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MINUTES
OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE JURUPA VALLEY CITY COUNCIL
January 16, 2025
1. 6:00 PM - CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL FOR CLOSED SESSION ● Brian Berkson, Mayor
● Chris Barajas, Mayor Pro Tem
● Armando Carmona, Council Member
● Veronica Sanchez, Council Member
● Guillermo Silva, Council Member
Mayor Brian Berkson called the closed session meeting to order at 6:04 p.m.
2. CONVENE TO CLOSED SESSION
A. PUBLIC COMMENTS PERTAINING TO CLOSED SESSION ITEMS
There were no public comments regarding the closed session items.
B. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – POTENTIAL LITIGATION.
The City Council met in closed session with the City Attorney pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2).(3) with respect to one matter of potential litigation. A point has been reached where, in the opinion of the City Attorney, based on existing facts and circumstances, there is a significant exposure to litigation involving the City with re spect to the proposed project at 7586 Jurupa Road based on four letters concerning the Project: 1) October 7, 2024 from Linda Klein, attorney for Warmington Residential to Assistant City Attorney Maricela Marroquin; 2) November 27, 2024 from Sonja Trauss, Executive Director, YIMBY Law to Planning Commission; 3) December 5, 2024 from , Dylan Casey, Executive Director, and James Lloyd, Director of Planning and Investigations, California Housing Defense Fund to Planning Commission; and 4) December 11, 2024 fro m Linda Klein, attorney for Warmington Residential to Planning Commission. The four letters are available for public inspection from the Office of the City Clerk.
3. RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
A. ANNOUNCEMENT OF A NY REPORTABLE ACTION S IN CLOSED
SESSION
City Attorney Peter Thorson announced that no reportable actions were taken.
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4. 7:00 PM - CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL FOR REGULAR MEETING ● Brian Berkson, Mayor
● Chris Barajas, Mayor Pro Tem
● Armando Carmona, Council Member
● Veronica Sanchez, Council Member
● Guillermo Silva, Council Member
Mayor Brian Berkson called the regular meeting to order at 7:05 p.m.
5. INVOCATION was given by Pastor Todd Dannelley, Calvary Chapel Jurupa Valley.
6. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was led by Vicki Wasko.
7. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva, to approve the Agenda.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
8. PRESENTATIONS
A. RECOGNITION TO CITY CLERK VICKI WASKO FOR HER MANY
YEARS OF FAITHFUL SERVICE UPON HER RETIREMENT FROM THE
CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY
Madison Baca from State Assembly Leticia Castillos’s office and Colin Markovich from Senator Sabrina Cervantes ’office presented Ms. Wasko with Certificates of Recognition. Mayor Berkson presented Ms. Wasko with a City Proclamation and a Certificate of Recognition from the honorable Karen Spiegel, representing Riverside County Board of Supervisors, District 2 . Mayo r Berkson thanked Ms.
Wasko for her many years of faithful service and wished her well on her upcoming retirement.
9. PUBLIC APPEARANCE/COMMENTS
Carmina Ortiz, stated that she lives in Arabella Ranch and she and her neighbors were without power for six straight days due to Southern California Edison’s power outage. She stated that there was no communication from SCE and she still does not know the reason for the outage. She urged the City Council to work with SCE on this issue as it has created an intolerable situation for residents.
Carol Manettas stated that SCE owes every resident in Jurupa Valley an explanation regarding their policy to turn off residential power for over a week. She outlined the
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hardships many residents faced including no ability t o leave their residences when elevators stopped working, loss of medications that require refrigeration, and lack of heat.
She asked that the Council hold a town hall meeting to address this issue which would allow the public to receive thorough and honest answers from SCE.
Colin Markovich, representing Senator Sabrina Cervantes, provided a legislative update.
He stated that Senator Cervantes will be advocating for the residents of Jurupa Valley and has already introduced her first piece of legislation . He stated that the Senator has been briefed on the SCE power shutoffs and she is working to prevent such incidents in the future by working with SCE, local leaders, and state legislative representatives.
Daniel Silvas expressed concern regarding the ongoing SCE power outages. He stated that many residents experienced over eight days without power. Many residents are senior citizens that suffered a great deal of personal hardships. He urged the Council to address this issue and to work with SCE to prevent such outages in the future.
Lydia Mendoza voiced concern that the SCE power outages are often unrelated to weather or winds and she would like the City Council to follow up with SCE on their process or policies. She asked for an update on the Mobile Home grant funding status.
Irene Sanchez stated that she lives at the Mission Village Senior apartment complex and for eight days they had no power. This situation created severe hardships for the senior citizens that live there. She was disappointed that no one came to check on the seniors to see if they were OK. She asked that these residents be reimbursed for their financial losses during the outage.
