2/12/2020 San Antonio Heights, Upland property owners to get $6.8 million fire tax refund – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/san-antonio-heights-upland-property-owners-to-get-6-8-million-fire-tax-refund/ 1/4

By By SANDRA EMERSONSANDRA EMERSON | | semerson@scng.comsemerson@scng.com | |PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 5:40 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 5:40 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 11, 2020 at 5:45 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 5:45 pm

San Antonio Heights and Upland property owners are getting a refund.San Antonio Heights and Upland property owners are getting a refund.

On Tuesday, Feb. 11, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approvedOn Tuesday, Feb. 11, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved

giving $6.8 million, plus $400,000 in interest, back to property owners who paid agiving $6.8 million, plus $400,000 in interest, back to property owners who paid a

special tax for county fire services in fiscal years 2017-18 and 2018-19.special tax for county fire services in fiscal years 2017-18 and 2018-19.

The refund, which includes interest and other fees, was granted after The refund, which includes interest and other fees, was granted after San AntonioSan Antonio

Heights residents won a lawsuitHeights residents won a lawsuit against the Local Agency Formation Commission against the Local Agency Formation Commission

and the county. The suit allegedand the county. The suit alleged  property owners did not get a formal vote on theproperty owners did not get a formal vote on the

matter. The tax, about $150 a year, was imposed on property owners in bothmatter. The tax, about $150 a year, was imposed on property owners in both

communities after there weren’t enough written protests to stop it.communities after there weren’t enough written protests to stop it.

In 2016, Upland officials voted to disband its fire departmentIn 2016, Upland officials voted to disband its fire department and join the county and join the county

fire district to save money. However, LAFCO included San Antonio Heights, anfire district to save money. However, LAFCO included San Antonio Heights, an

unincorporated community north of Upland, in the deal, though the agency didunincorporated community north of Upland, in the deal, though the agency did

not have the authority to do so, a San Bernardino County Superior Court judgenot have the authority to do so, a San Bernardino County Superior Court judge

ruled.ruled.

“Just because you’re a small community, don’t think the county has the authority“Just because you’re a small community, don’t think the county has the authority

to push you around when they’re doing things that are basically against the law,”to push you around when they’re doing things that are basically against the law,”

Bob Cable, president of the San Antonio Heights Association, said by phoneBob Cable, president of the San Antonio Heights Association, said by phone

Tuesday afternoon. “We’ve always been a very small community, but we’re veryTuesday afternoon. “We’ve always been a very small community, but we’re very

tight knit and vocal community and we stand up for our rights.”tight knit and vocal community and we stand up for our rights.”

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

San Antonio Heights, UplandSan Antonio Heights, Uplandproperty owners to get $6.8property owners to get $6.8million fire tax refundmillion fire tax refund

2/12/2020 San Antonio Heights, Upland property owners to get $6.8 million fire tax refund – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/san-antonio-heights-upland-property-owners-to-get-6-8-million-fire-tax-refund/ 2/4

The refund will go to 21,845 property owners in San Antonio Heights and Upland,The refund will go to 21,845 property owners in San Antonio Heights and Upland,

said Doug Boyd, Assistant Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector. In the nextsaid Doug Boyd, Assistant Auditor-Controller/Treasurer/Tax Collector. In the next

month, the county will send the majority of property owners a form to claim themonth, the county will send the majority of property owners a form to claim the

refund, Boyd said. Owners who have sold their properties or had some otherrefund, Boyd said. Owners who have sold their properties or had some other

complication with their bill should expect to hear from the county in March, hecomplication with their bill should expect to hear from the county in March, he

said.said.

The refund will be taken out of the fire district’s fund meant for majorThe refund will be taken out of the fire district’s fund meant for major

emergencies. As of January, that fund had about $9.3 million. Because ofemergencies. As of January, that fund had about $9.3 million. Because of

additional fees, the refund will take up to $8.6 million from the fund and leave lessadditional fees, the refund will take up to $8.6 million from the fund and leave less

than $1 million, the county may need to loan the district money to cover the coststhan $1 million, the county may need to loan the district money to cover the costs

of responding to a future major emergency.of responding to a future major emergency.

The amount of the refund is about the same it costs the district to operate fourThe amount of the refund is about the same it costs the district to operate four

stations for one year, Fire Chief Dan Munsey said. Rather than close stations, firestations for one year, Fire Chief Dan Munsey said. Rather than close stations, fire

officials decided to take the money out of the special fund, which could take 10officials decided to take the money out of the special fund, which could take 10

years to rebuild, he said.years to rebuild, he said.

“This is a significant blow to the district, but it’s the legally right thing to do,”“This is a significant blow to the district, but it’s the legally right thing to do,”

Munsey said.Munsey said.

The property owners aren’t getting a refund for the tax paid in 2019-20 because The property owners aren’t getting a refund for the tax paid in 2019-20 because inin

October 2018October 2018, supervisors voted to expand the tax to all unincorporated, supervisors voted to expand the tax to all unincorporated

communities, communities, again including San Antonio Heights and Upland,again including San Antonio Heights and Upland, to address a $29 to address a $29

million budget shortfall.million budget shortfall.

While supervisors met Tuesday, opponents of the tax expansion handed countyWhile supervisors met Tuesday, opponents of the tax expansion handed county

election officials a petition with about 29,500 signatures supporting a potentialelection officials a petition with about 29,500 signatures supporting a potential

November ballot measure seeking to repeal the tax.November ballot measure seeking to repeal the tax.

“Our primary goal was giving back to the voters their right to vote,” said Tom“Our primary goal was giving back to the voters their right to vote,” said Tom

Murphy, spokesman for small government advocacy group Murphy, spokesman for small government advocacy group The Red BrennanThe Red Brennan

GroupGroup, which is backing the repeal measure. “The key thing is that issue of ‘Are, which is backing the repeal measure. “The key thing is that issue of ‘Are

we going to follow the state constitution as it applies to taxation or not?’”we going to follow the state constitution as it applies to taxation or not?’”

The Red Brennan Group sued the county The Red Brennan Group sued the county over the October expansion, but lostover the October expansion, but lost..

Cable said it’s disappointing San Antonio Heights property owners are still beingCable said it’s disappointing San Antonio Heights property owners are still being

charged the tax, despite winning their court case.charged the tax, despite winning their court case.

“Hopefully that will end up on a ballot and we’ll let the voters decide, which is“Hopefully that will end up on a ballot and we’ll let the voters decide, which is

what we’ve asked for all along,” he said.what we’ve asked for all along,” he said.

2/12/2020 San Antonio Heights, Upland property owners to get $6.8 million fire tax refund – San Bernardino Sun

In June, In June, supervisors asked county officials to come up with options to replace thesupervisors asked county officials to come up with options to replace the

taxtax, including possible tax measures that could be put before voters by January, including possible tax measures that could be put before voters by January

2021, as well as an expiration date for the tax. Supervisors later agreed to only2021, as well as an expiration date for the tax. Supervisors later agreed to only

focus on the unincorporated areas, focus on the unincorporated areas, including San Antonio Heightsincluding San Antonio Heights, who were, who were

asked to pay the tax in 2019 and beyond.asked to pay the tax in 2019 and beyond.

Supervisor Janice Rutherford said they have directed Munsey, who became fireSupervisor Janice Rutherford said they have directed Munsey, who became fire

chief in November, to review the department budget and bring the board freshchief in November, to review the department budget and bring the board fresh

ideas on how to modernize.ideas on how to modernize.

“That information is going to let us debate how we fund the fire district and then“That information is going to let us debate how we fund the fire district and then

talk with taxpayers about what level of service they are willing to pay for,”talk with taxpayers about what level of service they are willing to pay for,”

Rutherford said in an emailed statement.Rutherford said in an emailed statement.

Munsey said one challenge has been funding fire and emergency services in partsMunsey said one challenge has been funding fire and emergency services in parts

of the county with little to no tax base, such as in the desert areas andof the county with little to no tax base, such as in the desert areas and

transportation corridors.transportation corridors.

The valley region has a much larger tax base, but those dollars need to pay forThe valley region has a much larger tax base, but those dollars need to pay for

services there, he said.services there, he said.

“The struggle has been, how do you create revenue for a district where there’s no“The struggle has been, how do you create revenue for a district where there’s no

property taxes in order to pay for that large expanse of the county?” Munsey said.property taxes in order to pay for that large expanse of the county?” Munsey said.

/

Volvo Launches ElectricHeavy-Duty TruckProgram in CaliforniaFebruary 11, 2020 by Jerry Hirsch (https://www.trucks.com/author/jerry-hirsch/), @Jerryhirsch

Volvo Trucks launched its �rst step in marketing electric heavy-duty trucks in the U.S. this week, unveiling a large program thatwill put more than 50 electric vehicles in service.

The truck manufacturer is working with California and regionalair quality regulators, two commercial motor carriers and amajor dealership group as it works to great interest in its VNRElectric regional haul truck.

(https://www.trucks.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/webvolvo-vnr-electric-2.jpg)

Volvo's VNR Electric truck model. (Photo: Volvo)

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NEWSLETTER SIGNUP

PRESS

PRIVACY POLICY

TERMS OF USE

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Together they have created what Volvo is calling it Low-ImpactGreen Heavy Transport Solutions(https://www.volvotrucks.com/en-en/news/press-releases/2018/sep/pressrelease-180927.html), or LIGHTSprogram. It is a $90 million program funded by 15 partners.Volvo Group is contributing $36.7 million and the California AirResources Board $44.8 million. Another $9 million will comefrom the other partners. The South Coast Air QualityManagement District, which oversees air quality in SouthernCalifornia, will manage the program.

“This project is unique in the sense of its scope, and that it takesinto account the entire system from charging stations to yardhaulers to solar panels to workforce development to heavy-dutytrucks,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks NorthAmerica.

CONSUMER INFLUENCE

Transportation and population density are both continuing togrow globally, he said. Climate change, regulation and consumerdemand will force the trucking industry to slash carbonemissions, other pollution and its noise footprint, he said.

The project includes the 23 battery-electric Volvo VNR heavy-duty trucks, 29 other electric vehicles such as yard trucks andforklifts. The Volvo trucks will run between the Inland Empire incities of Ontario, Chino and Fontana and the massive combinedLong Beach and Los Angeles port complex. They will travelroutes of 75 to 175 miles.

“This is what it takes to transform this critical freight-haulingsector,” said California Air Resources Board chair Mary D.Nichols. “This project will put more ultra-clean, zero-emissiontrucks on the roads and highways of communities like Fontanaand Ontario that are heavily burdened with growing diesel trucktra�c.”

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The public/private partnership includes 58 public and privatecharging stations, two colleges developing electric truckmaintenance programs and 1.8 kWh of solar energy generation.

Additionally, both of the big ports are providing infrastructureplanning. TEC Equipment, a private Volvo truck dealershipgroup, will provide maintenance and leasing centers in Fontanaand La Mirada.

Dependable Highway Express and NFI are the �rst customers.NFI also is participating in an early test of Daimler’s FreightlinereCascadia (https://www.trucks.com/2019/08/21/daimler-puts-�rst-ecascadia-electric-trucks-in-service/) heavy-duty trucks.

Volvo is using the program to commercialize its electric trucks. Itplans to launch sales of the vehicles later this year and ramp upproduction at its New River Valley, Va., factory in 2021. Thecompany is investing $400 million in the factory, in part to allowfor production of electric trucks.

SELLING THE TRUCK

The truck company is �guring out how to market the truck. Onepossibility is to o�er VNR Electric with a single monthly leasepayment that will include maintenance and insurance. But it willalso sell the vehicle if that’s what a customer wants, said BrettPope., Volvo’s director of electric vehicles, North American.

