04-01.
Doug Wilson: Before we open the public participation, I would like to remind everyone that
public address to the Commission should be addressed to three minutes unless extended
by the Chairman. Should you desire to make a longer presentation, please make a written
request to be agendized to the Director of Community and Economic Development.
Before we open up the public hearing, I would just like to give you a little history with regard
to this particular piece of propert\l The General Plan Task Force actually opposed "Big
Box" involvement. When an inausirial area is oesignaiea as CM, rL is a heavier type or usc.
The concept of this project has to do with trying to balance the community. It is an attempt
to try to make a happy medium. We are not for or against other than what we hear from the
general public. We greatly appreciate your participation in this project, and let me remind
you that there is nothing clandestine in relation to the presentations that happened or have
not happened in relation to these issues. This body is not interested in entertaining a lot of
personal opinions about the way people have behaved. What we are interested in doing is
finding out how you as a community makes things better, and to help us make
recommendations to the Council.
Chair Wilson opened up the public hearing.
William Hays
22114 De Berry Street
I live on the northeast corner of DeBerry and Michigan Street. I am here on behalf of my
neighbors and myself. We have lived in Grand Terrace for 42 years. Reverend Comstock
took over the church when my father passed away and when my mother retired from
pasturing the church. We have commercial traffic up and down the street all of the time. In
fact, one of the street lights on the corner of DeBerry and Michigan was paid for by us
because the City could not afford to pay for the light. I know you said that you do not want
to get into what people have done and how they behaved, but I am concerned because one
of the City Council members has approached us to purchase our land and when we watch
the City Council meetings, they go into executive session to discuss any real estate deals
in the City. We also have a coyote problem in the area. If a lake or wetland is located in
the area, it will get worse. The proposed cul-de-sac portion of DeBerry could cause any
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emergency vehicles to become delayed to get down below Michigan. I listened to the
Environmental Impact Reports and I have heard everything except for the mention of the
people that live in that corridor. This is not about revenue for the City and what they are
going to do with it, but it sounds more like the dog license issue where everyone had to
license our dogs after 32 years. So far if anyone else has seen the dog catcher up here but
I haven't and I know that we are paying the City of Colton $30,000 a year for it: I would like
to know the criteria for police officer to population ratio is 1,000 to 1 police officer. We
currently have two, one each for 6,500 people. If the population were to increase by 30,000
people per day, that means that you would have to pay for 5 deputies on the grounds at all
times.
We are not in favor of this. This is a bedroom community and intended to be a bedroom
community and it's not intended to be what they are proposing now. We all got these
things in our mailboxes that says that De Berry is going to be four lanes, then City Council
says its not going to be four lanes, and Michigan is going to be four lanes, and then we're
told it's not going to be four lanes, then Mr. Koontz advises us that Michigan will not be
opened up to four lanes, and he just let us know about this today. What about next week,
because we know that there will be changes. Personally, I don't think we are going to be
able to fight City Hall, I think that they will do this no matter what anybody thinks. I would
like to remind people of what the former Governor of Minnesota, Jesse Ventura said, he
said, "If you are not happy with what your elected officials are doing, remember two words:
"No Encumbrance."
Barbara Wetzel
12355 Vivienda Avenue
I live off of Mavis and Michigan and have lived in this house for the past 40 years. We've
seen some good things and some bad things happening. And this, to me, is a bad thing.
This is a bedroom community. It always has been, and that's why all of us moved here to
get away from all of that stuff. And you're pushing it right down our throats, and I'm tired of
it. You people did eminent domain on Barton Road and took away homes. Nothing has
ever happened in that area except for empty lots that is full of weeds. It seems like every
time somebody in Grand Terrace wants to do something, it goes away, and its worse. I
have a question. I understand that the existing off ramp on Barton Road will be modified to
directly into the project, is that correct?
Gary Koontz: Yes.
Barbara Wetzel: Okay, what about the residents of Grand Terrace, we will be exiting on
Commerce Way also. How am I going to get home? Am I going to go down the four lane
road, Commerce Way along with all of these 30,000 people that are going to come into my
City every day? And how am I going to get off on Michigan Avenue? I want an answer to
my question.
Carl Ballard: You will be exiting the freeway and either be making a left or a right on
Commerce Way. Do you live south on Michigan?
Barbara Wetzel: Yes I do.
Carl Ballard: Okay, so you will be making a right or actually, a left on Commerce Way go to
Michigan and then make a right.
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Barbara Wetzel: So where will all of these other 30,000 people going to be exiting?
Doug Wilson: What we will do is that we will go ahead and compile all of the questions,
and then we will go ahead and answer them.
Barbara Wetzel: Okay, then I have another question. I also understand that Van Buren will
be a direct route into the Adventure Center. How will those people get to Van Buren, they
will have to go down Michigan, and if they go down Commerce Way there's more traffic on
Michigan. Right now, I can hardly get to Michigan from Mavis Avenue because of the rush
hour. And when I get to Barton Road from Michigan, I am stuck there for five minutes
behind about 40 cars'trying to get out. What is this going to be like? It's ridiculous. If you
project that there will be a 5,000 vehicle parking lot, what about the added air pollution.
You have already addressed the noise pollution with terraced areas to direct the noise out
to the freeway. Are you proposing to direct the air pollution out to the freeway by using a
large fan?
James Coffin
CY Development Co.
222 E. Olive Avenue-Redlands
I own five parcels on Commerce Way. Also the two buildings: Riverside Winnelson, and
Superior Pool Products. I was responsible for bringing Essco Wholesale Electric. I
encouraged that company to relocate from Redlands into Grand Terrace. I have a couple
of concerns and wrote a letter. Some of the issues have been addressed by Mr. Koontz,
and I appreciate that. I noticed on your map at Commerce Way and Michigan, you have
two different colors and was wondering what the colors represent. I own the property
where there is green ano biuE. curreniit i,ave the propene o feie . -ioi saie but Unoer the
condition that I cooperate in the ownership and construction of buildings that may occur on
that property, because I still may have an interest in the ownership of that property. I have
owned this for the better of 20 years. When it was zoned from Specific Plan Commercial to
CM, it permitted Essco Wholesale Electric to relocate to this building. Essco Electric is
described as wholesale, but that's because they only sell to contractors. Contractors pay
sales tax. They all do. So they collect a lot of sales tax for the City. It was said that there
are very few employees there. That's not so, there's almost 30 employees at Essco, 15
employees at Superior Pools and there is over 20 employees at Riverside Winnelson
Wholesale Plumbing Supply. These businesses do provide a great deal of revenue. Much
more than when it was empty lots. So I do applaud the City for re-zoning the area to CM.
I would like to continue to be involved with those three parcels on the other side of street.
Can anyone tell me what the yellow and blue designations are on the maps?
Ralph Megna: Actually, the colors do not mean much. All we are trying to indicate was
that the westerly portion of that parcel as it got closer into OAC was appropriate for
recreational vehicle sales and that it could be used for that. What I would like to strongly
indicate is what Gary Koontz said earlier that this map shown on the screen is not a zoning
map, but it is simply the diagram of the project and that the Specific Plan is the controlling
zoning document. At current the area is continuing to be zoned the same.
James Coffin: This proposed Specific Plan has zoned everything commercial. There are
no wholesale uses in commercially zoned areas. As I have said before, these commercial
buildings collect sales tax because they sell to contractors. So my concern is that for those
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parcels that I own that the zoning remain the same as CM Zoning that has continued to be
zoned as such.
Doug Wilson: Mr. Coffin, am I stating your situation correctly that you would like to express
your opinion that those uses continue as commercial designation?
James Coffin: Yes. I will not express any opinion about the continued development, but I
wish the City success with whatever they decide to do.
Kim Stromwall
12522 Michigan
I live near the corner of Van Buren and Michigan. For the past month, we have been told
that you're proposing to widen Michigan and you're going to widen Van Buren. I am
comforted to know that our house isn't going. But I am very concerned with what you are
putting there. We have lived her for 18 years. We bought our home to raise a family. I do
not want my kids exposed to what you are putting there. You have bad air, more traffic
than what we need. It would be nice if the Deputy on Barton Road could come onto
Michigan and do some work there. I wish that Mr. Koontz had come to community and
asked what we wanted.
Nothing has been brought up about the new high school. I heard that Colton School
District was having some concerns over this and I would like this addressed. I heard that
they were not going to put the high school because of the noise and air pollution.
Doug Wilson. W6 really ao no-L i-iave control of whai tn6 sc,,00i� cu. in my experience-
with this over time, that because it's a state entity, the local agencies have very little control
over state agencies. So far as the construction or acquisition of schools, we get noticed,
and that's about we are privy to. We are not allowed to dictate what the State does in so
far as use, and we also not allowed to dictate so far as things like condemnation.
Kim Stromwall: It amazes me that we have been fighting for a high school for a long time,
and this property has been sitting there and they have been saying that the needed some
50 acres, and we have this instead of a high school.
Tom Schwab: Mr. Chairman, can I address this, because I have been hearing the same
thing. We are working very closely with the school district in which they have no plans to
abandon that site.
Kim Stromwall: Well that's not what Best, Best & Krieger has said.
Tom Schwab: Best, Best & Krieger has made some comments. If you notice that there is
a letter right before that letter from the Colton Unified School District saying that they have
no concerns. But the attorney felt that he has some issues of liability that he must put on
the record but they are in the process right now of doing their Phase I Environmental
Studies to acquire that land. A part of the acreage that the school will sit on is on land that
belongs to the City of Grand Terrace. It is some of the farm property next to Pico. So that
rumor is not true. They in fact have been working through this entire process. The
infrastructure that will be brought by the proposed OAC will be utilized by the school. It was
indicated earlier that the water and sewer infrastructure will be utilized by the school.
Kim Stromwall: I think that they were also concerned about the noise and the pollution.
22
Tom Schwab: Their concerned about the noise and the pollution from the freeway as well.
Kim Stromwall: Well, there is an elementary school that is located next to the freeway, and
adding more pollution to the elementary school is really going to compound that school.
Why don't you use some this property to a new elementary school, and use the current site
as a commercial development?
Tom Schwab: That has been discussed.
Bobbie Forbes
11850 Burns Avenue
I think that the community needs something to bring income. I believe the proposed Sav- O
On will bring that. I also believe that the property values will be maintained and elevated by
bringing a high school into the community. I have lived here for 17 years, and from the
moment that I moved here, there has been talk about putting a new high school in Grand
Terrace. I would like for whatever project be proposed that it would be beneficial to the
residents. What we currently have in town is not attractive. I happen to live behind the
Stater Bros. warehouse and I deal with the noise, dirt, and truck traffic on a daily basis.
Because my business is out in the public eye, I do enjoy the area I live in because it is a
rural area. I am not happy with the proposed bridge improvements because that will bring
traffic by my house but we will have to have that bridge improved in order for Barton Road
to look nicer. I am happy with the improvements throughout the City. There are really
good things going on in town that I am sure that the Planning Commission had something
to do with I am concerned about the dirt track and the water along Michigan and the
;reeway. i think rnai f'► wll� r,ring oin and nose. wouia IiKe 'La see something Qimea at the
elementary kids and teenagers to do rather than hang out at the park and get into trouble.
I hear two different stories about Michigan. I think that we need sidewalks on Michigan for
the safety of the children. I worry about that when I am selling houses in that
neighborhood. I also do pet rescue and see dead dogs on that street as well. I do think
that we do need more policing in our neighborhoods.
I believe the noise and dirt is going to effect more than a two mile radius. I have trains on
either side of me as well as truck trailer hook up noise happening that sounds just like gun
shot. We will be getting a lot of traffic into town and I am concerned about it. Regarding
the animal control comment. I have a very good relationship with both Sherry and Rose,
who are both the animal control officers for the City. I think that they are doing a very good
job. I call them all the time when I see pets in town when they are loose, and I have seen
them patrolling along Michigan.
Patricia Farley
12513 Michigan Street
Before I start that I want to point out that when I talked to Mr. Koontz, the three minute limit
would not be a problem. My family has owned this property on Michigan Street for over 50
years. A great deal of money time and love has been invested in this property . We are
astonished and outraged at the flagrant lack of respect and violation of our rights
represented by this OAC project, and how it has been pursued by the City. Common
sense, courtesy and law requires City Officials to be respectful of our rights and to make a
good faith effort to notify us regarding any activities.
23
Doug Wilson: Excuse me, but this is the purpose of this forum. We are not going to get in
to another one of these conversations about notice. We are doing this specifically to be
able to understand what this project is about. You had an opportunity to talk about this in
an un-public forum last time. So lets us go through the actual item.
Patricia Farley: Well, the reason why I am mentioning this is because it is required by the
law that you folks are telling me you followed which have not been followed.
Doug Wilson: Yes, the item has been noticed properly, and I would appreciate it if you
would go to the issue at hand.
Patricia Farley: Sadly I have been jarred from the hope that I could trust City Officials to
use common sense and integrity in managing development. The lack of respect and
sensitivity to the rights of the residents of Grand Terrace is shocking. For starters, I cannot
press the City to manage the mitigation. I cannot trust the city to be fair in granting permits.
We were not notified about the trucking terminal that did not fit with any of the descriptions
of what was to go into that property, and being so greatly affected, it is unbelievable that
you did not let the residents know that this business owner was applying for a permit.
The nearby residents need written notification of such permit requests, since they are so
obviously effected. The City neglected to do this. The traffic on Michigan is out of control
with big trucks and speeding vehicles causing safety problems for the residents and
pedestrians. Now the City is proposing to significantly increase this by having all of this
traffic that isn't even residents charging down our streets and using them as a through way
ai the expense of the resiaen-Ls. Somehow, I am supposed io relieve that the Oily Off iciais,
even though their environmental report says they are going to increase Michigan Avenue to
four lanes, Van Buren to four lanes, Main Street to five lanes, DeBerry Street to four lanes
and Taylor to four lanes. You can't have that in the report and then tell me, oh, you can
ignore that. I don't trust you any more.
In addition, the same is true with air pollution. It is significant and the report says
cumulative effects of all of this noise. Air pollution is significant and is an insult to my
intelligence. I read this report. I didn't need Mr. Koontz to read it to me.
Doug Wilson: Excuse me, can I ask a question. On the air pollution cumulative effect is
that in the initial EIR or in the final EIR itself.
Patricia Farley: It's in both. In fact, the changed chart they didn't even put it in, they put in
the old one. This one is from the final Environmental Impact Report. And it is all
significant. Also, your comments about "Gee, you weren't going to move those
businesses." It says, raise the businesses. Now who are we supposed to believe. Okay,
you claim that the only interested parties are within 300 feet of this. This is going to affect
terribly a lot more. In fact, the whole City of Grand Terrace. We're at Michigan Avenue and
Van Buren you want to widen the streets and I can go through this Adventure Center to get
to my house? You spent $80,000 on this report. If you would have properly notified me we
could have saved that.
The comments in your report that said that there were no comments from residents or
because they didn't know about it and any person should have known that they didn't have
the representation from the community. I believe that you have a grave responsibility to
correct the problem in the large area of judgment that you have on Michigan Avenue while 1
24
agree that it would be good to wisely use this prime land that your talking about to increase
City revenues, we are not so financially strapped that you need to rape the city. You
expect me to believe that security guards are going to control the problems in this area,
that's a joke. Your emission of the affected areas around including inconsideration of the
high school is against the law that you claim you followed, because it says that you have to
have that all in your report.
Your report talks about events of 30,000 people coming in for the day. Somehow, I am
supposed to believe that we are not going to have loud motorcycles coming up and down
our streets, loud radios, and careless drivers. You're destroying a residential area.
Remote control boats are noisy. Cumulative impacts have to be considered, and they are
significant. The Final EIR analysis of noise impact does not satisfy CEQA's requirements
that the mitigations measures be fully enforceable. There's no way that you will be able to a
enforce it.
I sat in the City Council last week where someone on the Planning Commission said how
important it is for property values to go up. We have home of distinction and we told all of
the children how we are concerned about conserving water and we had somebody from air
resources telling the City how important it was not to contribute to the air pollution. How
you can sit there and seriously expect us to accept this project is beyond belief. 90% of the
people ticketed by the police were people that didn't live in Grand Terrace; they were
tearing on through. I'm supposed to believe that when you get all of those buildings done in
the next 10 or 20 years, that somehow the noise will be less. I'm not that ignorant.
Also, I understand that you have already filed a notice of determination. You have not
completed the process in order to be doing that and you have filed it I think that is pretty
presumptuous. You stated in a letrei where we expressea concerti auoui property va►ue�,
that you didn't consider that. Property values do not represent changes in the physical
environment, they respond to it and you're creating a horrid physical environment. My
concern is I think that the City's financial needs do not require this, but somebody wants it,
and I think that there are conflicts of interest in this City and I think you need to look very
carefully in who is getting the benefit of this; the developers? Is somebody getting
kickbacks? It sure isn't the residents.
If the City Council has the nerve to state that they can override consideration of the benefits
of this project over pollution-you're lying. Since I cannot believe anyone, I am supposed to
believe that you will keep Michigan a residential area. You say that one place and another,
then you say four lanes. The liabilities and damage to the roads-you're going to be paying
more than what you thing you're going to get. The majority of people in Grand Terrace do
not need this.
Herman Hilkey
23196 Glendora Drive
I did the same thing about 15 years ago, but with a different cause. Just so that she
understands. The blue mark on the side of our community is a high school. And I think
more than anybody in this room, I champion that same cause and I am carrying it through
now, and I was where she is but 15 to 20 years ago. Tony Petta called us the rebels and
he says, "God bless our community rebels".
I come here not only as the Mayor of Grand Terrace, but a City Councilman of many years
and a Planning Commissioner for a couple of years. There are three issues that I want to
25
make. For all of those years, we saw developers come to the Council and to Staff with
plans for this odd piece of property. The commercial value was diminished because it's
basically commercially landlocked. The residential value of this property had diminished
because it is not a nice place for upper quality of Grand Terrace homes. It's an odd piece
of property, and we have seen developer after developer come in with projects that
required the City or the Redevelopment Agency to fund it to make it happen. This project is
ours. It belongs to the City and we control it. This staff has had the tenacity and the
foresight to say we need a freeway exit. They went after federal money to get it, and they
got it.
The second point that I would like to bring up is that I see the small businesses on Michigan
flourishing. They are dirty, they are ugly, and they are basically legal. They don't go
through public recognition the way the big projects do. I do not think that area serves that
residential community. It does not serve the commercial area of the freeway, and we have
no choice. If we do nothing, that's what we are going to get. The trucking firms and small
businesses that do not compliment each other, that don't put in landscaping, and we have
to fight them to make their signs look decent to put in a tree or two. This is a beautiful
project that will take care of the funny piece of ground in this community and will protect
that part of town that I think is going downhill.
I have a concern with Van Buren. At the east end of Van Buren it intersects with
Observation. Because we are under so much pressure with people cutting through Grand
Terrace, and that's not going to go away until 2015. It will be an easy mark to find their way
to Van Buren into Observation. I really need staff to monitor the traffic to stay within the
development The other concern I have is with the bike track
One last comment, a comment was made that the City should be more frugal. Seven years
ago, that the City Council made a major change. Before that time, the City Council
borrowed $600,000 a year to support the city's efforts., The more recent City Council has
become more financially frugal and we no longer borrow that $600,000 a year. Thank you.