David Daneshmayeh referred to a previous meeting he had with Mayor Berkson and Paul Toor, Public Works Director, regarding expanding Pyrite Street to four lanes and placing a barrier in the center roadway. He asked for an update on this issue as an accident occurred at this location.
Gabriel Sanchez stated that as a resident of the Bravo community, he is grateful to Council Member Carmona for bringing attention to his community when they lost power for nine days. He provided examples of the hardships he and other members of the community had to deal with during the outage.
Margaret Rigby stated that she resides at the Mission Village Senior apartments and the recent power outage lasted for eight days. She noted that the entire apartment complex is electric and the way the residents suffered was heartbreaking. She explained that many of these residents are low -income and the elevator did not work, their food perished, and residents were “left high and dry.”
Liz Hernandez thanked Council Member Armando Carmona for his help during the power outage as he helped provide meals for some of the residents. She urged the City Council to help resolve this issue.
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George Ruiz stated that it is easy to “point fingers”, however, these power outages are something that is unprecedented. He suggested using the City’s Operations Center and/or volunteers to go o ut in the community to check on senior citizens and disabled residents that need assistance.
Zoe Hanlon thanked Council Member Armando Carmona for providing meals for residents during the power outage. She stated that this situation cannot continue and s omething needs to change.
Sean Barker stated that he suffered for eight days with no electricity. He stated that SCE has no answers for residents and often times provides conflicting answers. He complained that SCE does not maintain their infrastructure properly which often causes the outages.
What they offer for compensation is not acceptable and m ore has to be done to fix this issue.
Mayor Brian Berkson thanked everyone for their comments, stating that the Council will stay engaged regarding this issue. He added that he has asked for a special meeting with representatives from SCE to allow residents the opportunity to express their concerns.
10. INTRODUCTIONS, ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS, COUNCIL COMMENTS AND
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Council Member Armando Carmona discussed the recent power outages and what he and others did to try and assist residents who were impacted. He acknowledged the City’s Fire Department, El Torito Meat Market, El Campos Mariscos , Diablos Micheladas Mexican Grill, and Farmers Boys who helped respond with meals and beverages. He discussed his calls to SCE and his concerns for the medically vulnerable. He stated that his goal is to hold SCE accountable, encourage reimbursement for residents who suffered economically, and find long-term solutions.
Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas agreed with Council Member Carmona’s comments, stating that what SCE did was unacceptable and the City Council will continue to work with SCE to hold them accou ntable. He is working with other impacted cities to compile a list of actions by SCE that were done incorrectly according to CPUC regulations. He thanked the veterans and community volunteers who manned the VFW for the entire duration of the power outage to provide meals and a place to stay warm. He noted that the VFW was the No. 1 resource center in the state of California as more than 2,000 individuals visited the VFW since last Tuesday.
Council Member Veronica Sanchez stated that she was also impacted by the power outage, which also impacted the City’s small businesses. She thanked the VFW and Reach Out for their community support. She encouraged residents to check up on their elderly neighbors, to stand together, and continue to reach out to the City Council.
Mayor Brian Berkson stated that it was his absolute pleasure to serve as Mayor for Jurupa Valley for 2025. He stated that the City is on a positive trajectory and he looks forward to working together for the betterment of the community. He addressed the recent power
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outages and agreed that SCE needs to be held accountable. He suggested that the school district could be another resource for residents who are in need of a place to stay warm or find basic services and he would like to see the school district consider opening their doors the next time there is a prolonged power outage. He suggested that the City consider purchasing generators that could be lent out, especially to the disabled. He adde d that he will be working to set up a community meeting with representatives from SCE. He added that the City will be working on traffic issues, a future homeless shelter, code enforcement/quality of life issues, and changing the date of the City’s commun ity parade, which would allow the inclusion of marching bands. He looks forward to his tenure as mayor and continuing to provide support to residents’ concerns.
11. CITY COUNCIL MEMBER ORAL/WRITTEN REPORTS REGARDING
REGIONAL BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
A. MAYOR BRIAN BERKSON
1. Mayor Brian Berkson announced that the Metrolink / Southern California Regional Rail Authority – Audit and Finance Committee meeting of January 10, 2025 was canceled.
2. Mayor Brian Berkson gave an update on the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee meeting of January 16, 2025.
B. MAYOR PRO TEM CHRIS BARAJAS
1. Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas gave an update on the Western Riverside Council of Governments - Strategic Planning Session of January 10, 2025.
12. CITY MANAGER’S UPDATE
City Manager Rod Butler announced that volunteers are still needed for Riverside County’s annual Point-in-Time-Count of the area’s homeless population. He pointed out that Sheriff Deputies and City Code Enforcement accompany the volunteers. Interested individuals may sign up online at the City’s website. He announced that the City is accepting applications for their annual public service grants that are typically award ed to non-profit social service organizations that provide services to Jurupa Valley residents. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2025. Information on how to apply is available on the City’s website. He announced that City Hall will be closed on Mond ay, January 20, 2025 in observance of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. City Hall will resume regular office hours on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.