Volvo has not released any price information except that thetruck will be eligible for various California incentives that couldtop $150,000. The incentives alone are about equivalent to theprice of a new diesel VNR.

Volvo also will provide consulting services to help customersmanage an electric �eet and charging needs.

THE DESIGN

The electric VNR has dual electric motors mated to a two-speedgearbox. Volvo placed the motors in the center of the truckrather than at each wheel because of high forces axles mustwithstand. Some truck manufacturers place motors at eachwheel in their designs. But Volvo believes its design will be moredurable.

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Volvo located the electronics and controls in a modular powerbox under the hood – the former home of the diesel engine in aconventional vehicle. That allows for easy access and service.Battery packs slide into shelves on each side in the chassis.Technicians can remove and service the batteries without liftingthe body o� the truck, again easing access.

The company said working with the carriers and the dealershipwill allow it to �gure out how the range of the trucks changesdepending on factors such as load, tra�c and weather.

The project is critical to transitioning freight hauling to a greenindustry, said Janice Rutherford, supervisor of San BernardinoCounty’s second district.

That’s critical for the industry because “trucks are the lifebloodof both the Southern California and the nation’s economy,”Rutherford said.

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2/12/2020 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

https://enewspaper.latimes.com/desktop/latimes/default.aspx?edid=1768ce5d-51f8-4bc1-a5fa-0b7dd4e12ef4 1/2

LAFD orders an electric fire engineHybrid vehicle will be the first of its kind in the U.S.,officials say.

BY ANDREW J. CAMPA

A century ago,the Los Angeles Fire Department made a historic switch from horse-drawnfire engines to motorized vehicles.

This week, the department took the first step in a new phase of firefighting when itordered an electric hybrid fire engine. The vehicle will be the first of its kind in thecountry, officials said.

THE LAFD is spending $1.2 million on the Rosenbauer Concept Fire Truck, whicharrives next year. ( Rosenbaur International)

2/12/2020 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

https://enewspaper.latimes.com/desktop/latimes/default.aspx?edid=1768ce5d-51f8-4bc1-a5fa-0b7dd4e12ef4 2/2

“I am excited that we are the first department in North America to order this cutting-edgefire engine,” LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas said in a news release. “The electric fire engine isan innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions whileproviding a flexible tool for firefighting and rescue operations from a technologicallyadvanced platform.”

The department is spending $1.2 million on the Rosenbauer Concept Fire Truck, or CFT,the equivalent price of an LAFD aerial ladder truck, spokesman Brian Humphrey said.

Terrazas said the fire engine — which looks similar to a city bus — will probably beassigned to Hollywood Fire Station 82.

“We believe it’s a good fit there,” he said. “We have the brush threat; we have narrowroads, tight roads with all the congestion.”

Terrazas, who test-drove the firetruck at Dodger Stadium last year during its NorthAmerican tour, said he enjoyed the vehicle’s tight turning radius.

The CFT will include two batteries with a 100-kilowatt capacity, meaning the fire enginecan run for two hours on electric power before needing to use a diesel engine. LAFD willinstall a rapid-charger at the truck’s eventual home.

“The future firetruck is fundamentally different from the vehicles which are in service atthe fire stations today,” Dieter Siegel, chief executive of Rosenbauer International inAustria, said in a release. “It is multifunctional, fully connected and its flexible interiorcan be used as a fully featured command center.”

The engine will be custom-made to fit the LAPD’s needs and National Fire ProtectionAssn. standards, officials said. It also will be painted red to match the rest of the LAFDfleet.

When the electric engine arrives in L.A. next year, it will set the stage for the next centuryof firefighting, 100 years after the department abandoned horse-drawn fire engines,Humphrey said.

“Up until 1921, we still had horses pulling steam-driven fire engines,” said Humphrey,who added that some fire crews at that time saw motorized engines as “a passing fancy.”

2/12/2020 Think smart as we plan for job growth in the Inland Empire – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/think-smart-as-we-plan-for-job-growth-in-the-inland-empire/ 1/5

By By MANFRED KEILMANFRED KEIL and and YAO LIYAO LI | |PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 10:50 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 10:50 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 11, 2020 at 10:50February 11, 2020 at 10:50pmpm

The Inland Empire’s logistics industry, which fueled much of the region’s economicThe Inland Empire’s logistics industry, which fueled much of the region’s economicrecovery, is expected to add 9,000 jobs in 2019, after 12,917 were created in 2018.recovery, is expected to add 9,000 jobs in 2019, after 12,917 were created in 2018.(AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)(AP Photo/Ted S. Warren, File)

OPINIONOPINION

Think smart as we plan for jobThink smart as we plan for jobgrowth in the Inland Empiregrowth in the Inland Empire

•• OpinionOpinion

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/think-smart-as-we-plan-for-job-growth-in-the-inland-empire/ 2/5

Over the last 10 years, employment growth in the Inland Empire has beenOver the last 10 years, employment growth in the Inland Empire has been

spectacular.spectacular.

Following the disastrous job losses during the Great Recession, the regionFollowing the disastrous job losses during the Great Recession, the region

regained all employment in August 2014. The state and the nation experiencedregained all employment in August 2014. The state and the nation experienced

similar but less extreme employment growth. Since then job creation in Sansimilar but less extreme employment growth. Since then job creation in San

Bernardino and Riverside County has outpaced that of California and the U.S.Bernardino and Riverside County has outpaced that of California and the U.S.

The total number of jobs created in the Inland Empire dwarfs those oftenThe total number of jobs created in the Inland Empire dwarfs those often

featured prominently in the news. From the trough in January 2010 to now,featured prominently in the news. From the trough in January 2010 to now,

400,000 positions have been generated within the Riverside-San Bernardino-400,000 positions have been generated within the Riverside-San Bernardino-

Ontario Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). That represents a 35% increase atOntario Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). That represents a 35% increase at

an annual average growth rate of 3%.an annual average growth rate of 3%.

Compare this to oft-lauded North Dakota, which is now the second-largest oil-Compare this to oft-lauded North Dakota, which is now the second-largest oil-

producing state in the nation. Not only is the growth rate lower, but the totalproducing state in the nation. Not only is the growth rate lower, but the total

numbers is smaller because North Dakota has one sixth the population of thenumbers is smaller because North Dakota has one sixth the population of the

Inland Empire. The San Francisco and Silicon Valley MSAs are much closer inInland Empire. The San Francisco and Silicon Valley MSAs are much closer in

size to the Inland Empire and also highly touted in the media, yet they toosize to the Inland Empire and also highly touted in the media, yet they too

have failed to match the Inland Empire’s job creation record over the pasthave failed to match the Inland Empire’s job creation record over the past

decade. Silicon Valley created 300,000 jobs; San Francisco’s job creation ratedecade. Silicon Valley created 300,000 jobs; San Francisco’s job creation rate

was 31%. The Inland Empire has been ranked consistently at or near the top inwas 31%. The Inland Empire has been ranked consistently at or near the top in

terms of job creation within the 10 largest California MSAs recently.terms of job creation within the 10 largest California MSAs recently.

As the poster child of our now record-setting national economic expansion,As the poster child of our now record-setting national economic expansion,

shall we trumpet the news? Not yet — recovering the number of jobs does notshall we trumpet the news? Not yet — recovering the number of jobs does not

mean that we got the same jobs back. Labeled a “mancession,” the lastmean that we got the same jobs back. Labeled a “mancession,” the last

economic downturn witnessed severe job losses in two mostly male-economic downturn witnessed severe job losses in two mostly male-

dominated and well-paying industries, construction and manufacturing. Todominated and well-paying industries, construction and manufacturing. To

this day we have not recovered all jobs lost in those sectors. In this, the regionthis day we have not recovered all jobs lost in those sectors. In this, the region

is not alone. In manufacturing, there has been a trend decline in nationalis not alone. In manufacturing, there has been a trend decline in national

employment since the late ‘70s, and the historically low number of housingemployment since the late ‘70s, and the historically low number of housing

starts nationwide has been one of the major puzzles in the current recovery.starts nationwide has been one of the major puzzles in the current recovery.

How do employment changes in the Inland Empire differ from those inHow do employment changes in the Inland Empire differ from those in

California and the U.S.? The logistics sector plays a much smaller role for theCalifornia and the U.S.? The logistics sector plays a much smaller role for the

U.S. and California, but professional and business services has either seen theU.S. and California, but professional and business services has either seen the

second (U.S.) or the third (California) most gains in jobs. Unfortunately, thesecond (U.S.) or the third (California) most gains in jobs. Unfortunately, the

Inland Empire has hardly seen any additions in this well-paying sector sinceInland Empire has hardly seen any additions in this well-paying sector since

2007.2007.

2/12/2020 Think smart as we plan for job growth in the Inland Empire – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/think-smart-as-we-plan-for-job-growth-in-the-inland-empire/ 3/5

Thus, it would make sense for Gov. Newsom’s “Regions Rise Together”Thus, it would make sense for Gov. Newsom’s “Regions Rise Together”

initiative to provide resources that encourage firms to be at the forefront ofinitiative to provide resources that encourage firms to be at the forefront of

self-driving vehicles and intelligent distribution centers. Appropriatelyself-driving vehicles and intelligent distribution centers. Appropriately

incentivized, this would invite technology-focused firms into the Inlandincentivized, this would invite technology-focused firms into the Inland

Empire. Simultaneously the region could supplement this policy with offeringEmpire. Simultaneously the region could supplement this policy with offering

more data-oriented and technology-related courses and degrees.more data-oriented and technology-related courses and degrees.

What are the implications for wages and income when compared to the 2007What are the implications for wages and income when compared to the 2007

peak? Average wages in California and the U.S. have both grown by 31%,peak? Average wages in California and the U.S. have both grown by 31%,

slightly more than twice as fast as in the Inland Empire. Adjusted for inflation,slightly more than twice as fast as in the Inland Empire. Adjusted for inflation,

the picture becomes less favorable: -4% (IE), 9% (California), and 9% (U.S.),the picture becomes less favorable: -4% (IE), 9% (California), and 9% (U.S.),

meaning the average worker’s purchasing power has actually fallen over themeaning the average worker’s purchasing power has actually fallen over the

last 13 years in the Inland Empire! From an aggregate perspective, the loss inlast 13 years in the Inland Empire! From an aggregate perspective, the loss in

(real) wages is somewhat compensated by the larger gains in jobs (18%) when(real) wages is somewhat compensated by the larger gains in jobs (18%) when

compared to either California (12%) or the U.S. (9%) — total employmentcompared to either California (12%) or the U.S. (9%) — total employment

income in the Inland Empire has increased by 13%, while in California it roseincome in the Inland Empire has increased by 13%, while in California it rose

by 22% and the nation by 19%.by 22% and the nation by 19%.

The Inland Empire has done extremely well in terms of job creation andThe Inland Empire has done extremely well in terms of job creation and

consequently in income increases during the current expansion. For theconsequently in income increases during the current expansion. For the

region to catch up with the state (or the nation) in terms of wages and income,region to catch up with the state (or the nation) in terms of wages and income,

it needs to attract better paying jobs. What policy options are there?it needs to attract better paying jobs. What policy options are there?

The big picture centers around the “chicken or egg” question: which comesThe big picture centers around the “chicken or egg” question: which comes

first, the higher value-adding businesses or a better-educated labor force? Wefirst, the higher value-adding businesses or a better-educated labor force? We

believe that the evidence from elsewhere strongly favors human capitalbelieve that the evidence from elsewhere strongly favors human capital

creation — increasing test scores, improving high school graduation rates,creation — increasing test scores, improving high school graduation rates,

enrollment increases in tertiary education. Build a better-educated laborenrollment increases in tertiary education. Build a better-educated labor

force, and they will come. All of this will take time however.force, and they will come. All of this will take time however.