Ron Ogawa
12556 Michigan
The traffic on Michigan is horrendous at times. I have been involved in two wrecks on my
own property. Two of my personal vehicles have been totaled on my property because of
people cutting through Grand Terrace. I am not please about this project because I think it's
going to end up costing us. I don't think that it will benefit the community and I don't think
that there is anything wrong with our image as a bedroom community. I would like to know
if CALTRANS has agreed to installing new onramps and offramps in the City. I would hope
that everyone talks to Congressman Lewis about this project and voices their opinion to
them.
Bob Stranger- CUSD
Assistant Superintendent
1212 Valencia Avenue - Colton
Please be assured that Colton Unified is aggressively moving forward with building a high
school. Our interests are simply to preserving, protecting and insuring that project that we
have in mind will serve the students of the School District and the City of Grand Terrace are
preserved so that we can protect the opportunities.
26
The mitigation and monitoring reporting plan did not specify who the responsible party will
be with regard to MTB in the water of the lake. The City's response does not address the
fact that the study only considers watercraft operations between 10 and 5, but the EIR
contemplates that they may operate between 7 and 10 PM. Operation of watercraft in the
lake between 7AM and 10 PM These hours may violate noise restriction. The proposed
high school is 1800 feet away, and it is proposed that buildings and landscaping that would
decrease the noise levels. There is no data or evidence of this in the EIR in the noise study
that can support this conclusion.
Further, the EIR provides for a sound barrier that shall be placed as necessary along the
eastern boundary of the OAC as needed, but the response to comment states that the
proposed school will be south of the OAC thus, a default mitigation measure of the project
revised upon to avoid noise impact does not apply to the school and the City's
consideration of the noise impact and therefore, may be inadequate.
The noise mitigation considerably depends upon compliance with the City's Noise
Ordinance. The EIR states may be difficult to enforce.
The City's response for comment with regard to soils mitigation does compel any actions
and perhaps is inadequate that the City did not change the mitigation measure and did not
site any part of the DER that requires any action beyond obtaining observations and
recommendations to mitigation measures that must be enforced.
The City declined our comments suggesting following CEQA Guideline Number 15064.5f.
The San Bernardino Count), Museum noted that the area is for high potential to contain
significant paientological Eesources ana requn,es maigatior, wriic, we zhinK Is easiiy O
accomplished.
We are also concerned with regarding the City's published notice for proposed exemption
of the OAC project.
As we have found out this evening, the groundwater recharge was not analyzed.
Thank you for the opportunity to speak this evening. Please be assured that the Colton
Unified School District is very much committed to moving aggressively towards building a
high school in that site.
Jim Dotson
21974 DeBerry
I have not heard any mention about what you are going to do with us, or where we are
supposed to go. I have been here since 1946, and I would think that I have a little seniority.
I would like to hear that if this does go through, when do you plan on purchasing our
property and do you have an investor on board and what will happen.
27
Cynthia Bidney
12219 Pascal
My neighbors and friends have said a lot of things that have been on my mind. I do have
some questions about the proposed project. The vehicles that are supposed to float
around the lake, I am wondering is that for the purpose of show in order to sell them, and if
so, how many do you expect?
Ralph Megna: Inasmuch as we are speculating how exactly one may use the lake, two
years from now, it would be difficult to say, but in general, it is unlikely that at any time that
the two or three boats would occupy the lake, it is not that large a body of water. Two or
three boats max would be able to float on the lake.
Cynthia Bidney: I think the lake would be a beautiful view from the freeway. How close
would the project come to the homes on Michigan?
Ralph Megna: The project is at least 300 feet from Michigan. If your question is, how close
it gets to the homes on Michigan; the eastern most part of the project is more than 300 feet
from Michigan.
Cynthia Bidney: Between those homes and the project, what will there be?
Ralph Megna: It will be exactly what is there now. For example, in one location, there is
the City's largest industrial employer, which is Willdan Pump. There are also residents
there, and a truck trailer manufacturino compare/ that has been there for a number of years
Whatever is there on the easterly eage will remain what is there toaas.
Cynthia Bidney: How many vehicles do you actually plan to put on the project. How many
Sea Doo's, RV's? Is there an area that will be able to be used by the residents?
Ralph Megna: I would be more than happy to attempt to calculate an amount for you and
get back to you with that answer. There is a pedestrian trail open to the public and it would
be made to walk, jog or bicycle around the lakes. With respect to the small pond area, it
could be used for remote control boats, or paddle boats.
Cynthia Bidney: Would the remote control boats be items for sale in the area or would
residents be able to bring those boats to the pond?
Ralph Megna: It would be an operational detail, but the Assistant City Manager wants to be
able to operate his remote control sail boat on that body of water, and so it would be
possible for residents to bring their own boats to operate in the water.
Cynthia Bidney: A lot of people are surprised and angry that they didn't know more about
this, but I think that the community should be addressed before a big project is even
considered. This is the friendliest community that I have ever been in. I would like to
suggest that the project be incorporated to be family oriented. We are a family community
and we want our children to be brought up in a safe environment. We are not excited about
30,000 people coming into our neighborhoods. I cannot see filling up a hotel in Grand
Terrace. Even if it shows on the freeway by a lake, I cannot foresee that, and I am
concerned that there may be some displaced families. I would also like for this project to
be combined with the high school project.
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Virginia Harford
11825 Arliss Way
This is a good idea. Let me tell you why I think so. We do need the money. It is not true
that we do not need the money. I don't think that it is unreasonable. I have lived here for
38 years. I have been at odds with both the Council and the Commission about things that
have been done here in the City. But I do feel that this project would be clean, nice fun, and
can be controlled if done correctly. If there are enough police officers to help. But a lot of
thought has to be made about what you can do to help the community. I do not feel that
there will be 30,000 people all at one time into the center. A lot of work needs to be done,
and we are going to be watching you.
Paul Osborne
21385 Hill Road
I own a company called Victoria Homes here in Grand Terrace. We are a residential
developer and do not have any interest in this property whatsoever. This type of Orange
County class park is far beyond my ability and have no interests in developing it. If the City
were ever interested in developing the area housing wise, I would be interested in building
homes on that area. If the project were to be developed for what it is currently zoned for,
one diesel truck would equal about 100 cars. The restaurant idea on top of the lake is a
wonderful idea. If anyone has ever been to Temecula where there a couple of restaurants
overlooking lakes, its beautiful and worthwhile driving one hour to enjoy that type of
scenery. This would make Grand Terrace and attraction and I think that the activity in the
area would be limited to the freeway access and would not affect the residents as much as
think it would
***Due to technical difficulties, the following speakers were not captured on tape: Q
Dorothy Farley
12513 Michigan
Is opposed to the project.
M. Henry
12531 Mirado
Is opposed to the project.
Barney Karger
Undecided.
*****
Don Farley
12251 Michigan
I have learned a few things in addition to some of the information that has been noted
before. For instance, the buildings that were proposed to be raised or not going to be
raised. The statement that Michigan was planning to be widened. As recent as two
months ago, someone from the City approached me about acquiring additional right of way
29
for property that 1 own on Michigan. This person was wanting us to sign off so that they
can make the area into four lanes. I would like a commitment from this group that Michigan
will not be widened. Can I get that?
Gary Koontz: As it pertains to this project, we have no desire to widen Michigan.
Doug Wilson: None of this staff or body can address with regard to future widening of
Michigan. What Mr. Koontz has represented is that in relation to this project, Michigan will
not be widened.
Tom Schwab: The person that came to your door Mr. Farley, was Virgil Barham. We are
currently in the process of applying for a State Governed Safe Routes to School Grant in
order to put in sidewalks, so that children can walk safely to school. Last year, when it was
applied for, we did not score high enough because we did not have the right of way. This is
the reason why we are applying for the right of way. Our intention was to do sidewalks and
not to widen the road.
Don Farley: Also, in this discussion, it has appeared that the application is that this plan is
the only specific plan that would possible for the property. I for one, am not at all against
development of the property. But I do believe that other types of plans that can be possible
for this property. I have reviewed some of the documents pertaining to the OAC, and the
planning for the City as a whole. I have expressed many of my concerns in writing prior to
the April 22 deadline. Responses to my and other responses to the draft EIR were included
in the final EIR but in many cases responses were not convincing and seemed inacdurate
as indicated by some of the testimony heard. or many of the issues were ignored. Simply
stating that an impaci has been mitigatea, ooes not mean thai the project has beer.
mitigated in a meaningful way. As I understand it, some businesses may be displaced by
the project were not notified. The draft EIR was incomplete in many ways. For example,
there was no mention of motorcycles or test tracks in the project description. It is stated
that these types of uses are incidental. This statement is not compatible with statements
elsewhere in the document. The EIR states that there would be about 30,000 vehicle trips
per day. That would be about 1 per second if you assume it with a 10 hour day. This
would have a huge impact compared to the current traffic flow which is already a problem.
The circulation plan prepared in 1998 supports the concept of Michigan Street corridor be
maintained as a residential area and that the truck access be eliminated from it. One
method of suggestion for accomplishing this is to extend Commerce Way to Main Street
with improved links to Iowa and La Cadena offramps into the 1-215. If properly designed
truck traffic from the trucking company and Michigan and businesses on Van Buren can be
directed from Michigan to Commerce Way. The proposed plan as it now stands is
inconsistent with that concept and would be essentially irreversible.
It is stated with pride in the EIR that the current sidewalks within the project are not
concrete. A facility of this type with this setting without concrete curbs and walkways would
be totally out of place and difficult to maintain. We are not the Sierras by the way. The
plan to move the current Barton Road Off/onramp from the northbound 1-215 to DeBerry
location is incompatible with the Circulation Plan and would have a negative impact on
access to the business section of Grand Terrace. Reported emissions from the project
would be extremely high. For example the ROG values are 100 times the amount
acceptable to SCAQMD.
30
The fact that a project of this type would be an attractive nuisance and become a hangout
that could lead to crime and other undesirable activities should be obvious. Sound walls at
14 feet high could become billboards for graffiti. Sequoia trees will have branches close to
the ground making it difficult to patrol or secure the facility. The proposed plan does not
take into account the impact of a major housing development of 2,500 homes that are
going to be coming in to Highgrove soon. Much of that traffic will travel through Grand
Terrace. It was made clear in comments regarding the value of property that these issues
are not addressed in an EIR. That being true, it is important that the Planning Commission
together with the City Council take care to review these issues independently. While the
main purpose of this meeting is to discuss the final EIR of the OAC, it is important to
recognize that the scope of the EIR is limited. Approval of the project by the Grand Terrace
Planning Commission and City Council needs to consider independently the issues not
addressed in the EIR. For example, property values, and general quality of life that have
an enormous impact in the community. Also, while this meeting is not related directly the
issues regarding development along Michigan Street, Grand Terrace has been pushing to
widen Michigan to four lanes. Thus requiring the city to acquire more right of way from the
residents. I have found no suggestion in the circulation plan that Michigan be widened to
four lanes except between Barton Road and Commerce Way. Since many of the houses
along Michigan are already fairly close to the road. For many houses, widening the road
would lead to essentially no front yard. This makes housing undesirable and unacceptable
to a residential area. The appearance of Michigan can be approved if curbs and gutters
were installed in the existing right of way. Furthermore, if curbs and gutters were installed
in the existing right of way, it would be unnecessary to incur the enormous expense related
to moving the infrastructure with regard to power lines and underground pipes.
In conclusion, we all come to this meeting with a different perspective and motives. But
what Is needed To{ a balancee piar, ioi oevelopmen-L ihai 16. em�arice: 'L iE
character of Grand Terrace. I am not opposed to the development of the area in question,
however, this project seems poorly conceived in plan. The development needs to be
compatible with this community that has a reputation of somewhat upscale and a good
place to live and raise a family. Most of the facilities of the type proposed, tend to be in low
rent districts. If you look at places like Chaparral and Olympic boats do not seem to be in
high rent districts. Finally, when changes are made, they should be implemented in a way
so that they can correct some of the problems that have been allowed to develop over the
years.
Doug Wilson: Because it is so late, and most folks have to be at work in the morning, what
we would like to propose is that the chair would entertain a motion to continue the public
hearing to the next meeting.
Attorney Harper: By continuing the public hearing, if this is your intention, you are soliciting
additional public input as opposed to closing the public hearing tonight and then coming to
the next planning commission meeting for discussion. I would also like to caution each of
the Planning Commissioners to refrain from receiving additional public input at any place
except for sitting before the Planning Commission body.
Matthew Addington: During this time that the public hearing will be continued, will staff
have a chance to provide some written responses to the various questions that were asked
tonight?
Gary Koontz: Yes.
31
MOTION PC-08-2004: Vice Chair Addington made a motion to continue SP-04-
01 and E-04-03 to the next scheduled Planning
Commission of May 20, 2004
Commissioner Comstock seconded the motion.
MOTION VOTE:
PC-08-2004 Approved 5-0-0-0
ADJOURN SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD/PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING 10:45 P.M.
NEXT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO BE HELD ON JUNE 3, 2004
Respectfully Submitted, Approved By,
Gary Koontz, Planning Director Doug Wilson, Chairman
Planning Commission
32
GRAND TERRACE PLANNING COMMISSION
MINTUES OF REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 3, 2004
The regular meeting of the Grand Terrace Planning Commission was called to
order at the Grand Terrace Civic Center, 22795 Barton Road, Grand Terrace,
California, on June 3, 2004, at 7:00 p.m., by Chairperson Doug Wilson.
PRESENT: Doug Wilson, Chairman
Matthew Addington, Vice Chairman
Brian Whitley, Commissioner
Tom Comstock, Commissioner
Robert Bidney, Commissioner
Gan/ Koontz. Community Development Director
Ralph I'\4egna, Lconori eveiopmeri` lr6ctor
John Lampe, Associate Planner
Michelle Boustedt, Planning Secretary
7:00 P.M. CONVENE SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD/
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
• Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner Bidney
• Roll Call
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION:
Virginia Ogawa
12556 Michigan
This is not regarding the OAC. I would like to speak to you about Michigan Street. I
have lived there for 17 years and I have heard that road improvements are going to
be needed because of the new homes from Highgrove. I would like to know if we
are going to four lanes or two lanes. I understand the allocation that Grand Terrace
is getting is not what they wanted it to be. I understand that we will have lights on
Michigan and Mt. Vernon and I am worried that if you go ahead and expand to four
lanes or even leave the street at two lanes, the traffic from the new homes will make
it impossible to enter and exit my driveway and all of our driveways on Michigan. As
it is now, we have had accidents on my property and we have had a woman take out
the family fleet because my son was pulling in to the driveway.
1
We have had people take out our brick wall twice. I don't know what it is about
12556 Michigan but we seem to be the spot to have an accident. What I am asking
for and hoping is that you might consider speed bumps. Everybody hates speed
bumps because you have to slow down. But if they were forced to slow down by the
speed bumps, it would make it safer for the residents on Michigan Street. The
speed bumps have been used on a Street called Primrose in Riverside by the
Galleria for the same reason. The traffic going to and from the Galleria made unsafe
for residents on that street. Now the only people that use that street are people
unaware that there are speed bumps there and the residents of the area.
I am asking to please consider speed bumps to make it safe for the children going to
school and for the residents on that street. Thank you.
ITEMS:
1. SP-04-01, E-04-03 To develop approximately 123 acres as mixed use
commercial and open space uses.
APPLICANT: City of Grand Terrace Redevelopment Agency.
LOCATION: Generally south of Barton Road, west of Michigan Street,
north of Pico Street, and east of Interstate 215
RECOMMENDATION: Continue the Public Hearing on the Outdoor Adventures
Center Specific Plan (SP-04-01/E-04-03), receive
tesurno iecommenc.. Gertificatior, o: the
Environmental Impact Report and Approval of the
Ordinance to Adopt the Specific Plan to the City Council.
Planning Director Koontz: We have a brief presentation. Because you left the public
testimony open, you can either continue with the public testimony and we can make a
presentation after it is closed.
Doug Wilson: Let go ahead and open up the public testimony.
Bill Hays
22114 DeBerry
I have just handed my request longer than three minutes if it is possible. I would like to
address some things with Mr. Koontz with regard to the last Planning Commission meeting
and bring it to the attention of the people here. I also addressed it at the last City Council
Meeting of last week.
Mr. Koontz stated that the lake in this project would be filled from the water table from the
ground wells. The theory is that after the lake is filled, it will leach back down through the
soil and into the water table. Mr. Koontz said that no more than one boat or Jet Ski will be
allowed on the lake within an hour's time. Since the Council Meeting, a general at a local
water company also known as the manager has asked me not to use his name or the water
company, so I will just say that the manager from a local water company, I called him and I
asked him if it was a good idea to have powered craft or jet skis on our drinking water, and
he said no, and especially with jet skis. I have done some research, and even with the new
EPA rulings that are eventually going to phase out the two cycle engines, they by design
2
emit fuel and oil into the water. The wells that are going to fill this are called the North
Riverside Aquifer, are owned by the City of Riverside, and I understand that we have one
welt. In fact, Dr. Owen Lou from the Department of Riverside's Public Utilities gave me
permission to use his name and wanted me to tell you that this is of a concern.
There will be one boat or Jet Ski on the lake for one hour, and I called the distributors and
some of the mechanics. One of the major manufacturers is still producing a 1,300 CC two
cycle jet ski. I was fortunate enough to have Councilwoman Cortes and Assistant City
Manager Berry graciously visit me at my home the other day, and I discussed this problem
with Mr. Berry, and he said that there would not be anything allowed other than for new jet
skis, and explained to him that there was a little blurb that stated that nothing older than
2001 will be allowed on the lake. So then I asked Mr. Berry to explain to me the difference
between a 1999 ski doo and 2002, and he said, "I don't know". I told him, "I don't know
either Mr. Berry, but I assume that you will be standing down there at the lake and checking
the vehicle identification numbers on these things before they go on the lake because
people are going to bring in their older jet skis and trade them in for newer ones and I have
a sneaking suspicion that if someone comes in there to buy a used one, and someone
were to tell a salesman that they want to take it out on the lake to test it, a guy that's
working on commission isn't going to tell them no.
Also, a mechanic will also be on hand for repairs of boats and jet skis. I don't think that
anyone there is so naive to not believe that a mechanic is going to take a boat or jet ski out
the lake to test his repairs. This is not and if but it is a when: somebody is going to pop an
out drive on one of those things and its going to dump oil. What do you think the City of
Riverside is going to do when they find out that the City of Grand Terrace has contaminated
their drinking water and our drinking water? This is bound to happen because if this water
,6aCh61S DaCIK info that waiei iabic, ifla ';, en envlloi`il1"Iema� picuie ,i. /-,,ic 1 will be 'Vdiliing tC
bet that the City of Riverside isn't going to say, "Oh that's okay, we'll just give everybody
drinking water." I assume that they have a pretty good law firm working for them. And I
would like you folks to consider that. It is a big concern that will wrap us up in law suits.
Mr. Koontz also said that in the presentation that Michigan was not going to be widened.
Mr. Farley asked Mr. Koontz for a commitment that Michigan would not be widened. Mr.
Koontz answer was that the street was not going to be widened for this project. I would like
to know what project they are going to widen it for.
