Recently in Ontario City Council Category

Public invited to attend meet-and-greet

By Liset Marquez on March 8, 2012 7:32 AM | | Comments (0)
The public is invited Saturday to attend a meet and greet with members of Anjuman-e-Qutbi, the Orange County chapter -- or jamaat -- of the Dawoodi Bohras, a subset of the Islamic community and the people who have built a place of worship in the southern part of town.
In addition, the public can take tours of the new masjid, or place of worship. The 17,000-square-foot building, which opened late last year, now serves 110 families who reside not only in the Inland Empire, but Orange and Los Angeles counties.
Senator Gloria Negrete- McLeod, D-Montclair as well as Ontario Councilwoman Debra Dorst-Porada are expected to attend.
The Dawoodi Bohras are based in Mumbai, India, and have more than a million members with a majority residing in India and Pakistan. They are led by His Holiness Dr. Syedna Al Qaid Johar Mohammed Burhanuddin Saheb. There are about 11,000 members of Dawoodi Bohras living in the United States.
Tours will be available starting at 11:30 a.m. at 1027 E. Philadelphia St.

Residents petition for Rivera memorial

By Liset Marquez on March 7, 2012 8:27 PM | | Comments (0)
At Tuesday night's council meeting, a group of residents asked the city to create a public memorial in honor of the late Gene Rivera. Several residents asked the council to consider creating a recognition that not only recognized Rivera who passed away on Jan. 16, but residents who have helped the community.
Most recently, Rivera was involved in helping restore employment for BMW employees during their contract negotiations. Rivera also helped countless numbers of youth during his time in Ontario.
The council agreed to have the city manager look into something that would honor Rivera and any other prominent members of Ontario.

Upland, Riverside County supervisors back Ontario

By Liset Marquez on February 28, 2012 6:01 PM | | Comments (0)
Upland has become the latest city to support Ontario's effort to regain control of LA/Ontario International Airport, passing a resolution during Monday's City Council meeting.
In recent weeks cities in the Inland Empire such as Claremont, Chino Hills and Rancho Cucamonga have voiced their opinions about the battle over the struggling medium-hub facility. They have been joined by cities in the east San Gabriel Valley that are weighing in on the financial significance the airport has to their region.
For the past couple of years, Ontario officials have lobbied for local control, claiming they would be able to convert ONT ---- which serves four counties ---- into a competitive regional airport again.
Upland City Manager Stephen Dunn explained to the council on Monday Ontario's situation.
"And we've been seeing the airport lose traffic, a lot of traffic, over the years and there's nothing in the horizon that shows that we're going to see an up tick of traffic unless policies are changed and there's not a whole lot of confidence that the Los Angeles World Airports will make those changes, therefore Ontario has asked all its neighboring cities to help them in this battle," he said.
The decline in air service at ONT from 2007 to 2011 led to a $494 million blow to the Inland Empire's economy and the loss of more than 9,000 jobs.
On Tuesday, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors also threw in their support for ONT.

Mautz announces son's accomplishments

By Liset Marquez on February 23, 2012 12:59 PM | | Comments (0)
Ontario Councilwoman Sheila Mautz was a very proud mother during Tuesday's council meeting. 
The mother of three took time to update the public on her youngest child, Brian, during the council comments portion of the meeting.
Mautz announced that her son had returned to Ontario after being in Australia for 3 and half years earning his doctorate in biology. 
The 30-year-old is only doing a quick tour of Ontario before he will be moving to Ottawa, Canada, to do his post-doctorate work, Mautz said.
According to Mautz, her youngest has always had an interest in science.
"I think as soon as he outgrew wanting to be a Dodger, this is what he's been wanting to do," she said.
While her son is moving away, Mautz said she is comforted by the fact that he's at least on the same continent now. Mautz said they were never able to visit him while he was in Australia but they kept in touch by Skyping every Sunday.
But Mautz said she is very proud of what her son has been able to accomplish.
"I like to claim that he got some of his brains from me," she said.

Happy Holidays, from the council

By Liset Marquez on December 22, 2011 3:50 PM | | Comments (0)
Since this is the last meeting of the year, the council shared a few wishes with the residents.
Mayor Paul Leon wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and said he loves this time of year.
For Leon, it's not about receiving the gifts, "it's about me seeing the gifts people are receiving. The look on their face, that's what excites me."
Councilwoman Sheila Mautz: "I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas,"
Councilman Jim Bowman: "I wish everyone a safe, happy and prosperous New Year."
While we're talking about the council, you should know that City Hall will be closed all next week. The Jan. 3 council meeting has been canceled; the next meeting is Jan. 17.