In the short run, we have to worry more about the consequences of the FourthIn the short run, we have to worry more about the consequences of the Fourth

Industrial Revolution (artificial intelligence, robotics), which, according toIndustrial Revolution (artificial intelligence, robotics), which, according to

recent research, will have a significantly negative impact on the region.recent research, will have a significantly negative impact on the region.

Instead of discouraging further job creation in logistics, we see an opportunityInstead of discouraging further job creation in logistics, we see an opportunity

for the Inland Empire to upgrade its logistics industry from labor intensive tofor the Inland Empire to upgrade its logistics industry from labor intensive to

machine intensive; in doing so it can become an industry leader nationwide.machine intensive; in doing so it can become an industry leader nationwide.

Employees could turn into higher-paid technicians with the ability to maintainEmployees could turn into higher-paid technicians with the ability to maintain

and modify operations.and modify operations.

CSUSB already has a very successful Center for Cybersecurity, and the CollegeCSUSB already has a very successful Center for Cybersecurity, and the College

of the Desert will have a campus expansion campus in Palm Springs, whichof the Desert will have a campus expansion campus in Palm Springs, which

will specialize in cyber security. These are just two examples of embracingwill specialize in cyber security. These are just two examples of embracing

new technologies rather than fighting them.new technologies rather than fighting them.

2/12/2020 Think smart as we plan for job growth in the Inland Empire – San Bernardino Sun

Given the length of the current economic expansion, it is not a question of “if”Given the length of the current economic expansion, it is not a question of “if”

but “when” it will die of old age. During a recession, regional economic policybut “when” it will die of old age. During a recession, regional economic policy

does not have the luxury to focus on structural changes in reshapingdoes not have the luxury to focus on structural changes in reshaping

industries and to embrace a new era. The time to act is now.industries and to embrace a new era. The time to act is now.

Manfred Keil is chief economist for the Inland Empire Economic PartnershipManfred Keil is chief economist for the Inland Empire Economic Partnership

and professor of economics at Claremont McKenna College, Yao Li is seniorand professor of economics at Claremont McKenna College, Yao Li is senior

analyst at the Lowe Institute of Political Economy, Claremont McKennaanalyst at the Lowe Institute of Political Economy, Claremont McKenna

College.College.

2/12/2020 Child killed in Oro Grande dog attack identified by authorities - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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By Rene Ray De La Cruz Staff Writer Posted Feb 11, 2020 at 12:24 PMUpdated Feb 11, 2020 at 12:47 PM

ORO GRANDE — On Tuesday, local authorities identified the youngboy who was killed here Monday after he was attacked by the family’spit bull.

Five-year-old Sterling Vermeer was a resident of Oro Grande,according to an updated statement released by the Victor Valley Sheriff’sStation, which primarily services Adelanto, Helendale, Oro Grande,Silver Lakes, El Mirage, Spring Valley Lake, Oak Hills andWrightwood.

No other new details were provided in the 11:06 a.m. statement thatsaid updates would be issued as new information becomes available forrelease.

At 2:57 p.m. on Monday, deputies from the Victor Valley Sheriff’sStation responded to a 911 call on the 15100 block of Portland Street inOro Grande, the sheriff’s report said.

The caller reported that the family dog was attacking the boy and“would not let go.” Deputies arrived at the address and found the boywith “traumatic injuries,” the report said.

“The child succumbed to his injuries before law enforcement and fireofficials arrived,” sheriff’s officials said in a statement.

Deputies discovered a relative had been supervising the boy beforestepping out of the room and leaving the child alone with the pit bull.

Child k illed in Oro Grande dog attack

identi�ed by authorities

2/12/2020 Child killed in Oro Grande dog attack identified by authorities - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

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“When he returned, the dog was attacking the child and would notrelease him,” sheriff’s officials said.

There weren’t any other children present during the attack, accordingto the report.

The dark-colored pit bull was taken into custody by San BernardinoCounty Animal Control after the owner signed over custody.

At the somber scene, family members consoled each other asinvestigators could be seen gathered around a shed in the back of thehome, the Daily Press reported.

A coroner’s vehicle left the scene at approximately 5:20 p.m., anddeputies cleared the scene minutes later.

The attack is under investigation and anyone with information is askedto call the Victor Valley station at 760-552-6800.

Reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at 760-951-6227,

RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com, Instagram@renegadereporter, Twitter

@DP_ReneDeLaCruz.

2/12/2020 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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Victor Valley boy is killed by familydogBY LUKE MONEY

A 5-year-old boy was attacked and killed by his family’s pit bull in the Victor Valley onMonday afternoon, authorities said.

San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputies arrived just before 3 p.m. at the home in the15100 block of Portland Street in Oro Grande, an unincorporated community a few milesoutside Victorville, after a family member called and said the dog was attacking the childand would not let him go.

The boy died before law enforcement or fire officials arrived, authorities said.

Sheriff’s officials said the attack occurred after an adult stepped out of the room and leftthe child alone with the dog. No other children were present.

San Bernardino County Animal Care and Control took custody of the dog after the attack,according to the Sheriff’s Department.

The outlook for the pit bull was not clear Tuesday morning, authorities said. An animalcare representative referred inquiries to the Sheriff’s Department, which did notimmediately respond to a request for comment.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Victor Valley Sheriff’s Station at (760) 552-6800.

2/12/2020 Cunningham named captain in Apple Valley - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

https://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20200211/cunningham-named-captain-in-apple-valley?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=… 1/2

By Staff ReportsPosted Feb 11, 2020 at 4:18 PMUpdated Feb 11, 2020 at 6:00 PM

The High Desert resident of more than 42 years isscheduled to start his new assignment on Feb. 18.

APPLE VALLEY — San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Lt.Jason Cunningham has been selected to serve as captain for the AppleValley Sheriff’s Station.

A High Desert resident for more than 42 years, Cunningham isscheduled to start his new assignment Feb. 18, according to a statementreleased by the Town of Apple Valley.

Cunningham became a police explorer when he was 16 years old. Incollege, he followed in his father’s footsteps and became a reserve officerfor San Bernardino County, later enrolling in the Sheriff’s Academy as apre-service officer-graduate. He was hired by the county on Jan. 20,1996.

“My dad, Ed Cunningham, was actually a reserve deputy sheriff for 10years,” Cunningham said. “He started at the county station and thenmoved over to the Victorville station. That’s what really piqued myinterest in law enforcement. I have called the Town of Apple Valley myhome for over two decades now and am honored to serve as the newcaptain for our station.”

Cunningham worked in the Custody Department at the West ValleyDetention Center before being transferred to the Apple Valley station in1997. He began working in the traffic division where he would become

Cunningham named captain in Apple

Valley

2/12/2020 Cunningham named captain in Apple Valley - News - vvdailypress.com - Victorville, CA

https://www.vvdailypress.com/news/20200211/cunningham-named-captain-in-apple-valley?utm_source=SFMC&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=… 2/2

the first, and only, motorcycle officer the station has ever employed.

“Jason and his service to Apple Valley has been one of our biggestassets,” Apple Valley Mayor Scott Nassif said. “Public safety has alwaysbeen a top priority of our Council, and we are honored to see Jason’swork continue in his new assignment as captain. The town and itsresidents are in good hands.”

Manny Mendoza, who served as Apple Valley’s captain since March2018, retired on Jan. 18, 2020, after serving more than 28 years in theSheriff’s Department. Randy German, administrative lieutenant at theWest Valley Detention Center, has been assigned as the new lieutenantfor the Apple Valley station.

“The traffic and homeless challenges this station faces are our two toppriorities right now,” Cunningham said. “I am looking forward tocontinuing my work with the town to continue to make this place thesafest community in the High Desert for everyone.”

The Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station is located at 14931 Dale EvansParkway, Apple Valley. The department can be reached at 760-240-7400. Follow the Apple Valley Police Department on Facebook@AppleValleyPoliceDepartment.

2/12/2020 Coronavirus quarantine ends for 195 Americans at Riverside County air base – Press Enterprise

https://www.pe.com/2020/02/11/coronavirus-quarantine-ends-for-195-americans-at-riverside-county-air-base/ 1/5

By By RYAN HAGENRYAN HAGEN | | rhagen@scng.comrhagen@scng.com | The Press-Enterprise | The Press-EnterprisePUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 10:12 amFebruary 11, 2020 at 10:12 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 11, 2020 at 11:59 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 11:59 pm

Patients toss their face masks to celebrate the end of their federal quarantine at MarchPatients toss their face masks to celebrate the end of their federal quarantine at MarchAir Reserve Base near Moreno Valley, Calif., Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020. The Centers forAir Reserve Base near Moreno Valley, Calif., Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020. The Centers forDisease Control and Prevention ordered the quarantine of 195 Americans at the baseDisease Control and Prevention ordered the quarantine of 195 Americans at the baseafter they were airlifted Jan. 28, 2020, from Wuhan, China, the center of a fast-after they were airlifted Jan. 28, 2020, from Wuhan, China, the center of a fast-spreading and deadly outbreak of a new coronavirus. (Photo courtesy Riversidespreading and deadly outbreak of a new coronavirus. (Photo courtesy RiversideCounty)County)

NEWSNEWS

Coronavirus quarantine ends forCoronavirus quarantine ends for195 Americans at Riverside195 Americans at RiversideCounty air baseCounty air base

2/12/2020 Coronavirus quarantine ends for 195 Americans at Riverside County air base – Press Enterprise

https://www.pe.com/2020/02/11/coronavirus-quarantine-ends-for-195-americans-at-riverside-county-air-base/ 2/5

Fourteen days after leaving the area of China where novel Fourteen days after leaving the area of China where novel coronaviruscoronavirus was was

quickly spreading, 195 Americans who had been quarantined at March Airquickly spreading, 195 Americans who had been quarantined at March Air

Reserve Base near Riverside are now free to go home.Reserve Base near Riverside are now free to go home.

They celebrated the moment Tuesday morning, Feb. 11, by tossing their faceThey celebrated the moment Tuesday morning, Feb. 11, by tossing their face

masks like graduates at a commencement ceremony. Then most of the group —masks like graduates at a commencement ceremony. Then most of the group —

who health officials say carry zero risk of spreading the disease — got on buseswho health officials say carry zero risk of spreading the disease — got on buses

that took them to commercial flights at Ontario International Airport or Losthat took them to commercial flights at Ontario International Airport or Los

Angeles International Airport.Angeles International Airport.

A handful will spend another day voluntarily at the base where they had beenA handful will spend another day voluntarily at the base where they had been

confined, waiting for flights that leave Wednesday, said Riverside County healthconfined, waiting for flights that leave Wednesday, said Riverside County health

spokesman Jose Arballo Jr.spokesman Jose Arballo Jr.

The top-ranked State Department official for the Wuhan region, Consul GeneralThe top-ranked State Department official for the Wuhan region, Consul General

Jamie Fouss, stayed behind an extra hour to describe what it was like beingJamie Fouss, stayed behind an extra hour to describe what it was like being

confined to the base in the first U.S. quarantine since 1963.confined to the base in the first U.S. quarantine since 1963.

“Everyone felt like the quarantine was their civic duty,” Fouss said, his voice“Everyone felt like the quarantine was their civic duty,” Fouss said, his voice

showing his emotion in a news conference Tuesday.showing his emotion in a news conference Tuesday.

Fouss thanked health officials, who he said treated the group well.Fouss thanked health officials, who he said treated the group well.

Evacuees organized Zumba and art classes, school for children and trivia games,Evacuees organized Zumba and art classes, school for children and trivia games,

he said. They hope to have a reunion.he said. They hope to have a reunion.