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A. AB1234 REPORT
Michael Flad, Assistant City Manager reported that Mayor Brian Berkson and Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas attended the California Contract Cities Association’s Legislative Tour in Sacramento from January 5, 2025 - January 7, 2025. Travel and accommodations were provided. Mr. Flad reported that the trip included meetings with Rob Bonta, California Attorney General, and David Zisser, Assistant Deputy Director of the state’s Housing, Community Development Department (HCD).
Topics discussed included setting next year’s legislative platform.
Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas reported that as the legislative chair of the California Contract Cities Association, he is working on the following two bills: 1) a truck camera bill which would prevent trucks from restricted truck routes; and 2) a bill that would prohibit foreign and/or corporate investment in U.S. real es tate such as the buyout of entire housing communities.
13. SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT UPDATE
Mayor Brian Berkson announced that this item would be continued to the February 20, 2025 meeting.
14. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. DECEMBER 19, 2024 REGULAR MEETING
A motion was made by Council Member Guillermo Silva, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , to approve the Minutes of the regular meeting of December 19, 2024.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
15. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. COUNCIL APPROVAL OF A MOTION TO WAIVE THE READING OF
THE TITLE AND TEXT OF ALL ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
INCLUDED IN THE AGENDA
Requested Action: That the City Council waive the reading of the title and text of all ordinances and re solutions included in the agenda. In accordance with Government Code Section 34934, the title of each ordinance is included on the published agenda and a copy of the full ordinance has been available to the public online on the City’s website and will be available in print at the meeting prior to the introduction or passage of the ordinance.
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COUNCIL MEMBERS MAY REMOVE ITEMS FROM TH E CONSENT
CALENDAR FOR DISCUSSION, OR TO ASK QUESTIONS, OR MAKE A
COMMENT ON THE ITEM
If a Council Member wishes to vote “no” or “abstain” on a Consent Calendar item but does not wish to discuss, ask questions or make a comment, the Council Member may state that they wish to vote “no” or “abstain” on the item and the minutes and certification of the vote will show that the Council Member voted “no” or “abstain.”
B. AUTHORIZING THE DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN OBSOLETE CITY RECORDS – REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR
FURTHER DISCUSSION
Requested Action: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-01, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA
VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE DESTRUCTION OF
CERTAIN OBSOLETE CITY RECORDS
C. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN CFT NV DEVELOPMENTS,
LLC AND THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY FOR MAINTENANCE OF
CITY PARKWAYS FOR THE CFT COMMERCIAL CENTER MA 20084
PROJECT LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF MISSION
BOULEVARD AND VALLEY WAY INTERSECTION
1. Requested Action: That City Council approve the agreements between CFT NV Developments, LLC, and the City of Jurupa Valley for maintenance of parkway along Mission Boulevard and Valley Way; and
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the Landscape Maintenance Agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney; and
3. Authorize th e City Manager to execute the Special Escrow Account agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney.
D. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS REGARDING THE ANNEXATION OF
TERRITORY TO THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY LANDSCAPE AND
LIGHTING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 89 -1-CONSOLIDATED
(THE “DISTRICT”) AS ZONE JJ (VAN BUREN MARKETPLACE) AND
THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SUCH
TERRITORY; LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF VAN
BUREN BOULEVARD AND RUTILE STREET
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1. Requested Action: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025 -02, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JURUPA VALLEY INITIATING PROCEEDINGS FOR THE
ANNEXATION OF TERRITORY TO CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY
LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO.
89-1-CONSOLIDATED AS ZONE JJ (VAN BUREN
MARKETPLACE) AND THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF
ASSESSMENTS WITHIN SUCH TERRITORY FOR FISCAL YEAR
2025-2026 PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 2 OF
DIVISION 15 OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHW AYS
CODE AND ARTICLE XIII D OF THE CALIFORNIA
CONSTITUTION
2. That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-03, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JURUPA VALLEY APPROVING THE REPORT OF THE
ENGINEER REGARDING THE PROPOSED ANNEXATION O F
TERRITORY TO CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY LANDSCAPING
AND LIGHTING MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 89 -1-
CONSOLIDATED AS ZONE JJ (VAN BUREN MARKETPLACE)
AND THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS WITHIN
THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY LIGHTING DISTRICT NO. 89-1-
CONSOLIDATED FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025-2026
3. That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-04, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
JURUPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING ITS INTENTION
TO ANNEX TERRITORY TO CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY
LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING MA INTENANCE DISTRICT NO.