A nice gesture from religious leader, deputy fire chief

By Liset Marquez on December 22, 2011 3:45 PM | | Comments (0)
The council meeting typically starts with an invocation from a religious leader in the community. At the beginning of this meeting, Pastor Mike Urciuoli with Calvary Chapel Ontario brought in a 4-year-old boy whose father is serving overseas.
Urciuoli said he wanted to bring the boy in to remind everyone of the sacrifices some families have to give in order for others, like the council, the ability to hold meetings.
What most people didn't see was that as Urciuoli and the boy left, Clark stopped them at the back of the room.
Clark pulled a sticker badge out of his jacket. He handed it to the young boy and whispered something to him.
After the meeting, I spoke to Clark about that discussion. Turns out it is a very personal issue for Clark, who spent eight years in the military and whose son is attending U.S. Military Academy at West Point.
Clark said he wanted to make the moment memorable for the young boy.

A friendly visit to the City Council

By Liset Marquez on December 22, 2011 3:44 PM | | Comments (0)
It's been a while since Daryl Vollrath has come to speak at the council meeting, and Mayor Paul Leon let him know that Tuesday night, introducing him as "Daryl 'long time, no see' Vollrath."
Leon questioned Vollrath's motive for speaking (he has known to complain about some city actions in the past) but quickly backed off when he realized his intentions.
Vollrath was there to say his goodbye to Carrier.
"Thank you for all your years of service," he told the retiring fire chief.

Retiring employees recognized by city

By Liset Marquez on December 22, 2011 12:26 PM | | Comments (0)
Ontario city officials said goodbye to two longtime staff members at Tuesday night's council meeting: Fire Chief Dave Carrier and Mohamed El-Amamy, the utilities general manager.
"Both held in the highest regard in their profession, and they've always thought community and city first," City Manager Chris Hughes said.
Hughes, the previous fire chief, said he worked with Carrier for 24 years. Carrier spent 36 years in fire service, 31 of them in Ontario. 
Carrier joined the department in 1980. He was promoted to engineer in 1984, captain in 1988, battalion chief in 1993 and deputy fire chief in 2008. 
Last year, Carrier was appointed to lead the city's 136 firefighters and $36 million operating budget.
"You served our city faithfully, and it's so appreciated," Councilwoman Sheila Mautz told Carrier.
Continue reading Retiring employees recognized by city.

Council recognizes 'Ontario's favorite son'

By Liset Marquez on October 7, 2011 9:23 AM | | Comments (0)
With the green belt draped over his shoulder, Jonathan Arellano spoke to the council about his journey leading up to his Sept. 23 WBC Youth intercontinental Championship.
Arellano's amateur boxing career started at the Ontario PAL. In 2004 he was sent to Pennsylvania to fight in a national "Under 19 National Championships" were he would earn the silver medal.
He went pro in 2009, going 10-0 before getting the chance to compete in a championship fight.
As the council members took their turns congratulating the young boxer, councilwoman Sheila Mautz also warned him.
"The mayor thinks he can take you," she said.
Arellano took it in stride by saying he would take the mayor on in a charity fight.
But Mayor Paul Leon clarified the claim.
"She didn't know I meant it in a pie-eating contest," he said.
As Arellano walked along the dais, showing the council his championship belt, he invited them to his next fight which will be Nov. 4 at the Doubletree Hotel in Ontario.
He also shared some of his aspirations.
"I want to put money back into the PAL program and get it going again," he said. Arellano credits the former boxing center as helping him start his career.

California Sports Hall of Fame to hold induction class in Ontario

By Liset Marquez on February 2, 2011 5:28 PM | | Comments (0)
I'm sure some of you may recall a council meeting, more than a year ago, when Mayor Paul Leon made it known his mission to bring the California Sports Hall of Fame to the city.
It was a bit random at the time but now it looks like Leon has delivered a bit on that promise.
The California Sports Hall of Fame has decided to hold its Class of 2011 induction ceremony at the Ontario Convention Center on Feb. 27.
"This is happening right here in our city," Leon said.
During the 5th annual induction ceremony, five California sports icons will receive recognition and become a permanent part of California sports history:
· Dick Vermeil: NFL Super Bowl shampion, St. Louis Rams
· Mike Haynes: NFL hall of famer, Los Angeles Raiders
· Ken Norton: WBC heavyweight champion, World Boxing Hall of Famer
· Tony Lopez: 3-time world boxing champion
· Bob Miller: Longtime play-by-play announcer of the Los Angeles Kings
But Leon said he is not done. Ultimately, he would like to see a shrine built in Ontario for the California Sports Hall of Fame.
"We look at Ontario, and we are a destination," he said. "This is a place people want to be."
Councilman Alan Wapner said he wanted to thank Leon for his efforts.
"You're too humble for your own good," Wapner said. "You've been at the forefront of all of this and I want to thank you."
A reception for the induction will be held at 5 p.m., with dinner & induction ceremony taking place at 6 p.m.
Tickets for the dinner and ceremony are $260.
Induction reception, dinner & ceremony is $400 per ticket.
For more information, call 909-481-3541 or e-mail support@californiasportshalloffame.org.
The Ontario Convention Center is at 2000 E. Convention Center Way.