Doug Wilson: I believe that the answer is that a program that is in the works and is not yet
complete. It is completely independent of any thinking in relation to this project at all. That
has to do with "Safe Routes to Schools". The only way that Michigan would be affected
would be through this program.
Bills Hays: Since my background is law enforcement, and I probably look at things with a
little squinty eye than most folks do, but I believe that there is a money trail somewhere and
I would like to explain something if you would just bare with me. Mr. Koontz works for the
City of Grand Terrace as the project coordinator for this. He works two days a week at a
salary range of $55,730 to $81,737 a year for two days a week. Some of us were
concerned and wondered where Mr. Koontz came from, so I called his secretary, Michelle
and I asked where did Mr. Koontz work before he came to the City of Grand Terrace.
Chair Wilson: Excuse me, before we go further, actually, in relation to this project
comments about Mr. Koontz and his employment and all the rest of that have to do with
City Council situations, we did not make those agreements. So any kind of circumstances
3
in the relation to the matter would have no place in this meeting. If you have an issue with
that, then you need to take it up with the City Council. This body does not handle that.
Bill Hays: Yes it does because Mr. Koontz is working for Nolte and Associates Incorporated
and if you look on the Specific Plan that's who did the work. In closing I would ask that you
consider your votes tonight with regard to the fate of a lot of people in this community is in
your hands. Some of whom will lose their homes because of the greed and love of money
and for no other reason. I do not believe that the OAC is going to bring one penny of
revenue for into the City. It's going to produce revenue but its not going to produce
revenue for the city, but for the people that have the fingers in the pie. What we will have to
put out in additional services is going to eat up anything that this thing produces, and I wish
you would consider that especially when someone is going to be forced out of their life long
homes. I wouldn't want that on my conscience. Thank you.
Hank Ramey
21845 Grand Terrace Road#23
This project is an unmitigated disaster. City's like Grand Terrace should not be able to put
up projects just for sales tax revenue. This is pathetic. There have been cases dated back
to 1977 prohibiting these types of projects and there have also been recent cases within
the last decade that says that they cannot use this type of redevelopment for blight
because it's not considered blight. This is a money making plan. There are questions with
regard to the water need to be resolved, and I haven't read through that part yet, but there
are so many people here that have worries about the water and traffic. Why are we doing
this project? I know that there are cities like Colton and Rialto that can have a project like
this. has anyboay checrea on any of the obscuve gnat catchers, of caterpillars o.
butterflies, because I am sure that we are prohibited by the endangered species act from
building such land if any exist? If the City wants tax revenue I am sure that since I am a
minority party, that I think, we may have more clout with Sacramento about this.
Virginia L Harford
11825 Arliss Way
I would greatly appreciate it if you and those who wish to speak would not take three and
half hours of time as you did at the last meeting.
Have you considered relocating the homes on both sides of Michigan upgrading, of course.
Have you investigated other adventure parks, particularly the ones by the developer you
have considered, and have you learned how they have affected the surrounding
communities pro and con. Regarding the park, what provisions have you made for toilets
strategically placed and convenient? Additionally, have you considered the effects of
garbage and people who really do not give a darn where they put their garbage? How is
the parking situation going to affect the surrounding homes. Do you plan a 24 foot wall as
a sound barrier? What about weeds, security and other problems that need to be
addressed before this park is built. The vehicles that will run in this park are they re§tricted
to manually operated or electric ones so as to minimize the noise. What specific benefits
will this park to be to Grand Terrace without generalizing? In other words, what have you
learned from other communities. How much their income has increased annually, and
perhaps the most important question I have to ask you is this: Is this park a done deed. If
you have enough opposition to it, will you shelve it for a year or two and down the road
think that some of those who object will be dead so you don't have to listen to our
arguments. This above scenario is exactly what happened to the high school and you
4
know it. Those of us who objected to building a high school and I still do not believe we
need one. I would like to know what the impact is going to be on the high school and vice
versa. Before you get my absolute commitment to this, I may be your worst nightmare
where I can be very vocal in my objections. As you can see, I ask meaningful questions, I
do my homework. I wish you would do the same thing and answer all of these questions
for us. You have taken the responsibility as members of the Planning Commission, and we
appreciate that. Your motives for doing this work may or may not be in the best interest of
Grand Terrace. I urge you to stop and think about what you are doing to this little bitty
town. Do your homework. Progress is either in a positive in way, or contaminated by
negative actions.
PJ Anderson
12375 Vivienda Ave.
I am opposed to the OAC. The air and water pollution will definitely impact the area. The
traffic flow will not be resolved if new entrances and exits are brought in. We have a couple
of kids riding up and down the street on scooters now. It's very annoying, and we will have
this type of activity going on at 10 o'clock at night. I read in the paper today that it's not an
8 acre lake, it's twelve. I would like to have this town considered a small town, and this will
create a lot more traffic problems.
Dorothy Farley
12513 Michigan
I am convinced that the people seated behind me really would like to live in a peaceful
residential community, but they will need to stand up and fight for their rights, for if this
Planning Commission and the present City Council are allowed to continue down the path
they are headeo, they will oesuoy vrana -i errace and ii wili nc iongei oe a aesiralb6 placc
to live. We should be a nice residential community beside the freeway from which we can
take any one of several directions for five to ten miles to a city where we can get about
anything we need or want.
For about thirty years I lived in such a place in Grand Terrace, and it was a pleasant place
to live. We never should have decided to be a City. We were and still are too small to try
to run a city. Did you know that Grand Terrace only consists of three and seven tenths of a
mile? We are paying city employees to do things we do not need or want them to do. A
couple of days from now, the City Council will spend a large amount of money for a parade
supposedly to honor the City of Grand Terrace. But what they are hoping is that the
residents will think the Council is doing a great job running the city. Just look at the
wonderful parade we put on for you. The City Council will be waving flags with one hand,
while the other hand behind their back; where they have been keeping it for about two
years, is working to destroy our homes and our quality of life. What hypocrisy.
When people discover that they have made a mistake and keep right on doing the same
thing, we call that stupid. Let's be big enough to admit that we made a mistake to try to be
a city and correct the situation. Let's disband the Planning Commission recall a City
Council that would even consider such an insane idea as the OAC. Perhaps, toss the city
idea and do whatever it takes to make Grand Terrace a peaceful residential community.
Patricia Farley
12513 Michigan
5
At the Planning Commission on May 20th, a few of us happen to get hold of a packet that
was on the counter as we entered the chamber. This 65 page packet stated that the City
Council and Planning Commission have already made their conclusion for the
Environmental Impact Reports for the Outdoor Adventures Center and adopted a statement
of overriding considerations which will discard very significant impacts on our air quality,
noise, traffic, quality of drinking water, etcetera in the future; and states that all the benefits
will out weigh all of this. These findings were to be based on the entire record as it states
in the section of this packet regard this, but that was not done. No oral testimony was
given before this packet was made up, but it definitely states otherwise on page 6. There
are also other major things that are incorrect and incomplete in this packet. Such as an
emission table that was revised in the Final Impact Report and it is definitely wrong. It
appears on page 57. It was also stated on the May 20 meeting that buildings would not be
raised to make room for new uses along Commerce Way or streets widened, etcetera, but
did not say that these,would be revised or put into the final impact report.
There was also no mention in any of these reports about over 2,000 homes being planned
in Highgrove or the high school being planned for Grand Terrace or the project planned for
Barton Road, all of which will have a great cumulative impact in Grand Terrace which you
are required to consider. How can we trust these reports that the city paid thousands of
dollars to have made up when they are incomplete and incorrect in many places.
When I inquired at City Hall about a financial impact analysis of the Outdoor Adventures
Center, Mr. Koontz told me that one was not done because it was "not required." How can
you sit and tell us how much money the OAC project will bring to the City of Grand Terrace,
when a financial impact analysis has not been done. I believe that the money that you
claim Grand _` errace will gain iron". OAC will of offset by the rfia 6 aaart.o.,al costs
bring to the City of Grand Terrace.
For starters, you've got to have a lot more police. Right there, it's going to be a lot more
than what you claim you're going to benefit in tax revenues from this project. You talk
about monitoring the landscape for two years. First of all, you've got competition all over the
place and this project is very likely not going to be successful particularly if the economy
goes down, and people can't afford all these toys, Mr. Megna. We will be sitting there with
empty real estate, no maintenance, no monitoring and the law requires that you have to be
able to enforce and monitor the mitigations you recommend in your report, and many of
them you cannot enforce.
Barton Road was the entrance to Grand Terrace. The inability of the city to develop that
commercially while you're evicting people from their homes is criminal. And now you want
to start down by our house and have a grand entrance for Grand Terrace right through the
residents with all of these boats and motorcycles and everything else. That's inappropriate.
And who do you think is going to pay for the maintenance if these buildings are empty. No
one should support a big project like the OAC without personally reviewing the EIR's and
making sure that they personally understand the issues and facts. Obviously, you also
ignored some concerns by some people in the Final Impact Report if you actually read
them before adopting the statement of overriding consideration. You are also disregarding
the oral testimony that has not yet been completed. This demonstrates a complete
disregard for the rights of everyone living in this city. It is very offensive to me to be told
how glad you are that so many residents are coming to your meetings and speaking out.
Your actions prove differently. How do you expect us to have any confidence in or respect
for the members of the Planning Commission or the City Council? All of us need to decide
what would be best for this City. The City should not be controlled by developers or other
6
who live outside of the city who may do damage to our health and well being forever. It is
incredibly irritating to me to have city officials assuring people that the issues that have
been raised have been properly addressed and that they are not significant problems.
Your responses to those of us to have submitted written concerns which are part of the
Final EIR were insulting. You treated us as though we had not read the reports. You quoted
over and over the information from the reports that we have already read. The information
in the reports had caused our concerns. You didn't properly address our concerns and
resolve the issues. People need to understand that responses to the City Hall Blue
Mountain paper are biased, censored and inaccurate to say the least. There are many
other ways to make use of this important land and to bring in more income for the city. You
in my opinion have not thought about other possibilities. I do not think the money that the
city already gets is being used as effectively as it should be. Any one who supports this
outrageous OAC project should be fired or recalled immediately before they permanently
destroy Grand Terrace as a residential community. If you would like to see these charts,
these are three charts blown up for you that represent different types of emissions. All of
them are significant, it's just which thing is that is way over what the law requires. Here,
we've got emissions for CO: 5,735 and the threshold is 550? That's not significant. We're
supposed to believe that. You've got that same number for ROD's on this chart. The
bottom line is that you can't make a decision on a report until you've heard and addressed
everything and corrected everything in the report. I am not naive enough to believe that you
are going to protect Michigan for two years and then in another couple of years, make it
four lanes and destroy our property. You're headed in the wrong direction. And I hate being
here to be perfectly busy, and I hate that I have to keep coming here because I can't trust
you.
Doug Wilson: Ms. Farley, I have a question for you: The document that you are talking
ar)ou- Ert Ct r,,Lior, lc sorri6 11 Lhal pia,., beerl aQOptEG toi ihE LIh; CQn`E knQ�n G', ar}yfl�fr�c.
that has been adopted in relation to the EIR. Now, it may be proposed to be adopted, but
this body...
Patricia Farley: No no! This is what was handed out and it's says that you have decided.
Doug Wilson: No. I think that what you will find is, usually, the in the agenda, it will say we
recommend an adoption or whatever, but what this body is doing in E-04-03 is making
recommendations in relation to the Environmental Impact Report, so it hasn't happened.
Patricia Farley: There is a proposal to the Council that it is more of a benefit to the city than
the negatives, and that's not true, and you don't have enough information, you don't
information, you don't have accurate information. How can you make that statement until
you have a final report that's correct?
Doug Wilson: No. what I am saying is, there hasn't been any action.
Patricia Farley: Okay. This, I got at your meeting, and it says there was and I feel that I
have been treated that way so you'll have to excuse me. I hope it hasn't been decided, but I
have no reason to believe that it hasn't. I think that I am being treated just as, whatever
they have to do.
Marion Terry
12385 Vivienda
7
I just moved here about six years ago, and one of the things I was told that the philosophy
of the town was to keep it quiet little peaceful town and they don't even let drive thru's in
Grand Terrace, because we don't want people just running through our town and running
right out. And yet, we are talking about parking lots for 5,000, were talking about 30,000
people coming and going a day. That sounds like a lot of people running through our town
and I would love to keep it nice, peaceful and quiet. I do live close to Michigan, so I feel
that this is against the philosophy of our town. Also, I am real concerned about the high
school. Its going to be proposed in that general area, and your just asking kids to take off
of campus and check out the trails and fun stuff there, and I don't' think the high school kids
will need any other reason to ditch school and take off.
Mario Torres
22109 Mavis
I live at the corner of Mavis and Michigan and have lived there for 21 years. Since we have
a trucking company across from us, I get a lot of dirt and rocks on my lawn. So I don't
appreciate that either, and so now you guys are going to build something, which we don't
need in Grand Terrace, I don't' think we need it. Does anyone else think we need it?
The last meeting, you indicated that you were going to have an off ramp at De Berry. But
there is one at Barton Road which is less than two tenths of a mile.
Doug Wilson: Actually, we can answer this after the public testimony and answer your
question, but we will answer the question and give you the information with regard to the on
and off ramps,
Mario Torres: Okay. Plus, the noise and pollution and traffic in that area. I go to bed about
9 o'clock, and we're gonna hear boats and jet skis at 10 'o clock still, it's kind of hard for me
to go to sleep that early. I hear the noise of the trains not too far from my house, so I don't
think we need this. I hear many people saying that we need this. We do not need it. I've
been here 21 years as I have indicated earlier. I used to go down the streets here and
Grand Terrace. Grand Terrace is too small to have something like this. You guys talk
about this building this, building that; has the City Council thought of maybe opening a boys
and girls club for the City of Grand Terrace. We have a good baseball park, and a good
soccer club, but we need something for the kids that do not play soccer or baseball. I think
a boys and girls club would be great for that area. Forget the boats, forget the buildings,
forget the lake, we don't need it and it will cause more problems. I work for the County of
Riverside, and I know how the board of supervisors do things, and I know that they get cut-
backs. To me, it seems that people are getting cutbacks here and it's not fair to the City of
Grand Terrace. Do something for the kids. Not to bring more people to the City. The
pollution is bad enough as it is in this area. We don't need that here.
Janelle Neil
22670 Main Street
I stand here and I'm kind of embarrassed that there is not more young people here. But
nonetheless. I have lived here since I was in 7th grade. I went to Terrace Hills and I went to
Colton High. I stand here with a different opinion that most people because I have grown
up here and I don't have anything against a this small community. But the truth is that there
is not open real estate in Grand Terrace right now. It doesn't look like we're going to have
any decrease in population. The population is going to grow regardless. Whether its real
estate, or we're going to have something like the OAC. There's going to be more cars, and
8
we are going to need to have something for the streets because it's going to get crowded.
Now, coming back to my point, I believe that a high school in Grand Terrace is very
necessary, because I grew up at Colton High School, and the truth is, there needs to be
smaller classes for your kids. Its better sense, you need smaller classes, because if you
want your kids and your grandkids to have a better education, you need to open your
minds. The community is going to grow and it is a good thing, it can be a good thing, or
you can look at it negatively no matter what. Honestly, I think that the high school is
coming and I know high school kids, it wasn't that long ago that I was there, and the truth is,
the kids, everybody should have somewhere to go and something to entertain them. No
matter what, there will be kids who will make trouble in the community. If you have nothing
here for them that they actually would care to do, there's going to be problems and you're
going to be worried about what they will do after school. We need to consider that growth
can be looked on as a bad thing, but it can also be a good thing, so I think we need to take
the pros and cons and everybody should open their minds and consider that this may be
the best thing for the,community and for your kids and grandkids. They need to know that
you care that they have a good education. And somewhere to go where they actually want
to go to. If we had something like this a long time ago, I know that I and a lot of my friends
would have stayed out of trouble, and a lot of my friends would have not done as many
drugs and drank alcohol as they were doing in high school. It is a different opinion but I am
sticking to it and I just think that we need to consider that this may just be a good thing.
Wayne Youngman
22574 Van Buren
I think that what you are saying is a voice from the City and not from the Planning
Commission or the City Council. It's for the citizens and it's a voice that's strong that needs
isienec ".c anc ycL neec Lc unoei'slanc whel,E ihe� ai"E cCi i 11"iC i Orr.. Vviirl C60arc 1C
the reservoir. It is an area in which people play in. It is going to increase the level of
pollutants on a daily basis. What is the impact from the 1215 with traffic that is stopped
40% of the time during the day at rush house. Railroad locomotives, we have a prevailing
westerly wind in this town all of the time. It's not going to change unless we get a condition
of the Santa Ana's out of the north. All that pollution is going to go in there into a great big
catch basin. Who is going to assure that the quality of that water to operate a jet ski in
when someone goes into that water; is it going to be the responsibility of the developer, is it
going to be the city?
I cannot say how this project to provide the income that you say that it will. If the developer
is so sure that one million dollar a year income, then let them put up into escrow two million
dollars and two years after the facility becomes fully operational, if the city has made one
million dollars per year for those two years, that the developer will get that escrow fund
back, if not, then it should go to the city. I
This project is nothing but a dream. But I think that the citizens that have spoken here and
at the City Council consider it more of a scheme. Thank you.
Diane Kaplonik
12510 Michigan
I live in the infamous pink house on the corner. We have been wanting to do major
construction on our home, and I am concerned about Van Buren and Michigan and the
widening of the streets. I am not going to put in $40,000 into my home just to have it
destroyed. I am eventually going to lose property with the proposed homes coming into the
9
Highgrove area. Now I am worried about Van Buren. Why can't you cull de sac Van Buren
to keep the traffic from coming in. There is a way that it can be done and there's no reason
why,it cannot be done. I am also concerned about the dirt bikes that are really not listed in
your plan and I am also concerned about drowning in the lake. High school kids will come
up drinking, end up drowning and then we're screwed. I am concerned about the traffic that
will come up and down Van Buren. I don't want to lose my house, because that's what's
going to happen.
Dave Sadler
12233 Michigan
I live in the eyesight of Commerce Way. If you were to take a drive down Commerce Way,
you see a lot of tilt up manufacturing versus a master plan such as this. Which would you
rather see, a bunch of tilt ups along the 215, or something manufactured like this. I will go
for this. When I first heard about this project, I didn't like the sound of it because of the
increase of traffic and noise, and some pollution problems. I came to the last meeting to
see what was going on with this project, and I liked the presentation. It seems to be pretty
well planned out.
Some of the environmental concerns needs to be worked out. If there is anything to do
with water pollution, follow the impact statements all the way. I have worked in a fire
department for most of my life and I am involved with hazardous materials and I've seen
what corporations do when they make mistakes with environmental impacts studies, and
they pay dearly. Overall, this seems like a good project because it is well planned out. If the
tilt ups are done, it's going to be spot pieced like what is currently on Commerce Way. The
landscaping will not be Oro i-he aaaec oaas wii, no-L be oor,E, ana a nevi ors aric of< lamp
will not be done. The end result will be major traffic. This area is planned as commercial
already and you're not going to change that. The City Council is not going to change that to
a residential area unless you get a huge amount of feedback from the citizens which
probably will not happen. Otherwise, this place would be packed.