“We made good friends,” he said.“We made good friends,” he said.

In a photo shared Tuesday morning, Feb. 11, Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County’sIn a photo shared Tuesday morning, Feb. 11, Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County’s

public health officer,  captured some of the 195 Americans at the base tossingpublic health officer,  captured some of the 195 Americans at the base tossing

their face masks in celebration of their pending departure.their face masks in celebration of their pending departure.

Dr. Cameron KaiserDr. Cameron Kaiser@RivCoDoc@RivCoDoc

Some of the 195 guests toss their face masks in celebration asSome of the 195 guests toss their face masks in celebration as they prepare to depart March Air Reserve Base. they prepare to depart March Air Reserve Base. ##rivconowrivconow ##ruhealthruhealth ##coronaviruscoronavirus

2/12/2020 Coronavirus quarantine ends for 195 Americans at Riverside County air base – Press Enterprise

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7575 9:42 AM - Feb 11, 20209:42 AM - Feb 11, 2020

81 people are talking about this81 people are talking about this

Only medical staff wearing proper protective gear were permitted in the areaOnly medical staff wearing proper protective gear were permitted in the area

where the evacuees were housed, said Rear Adm. Nancy Knight, who oversawwhere the evacuees were housed, said Rear Adm. Nancy Knight, who oversaw

March’s quarantine.March’s quarantine.

“They’ve been watched more closely than anyone else in the United States,”“They’ve been watched more closely than anyone else in the United States,”

Knight said, and the quarantine period confirms that they carry no risk ofKnight said, and the quarantine period confirms that they carry no risk of

spreading the disease. No further checkups are needed, she said.spreading the disease. No further checkups are needed, she said.

Base employees don’t have novel coronavirusBase employees don’t have novel coronavirus, either, she said., either, she said.

Nonetheless, one employee was denied housing and another’s daughter was madeNonetheless, one employee was denied housing and another’s daughter was made

fun of at school, Knight said.fun of at school, Knight said.

She and Kaiser repeatedly stressed that the quarantine proved this group was safe.She and Kaiser repeatedly stressed that the quarantine proved this group was safe.

“They don’t need additional tests, they don’t need to be shunned, they don’t have“They don’t need additional tests, they don’t need to be shunned, they don’t have

novel coronavirus,” Kaiser said at the news conference, echoing an novel coronavirus,” Kaiser said at the news conference, echoing an open letteropen letter he he

sent the day before calling the treatment employees received unacceptable.sent the day before calling the treatment employees received unacceptable.

A chartered jet carrying the evacuees — mostly State Department employees andA chartered jet carrying the evacuees — mostly State Department employees and

their children — out of China their children — out of China landed at March on Jan. 29landed at March on Jan. 29. Public health officials. Public health officials

said the evacuees would be said the evacuees would be free to leave the base about 72 hoursfree to leave the base about 72 hours after their after their

arrival, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed course onarrival, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention changed course on

Jan. 31 and placed all 195 Jan. 31 and placed all 195 Americans under a 14-day federal quarantineAmericans under a 14-day federal quarantine, the first, the first

in the U.S. since the smallpox outbreak of the 1960s. Health officials say it canin the U.S. since the smallpox outbreak of the 1960s. Health officials say it can

take up to two weeks for symptoms of the coronavirus to show.take up to two weeks for symptoms of the coronavirus to show.

In the meantime, In the meantime, two children became illtwo children became ill with fever, one of the symptoms of the with fever, one of the symptoms of the

virus, and were hospitalized until tests for the virus came back negative. None ofvirus, and were hospitalized until tests for the virus came back negative. None of

those quarantined at March have tested positive for the new coronavirus, officialsthose quarantined at March have tested positive for the new coronavirus, officials

said.said.

2/12/2020 Coronavirus quarantine ends for 195 Americans at Riverside County air base – Press Enterprise

Those quarantined at March were the first Americans evacuated from China andThose quarantined at March were the first Americans evacuated from China and

brought back to the U.S. Numerous flights from the virus zone landed throughoutbrought back to the U.S. Numerous flights from the virus zone landed throughout

the U.S. last week, each set of passengers beginning their own two-weekthe U.S. last week, each set of passengers beginning their own two-week

quarantines.quarantines.

One person confirmed to have the illness arrived Wednesday at One person confirmed to have the illness arrived Wednesday at Marine Corps AirMarine Corps Air

Station MiramarStation Miramar near San Diego, the seventh such case in California and the 11th near San Diego, the seventh such case in California and the 11th

in the U.S.in the U.S.

Three additional travelers from the area most affected by the virus were takenThree additional travelers from the area most affected by the virus were taken

from LAX to March and isolated from the group of 195. One has since beenfrom LAX to March and isolated from the group of 195. One has since been

released, and the other two will remain several more days, Knight said.released, and the other two will remain several more days, Knight said.

None of them show symptoms of coronavirus, either, she said.None of them show symptoms of coronavirus, either, she said.

The highly contagious coronavirus has killed more than 1,000 people overseas.The highly contagious coronavirus has killed more than 1,000 people overseas.

March is on a list of bases that could receive additional evacuees in the future,March is on a list of bases that could receive additional evacuees in the future,

Knight said.Knight said.

2/12/2020 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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Quarantine’s end sparks joy andcelebrationFinal tests after 14 days show none of the evacuees inRiverside County have virus.BY COLLEEN SHALBY

After flying halfway around the world to flee a deadly viral outbreak and then spendingtwo weeks quarantined at a California military base, a group of Americans evacuated fromChina couldn’t help but celebrate Tuesday morning.

Following a series of screenings, all 195 Americans quarantined amid the coronavirusoutbreak were cleared to leave March Air Reserve Base in Riverside County, where theyhad been confined the last 14 days.

Everyone in the group, which arrived at the base aboard a charter plane on Jan. 29, testednegative for the virus in the final screenings shortly before 9:30 a.m. The evacuees, amongthem diplomats who had fled Wuhan, China, with their families, were then free to leave.

But before goodbyes were said, a group photo was in order. Like students flinginggraduation caps, the Americans triumphantly tossed their face masks into the air.

Jamie Fouss, the U.S. consul general in Wuhan, broke down in tears while describing howhis fellow evacuees, bonded by a journey that began aboard a cargo aircraft in China,parted amid hugs and a promise to reunite.

“Today, as we took off our masks and were given the clean bill of health, we realized wehad gone through the experience together. We made good friends. We kept ourselvesbusy” with Zumba and art classes, school for children on base and trivia games. “We triedto have as normal a life as we could,” he said.

Two days after the travelers arrived from Wuhan, the U.S. government issued amandatory quarantine order — the first in more than 50 years — which kept them on thebase for 14 days, the incubation period of the virus.

“The passengers are very appreciative of the support and services but excited to get homeand get back to their normal lives,” said Kim Saruwatari, director of public health forRiverside County. The scene was a happy one, she said.

2/12/2020 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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Saruwatari said county health officials helped arrange transportation to local airportswhere travelers would continue to their final destinations.

Two people who were transported to the base from Los Angeles International Airport andwere not part of the larger group will remain on base until at least Sunday, when theirquarantines are scheduled to end, officials said. During a news conference Tuesday,health officials emphasized that no one released from the quarantine poses a risk to thelarger community.

“I don’t want someone to be attacked, ostracized or outed for being part of this testinggroup,” said Cameron Kaiser, public health officer for Riverside County.

There have been 13 confirmed U.S. cases of coronavirus — what the World HealthOrganization has officially named COVID-19 — including seven in California. Mostrecently, an evacuee in San Diego County who has been quarantined with 231 others atMarine Corps Air Station Miramar tested positive for the virus. In Riverside County, noneof those quarantined acquired the pathogen, although two children developed feversduring the quarantine, health records show.

The quarantines are one of the few tools available to health workers trying to contain thespreading virus because a vaccine is not expected to be available for 18 months. But theactions have stirred panic and the spread of misinformation. Fear of contracting the virushad led to unacceptable treatment of some who work at the Riverside County base, Kaisersaid in an open letter to the community Monday. Workers at March Air Reserve Base andtheir families have been verbally attacked in person and on social media by people fearingtheir proximity to those under quarantine, officials said.

“Please understand that people on and off the base are not at increased risk for exposureto the new virus, and we don’t restrict people who don’t actually pose any risk,” saidKaiser, who noted that some base workers were accosted while in uniform.

“They have had no contact with the evacuees, whose area is fully separated from basepersonnel. You do not need to exclude household or family members of [base] personnel,nor do you need to require them to obtain unnecessary ‘clearance letters’ from a physicianor health authority. They pose no greater risk than anyone else.”

Officials reiterated Kaiser’s points Tuesday and said that discrimination has becomeproblematic over the course of the quarantine.

“We are doing everything we can to educate our evacuees, provide them with informationon how to access mental health services should they be needed, and educate thecommunities,” said Rear Adm. Nancy Knight of the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention. “These people do not have novel coronavirus.”

Hundreds of evacuees in the last two weeks were flown to military bases in California,Texas and Nebraska, where many are still quarantined.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

2/12/2020 San Bernardino police say 5 homicides on westside are possibly connected – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/san-bernardino-police-say-5-homicides-on-westside-are-connected/ 1/5

By By BRIAN ROKOSBRIAN ROKOS | | brokos@scng.combrokos@scng.com | The Press-Enterprise | The Press-EnterprisePUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 4:26 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 4:26 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 11, 2020 at 11:39February 11, 2020 at 11:39pmpm

San Bernardino police are looking for the people who were in the silver car drivingSan Bernardino police are looking for the people who were in the silver car drivingpast at left in connection with a shooting on Cajon Boulevard at Darby Street onpast at left in connection with a shooting on Cajon Boulevard at Darby Street onSept. 14, 2019. Dekorra Page, 2, died as a result of the gunfire. (Courtesy of SanSept. 14, 2019. Dekorra Page, 2, died as a result of the gunfire. (Courtesy of SanBernardino Police Department)Bernardino Police Department)

NEWSNEWSCRIME + PUBLIC SAFETYCRIME + PUBLIC SAFETY

San Bernardino police say 5San Bernardino police say 5homicides on westside arehomicides on westside arepossibly connectedpossibly connected

2/12/2020 San Bernardino police say 5 homicides on westside are possibly connected – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/san-bernardino-police-say-5-homicides-on-westside-are-connected/ 2/5

San Bernardino police are looking for the people who were in this car at Delmann Heights PaSan Bernardino police are looking for the people who were in this car at Delmann Heights Pa2019. Police believe one of the people fatally shot Nancy Magana about 2 a.m. that day as sh2019. Police believe one of the people fatally shot Nancy Magana about 2 a.m. that day as shpickup. (Courtesy of San Bernardino Police Department)pickup. (Courtesy of San Bernardino Police Department)

Four attacks between August and January on San Bernardino’s westside thatFour attacks between August and January on San Bernardino’s westside that

resulted in five deaths and two injuries are believed to be connected and gang-resulted in five deaths and two injuries are believed to be connected and gang-

related, police said Tuesday, Feb. 11.related, police said Tuesday, Feb. 11.

Some of the victims, including Some of the victims, including middle school teacher Nancy Maganamiddle school teacher Nancy Magana, 25, were, 25, were

believed to be randomly chosen. Others were “possibly” known to theirbelieved to be randomly chosen. Others were “possibly” known to their

attackers, San Bernardino police said.attackers, San Bernardino police said.

The common thread was that the slayings happened west of the 215 Freeway,The common thread was that the slayings happened west of the 215 Freeway,

in an area of high gang activity.in an area of high gang activity.

The weapons used were handguns and high-powered rifles.The weapons used were handguns and high-powered rifles.