Ontario to study ambulance calls

By Liset Marquez on February 2, 2011 3:26 PM | | Comments (0)
Councilwoman Debra Dorst-Porada is asking city staff to follow in the footsteps of Upland and look into the ambulance calls made by nursing facilities in Ontario.
Late last month, Upland city officials discussed the idea of charging skilled nursing facilities for making what turn out to be non-emergency 9-1-1 calls. 
In the past year, five facilities in Upland's southeast quadrant have generated 487 incidents, of which only 146 were actual emergencies.
The Upland council will hold a public hearing on Feb. 14 before considering the implementation of an ordinance that will seek reimbursement for the non-emergency calls. 
Dorst-Porada said she is concerned nursing facilities in Ontario may be over-utilizing the services as well.
"If it is not truly an urgent matter then they should get billed for that service," she said.

Ontario avoids major trauma in balancing budget in 2010

By Liset Marquez on December 27, 2010 8:19 AM | | Comments (0)
Despite the economic uncertainty in the region, city officials went through the year without having to lay off any staff or worry about operating on a deficit.
The business like attitude adopted by city staff over the years helped the council pass a balanced, $383 million budget in July.
It also allowed the city to maintain services, programs and staff.
"Its a major accomplishment in this economy. But it's been a huge team effort," said Councilman Jim Bowman.
As in previous years, several employee unions agreed to forgo scheduled raises to help the city stay within its budget.
The city also dipped into funds it had set up in preparation for an economic downturn.
The city has a history of financial peace -- this was the 11th year in a row it has been recognized by several agencies in the state for its budget process.
Below are some more stories that occurred in 2010:
Continue reading Ontario avoids major trauma in balancing budget in 2010 .

Ontario yard sale dates

By Liset Marquez on November 5, 2010 10:32 AM | | Comments (0)
The next citywide yard sale is this weekend, beginning on Friday. This will be the last citywide yard sale for the year.
The next yard sale weekend will be next year, Feb. 4-6.
The city recently adopted a garage sale ordinance giving residents the opportunity to hold more sales each year on fixed dates, and eliminating the need for garage sale permits and fees. The rules for signs and rules for merchandise sold will remain unchanged.

Ontario City Council hangs out with Scorpions

By Liset Marquez on August 2, 2010 10:53 AM | | Comments (3)

072910 ON Scorpions 12098.JPGAs many of you may know, Scorpions were at Citizens Business Bank Arena last week. Well, there was a "Retirement Party" hosted by KCAL Radio in the San Manuel VIP Club just before the concert and the Scorpions made a "surprise" appearance.  KCAL gave them some gifts and the City of Ontario Council presented a Certificate of Recognition.
Below are the images of the council. Photos courtesy of Thomas Cordova
Thumbnail image for 072910 ON Scorpions 12107.JPG

A touch of technology

By Liset Marquez on July 8, 2010 4:25 PM | | Comments (3)
With just a slide of her finger, Councilwoman Sheila Mautz flipped through Tuesday night's agenda.

But there were no actual "pages" to turn.

Mautz and the rest of her fellow councilmembers have replaced bulky binders with lightweight iPads.

The council has been given the popular tablet as an instrument to use for business tasks, such as viewing agendas, in an attempt to go paperless.

"This helps us set an example of how to build a sustainable community," said Alan Wapner, known as the tech-savviest of the group.

20100708_122321_ON08-IPADS.jpgThe move to iPads also gives the council the ability to instantly access materials without having to lug heaps of stationery.

The council started using the technology in an attempt to go paperless. "It has always been a chore to carry around binders and notebooks full of agendas and back-up materials," he said.

"All-in-all, it is the wave of new technology and it gives us the tool of today's information dissemination."

Being on the technology forefront is not new to the city, said Councilman Jim Bowman.

Earlier this year, the council approved its web-based general plan, the first online document in the state, he said, adding that it now serves as a model for other cities.

The same, he said, might be the case with the iPads.

"How we conduct our business today is futuristic," he said.

"Of course we're taking

Continue reading A touch of technology.