People that are here are impacted by this area because they live in this area. Some people
will lose portions of their property and I feel for that. I may lose some of mine also because
I am right on Michigan. But my opinion and my family's opinion is this area is going to be
developed one way or the other. Think about which is best, master plan or piece meal. If
you haven't looked down Commerce Way, I urge you to go down there; it is not a very
pretty site. This is beautiful. That's my opinion and the opinion of my family.
Jeffrey McConnell
21758 Walnut Avenue
At the presentation of the last meeting, I noticed a few things that I would like to comment
on, I would like to review it. The removal of the Barton off ramp, to put on Commerce Way
and add 10,000 cars is foolish and I think that if you do this project it would be wise to leave
both off ramps. Everyone's concerned with the water pollution. I think if you were to look at
Diamond Lake and what they are doing, and they won't allow these type of water craft on
due to pollution of the two cycle motors do. Also, look at Lake Perris who allow this type of
water craft and the types of pollution problems that they are having. Those are my two main
concerns. Thank you.
James Farley
12818 Darwin
10
I would like to start out by saying that I am probably the last person to say change is not for
the best. Because when change is done appropriately, you can get some great benefits to
the community. The issues that I see is that if change is done simply for change, you don't
necessarily gain anything from it; you just hurt those around it. We have heard a lot of the
issues about the environment, the inconveniences to the community and the increase in
traffic. We haven't talked much about whether the OAC is a good business strategy. From
my point of view, there are a lot of issues. The main point that I can see why the city is
trying to push this project through, is to increase revenue to the city by putting this much
money and emphasis into something, you would hope that you get the proper payback from
it. It was stated that one of the major objectives of this project was to provide a long term
revenue.
I have a couple of concerns. One being that it was stated that 500 jobs would be brought
into the community. That sounds great. I love hearing that there could be more jobs
brought into a community, however, I would guess that probably 98% of these jobs are
going to be minimum wage jobs. This city is based around homeowners. Homeowners
cannot afford paying for a house on a minimum wage job. So what is this going to require?
This is going to require that I continue to drive towards the Los Angeles area and it's not
going to improve my life at all.
The next issue that I have is that it is a proven fact that when the economy starts to falter,
recreational equipment sales is the first thing to go. When people don't have money, they
are not going to buy recreational equipment. This becomes a questionable source for long
term revenue for the city. If the economy for the Country starts to go down, then the
revenue to the city will go down. It was also stated clearly last week that when the
ecoriomt i Cgoes cowri wrier, u�E sial6 begin: Ic iose �undir,g. w.r.c, ones rL puL pressure or
The Cities. So you're getting hit from both sides. The city is not getting revenue from its
development and at the same time, the state is requiring more funding from the city. It
doesn't make economic sense in that regard.
Third, as a business strategy, price is the bottom line when you're coming to retail sales.
Especially for big ticket items, and that's what your talking about here. You're talking about
selling RV's, boats and motorcycles. These are not trivial purchases. If somebody can go
down the street and buy an RV for 1% less than they could buy here, they will go there and
they won't care if there are trees or a lake surrounding the RV, they are going to care about
the price. It has been mentioned that the dealerships down the street are the most
beneficial and do very well. I drove by there and I looked at these facilities. They have
about two palm trees with a parking lot, and they cram these RV's as close as they can.
They do this to reduce overhead, and that is what this kind of business is based on. The
dealer with the lowest overhead can sell the product at a lower price, therefore, gaining
sales. However, you are talking about a facility that has trees, landscaping and a lake with
potentially extremely high insurance that these retailers may have to pay to be able to test
motorcycles and boats. All of these things will increase the costs of these types of items. I
would waver that their sales price could increase by 5-10 percent. Who will pay more for
these types of goods when it's going to cost them so much more? They do not gain
anything from having a beautiful surrounding.
The biggest concern about the project is that it's proposed as the only solution for the city.
The only two alternatives that were presented in the meeting two weeks ago was putting
housing in the area as well as warehousing facilities. I would think that everyone in this
11
room would agree that neither of these are valuable decisions for valuable things to do
along that property. There are already warehouses in that area.
There are so many other business ventures that could be successful. Take Irvine, for
instance. I think it's a very beautiful City and it is one of the most affluent City's in the
whole of Orange County. People commute to that area because of the well paying jobs in
that area. They are technical jobs that people can afford to live off of. Why can't you think
about bringing these type of jobs in to Grand Terrace? I know a lot of people that make
that drive down into Los Angeles every day that would prefer to do the similar type of job
right here in our own city. That would reduce traffic and would help out the economy.
Businesses from Los Angeles would want to come into this direction because this is where
the employees live that travel so far. It made me very upset when I heard that this is the
only other option that this city can think of to use this land for. Thank you.
Lee Swertfeger
12438 Michigan
I have two properties adjoining this project. One is my home and one is my business. First
of all, I would like to commend the Planning Department. I think that they have worked
hard on this project and I think that they are trying to do what they think is best for the City.
However, I cannot be in favor for it because I don't think that it is going to help my company
very well. I hope that you prove me wrong.
I am sorry for using your valuable time at this meeting in my behalf, but at the last meeting,
my company was brought up quite a few times and its really bothered me because I've
liveo irr, Grano 1ervacE al, 01 my I'VE g ,ot at 'IF16nOL ik I6VIaCE, area 10
people that don't know me at all to say that Grand Terrace snuck in the trucking company
on Michigan Street without telling any of us, when we had so many meetings and I fought
foe'five years to get my business started up. It really hurt me to have people talk about me
in the way that they did. My Dad had trucks in Grand Terrace in 1942. There is a friend
here tonight that had trucks in Grand Terrace before any of you were here. Where the
bank is in Grand Terrace was a large trucking company.
I hear complaints now and then about diesel smoke. I don't think that any of you people
know that there is a huge generator running here 24 hours on diesel. It is not my diesel
smoke you are selling. We do not own any trucks that are legal to go down the road. We
can only move trailers on our property. We call them yard goats and they do run and I
make very little diesel trucks that pass my business and make deliveries. There are at
least four times as many truck coming in and out down the street than there is at my place.
We had orange, avocado, walnut, corn, and watermelon groves in Grand Terrace. We
owned 55 acres at one time in Grand Terrace. My parents owned a 3,000 acre cattle ranch
in Missouri and owned a Chevy dealership and lost it all during the depression. They came
to California because they heard about many great things in California. One of the first
things they did here was to get into the trucking business, and then slowly started buying
property to get back into farming. We really enjoyed it, and as the houses came in, it slowly
became impossible and couldn't survive. I hear complaints everyday, where did the orange
groves go. Why did our orange groves leave Grand Terrace? Well, there is no question in
my mind that it's because the bedroom community that moved into Grand Terrace. They
threw trash in our orange groves and then turned around and complained about it and
made us clean it up. People complained about weeds and we cleared them, and when
12
during the time we would clear the weeds, we would get complaints about the dust. That's
why we do not have farms in Grand Terrace any more.
My Dad got tired of it here and decided to buy a 400 acre ranch, and right at that time, they
sold all of the property except for our home to buy this ranch. My Dad had an accident
while moving equipment in Grand Terrace and was killed on Michigan Street. Again, we
lost the ranch to make a long story short and everything was lost and my Mom had to sell
her place so she could survive. She bought a cabin in Wrightwood and lives there now. I
bought this little parcel on Michigan Street because it was in the M1 Zone. At that time, I
didn't know for sure what I wanted to do but I knew that I wanted to be in some kind of a
light industrial business. At the time, it was the only thing that I could afford to do, and at
that time I asked three friends to loan me money. It took us many years to get that parcel
paid off. I have had a current business license at that location since 1970. Today, we have
43 employees, which none of them are at minimum wage.
Last year, we did 2.9 million in taxable income. We also do a service for Grand Terrace
because we let the truck owners from Grand Terrace to park their trucks on our property.
We charge rent of course, but we give them a place to park so that they are not bothering
the citizens of Grand Terrace.
For those of you that told the Planning Commission at the last meeting about our trucking
company, I cannot believe that there were mailers sent out, local paper ads, and numerous
meetings both planning and council meetings and this went on forever. I just can't believe
that you people can tell the commission that my business was shoved down your throats.
My children are now runnina my company and I am very proud of them. We go to trade
sriows aroe we tnIVI . Mal vve nave aor 6 a gooc-, Vv6 tug neo a junk yarc irate a move
attractive place. We have spent over a million dollars in improvements this year and we 0
are still not done. For our neighbors to complain the way they have has really hurt me.
Two and a half years ago, I was told the city would get Edison to move the power poles in
front of my property so that I could finish the paving. At the last meeting, you told the public
that there were no plans on widening Michigan Street. So I think you need to give back the
last 20 foot easement that I gave and move the sidewalks back so that we don't have to
move the power poles. Thank you.
Doug Wilson: Mr. SwertFeger, I know you as a good law abiding citizen. If this Commission
has ever voiced anything or for that matter, the citizens of this community has voiced
anything unknowing in relation to you or your family, I apologize for that, because it's
definitely not the intention and it should not be the intention of this community.
Barney Karger
11668 Bernardo Way
I would not sit at the Commission table and take the guff that they take for a hundred times
what they get paid. Because I found out that they get a fantastic salary of $50.00 a month.
It is an appointed job and they are not elected but rather appointed by the City Council.
They work very hard and take a whole bunch of guff from everybody including me, because
they are not always right but I am. They have all been members of Grand Terrace for a
long time. None of the people down here are members of Grand Terrace. With regard to
Michigan, something seems fuzzy here. I know that for many years, there has been a plan
for widening Michigan otherwise the curbs would have been put in wider. But I have not
13
heard from the Planning Director whether or not that is the ultimate width that is planned for
Michigan after we put in these 2,500 houses that I am not building, and I would like an
answer as soon as possible. Michigan was designed for two lanes in each direction plus
parking.
People are fooling around with the figure of 30,000 people in this area. Figures don't lie,
but liars figure. Planners and people like that. I think that 30,000 cars includes everybody
coming off to go to work in Grand Terrace. To go to Loma Linda, all of the people that are
normally taking that Barton Road off ramp now, I am sure that it includes those people.
Doug Wilson: Barney let me go ahead and make a comment. I am sure that it means
30,000 trips, not 30,000 people.
Barney Karger: Yeah, so it's 15,000 each way. There are so many people who get on and
off on Barton Road. This should help the traffic congestion there. Yes, we may get 30,000
people in that place at one time but I doubt it.
There was a mention about water contamination. You people have not been here long
enough in Grand Terrace to understand. The mud and the dirt in Grand Terrace is Adobe.
That is why the ses pools and leach lines no longer work and a sewage system need to be
put into place. The Adobe and sand ends at about 37 feet down. I don't think that the lake
is going to be 37 feet. The adobe is what they make man made ponds and lakes out of.
Water will not seep down into the adobe and into the first layer of sand. The reason that
we had to build sewers was because the sess pools went bad because the rotten builders
would not oo down the extra five feet to hit the sand. I did. And that is why that very few of
mine eves we,-oi lac.
Jobs were brought up. Most of the jobs will be sales. Most sales jobs pay very good. If it's
not sales, it going to be mechanics. Most mechanics make a pretty good living. I wasn't
sure if I liked this project or not, but the idea is great. It would be a beautiful area, and for
all of the people who are complaining, traffic builds property values. As we get more
people in to Grand Terrace, property values will go even higher than they are right now.
Property values in Grand Terrace are much lower than they should be in comparison with
most of the rest of San Bernardino County. My main problem is not the environment,
because that is a bunch of B.S. anyway. I speak as developer who has had to prepare a
bunch of those idiot papers or toilet papers, as I call them. What is the plan for getting a
developer? Because it is to my understanding that we are going to get a developer to take
this plan and build it with his money and not the City's money. Is it going to be the
developer's money that will be putting in all of these improvements? If that is true, then I will
back this project. If it is the City which is not a business man and does not know the first
thing about business that will be putting in the improvements-witness their redevelopment
stuff; I don't like anything that they do. No governmental agency of any sort regardless of
whether it's a little city or a whole country-the Federal Government, can do anything right in
business or basically anything right. That's it.
Don Farley
12251 Michigan
I welcome this opportunity to make a few more comments from last week. I wasn't really
planning to make any tonight until I saw the article in the Blue Mountain Outlook. I would
like to make a couple of other comments in addition to what I have prepared. At the last
meeting, it was very clear that the people promoting this had never read the EIR based on
14
some of the comments that they made. It is quite an oversight. The issue with pollution of
the drinking water supply is a concern, because if I remember correctly, it's stated that
those lakes are intended for recharging the ground water, so consequently, any pollution
that goes there is going to go in. The other comment is in regard to someone saying that
this 'a place for young people to meet. I don't believe that this is the intent of it at all and it
will certainly end up that way. Anyway, moving on, I did not plan on making any comments
because most of my concerns related to noise, pollution, congestion and a hand out of the
place have been addressed over and over again. However, I did read in the Blue Mountain
Outlook regarding the project in the June 2004 issue. It seemed clear that the City
continues to misrepresent the project and does not take the comments and effected parties
seriously. I am assuming when I say that. The Outlook actually represents the opinion of
the City, and I presume that it does. Much of the information in the article was inaccurate
or misleading and I will comment only on the few or most obvious issues. The City has
done a dismal job in notifying residents about the proposed project in an attempt to correct
this, spent almost two hours at the beginning of the public comment meeting on May 20,
2004, in a presentation by staff about the project. This presentation should have been
promoted and delivered long before the meeting for public comment. The article implies
that many attendees at the public comments meeting on May 20, left because of lack of
interest as the meeting progressed. In fact, people were aggravated with the long staff
presentation before public comments were allowed, and left because they had other
commitments. The article tended to depreciate the involvement of the many individuals
who took time from their busy schedules to attend the meeting. Furthermore, it attempted
to deemphasize the fact that over 90% of the speakers of the meeting were against the
project and implied that there was some sort of conspiracy to get people to attend. In spite
of the long staff presentation that seemed to intend to discourage the many attendees at
standing room only from staying to comment it was amazing how many actually stayed
until thE Eno of the h'1"leeLino v,,!"hICI` vW o[OUFic 1 ;CMG 'tC 1 I"iC chJcic aICE lf�Gi Tl�6f"E
will be no increase in traffic in the area since the current Barton Road on and off ramp for
the northbound 215 will be moved to within the project. This argument is fallacious, since
most visitors to the site are likely to return from the direction they arrived, therefore, most
visitors must go to Barton Road to return to their destination. All they have to do to verify
this is to consider your trips to the Galleria Mall in Riverside, and I doubt if any of you would
continue on to Corona. Furthermore, moving the on/off ramp will require that all Grand
Terrace traffic to and from the Northbound 215 must pass through the maze of roads
through the project and there will be at least three stop lights to do that. That can't be a
benefit to the downtown area of Grand Terrace.
The project is promoted as adding class and beauty to the community. This hard to
believe. When did a development with dirt sidewalks seem classy? When was the last
time that you saw an area that sells motorcycles and watercraft that seemed classy? That
isn't enough, consider an area that maintains vehicles and has RV storage. This project is
promoted as a major revenue generator. I am not an expert in this area, but my
observation is that most of the types of businesses being promoted tend to me in low rent
areas. As presented, this would not be a low rent venue. Businesses in the project would
pay to maintain this high overhead project with lake test tracks and costly landscaping by
an assessment district. So businesses that are already low margin would be at a
competitive disadvantage. This does not make sense. The RV sales operation to the north
can be used as an example as how successful a project can be. This is no doubt true, but
this is a bare bones operation. And if I observe them correctly, some of the buildings
appear to be portable. Does anyone see anything attractive or classy about that project?
Either this project will fail or even worse.
15
Most jobs created would be low pay and not compatible with the image that the city seems
interested in promoting. It is implied that zoning is compatible with proposed uses and that
other uses would not be compatible. With proper justification, zoning can be changed to
justify any reasonable use. It is implied that this is the only project that can be considered
for the site, and if it is denied, chaos would prevail. This is clearly not true and we need a
creative look at options. I would like to give some examples.
Grand Terrace is a great location. I grew up here from the 50's and it is essential to almost
everything in the Inland Empire. It is difficult to understand why development has been so
slow in this area. I remember as a kid it was expected that Barton Road would be
developed as a business area and still hasn't. Development of a business center with
corporate offices should be feasible and would make sense, considering its location. The
buildings themselves could add class to the area, and would require minimal additional
landscaping and associated overhead. All you would have to look at places such as Irvine,
and Hospitality Lane in San Bernardino, and many other business areas. Besides that, it
would bring high end jobs as well as the low end jobs that would come with this project.
Commerce Center Drive needs to be routed since it doesn't exist. Such that, its connection
with Barton Road is improved and can connect directly with Main Street and maybe even
Center Street, Iowa and the on/off ramp at La Cadena. Proper routing at Commerce
Center Drive would make it possible to divert car and all truck traffic from Michigan Street,
and thus allow it to maintain at two lanes and retain its residential character. In regard to
the trucking company, I happen to be a person who has mentioned that it has become an
annoyance. I can say that I cannot blame them because they have no way of getting in
and out of their business. But Commerce Center Drive could be used as a route if it is
designed properly.
I understand that Stater Bros. has plans to move its operations in west Grand Terrace to a
new location. If this is true, Colton may be interested in redevelopment of that site. Grand
Terrace should contact Colton to explore the possibility of developing their site jointly. If
joint development were feasible, it might be desirable to construct an overpass across the
freeway to join to two sites and thus allow access to the project site from the existing
Barton Road on/off ramps and possibly those at La Cadena.
In conclusion, I think that everyone here wants Grand Terrace to develop in a way that is
compatible with its character and that we can all be proud of. My opinion, the proposed
project will be neither and should be re-considered.
Doug Wilson: Thank you Mr. Farley. You are obviously well read and you have actually
studies these issues and appreciated your comments at the last meeting. Government
cooperation, though, I'm wondering if that isn't an oxymoron somehow.
Terry McGuire
22525 Franklin Street
Just as recently as today, I got a notice about my motor home. And it has come up at this
meeting that motor homes, See Doos, boats, and everything else are not beautiful for this
town, and then we want to put in something like this. Isn't that a little hypocritical? I find it a
bit offensive.
My second concern is just recently, my motor home windows got shot out by a bunch of
kids and it happened with a lot of other people in town. My question is where were the
police to help me out with that. Just recently my sister fired a guy at work and he stalks her
16
and is going to her home. I had to go to her home, and for four hours the other day, there
wasn't a police officer in this town while my sister was being stalked. You can't make the
people of this town safe now much less put something like that here. You have
responsibility as citizens of this town and as officers of this town to make everybody in this
room and my new baby safe before that goes in. Thank you.
Betty Guzman
23202 Glendora Drive
I do not live by the project but I do drink the water. It will effect me in many ways. I do care
about and love this City. The reason why I came up here is because I want to let you
know, Mr. Wilson, it's very difficult to come up here. A lot of these people don't come here
very often and consider this a once in a lifetime thing that their out here speaking out. So
it's very difficult so when Mr. Torres came up here to speak, it was really not appropriate for
you to snap at him the way you did. He had every right to ask Mr. Koontz, the man
responsible for this project to have the decency to turn around the heat. You are all taking
the heat for this man. You are not responsible for what's before you and everybody is firing
at you. This is the man who came with this project and wants to shove it down our throats.