“There are people out there that saw these homicides, saw these shootings,“There are people out there that saw these homicides, saw these shootings,

that saw what happened, and we need those folks to come forward,” interimthat saw what happened, and we need those folks to come forward,” interim

Police Chief Eric McBride said at a news conference at police headquarters.Police Chief Eric McBride said at a news conference at police headquarters.

2/12/2020 San Bernardino police say 5 homicides on westside are possibly connected – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/san-bernardino-police-say-5-homicides-on-westside-are-connected/ 3/5

San Bernardino interim Police Chief Eric McBride, left, and Sgt. Al TelloSan Bernardino interim Police Chief Eric McBride, left, and Sgt. Al Tellodiscuss clues in five homicides that they said are related during a newsdiscuss clues in five homicides that they said are related during a newsconference on Feb. 11, 2020. Police are seeking the public’s help in solving theconference on Feb. 11, 2020. Police are seeking the public’s help in solving thecrimes. (Brian Rokos, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)crimes. (Brian Rokos, The Press-Enterprise/SCNG)

Police showed surveillance videos that they hope will jog witnesses’Police showed surveillance videos that they hope will jog witnesses’

memories.memories.

Magana, a new Del Vallejo Middle School teacher, was sitting in her pickupMagana, a new Del Vallejo Middle School teacher, was sitting in her pickup

with her boyfriend and 5-year-old son in the parking lot of Delmann Heightswith her boyfriend and 5-year-old son in the parking lot of Delmann Heights

Park about 2 a.m. on Aug. 17 when a light-colored sedan rolled up.Park about 2 a.m. on Aug. 17 when a light-colored sedan rolled up.

Two people got out of the car and one, without saying a word, fired throughTwo people got out of the car and one, without saying a word, fired through

the driver’s side window. Magana died at a hospital.the driver’s side window. Magana died at a hospital.

Magana was shot “to no fault of her own,” Sgt. Al Tello said.Magana was shot “to no fault of her own,” Sgt. Al Tello said.

About 6:45 p.m. on Sept. 14, officers responding to a traffic collision at DarbyAbout 6:45 p.m. on Sept. 14, officers responding to a traffic collision at Darby

Street and Cajon Boulevard found a 21-year-old Colton man, suffering from aStreet and Cajon Boulevard found a 21-year-old Colton man, suffering from a

gunshot wound in a red Toyota Camry. He was in critical condition.gunshot wound in a red Toyota Camry. He was in critical condition.

His daughter, 2, was injured in the crash and died at a hospital.His daughter, 2, was injured in the crash and died at a hospital.

Police say someone shot the father as he drove along Cajon. A video shows aPolice say someone shot the father as he drove along Cajon. A video shows a

suspect vehicle, a silver sedan, speeding away.suspect vehicle, a silver sedan, speeding away.

About 6 a.m. on Jan. 19, officers found About 6 a.m. on Jan. 19, officers found 24-year-old Lemon Hamilton24-year-old Lemon Hamilton of San of San

Bernardino lying in the street after being shot. He died at a hospital.Bernardino lying in the street after being shot. He died at a hospital.

2/12/2020 San Bernardino police say 5 homicides on westside are possibly connected – San Bernardino Sun

A second victim, a 20-year-old man, showed up at a hospital and was treatedA second victim, a 20-year-old man, showed up at a hospital and was treated

for a gunshot wound. Police later learned that there was an exchange offor a gunshot wound. Police later learned that there was an exchange of

gunfire, they said.gunfire, they said.

And about 3:15 p.m. on Jan. 21And about 3:15 p.m. on Jan. 21, police found two gunshot victims near, police found two gunshot victims near

Hanford Street and Grand Avenue.Hanford Street and Grand Avenue.

Israel De La Torre, 24, of San Bernardino, was found lying outside the driver’sIsrael De La Torre, 24, of San Bernardino, was found lying outside the driver’s

side of a black 2007 GMC Yukon. Daniel Melendrez, 33, of San Bernardino, wasside of a black 2007 GMC Yukon. Daniel Melendrez, 33, of San Bernardino, was

found at 1443 North Grand. They both died.found at 1443 North Grand. They both died.

Surveillance video shows two vehicles dropping off several men near theSurveillance video shows two vehicles dropping off several men near the

scene. They ambushed the two victims, police said.scene. They ambushed the two victims, police said.

McBride said he is hopeful that community members will provide additionalMcBride said he is hopeful that community members will provide additional

clues and identities of suspects.clues and identities of suspects.

Five neighborhood policing districts were added in July 2019, each with aFive neighborhood policing districts were added in July 2019, each with a

lieutenant, sergeant and two officers. Additionally, officers have attendedlieutenant, sergeant and two officers. Additionally, officers have attended

some 300 community meetings since then.some 300 community meetings since then.

As a result, McBride said, the department has increased the percentage ofAs a result, McBride said, the department has increased the percentage of

homicide cases in which a suspect has been arrested or identified from 46% inhomicide cases in which a suspect has been arrested or identified from 46% in

the first six months of 2019 to 78% in the next six months.the first six months of 2019 to 78% in the next six months.

Information may be reported anonymously to Sgt. Tello at 909-384-5613 or atInformation may be reported anonymously to Sgt. Tello at 909-384-5613 or at

tello@al@sbcity.org or to WeTip at 800-782-7463 or tello@al@sbcity.org or to WeTip at 800-782-7463 or wetip.comwetip.com..

2/12/2020 San Bernardino Cops Chasing Serial Killer Gang Who Killed Middle-School Teacher Nancy Magana and 2-Year-Old

https://www.thedailybeast.com/san-bernardino-cops-chasing-serial-killer-gang-who-killed-middle-school-teacher-and-2-year-old 1/5

San BernardinoCops: We Have aSerial-Killer Gang onthe Loose—PleaseHelpSan Bernardino Police now say five deathsin four seemingly random shootings werecommitted by the same people from a lethalpack that is stalking the west side of theircity.

Barbie Latza NadeauCorrespondent-At-Large

Updated Feb. . �, ���� ��:��AM ET Published Feb. �. , ���� ��:��AM ET

CONNECTING THE DOTS

Police in San Bernardino,

California, say they believe

that if they can crack just one

of four brutal, unsolved

shootings over the last six

months, they will solve them

all.

The killing spree, which is

believed to be gang-related,

started at around 2 a.m. on

Aug. 17, 2019, when Nancy

Magana, a 25-year-old

middle-school teacher, was

shot while sitting in a pickup

truck with her boyfriend and

5-year-old son in west San

Bernardino. Surveillance

footage shows a group of

unidentified men driving a

light-colored sedan near the

truck, which was stopped in

the parking lot of a local park.

Then two of the men got out

of the car and, without

speaking to each other or

anyone in the vehicle, one

man took out a high-powered

weapon and shot directly

through the driver’s side

window. Magana’s boyfriend

and son survived, but the

teacher died at a hospital.

“No words were exchanged

between Magana and [the

people in] that vehicle,” Sgt.

Al Tello with San Bernardino

police said at the time.

“Someone walked up from

that car and opened fire on

the driver’s side, striking her

through no fault of her own.

She was just sitting there

with her boyfriend.”

Then, nearly a month later,

on Sept. 14 just before 7 p.m.,

about a mile from where the

first shooting occurred, a

man driving a red Toyota

Camry with his 2-year-old

daughter was shot by men in

a light-colored sedan while

driving down a street. He

crashed his car into a guard

rail. He survived, but the

toddler did not.

Another similar

assassination-style shooting

occurred before 6 a.m. on

Jan. 19, when officers found

24-year-old Lemon Hamilton

dead in the middle of a street

in west San Bernardino after

being shot by a group of men

in a car. A short time later, a

second victim, who had

apparently fled the scene,

showed up at a hospital for

treatment. Police believe in

that incident, gunfire was

exchanged with the group of

unidentified shooters.

The fourth shooting came on

Jan. 21 when police found

Israel De La Torre, 24, dead

on the ground beside the

driver’s side of his black 2007

GMC Yukon. A 33-year-old

found dead a few blocks

away, likely trying to flee the

scene, authorities said. Again,

surveillance footage shows a

group of men in a car

dropping off the killers who

ambushed their victims

before meeting the getaway

car and fleeing the scene after

the victims were dead.

Police say they have only just

connected the five deaths,

which all occurred on the

same side of San Bernardino.

They are appealing to the

public for witnesses or

anyone who might know who

the gang of killers is. “There

are people out there that saw

these homicides, saw these

shootings, that saw what

happened, and we need those

folks to come forward,”

Interim Police Chief Eric

McBride said at a news

conference Tuesday.

Since the killings began,

police have bolstered their

defense teams in five San

Bernardino neighborhoods

that have traditionally been

vulnerable to gang violence.

Officers have set up 300

community meetings as part

of an outreach program in

hopes of penetrating the wall

of silence surrounding the

crimes. Since beefing up the

police force in the area,

McBride said the force

coincidentally solved a slew

of other homicides, bringing

up the total of arrests in

random homicides from 46

percent in the first half of

2019 to 78 percent as ofation on our website and sha

2/12/2020 Upland hires city manager on 3-2 vote – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/upland-hires-city-manager-on-3-2-vote/ 1/5

By By DAVID ALLENDAVID ALLEN | | dallen@scng.comdallen@scng.com | Inland Valley Daily Bulletin | Inland Valley Daily BulletinPUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 3:13 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 3:13 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 11, 2020 at 3:15 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 3:15 pm

Rosemary Hoerning was hired as city manager of Upland on Monday by the CityRosemary Hoerning was hired as city manager of Upland on Monday by the CityCouncil. (Photo by David Allen, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin/SCNG)Council. (Photo by David Allen, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin/SCNG)

Upland has a new city manager: Rosemary Hoerning.Upland has a new city manager: Rosemary Hoerning.

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

Upland hires city manager on 3-2Upland hires city manager on 3-2votevote

2/12/2020 Upland hires city manager on 3-2 vote – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/upland-hires-city-manager-on-3-2-vote/ 2/5

Hoerning, previously the public works director, has been interim city managerHoerning, previously the public works director, has been interim city manager

since last May, meaning she’s already lasted nine months. As Upland citysince last May, meaning she’s already lasted nine months. As Upland city

executives go, she’s a seasoned veteran. The last two city managers, executives go, she’s a seasoned veteran. The last two city managers, Bill ManisBill Manis and and

Jeannette VagnozziJeannette Vagnozzi, lasted 10 months and six months, respectively., lasted 10 months and six months, respectively.

I sat in on the City Council meeting Monday, having seen “city managerI sat in on the City Council meeting Monday, having seen “city manager

appointment” on the closed session agenda. Although I missed Vagnozzi’s leave-appointment” on the closed session agenda. Although I missed Vagnozzi’s leave-

taking, I do try to be in Upland for the changing of the guard. Which means I’m intaking, I do try to be in Upland for the changing of the guard. Which means I’m in

Upland a lot.Upland a lot.

There had been scuttlebutt that Hoerning wouldn’t get the job, but she did.There had been scuttlebutt that Hoerning wouldn’t get the job, but she did.

Interim City Attorney Steven Flower reported the result of the closed session:Interim City Attorney Steven Flower reported the result of the closed session:

Hoerning had been hired on a 3-2 vote.Hoerning had been hired on a 3-2 vote.

(Because a city manager can be fired with three votes, having two votes against(Because a city manager can be fired with three votes, having two votes against

you at the beginning is an inauspicious start.)you at the beginning is an inauspicious start.)

Council members Ricky Felix, Bill Velto and Rudy Zuniga were in favor and JaniceCouncil members Ricky Felix, Bill Velto and Rudy Zuniga were in favor and Janice

Elliott and Mayor Debbie Stone were opposed. Say what? More on that in aElliott and Mayor Debbie Stone were opposed. Say what? More on that in a

minute. Flower said the next step would be to negotiate a contract.minute. Flower said the next step would be to negotiate a contract.