Library to be named after Ovitt family

By Liset Marquez on July 7, 2010 4:08 PM | | Comments (0)
The City Council has agreed to honor the Ovitt family by naming a library in its honor.
The council came up with the idea Tuesday night, after City Manager Chris Hughes asked for some direction. Hughes said he has been approached several times by residents and even members of the council asking for the best way to recognize the Ovitts for their contributions.
Gary Ovitt, who is the chairman of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, started his political career with the city.
The Ontario resident served on the council and as mayor, and taught for 35 years at Chaffey High School.
"It goes without saying that it would be apropos that the city and the council see how best we can honor that name," Councilwoman Sheila Mautz said.
She followed it with a suggestion to name a library in the family's honor. The rest of the council concurred and details of the recognition will be discussed at the next meeting.
Councilman Jim Bowman described the Ovitts as icons in the community and said he was pleased to honor them.
It was a good thing Gary and Sue Ovitt both happened to be in attendance (they were saying goodbye to outgoing Planning Commissioner Frank Lizarraga).
When Mayor Paul Leon asked Gary what he thought, Ovitt responded with "I think I better learn to read."
Ovitt told the council that he and his wife are not interested in the accolades but are more focused on "what we can do for the community."

Ontario Council approves balanced budget

By Liset Marquez on July 2, 2010 8:58 AM | | Comments (2)
Passing a $383 million budget isn't a relaxing task, but the mood of the City Council here was calm and light.

The relaxed atmosphere, they say, was a testament to their feelings about city staff, who had the foresight to prepare them for a plummeting economy and help deflect budget chaos.

The council passed a balanced budget Tuesday night, allowing the city to maintain services, programs and staff. It also allowed council members to heap praise upon the people who helped make it happen.

Councilman Jim Bowman commended staff for not only presenting a solid budget, but one that was easily understandable.

"Because the focus has always been on the fundamentals the past six to seven years, stability is what we now have," Bowman said.
Continue reading Ontario Council approves balanced budget.

Ontario agrees to increase its bed tax

By Liset Marquez on June 7, 2010 10:52 AM | | Comments (3)

Visitors who stay in the city's hotels might end up paying just a little more than they did four years ago.

The council has agreed to increase its transient occupancy tax - a daily fee charged to hotel visitors - by 1 percent, slightly cushioning the impact from a 27 percent drop that was the result of a down economy.

Ontario's current rate is 11.75 percent, and a 1 percent increase would mean a $680,000 boost to the city's general fund, said Grant Yee, the city's finance director.

"I don't see the TOT as a tax as much as a user fee, and, right now, we don't have as much users as we use to," Councilman Alan Wapner said.
Continue reading Ontario agrees to increase its bed tax.

Council meets at historic location

By Liset Marquez on June 3, 2010 11:49 AM | | Comments (0)
The City Council, in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Model Colony Awards program, moved Tuesday's meeting across the street to the museum.
The Museum of History and Art, Ontario, which is the site of the former City Hall.
Just before starting the meeting, Mayor Paul Leon noted the small size of the room. Nearly every seat of the old council room was occupied.
"It might be tight but it sure is cozy," he said.
Often, Leon said, people ask why the City Council moved.
The room was used from 1937 to 1979, when the city, he said, was much smaller.
"We've grown a tad bit since then, that's why you see the next generation being built right now," Leon said, referring to the construction at City Hall. 
"We're building for the future."

Ontario council eyes 'In God we trust' for seal

By Liset Marquez on June 1, 2010 11:27 AM | | Comments (0)

Councilman Alan Wapner wants to bring God back into city government.

Inspired by the e-mailed words of a Bakersfield-based nonprofit, he is asking City Council members to consider adding the words "In God We Trust" to the bottom of the city seal.

While recently checking his e-mails, Wapner came across a request from In God We Trust America, a volunteer-based organization asking the state's elected officials to display the nation's motto under the emblems of their respective cities.

The letter prompted Wapner to place the item on tonight's council agenda.

"I took a look at that, and it tugged at my heart," Wapner said. "It is found in the Pledge of Allegiance, on our currency, so why not post `In God We Trust' on our city seal?"

Wapner, who is Jewish, said the idea's inclusive, nonsecular nature appealed to him.

"It's not specific to any religion," he said, adding that his rabbi agreed with him.

But Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of Freedom from Religion Foundation, scoffs at the reasoning, calling it "misguided."

"What's God got to do with City Hall?" she said.
Continue reading Ontario council eyes 'In God we trust' for seal.

Ontario Council to hold meeting at museum

By Liset Marquez on May 28, 2010 3:08 PM | | Comments (0)
The City Council, in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Model Colony Awards Program, will move Tuesday's meeting across the street to the museum.
The Museum of History and Art, Ontario is the site of the former city hall and on this night, the council and Planning Commission will recognize the winners of the model program.
As part of the festivities, the permanent exhibit "Roadways," will be open to the public.
The council will meet Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. The Museum of History and Art, Ontario is located at 225 South Euclid Avenue.