He never came to us and said, Grand Terrace, we have a Plan A, outdoor adventure park,
Plan B, a golf course, Plan C, this or that. He just came and said that's what we're going to
do, no he never did say that, excuse me, we caught him with his hand in the cookie jar. He
just came and said that this is what we are going to do.
Doug VVilson: Excuse me. If this is going to be the tone of your testimony, please just keep
It ',c the impacts 01 the pluit-,- a 065p6Cat6i� tl 60 01 Co6ai;FLU� p61- lal aitaCK:..
Y
Bett Guzman: Well that's my whole statement, sir. This gentleman wanted to speak to the
man responsible and you snapped at him.
Doug Wilson: Wait a minute. That gentleman (Mr. Koontz) works for the City Council, so
he has no special responsibility than anybody else in the room. I don't think I understand
what your point is.
Betty Guzman: My point is that this gentleman came up here and asked Mr. Koontz to
have the decency to turn around and face us when we are speaking about how it's affecting
our lives and you kind of snapped at him. My point is just that it is very difficult to come up
here and speak to you and the way you snapped at him is not right. This gentleman is
responsible for the whole project and he should have the decency to face us because it is
our lives he is affecting while he is not living in this town.
Doug Wilson: The City Council is the responsible party for this project. This gentleman is
an employee of the Council.
Betty Guzman: I understand that sir, and I also understand that this gentleman used city
funds, all of our tax dollars to purchase the land that he wants to build his little toy park.
Doug Wilson: He does not have the authority to buy any land for the City of Grand Terrace.
Betty Guzman: Okay, this project was his whole idea and be brought it before the Council
and they rubber stamped it. I don't know how you guys did it, but it was his baby that he
17
got the land and now he is developing it. My whole point is that it is affecting our lives so I
would like for him to at least face us and look at us in the eye and not turn his back to us
and leave town every time at 5:00.
Doug Wilson: Okay. Did you have anything you wanted to talk about in relation to the
project?
Betty Guzman: Yes. The Environmental Impact that the other gentleman, Barney Karger
said that the impact would be irrelevant. He doesn't live on that part of town and he may
not be hearing all of the noise and breathing all of the pollution. I know you all have a very
difficult job and we know that you all live here and we have a lot of respect for you and we
know that you will do the right thing.
Doug Wilson: Now, is there anyone else who hasn't had a opportunity to speak for or
against the project?
Robert Kirthner
12023 Preston Street
When I came to Grand Terrace, someone said that citizens don't like people driving
through. Well, I had to drive through to find my house. I have lived here for two years, and
I liked Grand Terrace and I like to see it develop in a good stage. This Outdoor Adventures
Center should be the Outdoor Sales Center. Because it will not do me any good cause I'm
not into outdoor stuff, skis or anything, although I am an Aquarian I like water and I've-been
a swimmer all of my life, but it isn't going to do me any good. I think my neighbors down in
Michigar. need rnorE iripicvevnent 'Lo theii suvio "iGl VCR, buL noL this king of stuff;. Whei.
came to Grand Terrace, I know that a few people have noticed that where I live at I think is
the only part of the city that has light. The rest of them don't have any streets lights and I
was wondering what you plan on doing about that.
Doug Wilson: As a matter of fact, I can probably answer that. When this community first
started, it was also in the process of building a project and it was mandated in the tract
additions that any developer that was going go into a project had to underground all of the
utilities and also had to create the street lights in relation to an approved street light plan.
You are right, there are a lot of dark areas that have slowly but surely been worked on so
far as better security. Right now, the City is in a quandary like a lot of communities where
there looking at whether or not it's a better idea to brightly light the sky or whether it's better
to be a little bit choosy in relation in how we light things because of light contamination.
Robert Kirthner: Well, I like to see what's behind me when I walk around. Getting back to
the Adventures Center, what is gonna cost you maintain it, about $500,000. I'm just
guessing about it. It's not going to do my family any good. And I don't think any of my
neighbors will benefit from it. Whatever is good my neighbors, I want it to be good for me
too. That's the way I look at it.
Cynthia Bidney
12219 Pascal
I have more questions than I have comments about this plan. Correct me if I am wrong.
This plan is more of a general plan than a plan set in concrete. This plan a great idea to
beautify the City. In fact, other businesses could be put in there in place of all of the RV's
or whatever.
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Doug Wilson: Yes. If that is your question. I did have a discussion of three or four times,
and basically what this is, is a planning tool only. Now, it's set up as guidelines and it's
specifically set up so that if a developer or a series of developers came in, they know what
it is that they can or cannot do within certain guidelines, but on top of that, you have the
opportunity at any given time to this body as well as this community has the opportunity to
review every one of those projects that come in; so far as all the way down to the paint
color on the rafters for that matter, or whether it's appropriate for what you want in your
community, so it's a guideline. It is similar to a specific plan which is probably something
that you recognize. The specific plan is a same concept as an infill area with special
circumstances in relation to traffic, pollution and all of the rest of impacts that you want to
be able to address. And so, the community has been wise enough to recognize that and
say what are we going to do with this thing rather than let it become something that slowly
but surely dribbles off, let's look at it. We've got zoning that is in place now but is that what
we want to do, and so on. But it's a planning guideline and every project must meet a
specific criteria and be reviewed by this commission as well as the community.
Cynthia Bidney: Okay, but this would also be an opportunity for our community members
to stand up and say I want to be a part of that project and have an ice cream parlor there,
or I want to open some other business right? This is in fact, everybody's idea and it's not a
war against RV's and whatever, correct?
Virginia Harford
I would like to bring up a point that has been bothering me. The local 99 cent store is not a
99 cent store, and it really bothers me.
Doug Wilson: So noted. Thank you.
Patricia Farley
I personally wanted to take an opportunity to say to Mr. Swertfeger that I never meant to
personally attack you. But we did not get notices in the mail. You did some nice things
there but I would have preferred to see you business closer to the freeway. But it was
never a personal attack, but I understand what you want to do in your property. We did not
get the notice in the mail.
***Testimony at this point was not heard from the podium, and was difficult to hear
on tape.***
Doug Wilson: Your understanding was this would be given over to a developer and handed
cart blanc what would happen in relation to the project. That is not correct. This
community has the opportunity to decide what is put in place in its community. Any plan
that is created in relation to this guideline still has to come before this body as a review,
and/or it has to come in front of all of the departments so far as building and safety, fire and
forestry. Might I also add that I asked the Community Development Director last week to
specifically read the list of approvals that were required of any venture that was to take
place in here and had to inherit that. I specifically asked for that because I wanted to try
clarify that this is not one of those circumstances where it get taken out of the community's
hands. And it isn't also taken out of the departments hands. In other words, if a fire
hydrant needs to be put in a place, that fire hydrant still happens. There's no benign
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exercise of authority. If anything, unfortunately, most community circumstances like
redevelopment agencies are subject to more scrutiny as your participation has proven. So
it's a different situation that may have been understood before, but you are definitely
required to go through the approval process.
Dorothy Farley
What bothers us is that we have not been told much of anything. Did you know that the
17th of April, my daughter picked up a Blue Mountain Outlook in our driveway that was the
first that we knew anything about it, and it seemed to us that the City or somebody was
going on and planning this stuff but wasn't letting us know what was going on and I think
that we should have been enlightened. I think there is still many people in Grand Terrace
who really don't know anything about it.
Ed Courtney
22474 De Berry
I would like to speak about the law of unintended consequences. What happens very often
is that we make a plan and something goes wrong later. For instance, this man's trucking
company and he's done a wonderful job of that and has provided employment, and that
was a good thing. But what happened was there was an unintended consequence I'm sure
nobody thought about how those trucks had to turn when they came off of Barton Road and
made that right hand turn onto Michigan. Having sat there on the corner, I almost gotten
wiped out several times by these huge trucks. Sometimes, people would have to back their
car up so that the truck could make that turn. The city then had to come and widen that
SU6e1. 1 M SUi 6 ti1al a POl LIU[t 011 iI)6 lakes ihal he a e voae€"E inal Slreei. Bul Il wa:.
an unintended consequence and it needs to be considered how you are about to do
something that dwarfs his project. I'm sure that there will be unintended consequences.
These people said that they didn't receive notice. But they did receive notice was in all of
the newspapers in tiny little print. And the schematics were in tiny little print and it properly
explained, I am sure but nobody read it. So constructively they did have notice but they
didn't actually notice because they weren't aware of it. Now it seems to me that your
dilemma right now is whether or not to vote up or down on this thing. My question to you is
do you have to make that decision today? Is it going to be made right now or can you put it
off right now. Can it be delayed until maybe a few more people are made aware of the plan
and it's consequences.
Virginia Ogawa
12556 Michigan
I think that the Planning Commission needs to understand that in Grand Terrace we have
families. We are families, and not just business people. Our children are grown, but we
have children on our neighborhood streets. This is not going to be feasible for them to
enjoy. The Sea Doos are going to be tried out by the people who are buying them. The
dirt bikes and the ATV's are for the people who are buying them. Not necessarily for the
families of Grand Terrace to go and enjoy. We have Sea Doos and we have boats. But it's
not going to be for Sunday afternoons for the family. Another thing that I would like for you
to consider is you have these people coming in to our town to buy these Sea Doos, dirt
bikes and ATVs. There's going to be accidents. Who is going to be liable for the law suits
that are going to come? There will be accidents. You read about them all of the time in the
paper. This project is beautiful, but I don't see having to go to the OAC to buy a motor
home when I can get a better deal at the bottom of the hill. Besides that, you can put in a
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movie theatre. You can put in a Barnes & Noble bookstore, you can put in retail stores.
There's other things that we can do and still make our frontage beautiful and I would hope
that you can take that into consideration.
Bill Hayes
22114 De Berry
The one thing that I have thought about that has concerned me and because we live in a
seismic area and I've owned a home with a swimming pool and back in the 70's when that
big shaker came through that pool tried to empty itself. And I was wondering what kind of
seismic, I mean, thank you to Barney but Adobe is not going to hold up to an earthquake.
What is going to happen when we have a pretty good quake come sooner, does that turn
into a 12 acre tsunami. Where's the water going to go when we get a title wave in that
thing?
PJ Anderson
12375 Vivienda Avenue
We paid to $84,000 to $87,000 to get this plan. So we've already financed part of this
development by just paying that to go ahead and give us this project. So I was unaware at
any time that you were trying to get plans on what we might do with that open acreage.
Doug Wilson: Let me address that. It's not unusual for communities, I'm sure you have run
into it before and for business for that matter; to do a cost of business to be able to explore
different opportunities within a community. You've spent a lot more than $84,000 in this
community since it was formed to be able to create your community. It's Just a normal
thine,. When it comes to traffic, swaies, sewer anc scorn-i aralk, t:Jai s a norrna� thing U.
doing business. One of the things that the City had been extremely frugal with, has been
kind of a mentor system to try to bring in a business or two more importantly, resupply the
businesses that are in the town, because you know, we have had a tough time with
commercial circumstances within the core of the city sometimes depending on what the
economy is like. So it's not unusual for those things to happen. What has happened in the
past, is sometimes kindly volunteers have then participated in a program where they have
tried to encourage businesses to come in and your City Manager has done that kind of
circumstance almost daily. So those kinds of things are not unusual.
PJ Anderson: I think what I am addressing is that we didn't know only one plan would be
forthcoming. This seems to be our only option. We aren't being offered something else
with the $80,000 dollars that we have already spent.
Patricia Farley
You and I had a disagreement at the last meeting on the noticing of residents, and so I
went and read the law and I would like to say that the part that I read is that you had to
make a good faith effort, and obviously the community was not informed. And there is
another section in the law that says you can put only one notice is some newspaper and it
doesn't say that you have to make it big enough for normal people to notice. So my view I
that the law argues with itself. But the bottom line is, in the past we got letters. And I had a
right to get a letter about their property. That was our biggest issue. We weren't notified
properly and Mr. Koontz told me that it costs too much. I would rather that the money
would have been spent before you spent the $80,000 and then, right at the same time I'm
21
getting all of these flyers that the city sends out about the parade and stuff like that. The
priorities are wrong.
Doug Wilson: The notice that is set up is actually a City Council letter. Any kind of
circumstance in relation to noticing things for every community is always the same. What
they do is they set up a radius for particular issues. We usually do this stuff in accordance
to the law, in fact, that's what we are required to do. If you want more noticing on a
particular issue, usually what it requires especially in this kind of circumstance is a budget
that can accommodate that and that also means then that the community has to come
behind some kind of a city ordinance that changes the noticing procedure. That's
something that you would need to bring up at the City Council Meeting. Because it is a part
of your Council Ordinance.
Diane Espinoza
12794 Michigan Street
I have lived there for 29 years. I have been following the OAC and what you have been
planning and possibly recommending to do, and I've been listening tonight to everyone's
questions. The one thing that I didn't hear is when are you going to answer the questions.
Doug Wilson: That's what we would like to do once we close the public hearing. We will
now close the public testimony and bring it back to the Commission for a motion and or
probably plenty of conversation. The first thing that I would like to do is ask the Staff if they
could address some of the issues that were responded to in the public comments, and if
you could Just summarize some of those things. because I don't think that everyone in the
auaienc6 is able lc i espoi ie of Lci be aui6 to i 6ac rL, ano , ihirla, i!iai u ie1 ai 6 ownee so
responses and summarizations.
Gary Koontz: I believe Mr. Megna has a presentation.
Ralph Megna: Mr. Chairman, and members of the Commission. The first thing that I think
that's important to note is that following the previous Commission meeting, we reviewed the
tape and our notes. All of us up here while sometimes we may not be facing the right
direction, we're all busy taking notes on everyone's comments. We identified almost 50
different questions that the public had raised at the previous public meeting and prepared
10 pages of detailed small type answers in an effort to try to give full respect to the
questions that got asked. I will not attempt to go through almost 50 questions and their
answers, but we did do that and the material has been available here at the City since 5:00
PM last Tuesday. When we went through these questions, some of them appeared to
involve misunderstandings about what certain it actually says.
One of things that we had heard repeatedly today and heard repeatedly last time is that
there would be 30,000 people per day coming to the OAC. If that were true, we would
probably have developers lined up from here to Orange County wanting to do this project,
but that is not true. This is a misinterpretation of the information that is in the EIR. It is not
30,000 people, it actually 26, 891 vehicle trips. Now its important to understand what a
vehicle trip is. I am sure that the Commission is aware of this, but I want to make sure that
the audience understands.
Vehicle trips are calculated through any of the following ways: Through exit, through entry,
driving between buildings, employees coming and going, and trips by local residents. In
other words, one person coming from Riverside and going to the OAC and then returning
22
could be two or more or possibly three trips and not one. So the point is that it is not
30,000 people. I would guess that we would estimate the daily number people coming into
the OAC is some number less than 10,000, which is still a sizeable number but for a point
of comparison, just so everyone understand us, is a stand alone Wal-Mart, will generate
12,000 vehicle trips by itself.
Second, there was considerable concern expressed with regard to traffic on Michigan. It is
our view that one of the reasons why we have spent some money is looking very carefully
how traffic circulates through the area. Those of you who have taken the time to look at the
EIR and the Specific Plan know that there are two additional volumes with hundreds of
pages of analysis associated with traffic. I know that you don't believe me, but from the
very first day that we started this project, we were concerned about what impacts would
occur to the residential neighborhoods and have gone through considerable analysis and
effort for a year now trying to mitigate that with a circulation plan that we have developed.
don't expect you to believe me, but that is the truth, and we have worked hard to keep
down the impacts. One of things that is true is that if the circulation plan for the OAC is
adopted, the truck traffic on Michigan will significantly be reduced. Why will that be? It will
be because now, the single greatest traffic generator in the area which is Willdan Pump will
have a connection via Van Buren to the extension of Commerce Way. This will allow truck
traffic that is coming and going from Willdan Pump to never ever go onto Michigan. 100%
of the traffic goes on to Michigan at this time. In the future, none of it has to go to Michigan
and can circulate using the extension of Commerce and can come and go from the freeway
using the direct connection of the exit that we are planning at this location. This design is
not an accident, this design has been a product of over a year of analysis and hundreds of
pages of numerical analysis of where traffic flows.
Loug Wf isor,, LXCus rEtE_ i[, ieiaiior iG the \Nillcal! F-Ump cilojrns*Lance, abou'L" now mangy
trips are being generated now, and not just trucks.
Ralph Megna: Total trips by generated by Willdan Pump alone is in excess of 2,000 trips a
day.
Doug Wilson: What is the percentage of truck traffic?
Ralph Megna: Probably about a quarter of trips and that is not a vehicle or person number.
'Inaudible"
Ralph Megna: Interesting question. You will only have to go through two stop lights. Stop
lights may seem like a problem, they actually improve a level of service by regulating the
traffic. This route to and from the freeway will probably be a full minute quicker than having
to make an unregulated left hand turn on to Michigan and then going to a horribly
congested intersection of Barton. This one change will have a dramatic positive impact on
the traffic on Michigan.
"Inaudible"
Ralph Megna: The fact of the matter is that some people particularly those who live in this
area may choose to go that route, but those cars will be cars that won't be on Michigan.
They will never have to do anything other than cross Michigan in order to get to their home.
So total traffic on Michigan again is reduced by being able to take that route.
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**Inaudible**
Ralph Megna: I don't think...Why would someone who is carrying, excuse me, does the
Commission want me to respond to the audience?
Matt Addington: I understand where you are coming from as a consultant to the City and I
have been in your shoes before. What I am hearing here is an argumentative tone of voice
to the residents of Grand Terrace. And what I think that we ought to try to go up a little
more professional and try not to be argumentative. We want to present facts here tonight.
Ralph Megna: Thank you for the guidance, but I also need to understand; should I be
responding to questions or should you relay those questions.
Doug Wilson: Why don't we go ahead and answer the overall questions and we've all taken
notes and we can take a little time for question an answer at the end. Once we get the
questions from the last meeting answered, then maybe we can come back and revisit the
other questions.
**Inaudible**
Ralph Megna: The arrow there should probably be facing the other direction. Sometimes
power point does not give you many arrow options. Traffic going south on the freeway
would have to come to Michigan make a left here and a left here across the Barton Road
overpass. One of the improvements associated with the package of freeway improvements
here is a widenino of the overpass so that it can accommodate additional traffic and do so
..k a sale mar►nei .
There was concern with regard to street widening. The key portions of this are is that the
only portion of Michigan will be widened will be the 300 feet or so at the intersections of
Commerce Way and Barton Road. This project does not require or propose to widen
Michigan Street south of Commerce and currently, residential portions of De Berry, Main,
Taylor or Van Buren will be widened as part of this project. Now some of the streets do get
widened, for example, Taylor gets widened down by the power plant, which is very far away
from any residential area. Van Buren gets widened within the boundaries of the OAC.
Doug Wilson: What you just projected to us is that it does also call for a widening of
Michigan Street north of Commerce? Is that correct?
Ralph Megna: That is correct. That is the only area that this project requires a widening of
Michigan.
Doug Wilson: I just want to make that clarification. Okay.
Ralph Megna: A concern was with how people will get home. People who live up the hill
will yes, in fact need to make one or two more turns then they make currently if their exiting
from the northbound 215 souhbound travelers will use exactly the same route that they are
using now because they will be widening the overpass and that should reduce congestion
in that location.
Doug Wilson: So that is part of the overall circulation that it would be widened. So that's
aside from the proposed Caltrans circumstance.