The audience was light by Upland standards, but I have to say I was surprised theyThe audience was light by Upland standards, but I have to say I was surprised they

did not audibly react to the news at all. No applause or anything. Upland is usuallydid not audibly react to the news at all. No applause or anything. Upland is usually

good for a catcall or two.good for a catcall or two.

Maybe everyone is getting inured to the arrival of city managers, or perhapsMaybe everyone is getting inured to the arrival of city managers, or perhaps

Hoerning’s change of status is so seamless that it wasn’t worth the effort to clap.Hoerning’s change of status is so seamless that it wasn’t worth the effort to clap.

The remainder of the meeting was low-key but of interest.The remainder of the meeting was low-key but of interest.

The invocation was led by a Christian Scientist who invoked founder Mary BakerThe invocation was led by a Christian Scientist who invoked founder Mary Baker

Eddy — when was the last time you heard her name spoken aloud? — and whoEddy — when was the last time you heard her name spoken aloud? — and who

concluded, “We hope this council meeting will be conducted in the spirit of lovingconcluded, “We hope this council meeting will be conducted in the spirit of loving

one another.”one another.”

Elliott said she participated in a disaster drill Feb. 1 that simulated an earthquakeElliott said she participated in a disaster drill Feb. 1 that simulated an earthquake

aftermath. “My role was to play the role of a pushy reporter,” Elliott saidaftermath. “My role was to play the role of a pushy reporter,” Elliott said

cheerfully, “who wanted access to the scene in order to interview victims andcheerfully, “who wanted access to the scene in order to interview victims and

rescuers, thereby hindering the rescuers’ efforts.”rescuers, thereby hindering the rescuers’ efforts.”

Those darn reporters.Those darn reporters.

Zuniga and Velto got into a spat about San Antonio Water Co., the municipal waterZuniga and Velto got into a spat about San Antonio Water Co., the municipal water

company on whose board Zuniga sits and which supplies half of Upland’s water.company on whose board Zuniga sits and which supplies half of Upland’s water.

2/12/2020 Upland hires city manager on 3-2 vote – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/upland-hires-city-manager-on-3-2-vote/ 3/5

Zuniga said someone must have put Velto up to his recent criticism of SAWCO andZuniga said someone must have put Velto up to his recent criticism of SAWCO and

his idea that Upland should take over the agency. Zuniga said that if anything,his idea that Upland should take over the agency. Zuniga said that if anything,

SAWCO ought to take over Upland’s water operations. Velto shot back that the ideaSAWCO ought to take over Upland’s water operations. Velto shot back that the idea

was “absurd” and that Zuniga shouldn’t even be on the water board.was “absurd” and that Zuniga shouldn’t even be on the water board.

Felix said he’s “hungering for a sales tax” and gave out his phone number forFelix said he’s “hungering for a sales tax” and gave out his phone number for

anyone to dial to find out what he’s doing, why he wants a tax and what hisanyone to dial to find out what he’s doing, why he wants a tax and what his

“vision” is for Upland.“vision” is for Upland.

“So please reach out to me instead of doing all this hearsay and reading the“So please reach out to me instead of doing all this hearsay and reading the

newspaper, or fake news, I should say,” Felix said. “Just give me a call, you’ll getnewspaper, or fake news, I should say,” Felix said. “Just give me a call, you’ll get

the truth there.”the truth there.”

I should call to ask him what the hell he’s talking about.I should call to ask him what the hell he’s talking about.

But back to the new city manager. Elliott expressed her support.But back to the new city manager. Elliott expressed her support.

“I approve the appointment. I voted against it because we have a new council and“I approve the appointment. I voted against it because we have a new council and

I thought we should go through the RFP process,” Elliott said, referring to requestsI thought we should go through the RFP process,” Elliott said, referring to requests

for proposals. (That’s not actually how you search for a city manager, but nofor proposals. (That’s not actually how you search for a city manager, but no

matter.)matter.)

“I wanted to ensure we had the best candidate. But she is our city manager,” Elliott“I wanted to ensure we had the best candidate. But she is our city manager,” Elliott

said of Hoerning. “I love working with her and will do everything I can to ensuresaid of Hoerning. “I love working with her and will do everything I can to ensure

her success.”her success.”

So that’s a yes, shoring up Hoerning’s support. Stone didn’t explain her no vote. ISo that’s a yes, shoring up Hoerning’s support. Stone didn’t explain her no vote. I

found it a little mystifying because Stone had expressed to me twice in recentfound it a little mystifying because Stone had expressed to me twice in recent

months, including as recently as Jan. 13, that she was ready to name Hoerning asmonths, including as recently as Jan. 13, that she was ready to name Hoerning as

manager. Something must have happened there.manager. Something must have happened there.

Hoerning made a brief comment at the end of the meeting: “I want to thank youHoerning made a brief comment at the end of the meeting: “I want to thank you

for the opportunity to serve as your city manager and your trust.”for the opportunity to serve as your city manager and your trust.”

Afterward, Hoerning and I had a nice chat. She wasn’t part of the closed sessionAfterward, Hoerning and I had a nice chat. She wasn’t part of the closed session

and thus wasn’t privy to the discussion or to Stone’s reasoning.and thus wasn’t privy to the discussion or to Stone’s reasoning.

“I hope she’ll share her concerns or reservations and I’ll be able to live up to her“I hope she’ll share her concerns or reservations and I’ll be able to live up to her

expectations,” Hoerning told me.expectations,” Hoerning told me.

Two recent goal-setting sessions by the council have brought forward fourTwo recent goal-setting sessions by the council have brought forward four

priorities: increasing revenue, making Upland a desirable place to live and dopriorities: increasing revenue, making Upland a desirable place to live and do

business, filling potholes and otherwise making the city look good, andbusiness, filling potholes and otherwise making the city look good, and

improving employee morale. Hoerning said that gives her a road map.improving employee morale. Hoerning said that gives her a road map.

2/12/2020 Upland hires city manager on 3-2 vote – San Bernardino Sun

She’s spent three decades in public service, starting in Ontario in 1986 andShe’s spent three decades in public service, starting in Ontario in 1986 and

continuing in Long Beach in 1997 before joining Upland as assistant public workscontinuing in Long Beach in 1997 before joining Upland as assistant public works

director from 2001-08. After a stint in Redlands, she returned to Upland in 2011 asdirector from 2001-08. After a stint in Redlands, she returned to Upland in 2011 as

public works director.public works director.

“I like this community. My mom lives in this town,” Hoerning said. “I hope to be“I like this community. My mom lives in this town,” Hoerning said. “I hope to be

here a number of years.”here a number of years.”

Manis and Vagnozzi no doubt thought the same thing. But Hoerning is already onManis and Vagnozzi no doubt thought the same thing. But Hoerning is already on

her way to outlasting them.her way to outlasting them.

David Allen writes Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, a number of days. EmailDavid Allen writes Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, a number of days. Email

dallen@scng.com, phone 909-483-9339, visit insidesocal.com/davidallen, likedallen@scng.com, phone 909-483-9339, visit insidesocal.com/davidallen, like

davidallencolumnist on Facebook and follow @davidallen909 on Twitter.davidallencolumnist on Facebook and follow @davidallen909 on Twitter.

2/12/2020 Embattled Rialto water district GM stripped of hiring, promotion powers – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/embattled-rialto-water-district-gm-stripped-of-hiring-promotion-powers/ 1/6

By By JOE NELSONJOE NELSON | | jnelson@scng.comjnelson@scng.com and and SCOTT SCHWEBKESCOTT SCHWEBKE | |sschwebke@scng.comsschwebke@scng.com | San Bernardino Sun | San Bernardino SunPUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 5:33 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 5:33 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 12, 2020 at 12:07 amFebruary 12, 2020 at 12:07 am

Martin Pinon (Courtesy of West Valley Water District)Martin Pinon (Courtesy of West Valley Water District)

LOCAL NEWSLOCAL NEWS

Embattled Rialto water districtEmbattled Rialto water districtGM stripped of hiring, promotionGM stripped of hiring, promotionpowerspowersClarence Mansell Jr., the target of a series ofClarence Mansell Jr., the target of a series ofcomplaints about cronyism, will be iced out incomplaints about cronyism, will be iced out infavor of interim HR directorfavor of interim HR director

2/12/2020 Embattled Rialto water district GM stripped of hiring, promotion powers – San Bernardino Sun

The general manager at the embattled West Valley Water District in Rialto hasThe general manager at the embattled West Valley Water District in Rialto has

been stripped of his authority to hire and promote employees amid internalbeen stripped of his authority to hire and promote employees amid internal

complaints about questionable hiring practices and rampant cronyism.complaints about questionable hiring practices and rampant cronyism.

Those decisions — as well as job recruitment, internal transfers and performanceThose decisions — as well as job recruitment, internal transfers and performance

evaluations — will fall to newly hired interim Human Resources and Riskevaluations — will fall to newly hired interim Human Resources and Risk

Manager Martin Pinon rather than General Manager Clarence Mansell Jr., at leastManager Martin Pinon rather than General Manager Clarence Mansell Jr., at least

for the time being.for the time being.

2/12/2020 Embattled Rialto water district GM stripped of hiring, promotion powers – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/embattled-rialto-water-district-gm-stripped-of-hiring-promotion-powers/ 3/6

‘Going to turn it around’‘Going to turn it around’

New president takes creditNew president takes credit

Pinon, who has been working for the district for the past two weeks under a six-Pinon, who has been working for the district for the past two weeks under a six-

month contract to reform the district’s HR practices and implement new policies,month contract to reform the district’s HR practices and implement new policies,

said during a recent interview he will also spend the next several monthssaid during a recent interview he will also spend the next several months

investigating dozens of personnel complaints and bringing them to resolution.investigating dozens of personnel complaints and bringing them to resolution.

The district will contract with an outside firm to bring in investigators to assist inThe district will contract with an outside firm to bring in investigators to assist in

those investigations, he said.those investigations, he said.

“It’s not rocket science,” said Pinon, whose hiring was unanimously approved by“It’s not rocket science,” said Pinon, whose hiring was unanimously approved by

the board Jan. 16. “We’re going to turn it all around.”the board Jan. 16. “We’re going to turn it all around.”

The decision to rescind Mansell’s ability to hire and promote follows a The decision to rescind Mansell’s ability to hire and promote follows a no-no-

confidence letterconfidence letter signed in December by 16 West Valley Water District managers signed in December by 16 West Valley Water District managers

who have demanded that he be fired because of poor leadership and allegedwho have demanded that he be fired because of poor leadership and alleged

cronyism.cronyism.

The letter followed on the heels of an ongoing Southern California News GroupThe letter followed on the heels of an ongoing Southern California News Group

investigation that has uncovered myriad problems during Mansell’s tenure,investigation that has uncovered myriad problems during Mansell’s tenure,

including the employment of consultants without contracts, hiring managers andincluding the employment of consultants without contracts, hiring managers and

consultants with consultants with dubious backgroundsdubious backgrounds and and legal difficultieslegal difficulties and the spending of and the spending of

more than $740,000 to settle lawsuits with disgruntled employees.more than $740,000 to settle lawsuits with disgruntled employees.

Channing Hawkins said in a statement Tuesday that Pinon’s hiring was directlyChanning Hawkins said in a statement Tuesday that Pinon’s hiring was directly

tied to his appointment as board president and the district’s “renewed, collectivetied to his appointment as board president and the district’s “renewed, collective

commitment to ratepayers.”commitment to ratepayers.”