Devereaux's final Ontario City Council meeting

By Liset Marquez on February 1, 2010 4:57 PM | | Comments (0)
Unless the city council holds a special council meeting before Feb. 12, outgoing city manager Greg Devereaux will preside over his last Ontario council meeting on Tuesday.
Devereaux, who has accepted the San Bernardino County CAO position is expected to begin Feb. 14. 
Besides this being Devereaux's last meeting, the council will also approve the contract of their new city manager, Chris Hughes.

Also on the agenda:
-Designating the Bank of Italy building at 200 North Cherry Avenue as well as the Bumstead Bicycles building at 109 East B Street as historical landmarks.
-Hold a public hearing to amend the Avenue Specific Plan. The changes would increase the number of residential units by nearly 300 units. It would also increase the commercial square footage from 174,000 to 250,000.

Click on the links to view the agenda and the reports:

Ontario council to discuss the water conservation plan

By Liset Marquez on June 16, 2009 10:16 AM | | Comments (6)
A mandatory water conservation plan with stricter guidelines and monetary penalties is expected to get approved tonight by the City Council.
The ordinance, which is broken into four stages, will help the city manage its water supplies, Councilman Jim Bowman said.
"It certainly raises the level of awareness in the community -- we are in a dire water situation throughout the state of California," Bowman said.
Earlier in the year, the council urged its residents and businesses to voluntarily reduce water consumption by 10 percent, he said.
The steepest measure in the plan proposes residents do away with refilling or filling pools and spas, Bowman said.
Multiple violations can result in a fine up to $500.
Tonight, the council will also:
-Accept a $292,658 grant from the Office of Traffic Safety. The grant will be used to reimburse the city for $268,158 in overtime and $24,500 for equipment and training<NO><NO1>for driving under the influence and excessive speed enforcement programs.<NO>
-Accept a $96,286 grant to purchase fire operations and safety equipment. The grant, which comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, requires a 20 percent matching fund from the city.

UPDATE: Ontario council meeting cancelled

By Liset Marquez on May 21, 2009 11:32 AM | | Comments (1)
Just in case you are wondering, the city council will not be meeting tonight as usual. If you recall  I had mentioned in my last council article that they would not be meeting because several of the council members and city staff would be at a conference.
But I have a correction to make, the council will be meeting on June 2 and will continue their regularly scheduled meeting of the May 19 to that date.  So you will be able to see the council on June 2.

A fond farewell

By Liset Marquez on May 5, 2009 11:50 PM | | Comments (2)
To city employee Ken Jeske.
I had no idea Jeske, who is the director of Public Works /Community Services, would be retiring  it had not been for councilman Jim Bowman who mentioned it at the end of Tuesday's council meeting.
Jeske's final day will be on Friday and as he put it his first day of retirement will be Saturday.
During public comments, Bowman applauded Jeske for all his contributions, wisdom and knowledge to the city.
Bowman said Jeske has advised him on a number of occassions on issues related to water.

Conserving water in Ontario

By Liset Marquez on April 23, 2009 2:55 PM | | Comments (8)

At Tuesday's council meeting, councilman Jim Bowman asked the city's Ken Jeske to speak on the water crisis plaguing the state.

Jeske told the council most of southern California's water comes from Northern California. He credited the city council for their leadership in being proactive in the situation.

One of the issues facing the city in the next couple of months is proposed increases to water rates by the Metropolitan Water District, Jeske said.

The district is expected to raise rates by 15 percent in September and possibly another 20 percent by the end of the year.

"Those are costs they city will be taking as we buy," he said.

With the proposed increased, Jeske urged residents and the council to look at ways to conserve water.

"Every gallon we save this year is a gallon we have for next year," he said. "We ask all residents to be very careful."

Last year the council passed a resolution urging residents and businesses to implement a 10 percent reduction in their water use.

For their part, the city is changing its landscape to be more water efficient.

Residents may want to consider cutting back on watering their grass, that's because about 70 percent of all the water a residents uses goes into their grass, Jeske said.

For conserving tips residents can call (909) 395- 2678 or (909) 395-2633.

The City to support Metrolink Goldline extension

By Liset Marquez on March 2, 2009 11:12 AM | | Comments (16)
FROM THE AGENDA:
That the City Council adopt the attached Resolution supporting the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Project.

The Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Project is anticipated to create over 37,000 jobs during construction, 3,500 permanent jobs during the first 20 years of operation and more than 500,000 construction-related jobs to build transit-oriented developments - generating an estimated $40 billion in economic benefits throughout the region.

