Author Archives: Justin Velasco

There’s a poet lurking in San Dimas City Hall

I read reports prepared by city staff at least several times a week. They are by and large insipid, monotonous affairs – full of technical jargon and written with the sterility of an operating room. San Dimas’ mid-year budget report … Continue reading

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Five chicken indoors, five chickens outdoors; Azusa doesn’t care

I’m writing a story for the weekend about people choosing to raise chickens in their backyards, which seems to be the result of a perfect storm of recession-induced stinginess and a frenzy for all things organic. Since every city seems … Continue reading

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Azusa, Irwindale city manager spill few secrets over trash fight

As you might already know, Azusa and Irwindale have been locked in an epic battle over trash-recycling facilities. Titans of trash Waste Management and Athens Services each want a material-recycling facility – Athens in Irwindale and Waste Management in Azusa. … Continue reading

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Awww … San Dimas soldier skypes with his dog before heading to Afghanistan

This totally has nothing to do with city politics or officials in any way, but it was just so adorable, I couldn’t not post it here. Azusa grandmother Alma Taylor called me today to ask if I’d be interested in … Continue reading

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Controversial San Dimas businessman closes downtown liquor store

San Dimas residents are reporting that local businessman and perennial city council candidate Sid Maksoudian has shut down his high-end liquor store. Assistant City Manager Ken Duran confirmed what many people were telling me: Chalet Gourmet, 120 W Bonita Ave., … Continue reading

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Azusans allied against parking proposal

A group of Azusa residents who oppose the city’s plans for a four-story Gold Line parking structure behind City Hall are planning a protest rally on Saturday. The original plans for the parking structure placed it on the north side … Continue reading

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Glendora appears on top-ten list of places with poisonous water; city officials not pleased

Note to county officials: If you accuse Glendora of having poisonous metals in its water, expect to receive a scathing letter in return. Late last month, Glendora appeared on a top-ten list of places in L.A. County with high levels … Continue reading

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SGV foothill cities round up

Moving from west to east, just because it makes sense to me: AZUSA – At its meeting Monday, the city council approved the three following items: A 5-percent increase in salary for a civilian administrator in the police department. City … Continue reading

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