“When I was sworn in, I vowed to bring accountability to the water district’s“When I was sworn in, I vowed to bring accountability to the water district’s

human resources practices and policies,” Hawkins said. “In addition to settinghuman resources practices and policies,” Hawkins said. “In addition to setting

new rules and guidelines, we must also hire good, qualified people to enforce thenew rules and guidelines, we must also hire good, qualified people to enforce the

rules, guidelines and best practices that we put in place.”rules, guidelines and best practices that we put in place.”

Mansell said in a statement Tuesday he has “had a teamwork mentality” sinceMansell said in a statement Tuesday he has “had a teamwork mentality” since

joining the district in July 2018 at a starting annual salary of nearly $225,000.joining the district in July 2018 at a starting annual salary of nearly $225,000.

“I am happy to continue to work with the Board of Directors to improve the“I am happy to continue to work with the Board of Directors to improve the

District for ratepayers and employees,” Mansell said.District for ratepayers and employees,” Mansell said.

2/12/2020 Embattled Rialto water district GM stripped of hiring, promotion powers – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/embattled-rialto-water-district-gm-stripped-of-hiring-promotion-powers/ 4/6

Personnel complaintsPersonnel complaints

Pinon said he will answer directly to a two-member management committeePinon said he will answer directly to a two-member management committee

composed of Hawkins and board Vice President Kyle Crowther. That committee,composed of Hawkins and board Vice President Kyle Crowther. That committee,

not Mansell, will now have the final word on Pinon’s recommendations,not Mansell, will now have the final word on Pinon’s recommendations,

according to Pinon and district spokesman Naseem Farooqi.according to Pinon and district spokesman Naseem Farooqi.

“That management committee has given me the discretion and the authority to“That management committee has given me the discretion and the authority to

do what I have to do to fix the personnel issues going on here, so I feel verydo what I have to do to fix the personnel issues going on here, so I feel very

comfortable I’m going to be able to fix all that,” Pinon said.comfortable I’m going to be able to fix all that,” Pinon said.

Pinon, who is working under a district contract with La Mirada-based MuniTempsPinon, who is working under a district contract with La Mirada-based MuniTemps

Staffing Solutions at a pay rate of $125 per hour, also has been tasked withStaffing Solutions at a pay rate of $125 per hour, also has been tasked with

investigating and bringing to resolution dozens of personnel complaints datinginvestigating and bringing to resolution dozens of personnel complaints dating

back to early 2019.back to early 2019.

Among the complaints addressed in the Dec. 12 no-confidence letter againstAmong the complaints addressed in the Dec. 12 no-confidence letter against

Mansell was that dozens of employee complaints had not been addressed and hadMansell was that dozens of employee complaints had not been addressed and had

“fallen on deaf ears.”“fallen on deaf ears.”

“I’m looking at every one of those individually and making decisions on how to“I’m looking at every one of those individually and making decisions on how to

resolve them,” Pinon said.resolve them,” Pinon said.

The district will need to contract with a law firm or human resources consultingThe district will need to contract with a law firm or human resources consulting

firm to assist in the investigations, especially ones that are more extensive andfirm to assist in the investigations, especially ones that are more extensive and

time-consuming, Pinon said. He said he is pushing to have all the complaintstime-consuming, Pinon said. He said he is pushing to have all the complaints

investigated and resolved within three months.investigated and resolved within three months.

Pinon said another necessity is a classification and compensation study toPinon said another necessity is a classification and compensation study to

determine whether employees are being adequately compensated in comparisondetermine whether employees are being adequately compensated in comparison

to employees at other public agencies of comparable size.to employees at other public agencies of comparable size.

Pinon’s efforts are among a slew of reforms underway at the district to promotePinon’s efforts are among a slew of reforms underway at the district to promote

better transparency and accountability. Hawkins provided an update on thosebetter transparency and accountability. Hawkins provided an update on those

efforts during the Feb. 6 board meeting, where he announced several actions thatefforts during the Feb. 6 board meeting, where he announced several actions that

have occurred over the last two months. Among them are restricting Mansellhave occurred over the last two months. Among them are restricting Mansell

from solely approving all purchase order contracts, reviewing and scrutinizing allfrom solely approving all purchase order contracts, reviewing and scrutinizing all

purchase order contracts that have come into question, initiating a hiring freeze,purchase order contracts that have come into question, initiating a hiring freeze,

and live streaming meetings on Facebook and YouTube.and live streaming meetings on Facebook and YouTube.

2/12/2020 Embattled Rialto water district GM stripped of hiring, promotion powers – San Bernardino Sun

Additionally, Public Affairs Analyst Cynthia Birts, during that board meeting, saidAdditionally, Public Affairs Analyst Cynthia Birts, during that board meeting, said

the district was making strides in becoming a state-recognized “District ofthe district was making strides in becoming a state-recognized “District of

Distinction,” and all that is needed are training certifications for all boardDistinction,” and all that is needed are training certifications for all board

members and administrative testing for Mansell. Once that is completed, themembers and administrative testing for Mansell. Once that is completed, the

application will be sent to California Special Districts, and is expected to takeapplication will be sent to California Special Districts, and is expected to take

about two weeks to process.about two weeks to process.

“And that will take us to District of Distinction,” Birts said.“And that will take us to District of Distinction,” Birts said.

2/12/2020 Chino Police Department to hold forum Wednesday on proposed use of facial recognition technology – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/chino-pd-to-hold-forum-wednesday-on-proposed-use-of-facial-recognition-technology/ 1/4

By By ROBERT GUNDRANROBERT GUNDRAN | | rgundran@scng.comrgundran@scng.com | |PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 11, 2020 at 6:16 pmFebruary 11, 2020 at 6:16 pm | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 11, 2020 at 6:28February 11, 2020 at 6:28pmpm

In this Feb. 22, 2019, file photo, Washington County Sheriff’s Office Deputy JeffIn this Feb. 22, 2019, file photo, Washington County Sheriff’s Office Deputy JeffTalbot demonstrates how his agency used facial recognition software to help solveTalbot demonstrates how his agency used facial recognition software to help solvea crime at their headquarters in Hillsboro, Ore. The image on the left shows a mana crime at their headquarters in Hillsboro, Ore. The image on the left shows a manwhose face was captured on a surveillance camera and investigators used thewhose face was captured on a surveillance camera and investigators used thesoftware to scan their database of past mug shots to match that facial image withsoftware to scan their database of past mug shots to match that facial image withan identity. (AP Photo/Gillian Flaccus)an identity. (AP Photo/Gillian Flaccus)

NEWSNEWSCRIME + PUBLIC SAFETYCRIME + PUBLIC SAFETY

Chino Police Department toChino Police Department tohold forum Wednesday onhold forum Wednesday onproposed use of facialproposed use of facialrecognition technologyrecognition technology

2/12/2020 Chino Police Department to hold forum Wednesday on proposed use of facial recognition technology – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/11/chino-pd-to-hold-forum-wednesday-on-proposed-use-of-facial-recognition-technology/ 2/4

Facial recognition technology is already used by several agencies in the InlandFacial recognition technology is already used by several agencies in the Inland

Empire, and the Chino Police Department is considering using the technologyEmpire, and the Chino Police Department is considering using the technology

in the future. The department is holding a public forum Wednesday evening toin the future. The department is holding a public forum Wednesday evening to

get feedback from the community on any concerns residents might haveget feedback from the community on any concerns residents might have

about the technology.about the technology.

Chino police said in a news release earlier this month that the department willChino police said in a news release earlier this month that the department will

host the forum to discuss privacy issues and policy;  and to seek publichost the forum to discuss privacy issues and policy;  and to seek public

feedback.feedback.

The technology would be used when there is a picture of a suspect, but theirThe technology would be used when there is a picture of a suspect, but their

identity is unknown, police said. It would not be used with cameras worn byidentity is unknown, police said. It would not be used with cameras worn by

officers.officers.

Wednesday’s meeting will take place at 6 p.m. at the Chino PoliceWednesday’s meeting will take place at 6 p.m. at the Chino Police

Department’s Community Room, at 5450 Guardian Way.Department’s Community Room, at 5450 Guardian Way.

“The software attempts to match key features in a photo of a reported“The software attempts to match key features in a photo of a reported

suspect’s face with booking photos for people previously arrested,” police saidsuspect’s face with booking photos for people previously arrested,” police said

in a statement. “Only booking photos will be used for comparison. Thein a statement. “Only booking photos will be used for comparison. The

software will then provide the investigator with potential matches providingsoftware will then provide the investigator with potential matches providing

investigative leads only.”investigative leads only.”

Police said the technology can be used to narrow down a list of suspects in aPolice said the technology can be used to narrow down a list of suspects in a

crime, but investigators will have to decide if a lead is appropriate to follow.crime, but investigators will have to decide if a lead is appropriate to follow.

The facial recognition technology can’t be used for probable cause to make anThe facial recognition technology can’t be used for probable cause to make an

arrest.arrest.

Sgt. Dustin Tomicic, spokesman for the Chino Police Department, said theSgt. Dustin Tomicic, spokesman for the Chino Police Department, said the

department would use facial recognition technology in a similar way that itdepartment would use facial recognition technology in a similar way that it

uses eyewitness testimony or fingerprint scanning. A match would not directlyuses eyewitness testimony or fingerprint scanning. A match would not directly

lead to an arrest, but would be used as part of the investigation.lead to an arrest, but would be used as part of the investigation.

The technology can also be used to identify a person who isn’t able to identifyThe technology can also be used to identify a person who isn’t able to identify

themselves, police said. That can include people who are incapacitated, dead,themselves, police said. That can include people who are incapacitated, dead,

critically missing or otherwise at-risk.critically missing or otherwise at-risk.

Ryan Railsback, officer and spokesman for the Riverside Police Department,Ryan Railsback, officer and spokesman for the Riverside Police Department,

said his department uses technology from the Riverside County Sheriff’ssaid his department uses technology from the Riverside County Sheriff’s

Department to match photos and fingerprints.Department to match photos and fingerprints.

Aly Mejia, spokeswoman for the Pomona Police Department, said herAly Mejia, spokeswoman for the Pomona Police Department, said her

department uses identification programs provided by the Los Angeles and Sandepartment uses identification programs provided by the Los Angeles and San

Bernardino county sheriff’s departments.Bernardino county sheriff’s departments.

2/12/2020 Chino Police Department to hold forum Wednesday on proposed use of facial recognition technology – San Bernardino Sun

Lt. Scott Landen, spokesman for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’sLt. Scott Landen, spokesman for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s

Department, said all law enforcement agencies in the county are able to use itsDepartment, said all law enforcement agencies in the county are able to use its

facial recognition technology services.facial recognition technology services.

Landen noted that the Sheriff’s Department cannot search the DMV or socialLanden noted that the Sheriff’s Department cannot search the DMV or social

media sites. It only searches through booking photos.media sites. It only searches through booking photos.

“The technology doesn’t search the face, per se,” Landen said. “A booking“The technology doesn’t search the face, per se,” Landen said. “A booking

photo is uploaded into the software, and it measures the face. It measures 60photo is uploaded into the software, and it measures the face. It measures 60

to 70 points in a face, then creates a template.”to 70 points in a face, then creates a template.”

“The computer doesn’t specifically see faces, it just sees measurements and it“The computer doesn’t specifically see faces, it just sees measurements and it

can give a list of hundreds of names and photos,” he said.can give a list of hundreds of names and photos,” he said.

Tomicic said the Chino department is looking at a variety of vendors thatTomicic said the Chino department is looking at a variety of vendors that

supply  facial recognition software specifically for law enforcement.supply  facial recognition software specifically for law enforcement.