 

BACKGROUND: The Foothill Extension Project is expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and expand public transit options by adding light rail stations from Arcadia to Montclair. A feasibility study was recently conducted to evaluate extending the line further to the Los Angeles/Ontario International Airport. As such, the project is of critical importance to Ontario and its residents. The Foothill Extension is ready to be built - having its environment documents approved, right of way purchased, engineering and design at the stage necessary for design/build procurement and all cities along the corridor have signed agreements to move forward. On an expedited schedule, the Foothill Extension can be operational in 2013, adding more than 3.3 million passengers annually to the Metro system. However, the Metro Board's draft 2009 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) currently includes funding for the project at the latest point necessary to meet commitments made under Los Angeles County Measure R, resulting in an unnecessary four year delay in the project--or a loss of more than 13 million rides on the system.

 

The Metro Board can amend the draft 2009 LRTP to expedite funding for the Foothill Extension Project at the level necessary to begin construction in 2010 and approve a Fund Transfer Agreement allowing the transfer of funds to the Metro Gold Line Foothill Extension Construction Authority. These actions would avert the potential four year delay in construction.

Ontario to back NFL stadium at City of Industry

By Liset Marquez on March 2, 2009 10:00 AM | | Comments (1)
At Tuesday's council meeting the City Council is expected to approve a resolution backing the construction of an NFL Stadium in the City of Industry.

In the report to the council, the city is backing the stadium because of the benefits to the city. The city could receive additional sales tax and transient occupancy tax revenues and the amount would depend on the number of games, events and entertainment activities held annually.
 
The report says: "Ontario is located within a short distance of the proposed project location and has the unique advantage of being serviced by LA/Ontario International Airport, nearly 50 hotels offering over 5,100 rooms, and three major freeways providing access to the stadium from the east."


Council to establish goals and objectives

By Liset Marquez on February 16, 2009 5:36 PM | | Comments (1)
From the city council agenda.
It has been the City Council's practice after elections to evaluate the City Manager and establish new Goals and Objectives upon which he will be evaluated in the future. 
The Mayor and Council have recently completed that process with the City Manager. The Council has then publicly presented those Goals and Objectives for public input before adopting them as their own.
At the session with the City Manager, the City Council provided very clear direction that the sole goal for the City Manager for the coming year is to be addressing the effects of the global financial crisis on the City's finances and the economy of the community. 
The Council further directed that the existing Goals and Objectives be pared down to just the goals and that they be addressed within this context. These are both reflected on the attachment.
It is being recommended that the City Council adopt the attached Council's City Goals for 2009 and 2010 in order to provide the City Manager and Staff guidance in allocating resources, developing the budget and creating programs.

City ordinance to assist developers

By Liset Marquez on February 16, 2009 12:20 PM | | Comments (2)
The city council Tuesday will consider an ordinance which will assist developers, land owners and business owners in the economic slowdown.
If approved by the council, the ordinance would grant a one year time extension to all Development Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variance approvals which are due to expire on or before March 1, 2010.
During the Jan. 20 meeting, the City Council directed staff to review the impacts of the current recession on development and land use applications within the City and make recommendations that might assist developers, land owners and business owners through this economic slowdown.
In the report to the council, "the current slowdown in the economy, developers and land/business owners face the prospect of having their Development Plan, Conditional Use Permit and Variance approvals expire before they can obtain financing for their projects."
A total of 95 applications would be affected by the granting of a one-time, one (1) year time extension including 48 Development Plans, 39 Conditional Use Permits and 8 Variances.
-liset.marquez@inlandnewspapers.com


Council to establish policy on tickets and passes

By Liset Marquez on February 2, 2009 9:00 AM | | Comments (1)

This is an item I found interesting and will be discussed at Tuesday's council meeting:

That the City Council adopt the attached Resolution establishing a policy governing the receipt and distribution of tickets and/or passes. 

BACKGROUND: The Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) recently adopted new regulations clarifying those circumstances under which the receipt of tickets and/or passes by public officials creates a disclosure requirement for the purposes of the public official's Statement of Economic Interest. The proposed policy ensures that all tickets and/or passes provided to the City shall be distributed in furtherance of governmental and/or public purposes in accordance with applicable State law

Ontario council to discuss scaling back mayor's pay

By Liset Marquez on February 2, 2009 8:36 AM | | Comments (4)
On Tuesday night the council is expected to introduce an ordinance to establish a sunset provision pertaining to the additional salary compensation rate for the Mayor position

The Mayor's salary modification will be effective after the next election in November 2010 and result in budgetary savings of $30,000 annually

At the City Council meeting on February 20, 2007, the Council approved an additional compensation amount of $2,500 per month above the $385.25 already in effect. Now, due to the current economic climate and budget constraints, the City Council is considering a sunset provision to terminate the additional compensation approved in February 2007. This action would retain the current salary compensation provided for under Section 2?1.203(b) of the Ontario Municipal Code until after the next election in November 2010, at which time the additional compensation amount would be reduced by $2,500 per month. Currently, the additional monthly compensation is $2,885.25.