24
Ralph Megna. Yes. This would all be taking place as part of the OAC and not part of the
Caltrans improvements that are ten years or more into the future. Finally, in a program that
has been coordinated between SANBAG and the City, the new exit from the northbound
215 , along with the intersection of Michigan and Barton and Commerce will have
synchronized lights that expedite the flow of traffic. The actual level of service will be better
at those locations than what it is now at Barton and Commerce.
Noise from the motocross track and boats. One of the things that has been erroneously
referred to as a track; it's an off-road trail. And its an area where small off road vehicles
including mountain bikes can be tested. These trails aren't a certainty, as determined as
you have repeatedly pointed out. Many aspects of this requires separate entitlement
actions and this would be one of the things that would require that. As for boat testing, we
expect that to be a relatively quiet activity as the lake is not big enough to have more than a
couple of boats at a time at very slow speeds. In comparison, the noise generated by
almost 200,000 cars a day on the freeway as well as two railroad lines create an ambient
sound level which is significantly greater than what the OAC is going to create.
Doug Wilson: As a matter of fact, I would like to clarify that. I think that our existing sound
levels are in the range of 85 db's at the railroad lots. And as you start to go out, that, of
course starts to quiet down. As one who lives up against the mountains over here, I'm not
convinced that they actually quiet down, because it's a natural amphitheater. What
happens is that the sound hits from the railroad, and then starts to kind of circle out as it
goes. So that's the way the sound is now.
Ralph Megna: There has been expressed concern with regard to the OAC attracting
undesirables. We feel that this is unlikely given the fact that this is a family oriented
destination where prooucis service; ihal are rmEan-E -L,, U d96 a nslleall
recreational activities, such as fishing, hiking, boating and that these are generally family
oriented things that people do.
Proper security is a clear requirement of this project. I don't think that this is likely a place
where kids are likely to hang out. In fact, if anything, the OAC is going to be a significant
employer of teenagers for the Grand Terrace area.
It also seems doubtful that the OAC will attract a criminal element. Many of products and
services here are geared to middle and upper income households. Stores will be operated
by national and regional companies, and will not tolerate anything but the highest
maintenance and operational standards.
There has been concern about the impact of the new high school. Both the City Manager
and the Assistant Superintendents with the Colton Joint Unified School District indicated at
the last meeting that we were working together and have done so for over a year to plan a
new high school in Grand Terrace. The City has committed to helping the school district to
assemble the land necessary for it as well as coordinated construction issues on stuff like
infrastructure, and the two projects are expected to work well together. We just recently got
a visualization from the architects who are working for the Colton Joint Unified School
District of what they think their preliminary view is. It is a view from the School District on
how they think it would work out. One of the things that I think is very interesting is that
their very large playing fields will be located adjacent to the residential area. The high
school is projected to be more than 60 acres, it's easily accommodated within the area.
25
Doug Wilson: Our understanding is that this is some information came in relation to
conversations that took place after your input, it went to the school board and we talked to
some school people who were responsible for this to gain this information to be able to
present and clarify some issues in relation to how the school was going to participate in this
plan.
Ralph Megna: With respect to an issue of a bedroom community; as the City Manager tried
to describe it at the last meeting. One of the challenges for a bedroom community is that
they don't have very large commercial areas. They are not areas that generate much in a
way of sales taxes or higher than residential property taxes. These are pretty key to being
able to run a city these days. You've got to have some revenue base, otherwise you find
yourself having to tax your own citizens in order to supply basic services. It is my
understanding that a tax issues was proposed in the City of Grand Terrace and it was voted
down. Most communities that are composed highly of single family neighborhoods find it
difficult to generate the tax revenues necessary. I think that it's interesting that Mr. Karger,
who is involved in the home building business here in Grand Terrace has twice commented
to the Commission about the fact that residential property values here are not rising as
quickly as they are in nearby communities.
Even at full build out, the OAC represents only 5% of the total land area in the City of
Grand Terrace.
One of the other concerns was with regard to causing additional traffic and bring crime and
other consequences. We do not have any evidence or data that would indicate that this
would be true. In fact, we have some interesting or indirect information that suggests that
tn6 opposae is irue. 0;.e 3- Lr,f- tr}fng- ihal happenL viin6f, )lou iooY, al all 6i i-ric
intersections in the City after the OAC is created, traffic at some intersections actually goes
down. One of those intersections is at Barton and Mt. Vernon. The evening traffic at the
intersection of Barton and Mt. Vernon is actually less after the construction of the OAC than
it is now. The level of service actually improves from a level of service "D" to a level of
service "C".
What that suggest to us is not only the traffic from the OAC leaking into the town and the
circulation plan is working, but that in fact it's allowing traffic to find other routes home that
do not require congesting Barton Road. Finally, what is true is that we can document that
the OAC over the years will generate millions of dollars in new tax revenues that could be
used for additional police and fire protection as well as enhancing the community services.
One of the notes that I had made was from someone who spoke today about a boy's n girls
club. I think that's a really good idea. But I also know right now that the City budget
couldn't withstand it. It could potentially stand it after the OAC was built and we were
generating the revenues from that.
The issue with regarding to the statement of overriding considerations. I know that this is a
fearsome issue and it might be best the EIR Consultant to come up and address this. The
fact is that we live in a non attainment area that is the air basin we live in doesn't meet the
standards for air quality. No single project no matter how small or large can do anything to
change that. Whether your building the Ontario Mills or if your building residential, which by
the way, we did test that issue. If this area would be done as residential housing, would we
have to adopt a statement of overriding considerations in order to build residential, the
answer is yes. That in fact, it would trigger the need for a statement of overriding
considerations.
26
Doug Wilson: What about commercial.
Ralph Megna: If the plan for the OAC is not adopted and the existing zoning is allowed to
stand, the area will be incrementally developed over time, probably in buildings in ranging
in size from 10,000 square feet to maybe 60,000 square feet. The gentleman here tonight
that said just look down Commerce Way to see the concrete tilt ups was right. That's
essentially the kind of development that will occur. Each one of those developments
because of their size will not require the kind of EIR that we were required to do. What will
happen that is over time instead of 7 or 800,000 square feet of commercial development
which is what is contemplated for the OAC. You will have two million square feet of tilt ups
and what is allowed under the existing zoning. That will be almost three times as much
development is allowed under the current zoning as would be allowed in our current plan.
This would be a down zoning.
Doug Wilson: In the overall in that, am I correct in assuming that what that would eat up is
buffer zones and greenbelt areas?
Ralph Megna: Yes. What's going to happen is that 15 foot setbacks will be off the right of
ways but we won't get new trees and we will have concrete tilt up boxes with single ply
roofs. Our current estimate right now is that development assuming you develop the same
area that the OAC proposes to develop would generate more than 500 heavy truck trips a
day. Because there would be no money through the incremental development of the area
to finance a new on and off ramp, all of those 500 new trucks would come and go via
Michigan.
LJoLic Wiisor- I kno�i, t'la- 'tie%IC arc- probable severa people fr. the audience iF.a' are nerc
still. When it comes to the tax revenue issue, there has been so much made in relation to
how much money is supposed to be represented in relation to this proposed use and again,
it's a guideline use, it's not a hard fast use. Why would we not be able to realize as much
tax revenue off of 2 million square feet worth of commercial versus 880,000 square feet
worth of retail with pretty signs and grass and all of that stuff.
Ralph Megna: That's an excellent question. The answer to that is that 2 million square feet
are going to be mostly warehouses. If you look up and down the 215 and look in nearby
communities like Rialto or Fontana the reality is that if you allow these individual property
owners to develop the property in response to the market, the market will bring them small
distribution buildings. These buildings for the most part are simply places where materials
come and go. There is no sales that take place at these locations, they are just distribution
centers or logistics centers. So out of two million square feet, we might get 100,000 to
200,000 square feet that was devoted to a use that we could tax similar to Essco.
Doug Wilson: This is not our only consideration. I just wanted to know personally as well
as some people here tonight that wanted to understand that one doesn't equal the other.
Ralph Megna: The OAC's 700,00 to 800,000 square feet of developed space should
generate at full build out in current year dollars approximately $140 million dollars in taxable
sales a year. That translates into $1.4 Million Dollars a year into the coffers of the City of
Grand Terrace.
Doug Wilson: How does that money filter back to the City considering as much has been
said in relation to State and County.
27
Ralph Megna: The money gets charged at the tax register, and the company's have to pay
it to the franchise tax board, and the franchise tax board send the City a check for it's one
penny to each dollar that is generated.
Mr. Wilson, this gentleman said that there is not going to be a noise problem. I am across
the street. I would suggest that if you go to your house and have this gentleman go down
and take a 21 or 22 foot outboard ski boat with a shifty V8 in it and have him fire it up and
have him do it when the trains go by and tell me if you hear it. That's ridiculous.
**INAUDIBLE**.
Doug Wilson: There's still subject no matter what use it is whether it's a truck, car, boat,
aquamarine, I don't care what it is, they are still subject to the noise regulations of the City.
If somebody is in someone's garage trying to nail dry wall at four o clock on a Sunday
morning, there bound to have somebody come over and have somebody visit them other
than their neighbor, I would imagine that it would probably be the police. Just like some
person that has a barking dog or anything else. The bottom line is that they are still subject
to the noise ordinance.
**INAUDIBLE**
Ralph Megna: The numbers that I have been giving you are calculations based on the
square footage and the likely level of sales associated with this and are based on industry
standards. These are not made up figures that basically we could reasonably expect that
the capaciry o-, the buiioiriq on ti"iiE. SOLE: geheiaie saes ai betweei, a'<< u.0C anc $2 t 0.00 pe
square foot, is something that can be demonstrated over a wide variety of projects, and
when we get to the total sales number, the $140 million that I was suggesting earlier, by
looping at the total amount of square footage that is devoted to both indoor sales as well as
outdoor display sales. Based on that, we believe that the $1.4 million dollar figure that we
are suggesting would be the sales tax revenues is a fair number based on projects of this
kind elsewhere.
If you want to know what projects like this sales tax generators can do for a community,
one example that comes up every once in awhile in our conversations is the relatively small
town of Cerritos. Pretty small place actually. The population is not large, and because of
it's auto center, it has a spectacular library, performing arts center and cultural facility. It
gets that largely from the consequence of the large amount of sales tax revenue that are
generated by the auto center and by a retail center that had one element that inspired us
and it was the waterfall that you can see along the 91 freeway that feeds sales taxes in the
community and allow it to have amenities that far exceed that community's normal ability to
pay for those things. The City the size of Cerritos could never afford a performing arts
center that they have built unless they had those kinds of sales tax revenues.
Doug Wilson: So there are several examples that are within a database that you have
used to be able to determine that. We could pick and choose, and we could more
informed. The bottom line is that the average appears to be that it does generate the
money that they are talking about at full build out.
**INAUDIBLE"
Ralph Megna: Only in part.
28
**INAUDIBLE**
Ralph Megna: Actually, I would have to reach out of state. On Interstate 25 near Denver,
Colorado, there is a project of roughly similar scale.
Doug Wilson: I think that our best bet is to research that to see if we can' find specific
circumstances, but as citizens of this community I think we also have an obligation to fulfill
our own questions in relation to that too. So I am going to look to see if I can find some
kind of circumstance that will say that this doesn't work. If I can't see that, then obviously it
means that it probably does work or at least it draws even. It's going to be impossible in
this forum to answer every question down to the unth degree, but I think that if we have
these kinds of things that come up in our minds that we can rely on consultants but we
ourselves will also have an obligation to track down that stuff that says, hey that's bologna.
**INAUDIBLE**
Doug Wilson: I think that there was a question with regard to the environmental. That the
lady that was responsible for the EIR was going to come up. I specifically have some
questions in relation to that. Can I ask you a couple of questions? One of the questions
had to do with endangered species. We all know that endangered is very much a catch
phrase in relation to circumstances what really means is there a circumstance here that we
have located either some kind of listed species endangered in the state sets and is there
something that we are doing here in this project that is going to dramatically change of
biological sensitivity of the area.
Nat-pcj, i-ergusofl
Lilburn Corporation
When we were here two weeks ago, Gary and I were talking briefly about a survey that's
going on right now for a particular bird that may or may not nest in the wetlands that exists
right now. The study goes on for six weeks, and where are we in that process Gary.
Gary Koontz: We've hired a qualified consultant that deals with a this bird. They are doing
their summer spring survey at the moment. The time period to do those surveys is during
the nesting season which is the middle of April to the end of July. They are out there right
now doing that survey.
Doug Wilson: Are there any other species in relation to the project. I know that you don't
get a choice of when you are supposed to study these things. You can study them in the
summer but its not going to be any good because it's not during the nesting season, so it's
very important that we've identified what could be a possible impact, and that we get in
there and we study at the time frame when there supposed to. We automatically identify
with species that somehow might be endangered. Sometime the nature of the animal is that
they are transient. There are special ways to deal with that as well. If it's a burrowing owl,
there is a one way door set at their entrance that does not allow the owl to go back in but is
allowed to go back out, and eventually the relocated those owls to an area that is not
inhabited with human use and then they also ask for a set aside area either by purchase or
by setting aside a particular area like six acres per owl or six acres per pair. Am I on the
right track in relation to those kinds of things?
29
Nancy Ferguson: Well, the burrowing owl is probably a bad example. The reason is
because it's not a listed, endangered or threatened species. It's not listed because the
California Department of Fish and Game has reached an agreement with the various
jurisdictions of the State to treat the burrowing owl as if it were in danger and to the point
where we have to do a survey to see if there are any on the site and two before any sort of
disturbance to the property happens in the form of grading or excavation, we have to do
another survey to see if the owls have between those two times have started inhabiting the
site, because they move around a lot. So if we do that, then we don't have to compensate
for other lands.
Doug Wilson: Are there species or for that matter plant material that are being interrupted
unnecessarily?
Nancy Ferguson: No. There was no endanger of plants on the site because most of the
area has already been disturbed in the past with either agriculture or with some other
method. The bird that Gary spoke about would have inhabited the site, then the area that
we were talking about in Planning Area 7 would be used for that particular bird. You will
have to negotiate with the Department of Fish and Game to see if they want extra property
or not. The other species we looked for was the kangaroo rat. Which is listed and it was
determined by the biologist that there is no habitat on site for the kangaroo rat because of
the disturbance.
Doug Wilson: So to understand, at this point there is also monitoring when you are in the
process of further disturbance that we can ensure that we are not going to be destroying or
otherwise impacting critters within that particular area. Is that correct?
Nancy Ferguson: Yes.
Doug Wilson: The next item that I saw was with regard to strategic toilets. I would like to
ask the Staff about what was discussed in relation to correct sanitary facilities within the
project.
Ralph Megna: Part of that is on the notion that the project will be like an amusement park.
This project is correctly identified as a retail and services facility. It's like a shopping center
with the exception of full landscaping. The individual buildings will all be required to have
restroom facilities that will meet the requirements of those buildings whether there would be
public restrooms within the facility would be to be determined. This is something that is at a
level of detail that we haven't gotten to. I made a note of it and thought that when we get to
that level of detail, that's probably something that we would need to take a look at.
Doug Wilson: At this point, the way that this project is set up, and when he talks about the
level of detail; basically, these are guidelines and at this juncture they have not sat down
and planned a particular use other than the standard zoning and if you were using a
commercial box you would have to produce so many for so much space. And the same
with retail and so on. So far as a public toilet where people can visit, that's something that
is still under consideration.
The other item is the issue of eminent domain or condemnation. Now, we have touched on
this in the past. Is there an area of condemnation other than just blank land that would be
required or other than street frontage of right of way circumstances. In other words, is
someone's house going to get torn down with this plan?
30
Gary Koontz: There are a couple of homes on De Berry that are pre-existing, non-
conforming uses. They are already existing commercial zoning. In terms of going out and
just having the City buy the property and tearing houses down, we do not anticipate to do
that. If it comes to a point where one piece of land that may need to be acquired, we would
have to go before the City Council and they would have to take action. It has to be a 4 to 1
vote even before eminent domain and then there are whole lot of procedures that would
have to go from that. Is it a tool that may be used? Yes. Is there a law procedure that we
would have to go through? Yes. It would be a formal public hearing before the City
Council.
Doug Wilson: In other words, It's not something that the City would come down and bull
doze the property. Eminent domain takes a lot of work. It has to be proven that it would do
the community good. It has to be proven that there is no other way to deal with it and so
on. So far as an automatic situation, not a chance. Number two, it would not be authorized
by this Body. The only agency that has the right to even address it would be the City
Council. We have no authority here and still have no authority to transfer property. There is
only one body that has that authority and that's the City Council. They are the only ones
that have the authority under charter to negotiate. I would imagine that they would be
willing to listen to quite a bit of testimony in relation to it.
Robert Bidney: In regard to eminent domain and confiscation of property, we have
approximately nine property owners?
Ralph Megna: Yes. There are nine owners within the property.
Robert Bidney: We also have some renters like a tow truck business. What happens when
you fluke a (deaf with the p{'Operl� O\,,inei Lc, lake- [,is ptoper,} , artC ir,er, tnE Quy tria', hay E
business on that property is out, and has lost his business and livelihood? 0
Ralph Megna: If it's the tow truck company down on Pico Street, that is within the
requisition area proposed for the high school and not the OAC. So if your question is
related to the tow truck company, to the best of my knowledge, we are not affecting any.
However, if your question is if someone, and we do have this condition in several cases;
where someone is renting a house and that house is acquired pursuant to a resolution of
necessity adopted by the City Council with an eminent domain action, that person is
entitled to relocation benefits that would pay to move that person into similar or better
accommodations and pay the differential on rent for a given period of time so they could
afford to live where they were moved to.
Doug Wilson: I know that to be a fact because I am involved with a project in Indio
whereas the City of Indio and La Quinta have done a cooperative effort to be able to put
through a four lane road off of Jefferson Street. In order to do that they had to move about
five houses on that street. A portion of the homes were rentals, and they went and made a
fair market analysis which took about a year and a half and not one individual became
unhappy as to how the property was acquired, because there is so much legislation in
relation to protecting those peoples rights. The amount of money that they make in
relocation is more than enough to be able to compensate for it. The unfortunate thing is
that you cannot be able to compensate a person from the idea that they have lived there for
30 to 40 years.
Ralph Megna: As you have previously pointed out, this body is not involved in the eminent
domain process. To be specific in this case, I believe that there are four single family
31
homes within the 123 acres. Two of them are occupied by renters and one of them is
occupied by the relative of an owner and then the fourth is occupied by an owner. In the
case of the four houses within the property, only one is actually owner/occupied, and the
second is occupied by a relative. This not a widespread issue out of 123 acres; were
talking about four houses and two of them were rentals.
Robert Bidney: Well, if one them is mine, I would be very concerned.
Ralph Megna: We have been in communication for over a year with all of the property
owners within the foot print of the OAC have been spoken to on multiple occasions, either
by me or someone else in my firm or by the Community Development Director and has
been going on for at least a year.
Doug Wilson: This has not been a first time where a house has stood in the way of a
particular improvement.