89-1-CONSOLIDATED AS ZONE JJ (VAN BUREN
MARKETPLACE) AND TO LEVY AND COLLECT ASSESSMENTS
WITHIN SUCH TERRITORY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2025 -2026
PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 2 OF DIVISION 15
OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND
ARTICLE XIII D OF THE CALIFORNIA CONSTITUTION AND
APPOINTING A TIME AND PLACE FOR HEARING PROTESTS
E. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN LIMONITE C&C, LLC AND THE
CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY FOR MAINTENANCE OF CITY PARKWAYS
FOR THE VALLEY SQUARE PM 36977 PROJECT LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MISSION BOULEVARD AND PYRITE STREET
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INTERSECTION – REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR
FURTHER DISCUSSION
1. Requested Action: That the City Council approve the agreement between Limonite C&C, LLC and the City of Jurupa Valley for maintenance of parkways; and
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney; and
3. Accept Performance Bond No. 4479332 in the amount of $46,000 for parkway Improvements.
F. FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE AND THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY FOR FI SCAL YEAR 2018 -2019 THROUGH FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025 – REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT CALENDAR FOR
FURTHER DISCUSSION
1. Requested Action: That the City Council approve the First Amended and Restated Agreement for Professional Services between the County of Riverside and the City of Jurupa Valley for Fiscal Year 2018-2019 through Fiscal Year 2024 -2025 and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney.
2. Authorize the Director of Finance to make appropriate budget adjustments as necessary, based on the Finance Impact section of the staff report.
G. APPROVAL OF TRACT MAP NO. 38318-1 FOR THE DISTRICT LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST COR NER OF 34 TH STREET AND WALLACE
STREET, ACCEPTANCE OF OFFERS OF DEDICATION, APPROVAL OF
SUBDIVISION AGREEMENTS, AND ACCEPTANCE OF
IMPROVEMENT BONDS
1. Requested Action: That the City Council approve Tract Map 38318 -1 and accept the dedication as follows:
a. Accept the real property described as an easement for street and public utility purposes for Lot “A” (Wallace Street) and Lot “B” (34th Street).
b. Abandon portions of Lots “A” and “B” for street and public utility purposes as shown on Parcel Map No. 10879, filed in Book 56, page 13 of Parcel maps, records of Riverside County.
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2. Authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign Tract Map 38318-1.
3. Approve and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Subdivision Agreements; and
4. Accept the surety bonds for construction of related improvements and survey monumentation.
H. APPROVAL OF THE THIR D AMENDMENT TO AGREE MENT WITH
RRM DESIGN GROUP FOR THE PREPARATION OF “PERMIT-READY
ACCESSORY BUILDING” (PRAB) PLANS PROJECT
Requested Action: That the City Council authorize the City Manager to execute the Third Amendment to the Agreement with RRM Design Group to prepare permit ready accessory building (PRAB) plans.
I. CONSIDERATION OF CHECK REGISTER IN THE AMOUNT OF
$6,868,865.81
Requested Action: That the City Council ratify the check registers dated November 21, and December 4, 12, and 19, 2024 as well as the payroll registers dated November 22, 30, and December 6, 20, and 31, 202
J. A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY TO ESTABLISH CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. PS 2024 -008 (PUBLIC
SAFETY, COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES) AND TO AUTHORIZE THE LEVY
OF A SPECIAL TAX WITHIN CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. PS 2024 -008 (PUBLIC SAFETY,
COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES); GENERALLY LOCATED NORTH OF
AVENUE JUAN BAUTISTA, SOUTH OF MAVERICK LANE, EAST OF
LIMONITE AVENUE AND WEST OF RIVERVIEW DRIVE
Requested Action: That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 2025-11, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF INTENTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY TO ESTABLISH CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. PS 2024 -008 (PUBLIC
SAFETY, COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES) AND TO AUTHORIZE THE LEVY
OF A SPECIAL TAX WITHIN CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. PS 2024 -008 (PUBLIC SAFETY,
COUNTRYSIDE ESTATES)
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K. AGREEMENT FOR ON -CALL HVAC MAINTENANCE A ND REPAIR
SERVICES
1. Requested Action: That the City Council approve the agreement with Senergy Plumbing Heating and Air (“Senergy”) for On -Call HVAC Maintenance and Repair Services for an amount not to exceed $20,000 per fiscal year; and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney.
2. Authorize the Finance Director to make appropriate budget adjustments as necessary, based on the Finance Impact section of the staff report.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva, to approve the Consent Calendar with the exception of Items 15.B, 15.E, and 15.F , which were removed for further discussion.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
16. CONSIDERATION OF ANY ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT
CALENDAR
15.B AUTHORIZING THE DESTRUCTION OF CERTAIN OBSOLETE CITY
RECORDS
Council Member Armando Carmona requested that Item 15.B be removed from the Consent Calendar for further discussion. Council Member Armando Carmona questioned the request of the City’s IT Department to destroy inactive email accounts from former City employees. He asked that the City retain these rec ords for a longer retention period of two years, depending on the City’s policy and the cost to archive.