One-Year Action Plan community meeting

By Liset Marquez on January 16, 2009 3:29 PM | | Comments (0)

A community meeting/public hearing will be held on Jan. 29 to get public input from residents, non-profit public service organizations and other public agencies about the needs of the community. The information received will be used by the City's CDBG, HOME, and ESG Programs.
At the meeting the City will hand out applications for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) public service activities and Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG).
For questions contact Ms. Katryna Gonzalez, Project Manager, with the City of Ontario Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Agency at (909) 395-2322.
The meeting will be 6 p.m. at the Ontario Housing Agency located at 208 West Emporia Street, Ontario.

New Year's resolutions from the council

By Liset Marquez on January 8, 2009 4:52 PM | | Comments (0)

At Tuesday's council meeting both Mayor Paul Leon and councilmember Jim Bowman offered some advice to residents.

Bowman said that this the time for residents, given the economic downturn to come together and face "life with a positive attitude,"  along with the new year.

The new year is a great time for residents to set new resolutions and according to Leon, "2009 is going to be the best year."

 

Back in Business

By Liset Marquez on January 3, 2009 4:52 PM | | Comments (18)
After a break, City Hall will be opening their doors on Monday, January 5. When they open they will be back in business with the council meeting on January 6. Among the items they will be discussing is an ordinance to defer the monthly salary compensation for the City Council, city treasurer and clerk. The council meets at 6:30 p.m., Ontario City Hall, 303 East B Street, Ontario.

Remarks from council member Jason Anderson

By Liset Marquez on December 1, 2008 8:47 AM | | Comments (4)

I noticed in the agenda for Tuesday's meeting that outgoing councilmember Jason Anderson will be given some time to share some parting words.

Anderson lost his reelection bid at the Nov. 4 General Election, he has served on the council for the past eight years.

Council to decide on mobile fire apparatus driving simulator

By Liset Marquez on December 1, 2008 7:39 AM | | Comments (0)

That the City Council will decide whether to purchase a mobile fire apparatus driving simulator. The agreement would be from FAAC, Inc. of Ann Arbor, Michigan, in the amount of $470,868 and the CMAS Administration Fee of up to $8,866.

 

The report to the council states:

In June 2008, included in the Third Quarter Budget Report, the City Council approved the acceptance of a grant award from FEMA in the amount of $485,000. The Federal share is 80 percent or $388,000 of the approved amount with a 20 percent or $97,000 share cost provided by the City of Ontario in conjunction with the other four West End Fire Agencies: Chino Valley Independent Fire Protection District, Montclair Fire Department, Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District and Upland Fire Department. Each Agency contributed $16,167 with the remaining $16,167 provided by the West End Fire and Emergency Response Commission (WEFERC).

 

The useful life of the simulator is approximately 10 years. At this time, the City does not plan to use City resources to participate in the future replacement of the simulator. The replacement of the simulator will be contingent upon WEFERC security additional grant funding.

Latest numbers show Mautz and Porada increase their lead

By Liset Marquez on November 11, 2008 8:11 AM | | Comments (1)

The latest results from the San Bernardino County show Sheila Mautz and Debra Porada have increased their leads for the two open city council seats.

On Monday the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters has updated the latest results which show that Porada has increased her lead over fellow Ontario-Montclair School District board member Paul Vincet Avila to 375 votes.

At the last school board meeting Avila did not want to congraulate Porada on her victory because he said there were still votes that needed to be counted, at that time he was only 238 votes behind Porada.

 

Vote For 2 69 of 69 Precincts Reporting (View Map)
CANDIDATE VOTES PERCENT
SHEILA MAUTZ 11576 23.20%
DEBRA PORADA 9561 19.16%
PAUL VINCENT AVILA 9186 18.41%
JASON ANDERSON 8661 17.36%
KEN WHITE 5966 11.96%
JACK CUNNINGHAM 4088 8.19%
HOSSEIN NIKYAR 855 1.71%

Mautz and Porada still in the lead

By Liset Marquez on November 5, 2008 12:03 PM | | Comments (0)

There will be one more update at 1 p.m., but as of now incumbent Sheila Mautz and Debra Porada still have the lead for the two seats on the city council. Incumbent Jason Anderson has dropped in the polls to fourth place, with Paul Avila taking third.

Below are the results from the registrar.