Robert Bidney: I understand that it is the City Council's ultimate decision, but in the mean
time, I have to make a decision of what I am going to do here and I ask these questions as
a private citizen and as a Planning Commission, and I know that the City has the authority
to override this Commission or do what they want to do. But in the mean time, for me to
make a decision, I would like to do the right thing for everyone in Grand Terrace, and if I
was involved in the area that you are talking about, I would be very concerned, so I want to
know if the City is involved with a developer to the opportunity that they are going to do this
together until such time as they give the City property to the developer? That's City Council
business in knowing how to make a deal. but I would like to know a little bit about it mvself
Ralph Megna: The development process that this project has pursued is unusual. Most
communities, and I think it's important to indicate that I have served as the development
director for the City of Riverside in addition to the City of Grand Terrace, I also advise the
Cities of Fontana and Redlands on redevelopment issues. Most of those communities, if
they had a similar situation, would send out an RFP, and invited developers to propose
projects for the property. The City itself would have spent little or no energy trying to
understand what was going on with the real estate, and what can be developed on it. They
just solicited developer proposals. That's not what the City of Grand Terrace did. The City
Council clearly told us that it had expectations about how it wanted the property developed
and as we went through at the last meeting, I explained that we looked closely at a
residential alternative and looked at an industrial alternative and a normal shopping center.
When we presented the concept of the adventures center, the Council said they liked it and
wanted us to pursue it.
Robert Bidney: We're going to develop this property and the City is going to work with the
developer. Is the City involved working with the developer, and the City is the only one that
can do the condemnation. That's my question.
Ralph Megna: Yes. The City would be a partner with the developer in the development of
this project, though it sees that role primarily as an opportunity to continue to see that its
vision for the project get fulfilled and not circuited off into left field somewhere.
Doug Wilson: The City is the only one that can do that because the developer can't
because legally, only a governmental agency can act on eminent domain.
**INAUDIBLE**
32
Doug Wilson: No it's not. Wait a minute, let me address that. It's not segregated, the
developer doesn't have any right to make an eminent domain. It has to be by a
government agency. That's law.
"INAUDIBLE"
Doug Wilson: There was a question in relation to getting rid of garbage and solids. In the
EIR, it addresses where the local garbage collections are and each individual and it has
been my experience with commercial ventures as well as retail and so on, that there's a
plenty good amount of time on where and how the garbage will be collected and picked up
taken away.
So far as the twenty foot sound wall, it's not really what it is. There will be no 20 foot sound
barrier that will be built any place. There are sound attenuation circumstances that will be
addressed within the project and they might even benefit us in relation to existing sound
situations but those will be in each individual site plan; so those will be addressed the way
that they always are in each project.
In relation to the high school. I think that there has been more information available on the
high school and we possibly got some better clarification on that and it was due. It should
have been clarified and I congratulate our Mayor ProTem for getting involved in that and
getting some additional information and brining it to the staff members. I can guarantee you
that it is not real easy to get a straight story a lot of time. Some of that has to do with
projects in process, and it also has to do with the State being a larger entity that we are and
they oet away with a little more
"INAUDIBLE"
Doug Wilson: I believe that there has been some program set up for the improvement of
the intersection at Barton Road and the freeway for quite awhile. I can't answer that but I
don't know if the money is going to go away.
Ralph Megna: First of all, the answer to the question is yes, in fact Congressman Lewis'
office has been instrumental in obtaining a $500,000 for the City of Grand Terrace so that it
can analyze the current Barton Road exit and propose safety and access improvements to
it. The $500,000 would be used to analyze, design and determine the environmental
impacts associate with any changes to the Barton Road on and off ramps. It would be up
to the Council to decide. Many of the changes that we're proposing are safety changes.
The Barton Road off ramp and onramp system was put in place in 1957 or 58, so it is now
almost 50 years old, and there are many elements of it that aren't very safe any longer.
Probably the most important of which is a 3 lane bridge is simply unsafe, and part of the
money would be used to study an enlargement of the bridge to four lanes.
"INAUDIBLE"
Doug Wilson: It certainly wouldn't be this body. I'll tell you that.
Gary Koontz: It's a coordinated effort between the City, Caltrans, and SANBAG. The funds
would be designated for the City of Grand Terrace, but to use those funds, we have to work
directly through Caltrans and SANBAG. So Caltrans does actually regulate the funds for
that. We have to get the funds for them and then they make sure we are using them
33
properly. In terms of using the money, we have to go through a very detailed formal RFP
process, controlled by SANBAG and Caltrans to contract with an engineer and an
environmental firm.
Doug Wilson: So the answer is, that no; the money doesn't necessarily go away, the bottom
line is that it is a coordinated effort and it has to be implemented by the City Council.
**INAUDIBLE"
Ralph Megna: There were a couple of questions with regard to the lake and water pollution
that I think I can address briefly. One is to understand that at this moment, there is no
agreement with the City of Riverside regarding the use of the lake as a recharge basin, and
I want to underscore that their use of it is not as a reservoir. In other words, this is not like
Diamond Lake, it's not like Lake Perris. It is a recharge facility. That was an idea proposed
by the City of Riverside and it's Public Utilities Department, and it did not come from us. It
was something that when we met with them regarding their wells and water transmission
facilities, they raised it and said that they would like to investigate it on their own and we
have given them the room to do that. At present, the EIR and the Specific Plan describes
an ordinary lake with an impermeable bottom similar to the Adobe Clay, which is what lakes
are made out of, so at this moment that is what the EIR anticipates. If, in fact, the City of
Riverside and it's Public Utilities Department comes back to us and says, we would really
like to do a recharge basin here, the City of Riverside will have to do it's own EIR and
Impact Analysis associated with that in order to do it. It's really one their backs to take that
forward. I might add that the City of Riverside has not hesitated in the past to protect the
cuality of it's water sources and my suspicion is that if that were an issue here, they would
make sure iha-L w6 aia every-uiirig accoraingi).
Doug Wilson: I am a little sensitive to that because of the lake situation, and I did ask our
Community Development Director that if we couldn't work it out the other way, was he
going to have a pool skimmer to take trash out of the lake.
**INAUDIBLE**
Ralph Megna: Someone mentioned a concern on whether the lake was 8 or 12 acres. The
main lake is estimated at about 8 acres, but the total water surface between the main lake
and the small body of water that is connect under a channel under the bridge and the pond
at the south end totals 12 acres.
Doug Wilson: Can you tell us how the lake water runs through, because I know the
difference between a lake and an area that gets stuck with water in it is substantial.
Ralph Megna: Well, this is a man made engineered lake, and is also a detention basin that
is meant to contain a certain amount of storm water runoff that most of which is not
generated by the OAC. This is an engineered lake and channel with a pond. There will be
a delta between the nominal water surface and the edge of the lake and what will happen in
a major storm is that this area will be allowed to fill then there will be a spillway that will
allow the water to run into the lower area and will be allowed to overflow into an existing
County flood control facility.
Doug Wilson: At the current time from what I have read in the EIR, is that we really don't
have a detention per say that actually handles the amount of water that is run off for the
City for a 100 year storm condition. Not only does this create a water feature, but as long
34
as we are careful to make sure that it environmentally safe, it creates a circumstance of
now that we do have control detention and an outlet at the lower end.
Ralph Megna: Two other features include under non storm circumstances, water is
introduced into the lake primarily at the falls that are located at the entry into the project.
That will provide an opportunity for aeration, where the water gets circulated and dumped
into and poured into the lake. Through gravity, the water will flow into this channel which
would create the water to move at 2 feet per second so it could be used to do fly fishing
demonstrations or potentially kayaking. The other body of water, or pond will be the
wetlands replacement area. The water will get pumped back up to the falls, and will be
used to recharge the lake along with water that will be brought from an outside source,
whether it's the City of Riverside, or our own.
Doug Wilson: What will happen if the water starts to evaporate. What is the potential for
losing water per year.,
Ralph Megna: Even if the lake has an impermeable bottom, it will require about 1 million
gallons per month to be refreshed. At this moment, it requires about 3-5% of our pumping
capacity on site. It will only take a fraction of our water capacity that we already own an
control on site to refresh the lake. That would be if this becomes a joint project with the
City of Riverside and it's Public Utilities department, the City of Riverside would be
responsible for providing adequate flows into the lake. It's water will be coming from the
source north of here near the Santa Ana river and will be brought to this site using their
existing canal system.
Douc Wilson: Isn't there a mechanism within the community itself that is self sufficient so
far as who will pay for the replacemem of the watei.
Ralph Megna: For example, if the City of Riverside were not to do this, it requires only
about 5% of our water capacity that we have on site right now to provide water for the lake.
That water will also be shared with the school district. They would like access to that water
to keep the playing fields green. We have agreed to work with them to distribute water to
their facility as well.
**INAUDIBLE**
Doug Wilson: It's plan currently is a clay bottom. The water will not be able to go through. If
the City of Riverside decides that they want something other than that to be able to justify
the recharge option, then instead of us being responsible for manufacturing the
engineering, it will be the responsibility of the City of Riverside to protect their aquifer. So at
this point with a clay bottom, I can guarantee that there is no way for the water to go
through the clay bottom.
**INAUDIBLE**
Matt Addington: Someone had asked a question with regard to the effects of an
earthquake and the lake.
Ralph Megna: The result would be wave generation. It would also mostly depend on
whether is vertical or horizontal in it's energy. In either case, you will get wave action.
Because the lake will be used as a detention, there is a lip around the lake, so to a certain
extent, and unless the waves were huge, the waves would be contained within the basin. If
35
the issue is whether it would create a crack in the liner for the lake, anything is possible.
There are canals in this area that would probably be affected as well if the seismic event
were that great, however, what I can say is that whatever impact is going to be associated
with that is limited to the water that's in the lake at that moment. We can choose to turn the
water off and the impact can be entirely limited to just what water is in the lake at the time
that the event takes place. Since we have segmented this, it would not necessarily effect
the entire body of water because there is a weir or floodgate and the lower body of water
where the wetlands area is could be effectively segregated from the larger body of water to
its north and east.
Gary Koontz: Let me add a couple of things, first of all, this is not the only lake in Southern
California. Whatever happens to this one will happen to a lot of other ones. Secondly, to
design a lake, you go to a lake design specialist. You just don't dig a hole in the ground.
There are people out there who do this for a living and understand how to make it work
correctly. Any type of design that is done uses up to date geotechnical and soils reports.
Which include detailed information on seismic issues and standards that they have to abide
by.
Doug Wilson: The company that builds the lake also has to warranty the lake for a period
of time as well.
**INAUDIBLE**
Doug Wilson: That was one of the reason why I brought that up with regard to water
motion. I was in a meeting today. and we talked about lakes. because the project that I am
involved witri in my vegui& t}usiness is going io . eve sornewhele upwaros tG 2- lakes anc
an 18 hole golf course. We talked about water distribution and the main way of keeping
things like that from happening is making sure the water moves. You can't even aerate a
lake when it's in a sub condition and actually properly create a condition where you don't
end up with a bunch of algae. People will try to put gold fish in a lake and it's amazing how
fast birds find them. The best way to cope with algae is to keep the water moving. That is
the current design for the project to keep the water recirculating. If the water is not moving,
it's not going to work.
**INAUDIBLE**
Ralph Megna: This is the City of Riverside's aquifer. The City of Riverside actually owns
this water, and the City of Riverside would go to considerable lengths to protect the quality
of it. I would not be surprised if we decide to go forward that they would have clauses that
guarantee that the water quality be maintained at this location.
**INAUDIBLE**
Ralph Megna: Good question. The depth of the lake is directly related to algae blooming.
The minimum depth of the lake would be about 8 feet. That's not a arbitrary number, it is a
number based on experience on how deep water needs to be in order to be able to protect
the water from algae blooms and other development.
Doug Wilson: There's also a maximum depth that you can do because then you come
under the hospices of a dam. So we must exercise that range which is up to 22 feet.
36
Ralph Megna: Because this is an engineered facility we can actually do this within inches,
but it will probably be in the range of 8 to 10 feet across the large body of water.
Matt,Addington: I can expand on that. The relationship of depth versus volume when you
get into a dam situation. I have another question. Green buffers and set backs from the
streets. You had presented that there were going to be some good buffers along the main
arterial section such as Adventure Way or Commerce Way. What about along the existing
residences. What kind of buffers are we looking at in that area.
Gary Koontz: The buffers will be dictated by the kinds of uses, the heights of the buildings,
and the decisions made by the Commission when each project comes for a site an
architectural review. We require a minimum of some sort of a wall with at least a five foot
landscape strip for trees to buffer from where the building sets back and what's the decision
of the Commission.
Matt Addington: Another question that we talked about last week with regard to truck traffic
on Van Buren. Is there a way that we can tell Willdan Pump that their traffic has to go west
on Van Buren and not head up to Michigan.
Gary Koontz: One of the things we touched on last time was at the discretion of the City
Council, it may be possible to take this section of Michigan and designate it as a non-truck
route. That would have to be action by the City Council, but we can at least get trucks off
of Michigan. We could go to Willdan and have a serious discussion about routing trucks.
Matt Addington: Will on street parking be allowed within the Specific Plan area.
Gary Koontz. Vve are noL piarin.rig any ors sLieei parking.
Ralph Megna: However, we are planning bike lanes on all of the streets. Typically bike
lanes and on street parking are not compatible.
Tom Comstock: With regard to repair of jet skis and boats; will they be allowed on the lake
at all to test equipment that has been repaired.
Gary Koontz: That's an issue that can be regulated by this Body and the City Council.
Doug Wilson: I would suggest that it probably be used for new sales. The emission issue
was a very solid question that was asked. I do know that there is some information within
the EIR as well as our amendment so far as emission and how they are supposed to be
mitigated.
Nancy Ferguson: I think that was an issue related to water quality. Newly formulated fuels
does not contain MTBE any more. This goes back to the issue of what types of boats will
be on the lake. We were under the assumption that it would be solely for new boats.
Doug Wilson: California Law does not allow that kind of emission in their fuel?
Nancy Ferguson: It is no longer used as an additive. There were some questions that were
brought up with regard to the EIR that should be addressed. I think that it is important that
it is put into the record.
37
One of the issues that I didn't quite grasp last week, but it finally made sense this evening
was when Ms. Farley made mention to the draft findings and statements of overriding
considerations when the question arose that last week how you had already made a
decision on the project and I like to address that. The document that Ms. Farley has is a
copy of the Draft, and I emphasize the word, Draft Findings and Statements of Overriding
Considerations. That is a legal document that the City Council must adopt if they decide to
certify the EIR. It was in your packet as information. So that you could see what the City
Council would be adopting if they chose to certify the EIR. It is not a document that is ready
for adoption because it does not contain the most recent information that we have and
some of the changes in the EIR would have to be modified based on some of the
comments we received last week and this week. We made that effort and are responding
to the comments that Mr. Megna went through so by the time the Final EIR gets to the City
Council, the draft findings would then be finalized and then be update. So if people have
copies of the findings,, it is a draft and it would be updated based on new information that
has been provided at the Planning Commission.
Doug Wilson: I would also like to mention that the EIR purpose is to notify other agencies
and all other interested parties basically. That document then goes through a State
Clearinghouse operation and there is a time frame of 45 days. At the end of the 45 day
period, they certify that it is actually been exposed for public scrutiny and that it can
become a final EIR. None of it is a Final EIR until it actually has been revised and so and is
brought before the City Council. The City Council then adopts the EIR. This Body is not
allowed to do that, what we are allowed to do is to make a recommendation. Whether or
not the findings have been correctly identified or whether or not we recommend to the City
Council that it should be adopted we do not have the authority to certifv the EIR
**INAUDIBLE**
Doug Wilson: Understand that even at this point it's still a transmission. At this juncture,
nobody has the authority to make it a final EIR until it is certified by the local agency. So it's
a rubber document for now.
Nancy Ferguson: That is what I wanted to clarify. I did not realize last week what the
confusion was, and I didn't realize until tonight that when I saw that a reporter had a copy of
the findings and I thought that it was interesting. Those are still a draft. The other issue
about the sound wall; I would like to clarify that the Environmental Impact Report as you
said before evaluated the Specific Plan for this project and it evaluated a large picture. As
we have bantered back and forth over the past two nights about this, how often are we
going to come back here and talk about future projects as they come in. With that in mind,
the noise engineer did his evaluation based on a project that didn't have any buildings
because he didn't know where the buildings were going to be situated in relation to the
houses. The fourteen foot sound wall that appears in the EIR represents a worse case
scenario, and once that area called the OAC retail comes in and we see where the
buildings are actually located, they would revise the analysis on the noise to see how much
attenuation those buildings would provide for the residential areas. Once this takes place,
it will be obvious that the sound wall will not be needed. But it is currently unknown.
Doug Wilson: A project in Fontana required a 15 foot sound wall required for railroad
sound attenuation. What they did is they built a berm seven feet high and then built a wall
on top of the berm at 8 feet high. The reason why did that was because anything above
that particular height would require a conditional use permit or a variance process by the
city. Most of the engineering of project would have to determine the pad height of each
38
project and the location of the buildings. In order to be able to attenuate a project, you
have to have theoretical attenuation device.
Nancy Ferguson: The other concern was with regard to the high school and whether or not
we had adequately evaluated it's potential to be on the site. When we first started the EIR
we sent out a Notice of Preparation, in which it was sent out to the agencies including the
school district. At that point, it was to our understand that the school district had not made
a decision about the site and it was not what is commonly referred to as a reasonably
foreseeable project. Even though they were talking about putting a high school in Grand
Terrace, when the Notice of Preparation was circulating, the site had not been secured by
the school district and so we evaluated the existing conditions under the California
Environmental Quality Act. That is the reason that the high school was not prominently
featured in the EIR. Although it did pop up in certain places during the process that it
became evident that the high school was probably going to go into that area we did
address it as best as we could by saying that the high school would be at least 1300 feet
away from the noise generators. We used the property line to evaluate it and it seem now
that the buildings will be much farther away from 1300 feet.
The last concern was with regard to alternative. Many people asked why we only looked at
certain alternatives. The residential alternative and the tilt up alternatives for distribution
facilities. There was a very definite reason why we did that and not a business park with
offices was because the general type of development that is coming our way from Orange
and Los Angeles Counties have been homes, and distribution warehouse facilities because
they have run out of space in Orange and Los Angeles Counties; and there still is a lot of
potential and a pent up need for distribution and warehouse facilities. The reason why we
did not evaluate a business park with corporate headquarters is because corporations
96n6raii;V rlaV6 th6€[ k6aQC4L LrtG€;. Vv- 16r6 L �� CLC, & wam is 1€\C.. reeve was r6cently 0`ei
the past couple of months with regard to what the development in the Inland Empire might a
look like in the future. Given the fact that development is moving out this way, and the
consensus was that it's not likely that we will not get a lot of corporate headquarters out
here because CEO's would rather live in Newport Beach.
Someone mentioned Hospitality Lane as an example where you could have a business
park and corporate headquarters, but as we all know Hospitality Lane has not been built
out yet and they have been working on that area since 1965. A lot of the area is
restaurants, hotels, and business, but for the most part, they are not corporate
headquarters. One of the buildings that is located there says Xerox, but it is not the
corporate headquarter but rather a branch office. Tetra tech, a nationwide environmental
engineering firm has an office in that area but it's not the corporate office. We could have
done that but in relativity, what you are seeing along the 215 corridor are either commercial
power centers or are residential, where they buy next to the freeway, so a sound wall is
then built. Rancho Cucamonga and Ontario are perfect examples to distribution and
warehousing and what they look like, so we made a conscious effort to evaluate the
alternatives that we thought we reasonably feasible. If the Outdoor Adventures Center
does not work out and it develops on it' own, those are the types of things that you can
expect.