2/12/2020 Wakeup call: Housing construction dropped last year in California – San Bernardino Sun

https://www.sbsun.com/2020/02/12/wakeup-call-housing-construction-dropped-last-year-in-california/ 1/4

By By DAN WALTERSDAN WALTERS | |PUBLISHED: PUBLISHED: February 12, 2020 at 6:00 amFebruary 12, 2020 at 6:00 am | UPDATED: | UPDATED: February 12, 2020 at 6:01 amFebruary 12, 2020 at 6:01 am

Gavin Newsom came into the governorship a year ago having made manyGavin Newsom came into the governorship a year ago having made many

promises to accomplish great things, or as he put it, “big hairy, audacious goals.”promises to accomplish great things, or as he put it, “big hairy, audacious goals.”

Perhaps the most audacious was to solve California’s ever-growing shortage ofPerhaps the most audacious was to solve California’s ever-growing shortage of

housing by building 3.5 million more units by 2025.housing by building 3.5 million more units by 2025.

OPINIONOPINION

Wakeup call: HousingWakeup call: Housingconstruction dropped last year inconstruction dropped last year inCaliforniaCalifornia

•• Opinion, Opinion ColumnistOpinion, Opinion Columnist

2/12/2020 Wakeup call: Housing construction dropped last year in California – San Bernardino Sun

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Specifically, he pledged in an on-line article to “lead the effort to develop the 3.5Specifically, he pledged in an on-line article to “lead the effort to develop the 3.5

million new housing units we need by 2025 because our solutions must be as boldmillion new housing units we need by 2025 because our solutions must be as bold

as the problem is big.”as the problem is big.”

During his inaugural address, Newsom said he would implement “a Marshall PlanDuring his inaugural address, Newsom said he would implement “a Marshall Plan

for affordable housing,” likening it to the reconstruction of Europe after Worldfor affordable housing,” likening it to the reconstruction of Europe after World

War II.War II.

Building 3.5 million housing units in seven years translates into an average ofBuilding 3.5 million housing units in seven years translates into an average of

500,000 a year. However, during the first year of his governorship housing500,000 a year. However, during the first year of his governorship housing

construction actually decreased for the first time in a decade, according to a newconstruction actually decreased for the first time in a decade, according to a new

report issued this week by the Construction Industry Research Board.report issued this week by the Construction Industry Research Board.

Despite a surge in the final two months of 2019, the year ended with 110,218 newDespite a surge in the final two months of 2019, the year ended with 110,218 new

housing starts, the CIRB said, down 7% from 2018.housing starts, the CIRB said, down 7% from 2018.

Not only is the number scarcely a fifth of what the governor-to-be promised, it’sNot only is the number scarcely a fifth of what the governor-to-be promised, it’s

scarcely half of the state’s official target of 180,000. In other words, California isscarcely half of the state’s official target of 180,000. In other words, California is

seeing its shortage worsen.seeing its shortage worsen.

Newsom’s promises have also have contracted. He now calls the 3.5-million unitNewsom’s promises have also have contracted. He now calls the 3.5-million unit

pledge “a stretch goal” and told the Los Angeles Times, “It’s a stubborn issue. Youpledge “a stretch goal” and told the Los Angeles Times, “It’s a stubborn issue. You

can’t snap your fingers and build hundreds of thousands, millionscan’t snap your fingers and build hundreds of thousands, millions

of housing units overnight.”of housing units overnight.”

In fact, his assertion that we need 3.5 million more housing units is totally offIn fact, his assertion that we need 3.5 million more housing units is totally off

base. It comes from a now-discredited study by a research firm that assumedbase. It comes from a now-discredited study by a research firm that assumed

California’s housing market is comparable to New York City’s.California’s housing market is comparable to New York City’s.

Nevertheless, Sen. Scott Wiener continued to use the number while trying,Nevertheless, Sen. Scott Wiener continued to use the number while trying,

unsuccessfully, to persuade the Senate last month to approve hisunsuccessfully, to persuade the Senate last month to approve his

legislation, Senate Bill 50, that would have made it easier to build some kinds oflegislation, Senate Bill 50, that would have made it easier to build some kinds of

housing in some areas by overriding local zoning laws.housing in some areas by overriding local zoning laws.

A more reasonable, but still difficult goal would be to build perhaps a millionA more reasonable, but still difficult goal would be to build perhaps a million

more units in the next five years, close to the state’s official target. California, themore units in the next five years, close to the state’s official target. California, the

CIRB notes in its report, was building around 200,000 units a year in the firstCIRB notes in its report, was building around 200,000 units a year in the first

decade of the century, until the Great Recession clobbered the state and cutdecade of the century, until the Great Recession clobbered the state and cut

production by as much as 85%.production by as much as 85%.

Wiener, a San Francisco Democrat, could not persuade the Senate to move hisWiener, a San Francisco Democrat, could not persuade the Senate to move his

bill, largely due to opposition among his fellow Democrats from Los Angelesbill, largely due to opposition among his fellow Democrats from Los Angeles

County and Newsom’s unwillingness to intercede.County and Newsom’s unwillingness to intercede.

2/12/2020 Wakeup call: Housing construction dropped last year in California – San Bernardino Sun

Notably, while overall housing starts declined by 7% last year, the CIRB reportNotably, while overall housing starts declined by 7% last year, the CIRB report

tells us that multi-family housing dropped by 11%, which is going in precisely thetells us that multi-family housing dropped by 11%, which is going in precisely the

wrong direction. One wonders whether the decline had something to do with thewrong direction. One wonders whether the decline had something to do with the

passage of a Newsom-backed statewide rent control bill.passage of a Newsom-backed statewide rent control bill.

However, something like SB 50 is needed to overcome local opposition to multi-However, something like SB 50 is needed to overcome local opposition to multi-

family construction — apartments and condos — that middle- and low-incomefamily construction — apartments and condos — that middle- and low-income

families in urban centers need, and entice developers and investors to jump-startfamilies in urban centers need, and entice developers and investors to jump-start

production.production.

We need to get off the 3.5 million figure that Newsom trumpeted during hisWe need to get off the 3.5 million figure that Newsom trumpeted during his

campaign and that Wiener continued to cite, and establish a more reasonable andcampaign and that Wiener continued to cite, and establish a more reasonable and

reachable goal.reachable goal.

Most of all, we need to precisely pinpoint the impediments to construction,Most of all, we need to precisely pinpoint the impediments to construction,

whatever they might be, and attack them ruthlessly.whatever they might be, and attack them ruthlessly.

The CIRB report should be a wakeup call. We need less talk and more action.The CIRB report should be a wakeup call. We need less talk and more action.

CalMatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining howCalMatters is a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how

California’s state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by DanCalifornia’s state Capitol works and why it matters. For more stories by Dan

Walters, go to calmatters.org/commentaryWalters, go to calmatters.org/commentary

2/12/2020 Los Angeles Times - eNewspaper

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Cop’s use of Facebook put ‘target onour back’Homeless man’s lawsuit alleges harassment by L.A. police

REX SCHELLENBERG accuses the city of L.A. of allowing an officer to hound himthrough Facebook pages. (Photographs by Al Seib Los Angeles Times)

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BY EMILY ALPERT REYES

Rex Schellenberg said he was appalled when he found out that a police officer had beensharing information about him and other homeless people on Facebook.

“Telling them who we were and what we were doing. Our personal problems,” saidSchellenberg, 81, who has lived on the streets of the San Fernando Valley for years. “It’slike putting a target on our back.”

Now Schellenberg and his attorney Carol Sobel are taking the city to court over aphenomenon that has divided Angelenos: Facebook pages on which Valley residents havecomplained about encampments and other issues and shared their concerns with police,sometimes including photos of people on the street.

In the lawsuit, they accuse the city of allowing a police officer to target and harassSchellenberg with the help of those Facebook groups, sharing sensitive and sometimeserroneous information about him and his physical and mental state. The lawsuit assertsthat online posts led to Schellenberg being harassed by police and that his van wasillegally towed.

City officials did not immediately respond to the allegations in the lawsuit. Rob Wilcox, aspokesman for City Atty. Mike Feuer,on Monday said, “We will review the lawsuit andhave no further comment at this time.”

SCHELLENBERG with a girlfriend in 2018. The city attorney is reviewing the lawsuit, aspokesman says. ()

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The legal claims are tied to events that occurred before police were told to stop taking partin the online groups, said Sobel, a civil rights attorney who has repeatedly sued LosAngeles over the rights of homeless people.

Last year, LAPD officers were ordered to stop participating in Facebook pages such as“Crimebusters of West Hills and Woodland Hills” and “Homeless TransientEncampments of our West Valley,” amid complaints that comments there had promotedviolence and harassment of people living on the streets.

An August post by a resident on one of the closed pages showed someone lying on asidewalk, followed by comments such as, “Have you tried a spray bottle?” and “Cattleprods are affordable and effective too,” according to screenshots viewed by The Times.That post appeared to have been deleted later.

In a post a year earlier, a member urged residents concerned about people gathered in apark at night to “make them as uncomfortable as possible, hopefully that will make themgo back to wherever they came from,” according to emails obtained through a recordsrequest byblogger Adrian Riskin.

At a community meeting in September, LAPD Deputy Chief Jorge Rodriguez said he hadordered officers to stop posting on the Facebook pages because the sites had includedtroubling comments about poisoning or shooting people.LAPD Chief Michel Moore saidthe reputation of his department was at stake.

It wasn’t the first time that such concerns had arisen: In 2018, homeless advocates lodgeda complaint with the state attorney general, arguing that such Facebook pages spreadprivate and potentially defamatory information about homeless individuals, making themmore vulnerable to harassment. They named several LAPD officers active on the pages,including senior lead officer and recent Los Angeles City Council candidate Sean Dinse.

Many residents at the September meeting complained that the Facebook pages were beingunfairly maligned and said the pages helped them reach officers promptly about concerns.One resident said it helped protect the community when Dinse could tell people thatsomeone could be violent and should not be approached.

Both groups have posted rules that “vigilante” comments are not allowed, but pageadministrator Fern White “cannot catch every inappropriate statement as soon as it ismade,” her attorney Michael Saltz said in an email last year.

Saltz also provided screenshots of posts in which officers and residents had expressedsympathy or sought help for homeless people in the area. He said that, in general, whenmembers of the groups shared photos of people on the street, “the purpose of such postsis to document certain activity to pass on for evaluation and proper action.”

Most group members “are mindful of maintaining certain privacy guidelines” whendealing with homeless people, but “there is no expectation of privacy by anyone who is inthe process of committing a crime or violating the law,” Saltz said.

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The lawsuit names Dinse as a defendant, alleging that he posted information about whereSchellenberg was staying so that residents would contact police, giving officers a“pretextual basis” to force him to move or seize his property.

Dinse also shared other information about the man: In a post from a few years agoincluded in the suit, Dinse said Schellenberg had been evicted from housing, probablybecause of “drug addiction/mental illness.” The lawsuit said Schellenberg was not a drugaddict and did not suffer from mental illness, “other than the ordinary stress and traumaof living on the streets.”

Schellenberg also accuses the officer of repeatedly targeting his van for improper towing,including one instance that occurred weeks after someone posted an image of him on theCrimebusters page, according to the lawsuit.

Dinse declined to comment on the claims in the lawsuit, referring questions to the cityattorney’s office. At the September meeting where community members sparred over theFacebook groups, the officer said he wanted to be on the pages to soak up informationabout what was happening on the streets and assist residents.

Saltz did not immediately respond Monday to requests for comment on the lawsuit.

This isn’t the only case that Schellenberg has filed against the city: He sued Los Angelesover a year ago, alleging that city employees had violated his rights by seizing anddestroying his property, including a laptop, his bicycle and a housing voucher.

The city denied his claims, saying it returned any property “not deemed a public healthand safety hazard.”