 

MEMBER, CITY COUNCIL ONTARIO

Vote For 2 63 of 69 Precincts Reporting (View Map)
CANDIDATE VOTES PERCENT
SHEILA MAUTZ 9719 23.15%
DEBRA PORADA 8027 19.12%
PAUL VINCENT AVILA 7789 18.56%
JASON ANDERSON 7186 17.12%
KEN WHITE 5054 12.04%
JACK CUNNINGHAM 3452 8.22%
HOSSEIN NIKYAR 747 1.78%

Sheila Mautz and Debra Porada up in the polls

By Liset Marquez on November 5, 2008 8:40 AM | | Comments (1)

With 38 of 69 precincts reported, incumbent Sheila Mautz and Debra Porada are currently in the lead for the two open seats on the city council.

Porada holds a narrow lead over incumbent Jason Anderson. Not far behind Anderson is Paul Vincet Avila, an Ontario Montclair school board member.

Mary Wirtes was re elected as city clerk, also re elected was city treasurer James Milhiser. Both were running unopposed 

Below are the current results from the registrars office another update is expected at noon. 

 

MEMBER, CITY COUNCIL ONTARIO
Vote For 2 38 of 69 Precincts Reporting
CANDIDATE VOTES PERCENT
SHEILA MAUTZ 6033 22.97%
DEBRA PORADA 4997 19.02%
JASON ANDERSON 4762 18.13%
PAUL VINCENT AVILA 4641 17.67%
KEN WHITE 3178 12.10%
JACK CUNNINGHAM 2183 8.31%
HOSSEIN NIKYAR 476 1.81%

CITY CLERK ONTARIO
Vote For 1 38 of 69 Precincts Reporting (View Map)
CANDIDATE VOTES PERCENT
MARY WIRTES 14014 100.00%
CITY TREASURER ONTARIO
Vote For 1 38 of 69 Precincts Reporting (View Map)
CANDIDATE VOTES PERCENT
JAMES R. MILHISER

 

 

courtesy of San Bernardino County of Registrar of Voters

Reign on your parade

By Liset Marquez on October 22, 2008 4:08 PM | | Comments (0)

As usual, Mayor Paul Leon provided some laughs during last night's council meeting.
When councilwoman Sheila Mautz reminded everyone that Thursday is "Tip A Cop" at Applebees on Milliken Avenue. Leon asked if it was anything like "Tip a Cow?"
During council comments, where each member gets a chance to talk about events from the past week or upcoming event, none of the council members wanted to discuss the big event from the past week.
Bowman said he'd let Leon take care of that. Councilman Alan Wapner's reasoning was he didn't want to ruin the surprise. To which Leon responded "I don't want to 'reign' on your parade."
Leon was referring to the opening of Citizens Business Bank Arena, the new home of the ECHL Ontario Regin hockey team.
Leon said the opening of the arena is a testament to the city's efforts to provide services to the community. Another example was the recent building dedication of the Dorothy Quesada Community Center and the work going on at the Munoz Center.
"Promises made, promises kept by a council who stayed the course," Leon said
One important note from the building Leon said, was that it's all paid for, "it's not built on the backs of generations to come by raising taxes or floating bonds but through good visionary decisions."
Leon congratulated city staff and the citizens of Ontario.
Leon finished off his comment session with what he called "his commercial", it's more like a plug for the Healthy Ontario fundraiser event on Nov. 3. Megan Hilty, former lead actress in the musical "Wicked," and Shoshana Bean, from "Hairspray," will be doing a one-time show at Gardiner Springs Auditorium to help raise funds for the nonprofit, he said.


Info on the events
Tip A Cop event where local law enforcement are the wait staff at Applebees to raise funds for non profit organizations. The event will be from 5 to 9 p.m. on Oct. 23.
For more information visit Applebees, 1051 N Milliken Ave, Ontario or call (909) 484-6003.

Meg an ShoSho
WHEN: 7:30 p.m., Nov. 3
WHERE: Gardiner W. Springs Auditorium
COST: $25 -$200
CONTACT: Lacy Cascadden (909) 984-9153

Petition presented to City Council

By Liset Marquez on October 22, 2008 11:15 AM | | Comments (0)
A petition by homeless of tent city requesting more services has been presented to the city council.
The petition and a request for a meeting with the city council were presented at their meeting tuesday night.
The petition, which was signed by 40 homeless, requests that the city allowed scheduled church services, AA meetings as well as bible study.
They are also asking that family members be allowed to sit and talk around their tents, allow the donation of firewood. Other requests include hot showers as well as grant permission to Inland Empire church groups, non profits and Homeless we Care to have special events.
The petition was put together by Mike Dunlap of Homeless We Care.
Look for a complete article in the paper later this week.
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