Vicki Wasko, City Clerk, provided additional information and responded to Council’s questions.
By consensus, the City Council requested that this item be brought back at the next meeting for further review and approval.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
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15.E APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN LIMONITE C&C, LLC AND THE
CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY FOR MAINTENANCE OF CITY PARKWAYS
FOR THE VALLEY SQUARE PM 36977 PROJECT LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MISSION BOULEVARD AND PYRITE STREET
INTERSECTION
Council Member Armando Carmona requested that Item 15.E be removed from the Consent Calendar for further discussion.
Paul Toor, Director of Public Works, provided additional information and responded to Council’s questions.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva, to approve the agreement between Limonite C&C, LLC and the City of Jurupa Valley for maintenance of parkways; authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney; and accept Performance Bond No. 4479332 in the amount of $46,000 for parkway Improvements.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
15.F FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE AND THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY FOR FI SCAL YEAR 2018 -2019 THROUGH FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025
Council Member Armando Carmona requested that Item 15.F be removed from the Consent Calendar for further discussion.
Paul T oor, Director of Public Works, provided additional information and responded to Council’s questions.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva , to approve the First Amended and Restated Agreement for Professional Services between the County of Riverside and the City of Jurupa Valley for Fiscal Year 2018 -2019 through Fiscal Year 2024 - 2025 and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement in substantially the form and format attached to the staff report as approved by the City Attorney; and authorize the Director of Finance to make appropriate budget adjustments as necessary, based on the Finance Impact section of the staff report.
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Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
17. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A RESOLUTION AMENDING THE
APPLICABLE TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM MITIGATION FEE
(TUMF) APPLICABLE TO ALL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE CITY OF
JURUPA VALLEY AND FINDING THIS RESOLUTION EXEMPT FROM
CEQA
Staff Report presented by Paul Toor, Director of Public Works. Mr. Toor reported that this item pertains to the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). He reported that the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) administers the TUMF program to ensure that new development pays its fair share for the increased traffic that it creates. Mr. Toor outlined how the fee obligations are allocated based on needs and other factors which influence how traffic will be increased due to new development. The TUMF fee goes toward providing improvements to improve local traffic and will take effect in April, 2025.
Further discussion followed.
Chris Gray, Deputy Executive Director, WRCOG, provided additional information and responded to Council’s questions.
Mayor Brian Berkson opened the public hearing.
There being no further comments, the public hearing was closed.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , seconded by Council Member Armando Carmona, to adopt Resolution No. 2025-05, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA
VALLEY AMENDING THE APPLICABLE TRANSPORTATION
UNIFORM MITIGATION FEE (TUMF) APPLICABLE TO ALL
DEVELOPMENTS IN THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY AND FINDING
THIS RESOLUTION EXEMPT FROM CEQA
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, seconded by Council Member Armando Carmona, to introduce Ordinance No. 2025-01, entitled:
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AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA
V ALLEY AMENDING CHAPTER 3.70 OF THE JURUPA V ALLEY
MUNICIPAL CODE, WESTERN RIVERSIDE COUNTY
TRANSPORTATION UNIFORM MITIGATION FEE PROGRAM, TO
UPDATE PARTICIPATION IN THE WESTERN RIVERSIDE COUNTY
TRANSPORTATION AND UNIFORM MITIGATION FEE (TUMF)
PROGRAM AND FINDING THIS ORDINANCE EXEMPT FROM CEQA
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
B. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER CALLING A SPECIAL ELECTION; DECLARING THE RESULTS OF THE ELECTION; AND APPROVING
FORMATION AND LEVY OF SPECIAL TAXES FOR CITY OF JURUPA
VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2023 -001
(SEQUANOTA HEIGHTS) GENERAL LY LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHEAST CORNER OF CANAL STREET AND OPAL STREET
Staff Report presented by Paul Toor, Director of Public Works. Mr. Toor outlined the process to establish Community Facilities District No. 2023 -001 (Sequanota Heights).
Mayor Brian Berkson opened the public hearing.