Ralph Megna: If this project were approved this Summer, the retail stores would not open
until the Fall of 2006. That would be the first stores. Full build out would probably not occur
until the end of the decade.
Tom Comstock: Is there any interest from developers or major retail stores?
39
Ralph Megna: Yes. With respect to developers, the developers have known about this
project for two years, and we made no effort whatsoever to promote it. They read about it
in newspaper accounts regarding this project and was picked up there. We have
interviewed 9-10 different development entities with respect to their qualifications to do this
project. Some of these are people like Majestic who are building the Citrus Plaza in the
Redlands area, and Lanar Partners, which is one of the largest developers in this country.
One of the reality tests that this project has had to experience is are the developers who
look at this think that it is a good idea. In fact, quite a few developers have contacted us
from the newspapers articles and said, this is a good idea, how do we get involved.
Doug Wilson: To say that the project has had that type of entertainment in the past two
years is a little deceptive. What takes place is that developers know where every parcel in
every community is vacant at the time. As far out as Coachella Valley is bought out and is
in escrow. They know whether there is a capability of generating revenue. That is the way
a developer pursues it. When something that has been known for a couple of years. It is
realistic to say that there is a 130 acre parcel that could be a development opportunity.
90% of the time they know that they will push that community into that direction if they see
a fairly decent opportunity because they are treasure hunters.
**INAUDIBLE**
Doug Wilson: In the instance of a lot of racquet being built, the development of the project
itself usually doesn't generate a ton of heavy work usually grading are the things that create
a lot of noise generation and dust As a development pro iect is phased. there is still subject
to tiie same requirements as everybody else is. I,C ML) is aeadiy wher, it comes to oust,
and SWPP, also known as Storm Water Pollution Prevention is deadly when it come to
making sure that water does not get polluted. All of those circumstances including noise
regulations are individually prescribed. So it wouldn't make a difference whether they went
in there and wiped out 130 acres tomorrow and build a bunch of stuff within six months, or
whether they did it slowly but surely for a better potential to be a little bit less of an intrusion
in your situation.
**INAUDIBLE**
Doug Wilson: That is the reason why we will be reviewing each of the site plans.
Ralph Megna: Mr. Chairman, you made an interesting comment with regard to the grading
activities. One of our requirements is that we do not want the community to have to
experience dirt having to be brought in or taken out of the area. We went through a
sophisticated computer analysis of this site. In order to insure that the site balance to within
a foot within it's boundaries. In other words, we made a conscious effort to avoid any
impacts to the community associated with having to truck dirt in or out.
Doug Wilson: You have all probably seen them go down the highway and they can be quite
a disturbance, and it is also cost wise to do so.
Tom Comstock: On the proposed site plan you have a hotel, fitness center, retail, motor
sports and water sports, have we had any interest expressed by those types of businesses.
Ralph Megna: We have had meetings in contact with more than one potential hotel
developer with multiple retailers that would be suitable for the development of this site with
40
at least one major fitness chain. So when we show these things, this is a conceptual
drawing but we have reality tested this with the market leaders in each of these areas. In
other words, we've reality tested the site with LA Fitness for example, and they have
expressed interest in the site. We have reality tested it with the Marriott Corporation and
they have expressed interest in this site. We have reality tested it with Outdoor World
which is one of the largest recreational retailers on the planet, and they have expressed
interest in this site. In other words, when we have taken this project to the major potential
tenants, they have all expressed interest in using this site. Had we had this project a little
more advanced, there were several boat dealers that were located on the 215 closer to
Riverside that wanted to relocate to this now, but we were unable to accommodate them
because the construction on the 215 interchange was happening now and obviously we
wouldn't be ready to receive them for at least another two years.
Gary Koontz: There is another issue that I would like to add to this. There was a concern
with regard to a boat dealer comes in and cannot compete because it is too expensive. The
master developer process is as follows: The first thing would be an exclusive right to
negotiate between the City Council and the Developer. There would be a period of 6 to 8
months where the developer would have to do his due diligence. The first thing that the
developer would have to do is a massive marketing analysis and tenant search. He would
not put a lot of money down and the City join in unless the developer says that a tenant
would work. The developer may go out and discover that the kind of costs that will take will
not be able to get a boat dealer here, so then at that point; we won't have a boat dealer
because it will not work feasibly. So then, we would have to find another type of use that
can support this with the kind of rents.
**At this time the Chairman called for a five minute recess**
Doug Wilson: I had a concern with the issue of water quality, so I would like to call a
representative who has made himself available to briefly talk about the water quality.
Don Hough-General Manager
Riverside Highland Water
We serve Grand Terrace and parts of Highgrove. The first responsibility to Riverside
Highland Water is to supply water to our shareholders and customers within our service
area. This project is within our service area, but it's really not our decision what it is,
whether it's an Outdoor Adventures Center or residential or irrigation that is being served
through Riverside County. Our responsibility is to deliver water at a sufficient quantity and
quality.
We have been working with the City, in fact when they first approached us about the project
in October into November, of last year, we put together a water supply assessment to
determine if we had sufficient quantities to supply to it. And we found that we did. In fact,
we took in to consideration that the City's well could not be used, we have the capability to
deal the water to the lake as well as all of the irrigation. At the same time, we started to talk
about the quality and so forth. Originally, as Mr. Koontz mentioned there was supposed to
be a liner on it. That in itself would prevent any kind of contamination reaching the aquifer.
Second of all, we have wells in this area. We have one well on Michigan below Mavis. As
a matter of fact it is on Mr. Swertsfeger's property. We also have a well on Main and
Taylor, so we are very concerned about the water quality in this area. We have been in
contact with the City about this. They now have water craft, not just boats, but also
personal water craft that do not produce the kind of pollution that the two stroke engines do.
41
They now have a four stroke in which Honda makes one. From what I understand and the
way that we have been in conversation, these were all going to be the new water craft that
were going to be on this lake. Now, after the EIR came out, the City of Riverside
approached the City and we got a copy of that and read their comments where they were
interested in replenishment of the aquifer. The City of Riverside has been doing a project
that they were entitled to pump a certain amount of water and make it a majority of their
water out of San Bernardino out of the Bunker Basin, they were topped at 50,000 acre feet
per year. That is not enough to supply, but they need more water. If they want to pump an
additional 25,000 acre feet from this basin, that's going to substantially draw down this
aquifer. They have been looking for some time now, to find a place to recharge this
aquifer, this project would be ideal. If it would work out for them. We are in favor of that,
but we are not going to just stand by and let them go ahead and start re-charging; nor
would they do that, they are going to do their studies and analysis to see if it would work,
because there are some clay lands below that. The water table in that area right now is
about 110 feet. There are some clay lands between the surface and that area that would
have to be penetrated to create some recharge. There is a lot more than just quality here
as far as whether they can do it or not. If they can, and it would not create a quality
problem, we are all for it. An additional 25,000 acre per feet from the basin could impact
our wells, so as far as the statement earlier that they own the aquifer; that's a little
inaccurate. It is an aquifer Riverside north that there are a number of us who have pumping
rights. They are one of them and we are another one. We have combined rights of certain
amount. If they overdraft, then it would be their duty to recharge it.
I am glad to take this opportunity to speak because it sounded like we really weren't
involved and didn't have a concern about it. We have had a concern about it and we have
been working with the City. kigh-L now, there is nothing tna-L s going Lc De cone where 'we
won't have some kind of input in, nor the City of Riverside. As far as that aquifer, as far as
quality, or any kind of recharge. I would be more than happy to answer any kind of
questions if anyone has any.
Chair Wilson closed the public hearing and brought it back to the Commission for any
comments or questions.
Commissioner Whitely: First of all, I need a clarification with regard to tax generation from
this area. Obviously, there is a sales tax revenue which was explained would be a benefit
to the City. Development would also presumably increase the property tax assessed
valuations of these properties as they are developed regardless of what type of
development is put on the property. What, if any benefits, does that generate to the City.
Ralph Megna: Given that the current assessed values in this area are only a few million
dollars and that the in place value of this project is probably something approaching 110 or
120 million dollars, there would clearly be an increase in total assessed value of 100 million
dollars by the development of this project is that it would generate additional property taxes.
This area is a redevelopment project area and most of that addition would come in the form
of tax increment revenues to the City of Grand Terrace's Redevelopment Agency and
would be a benefit to the community over the life of the project.
Doug Wilson: Due to tax law, how would it affect the surrounding uses, just because the
property has changed in character from 300 million dollars to 100 million dollars worth of
valuation, would that affect the neighborhood that isn't selling their property?
42
Ralph Megna: Under Proposition 13, you are capped at 2% increase per year, so if you do
not sell or exchange your property, there is no impact on the nearby property owners
whatsoever. The only impact that would occur would be within the development zone
where this an transaction taking place.
Commissioner Brian Whitely: With regard to the infrastructure costs to the streets, is it my
understanding that the developer would be the one effectively paying the costs'of that?
Ralph Megna: The developer certainly would, but it is premature for us to speculate on
exactly how that would be financed, there are a number of mechanisms for doing that. In
response to an earlier question, I think it would be important to indicate that we have held
off and we felt that it would be reasonable and even prudent for us to bring a developer in
before that. Once we do have a developer on board, we would be in a much better position
to do some of these detailed issues that you are raising. For example, how will specific
elements of the project be finance. Clearly, the developer is going to have a say on how
that's accomplished.
Gary Koontz: Basically, we are looking at two different structures for funding. Either private
development funds or community facilities district, which would basically encompass the
immediate project area. In no way, shape or form would we be using City General Funds
to fund improvements in this project.
Doug Wilson: When you say community facility district, that means mapping a particular
area and making it responsible for assessments.
Brian Whitley In the list of intersections that's identified in the EIR. There is one
zersecuon whicr, i arc no-L see, alfhough it is conL6 mpiaiec or. Detrig approvea ana li lat
was the intersection of Barton and Michigan. Is that an oversight and should it be corrected
for the final EIR, and also just to make sure that the development assuming that the cost is
appropriate to the development that it is appropriately including so that the developer does
pay for that rather than the City. I would not want an intersection that is not included in the
EIR fall under the responsibility of the City to improve.
Ralph Megna: What your asking about is not whether we analyzed the intersection
because that did occur, but what you are asking is with regard to Table 4.3-13 why it is not
listed as one of the intersection of roadway improvements.
Brian Whitley: That is correct, we have a number of intersections associated with
development costs and that was one that I just did note unless it was characterized
differently.
Ralph Megna: We are about to get that answer for you from the traffic engineer. It is a
practical matter. That intersection does get upgraded in order to carry the inbound and
outbound traffic through the intersection of Barton and Michigan.
Carl Ballard: There were two analysis done for the project. One analysis was done that did
not have the new interchange and we had the supplemental analysis that did have the new
interchange and that was per the direction of SCAG and SANBAG. The analysis that does
not have the interchange has mitigation at Barton and Michigan because as you know,
more traffic will go through that intersection. With the new interchange, the intersection of
Barton and Michigan would actually work fine with the existing lanes even though that small
segment of Michigan would have to be slightly modified.
43
Ralph Megna: To clarify, the answer is that we are not actually changing the intersection,
but we would be changing the street width in that distance, so it's showing up as an
intersection improvement, but we do pick it up as a street improvement for the length of that
space.
Doug Wilson: So from Commerce to Barton Road.
Carl Ballard: That's correct.
**INAUDIBLE**
Carl Ballard: The levels of service of an intersection is based upon conflicting movements,
so suppose if you look at an intersection that you have people going east on Barton, they
are conflicting with people wanting to go north on Michigan and make a left on Barton.
With the new interchange, your going to redesign the flow of traffic where we will have less
traffic coming off the freeway and going east on Barton. There will be more coming off the
new interchange to Commerce to Michigan and making a right on Barton. So there will be
less conflicting movement and the level of service will actually improve at an intersection
because your going to have less going east on Barton coming off the interchange because
there is no off ramp. And they will be making a right. A right turn lane, you have better
levels of service. Left turn lanes make more of a conflict.
**INAUDIBLE**
Carl Baiiara. But with the riew aesig;.....
**INAUDIBLE**
Carl Ballard: That's kind of the way that the traffic is going to work also. If you are coming
west on Barton, you're not going to care because of the design of the interchange...
**INAUDIBLE**
Carl Ballard: We are going to eliminate most of traffic going east on Barton.
Ralph Megna: A considerable portion of the traffic that goes north on Michigan to go to
Barton Road and then as the gentleman points out turns left to go west on Barton is doing
so to get to the freeway onramp. Much of that traffic that is coming up Michigan is coming
from Willdan Pump. Particularly, mid afternoon, because their shifts let off starting at 3:00 in
the afternoon. I might add that we pretty much analyzed all of this. We think that a part of
the traffic that is going north on Michigan and then west on Barton to get on to the 215
Freeway, will instead choose to take a much shorter route. They will never end up on
Michigan or Barton if this plan is followed through.
It is not a perfect solution and we have not eliminated 100% of the issue, but we got rid of
half of it and we thought that we were doing pretty well at that point.
Doug Wilson: Ms. Farley, I see you have your hand up.
**INAUDIBLE**
44
Brian Whitley: On the subject of the eminent domain aspects and the four houses
apparently that are non conforming in the area, my understanding would be that at the
present time given the current zoning of the property, industrial/commercial type buildings
can be built immediately adjacent to and surrounding all of those existing residences.
Gary Koontz: Correct.
Brian Whitley: I am not sure of the exact location of those residences within the area, but
given what is being proposed at this time is a specific plan which is essentially a guideline
for development in theory, at least, a developer would not need to develop all of the
property within the area shown because either they cannot negotiate an agreement with the
homeowner, and/or the City did not want to condemn the property; they could, in theory
build around it.
Gary Koontz: Theoretically. Please note also, that Mr. Dotson who spoke the last time
owns two of those parcels at the end of De Berry Street. Those parcels are for sale and
have been for sale for quite some time. We have talked with Mr. Dotson and he definitely
wants to sell these pieces of land.
**INAUDIBLE**
Brian Whitley: Basically what the existing zoning which has been there for many years
owning a residential property in an industrial/commercial zoned area is not generally
desirable situation, at least for long term.
Ralph Meana- You're makinc a ven/ good point It's very important to understand while
ir}ere are iow resioences vvitniri the projeci tomprim, 100r,/o 0, the property in finis area is
zoned either commercial or industrial. None of the property that is planned for the OAC is
zoned residential, not one square inch of it.
**INAUDIBLE"
Doug Wilson: Any further questions or discussion? Would the Commission like to
entertain a motion on SP-04-01 and E-04-03?
Matt Addington: If I may, based upon my experience in the land development business, and
watching projects proceed in a patchwork and with building within the zoning and how they
turn out, and watching projects proceed within a specific plan where their good guidelines
for development, I would like to move that the Planning Commission recommend the
certification of the Environmental Impact Report and approval of the Ordinance to Adopt the
Specific Plan to the City Council.
MOTION PC-09-2004: Vice Chair Addington made a motion to recommend the
certification of the Environmental Impact Report E-04-03,
and approval of the Ordinance to Adopt the Specific Plan
S P-04-01.
Chair Wilson seconded the motion.
MOTION VOTE:
PC-09-2004 Approved 4-1-0-0
Commissioner Bidney voting no
45
ADJOURN SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD/PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING 10:45 P.M.
Information to Commissioners
None
Information from Commissioners
Vice Chair Addington had a question with regard to the status of handicap parking stalls at
Pico Park, and was the comment forwarded on to other Staff in the City. Being a user of
Pico Park during the Little League season and having someone in my family that requires a
placard for handicap parking, I have noticed that there are not handicap stalls at the park. I
am sure that it meets code for the amount of stalls but I would like for the City to consider
adding a few more.
Steve Berry: If and when you look at the parking lot, it is actually due for new slurry coat
and seal. Once the application is finished, we will add more handicap parking stalls.
NEXT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO BE HELD ON JUNE 3, 2004
Respectfully Submitted, Approved By,
Gary Koontz, Planning Director Doug Wilson, Chairman
Planning Commission
46
ORDINANCE NO.
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE
APPROVING SP-04-01 (THE OUTDOOR ADVENTURES CENTER SPECIFIC PLAN)
AND E-04-03 (ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT)
WHEREAS, the property covered by the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan is the
largest undeveloped commercial/industrial site within the City of Grand Terrace; and
WHEREAS, the general vicinity of the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan has
been difficult to develop on individual parcels due to topographic, access, and infrastructure
constraints; and
WHEREAS, the City General Plan requires the preparation of a Specific Plan for
commercial projects of 10 acres or more;
WHEREAS, the Specific Plan land uses are consistent with those identified in the City
General Plan for Commercial and Industrial land uses; and
WHEREAS, the City of Grand Terrace Redevelopment Agency initiated the proposed
Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan under SP-04-01, as shown on Exhibit A, in order to
provide for the orderly development of the a large commercial project: and
WHEREAS, development the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan will result in
high quality commercial development that will generate a significant increase in sales tax
revenues to support City services and programs for City residents; and
WHEREAS, the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan (SP-04-01), as presented in
Exhibit A, is consistent with the General Plan of the City of Grand Terrace; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality
Act, an Environmental Impact Report and Mitigation Monitoring Program have been prepared
under E-04-03, for this proposal with the Environmental Impact Report (Exhibit B) having been
considered by the Planning Commission and the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a properly noticed public hearings on May 6,
2004,May 20, 2004, and June 3, 2004; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission following its public hearing on June 3, 2004
recommended that the City Council approve the Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan under
SP-04-01 and associated Environmental Impact Report under E-04-03, set out in full in the
attached Exhibits A and B,be approved and adopted by the City Council; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a properly noticed public hearing on September 9,
2004 for SP-04-01 and E-04-03.
�1:,::'LJ v�L'a � 4+ �L:i:✓IP! Y 6 l.� tl �\V®• �./V J,/•^1
NOW, THEREFORE, THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GRAND TERRACE,
CALIFORNIA, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1: The proposed Outdoor Adventures Center Specific Plan (SP-04-
01) set out in full in Exhibits A is hereby approved and adopted by
the City Council.
Section 2: The Environmental Impact Report on file in the Community
Development Department of the City of Grand Terrace (E-04-03)
is hereby approved as Exhibit B.
Section 3: Effective Date: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect at
12:01 a.m. on the 3 1" day of its adoption.
Section 4: Postinw. The City Clerk shall cause this Ordinance to be posted in
three (3) public places with fifteen (15) days of its adoption, as
designated for such purpose by the City Council.
Section 5: First read at a regular meeting of the City Council of said City held
on the 9th day of September, 2004 and finally adopted and ordered
posted at a regular meeting of said City Council on the 23ia day of
September, 2004.
ATTEST:
City Clerk of the City of Grand Mayor of the City of Grand Terrace
Terrace and of the City Council and of the City Council thereof
I, BRENDA STANFILL, City Clerk of the City of Grand Terrace, California, do hereby
certify that the foregoing Ordinance was introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the City
Council of the City of Grand Terrace held on September 23,2004 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Brenda Stanfill,
City Clerk
Approved as to form:
John Harper
City Attorney