There being no further comments, the public hearing was closed.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva , to adopt Resolution No s. 2025-06 and 2025 -07, entitled:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-06 - A RESOLUTION OF FORMATION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, TO
ESTABLISH CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILIT IES
DISTRICT NO. 2023 -001 (SEQUANOTA HEIGHTS), TO ESTABLISH AN
APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT THEREFORE, TO AUTHORIZE THE LEVY
OF A SPECIAL TAX THEREIN, AND TO SUBMIT THE
ESTABLISHMENT OF AN APP ROPRIATIONS LIMIT AND THE LEVY
OF SPECIAL TAXES TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS THEREOF; AND RESOLUTION NO. 2025-07 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, CALLING A
SPECIAL ELECTION AND SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED
ELECTORS OF CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES
DISTRICT NO. 2023 -001 (SEQUANOTA HEIGHTS) PROPOSITIONS
REGARDING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF AN APPROPRIATIONS
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LIMIT AND THE ANNUAL LEVY OF A SPECIAL TAX WITHIN THE
COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
At the request of the mayor, the City Clerk announced that one owner cast one ballot. All votes cast were in favor of the special taxes.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva, to adopt Resolution No. 2025-08, entitled:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA
VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING THE RESULTS OF A SPECIAL
ELECTION IN CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY FACILITEIS
DISTRICT NO. 2023 -001 (SEQUANOTA HEIGHTS) AND DIRECTING
THE RECORDING OF A NOTICE OF SPECIAL TAX LIEN
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, seconded by C ouncil Member Guillermo Silva, to introduce Ordinance No. 2025-02, entitled:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA
VALLEY, CALIFORNIA, ACTING IN ITS CAPACITY AS THE
LEGISLATIVE BODY OF CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY COMMUNITY
FACILITEIS DISTRICT NO . 2023 -001 (SEQUANOTA HEIGHTS)
AUTHORIZING THE LEVY OF A SPECIAL TAX THEREIN
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
Mayor Brian Berkson called a short recess at 9:15 p.m.
Mayor Brian Berkson reconvened the meeting at 9:25 p.m.
C. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER APPEAL OF PLANNING
COMMISSION’S DENIAL OF MASTER APPLICATION (MA) NO.
23357: DENSITY BONUS APPLICATION (DB) NO. 24001, TENTATIVE TRACT MAP (TTM) NO. 38888, AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
(SDP) NO. 23172 , AND ADDENDUM TO MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION FOR A SUBDIVISION OF 6.92 ACRES OF LAND INTO
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67 LOTS FOR SINGLE -FAMILY DETACHED HOMES; LOCATION:
7586 JURUPA ROAD (APN:183-030-014); (APPLICANT:WARMINGTON
RESIDENTIAL)
Staff Report presented by Annette Tam, Planning Manager. Ms. Tam summarized the project, which is to allow a subdivision of 6.92 acres into 67 lots for single - family homes. Ms. Tam reported that the entitlements include the approval of a tentative tract map, a site development permit, and a density bonus to allow for 12 additional units and approval of 34 waivers of development standards. Ms. Tam reported that the City received a letter from the applicant’s attorney on October 7, 2024. On October 16, 2024, the City received an email from HCD, that they received a request for technical assistance from the applicant. On October 29, 2024, the City met with HCD to discuss the project. On November 12, 2024, the City received a Notice of Potential Violation from HCD. Ms. Tam reported that at their November 13, 2024 meeting, the Planning Commission voted unanimously to deny the project . Ms. Tam gave an overview of the project, the City’s inclusionary housing ordinance, and the environmental review and mitigation measures.
Mayor Brian Berkson voiced a concern that the project is located next to Camino Real at Jurupa Road, which is currently one lane. The goal from the City’s standpoint is that the developer improve Camino Real to improve it from one to two lanes. He expressed his view that t he developer is asking for a waiver from this requirement which will make the traffic congestion unfeasible.
Alexander DeGood, Cox, Castle, attorney for the developer spoke on behalf of the project and outlined the findings that would allow City to deny the project based on specific health and safety standards. He stated that the project has gone under environmental review, which did not find any issue with the street and that dedication is a concession that the developer is allowed under current density bonus law. He indicated that the City does not have discretion to deny this concession as the project is under the regime of state density bonus law. He asked that the City rescind the Planning Commission’s denial and approve the project.
George Ruiz stated that as a former member of the Planning Commission, he believes the City is being backed into a corner to approve this project. He voiced concern that the project will create a major traffic issue. He asked the Council to deny this project.
Roberto Ramirez stated that this is a perfect example of “developer greed” as this project only includes three low-income homes. He urged the Council to deny this project based on health and safety concerns as the developer refuses to improve Camino Real and is asking for 34 City waivers to build the project.
Daniel Silva stated that the additional traffic the project will cause could cause future traffic accidents. He asked the Council to deny the project.
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Rosa Sandoval stated that she lives on Jurupa Road and she is extremely concerned about this project as there is no sidewalk along Jurupa Road and adding 67 homes in this area is outrageous. She urged the Council to deny the project.
Joe Oftelie, representing Warmington Residential Homes, provided additi onal information regarding the road improvements which will be added which include widening of Camino Real with landscaping, trails, and sidewalks.
Manuel Gonzales, Principal Engineer, provided additional information and responded to Council’s questions.
Council Member Armando Carmona stated that his introduction to this project was a letter from the developer threatening litigation , which is not typical when a developer wants to work with the City in good faith. He asked why the developer is not doing more to provide affordable housing.
Further discussion followed.
Mayor Brian Berkson expressed his view that by not agreeing to widen Camino Real, the developer will cause a major public safety issue and he is prepared to let the Planning Commission’s denial stand.
Council Member Armando Carmona provided a history of this parcel which was originally zoned A-1 (Agriculture). He indicated that this is an example of rezoning that has resulted in an undesirable residential project.
Council Member Guillermo Silva stated that he is not supportive of the project, however, he would like to know the ramifications of denying the project.
City Attorney Peter Thorson provided a summary of the developer’s legal position.
Further discussion followed.
Further discussion followed regarding the limited amount of parking for the project.
At the request of Council Member Guillermo Silva, Joe Perez, Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director provided the potential repercussions should the project be denied.
Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas reminded residents that no land in the city is safe as the state’s housing laws will continue to take away local control. Nonetheless, he has certain fiduciary duties to act in good faith and protect the Cit y from any unnecessary financial risks.
There being no further comments, the public hearing was closed.
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A motion was made by Mayor Brian Berkson, to uphold the Planning Commission’s denial of the project.
MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A SECOND
A motion was made by Mayor Brian Berkson, to r escind the Planning Commission’s denial of the project and approv e the project but deny the waivers regarding the landscape requirements set forth in Section
9.240.550(E)(13), and adopt an Addendum to the Mitigated Nega tive Declaration.
MOTION DIED FOR LACK OF A SECOND
A motion was made by Council Member Armando Carmona, seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva, to rescind the Planning Commission’s denial of the project and approve the project but deny the waivers regarding the one -story and landscape requirements set forth in Jurupa Valley Municipal Code Section 9.240.550(E)(3) and Section 9.240.550(E)(13), and adopting an Addendum to the Mitigated Negative Declaration.
AYES: CARMONA, SANCHEZ, SILVA
NOES: BARAJAS, BERKSON
ABSENT: NONE
18. COUNCIL BUSINESS
A. APPOINTMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY
COMMITTEE AND ANNUAL RECONFIRMATION PROCESS
Staff Report presented by Vick Wasko, City Clerk. Ms. Wasko noted that a letter of interest was submitted earlier today from Nereyda Hernandez and copies of her letter were distributed to the City Council.
Mayor Brian Berkson invited the following individuals to address the Council and share why they are interested in serving on the Community Development Advisory Committee:
Nancy Chandroo (not present)
Michele Cortez (not present)
David Goldstein
Debora h Hild
Following the applicant presentations, a motion was made by Council Member Veronica Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Armando Carmona, to appoint Nancy Chandroo to fill a scheduled vacancy on the Community Development Advisory Committee for a term expiring in December 2028.
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Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
A motion was made by Council Member Guillermo Silva, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , to re -appoint Rachel Lopez to the Community Development Advisory Committee for a term expiring in December 2028.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
A motion was made by Council Member Armando Carmona, seconded by Council Member Veronica Sanchez, to appoint Nereyda Hernandez to fill an unscheduled vacancy on the Community Development Advisory Committee for a term expiring in December 2026.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , seconded by Mayor Brian Berkson , to reconfirm the appointment s of George Ruiz and Sonia Wraich, pursuant to Ordinance No. 2019-04.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
B. APPOINTMENTS TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND ANNUAL
RECONFIRMATION PROCESS
Staff Report presented by Vick Wasko, City Clerk.
Mayor Brian Berkson invited the following individuals to address the Council and share why they are interested in serving on the Planning Commission:
Gregory Borgman (not present)
Nathan Hanlon (not present)
Christobal Rosales
Gladys Salcedo
Following the applicant presentations, a motion was made by Council Member Veronica Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Armando Carmona , to appoint Christobal Rosales to fill a scheduled vacancy on the Planning Commission for a term expiring in December 2028.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
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A motion was made by Council Member Guillermo Silva, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , to re -appoint Laura Shultz to the Planning Commission for a term expiring in December 2028.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, V. Sanchez, G. Silva
Noes: A. Carmona
Absent: None
A motion was made by Council Member Guillermo Silva, seconded by Mayor Brian Berkson , to reconfirm the appointment s of Planning Commissioner s Uriel De La Torre, Penny Newman, and Arleen Pruitt, pursuant to Ordinance No. 2013-11.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
[At this point in the meeting, City Attorney Peter Thorson announced that Council Member Guillermo Silva wished to change his vote on Item 17.C.
Following discussion, no action was taken as Mr. Thorson clarified that a resolution will be brought back at the February 6, 2025 meeting for a final vote by the City Council.]
C. APPOINTMENTS TO THE PUBLIC WORKS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
AND ANNUAL RECONFIRMATION PROCESS
Staff Report presented by Vick Wasko, City Clerk.
Mayor Brian Berkson invited the following individuals to address the Council and share why they are interested in serving on the Public Works Advisory Committee:
Jose Cuellar
Mayibel Ruiz (not present)
Rosa Sandoval
Following the applicant presentations, a motion was made by Council Member Veronica Sanchez, seconded by Council Member Armando Carmona , to appoint Rosa Sandoval to fill a scheduled vacancy on the Public Works Advisory Committee for a term expiring in December 2028.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
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A motion was made by Council Member Guillermo Silva, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , to re -appoint Alondra Munoz to the Public Works Advisory Committee for a term expiring in December 2028.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
A motion was made by Council Member Armando Carmona , seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , to reconfirm the appointment s of Public Works Advisory Committee Member s Robert Galindo, Mayra Jackson, and Josh Steffy, pursuant to Ordinance No. 2022-13.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
D. AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY ADDING SECTIONS 9.05.105 and 9.05.108 TO TITLE 9 (PLANNING AND ZONING) OF THE JURUPA VALLEY MUNICIPAL
CODE ESTABLISHING APPEALS PROCESSES FOR STREAMLINED,
MINISTERIAL HOUSING PROJECTS AN D FOR INCOMPLETENESS
DETERMINATIONS UNDER THE PERMIT STREAMLINING ACT
Staff Report presented by Roberto Gonzalez, Principal Planner. Mr. Gonzalez reported that this action is in response to recent state legislation to ensure the City is in compliance with three recently passed bills that create or advance streamlined approvals for specific housing projects: SB 1123, AB 2243, and AB 3122. The proposed urgency ordinance will create an appeals process for streamlined housing development projects approved ministerially. The urgency ordinance is necessary as there is insufficient time to adopt a regular ordinance before the new affordable housing laws go into effect.
Further discussion followed.
City Attorney Peter Thorson outlined the purpose of the urgency ordinance and how this procedural issue may avoid future litigation.
A motion was made by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas , seconded by Council Member Guillermo Silva, to adopt Urgency Ordinance No. 2025-03, entitled:
AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY ADDING SECTIONS 9.05.105 AND 9.05.108 TO TITLE 9 (PLANNING AND ZONI NG) OF THE JURUPA VA LLEY MUNICIPAL
CODE ESTABLISHING AP PEALS PROCESSES FOR STREAMLINED,
MINISTERIAL HOUSING PROJECTS AND FOR INC OMPLETENESS
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DETERMINATIONS UNDER THE PERMIT STREAMLINING ACT, AND
MAKING A FINDING OF EXEMPTION UNDER THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
E. CONSIDER PROPOSALS FOR ENHANCEMENTS TO THE
EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE PROTECTION OVERLAY AND PROVIDE
DIRECTION ON WHETHER TO PROCEED WITH POSSIBLE CHANGE
Staff Report presented by Jim Pechous, Principal Planner. Mr. Pechous gave an overview of the goals and policies of the City’s Equestrian Protection Overlay and efforts to further enhance the overlay.
Further discussion followed.
Joe Perez, Assistant City Manager/Community Development Director, provided additional assistance and responded to Council’s questions.
A motion was made by Council Member Armando Carmona , seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, to appropriate $30,000 for the preparation of an existing conditions analysis of the Equestrian Lifestyle Program Overlay (ELPO), and directing that the findings of the analysis be presented at a joint City Council and Planning Commission study session.
Ayes: C. Barajas, B. Berkson, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva Noes: None
Absent: None
F. PARADISE KNOLLS PROJECT; ACCEPTANCE OF OWNER’S
DEDICATION OF 2.75 ACRES OF PROPERTY FOR PARK AND
RECREATION PURPOSES; CONVEYANCE OF THE 2.75 -ACRE PARK
PROPERTY TO JURUPA AREA PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT
(JARPD)
Staff Report presented by Reynaldo Aquino, Senior Planner. Mr. Aquino reported that in 2021, the City Council approved an Amendmen t to the Development Agreement that chan ged the developer’s obligation from providing an equestrian facility to dedicating a 2.75-acre site to the City for park and recreational uses. On January 9, 2025, the Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District approv ed and executed a conveyance agreement to acquire the 2.75 -acre park property from the City. Mr. Aquino described the conveyance actions that the City Council must approve to convey the park property to the Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District.
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Council Member Armando Carmona asked about the parking strategy for the proposed park.
Colby Diuguid, General Manager, Jurupa Area and Recreation Park District provided additional information and responded to Council’s questions.
Michael Flad, Assistant City Manager, provided additional information on the Trails Master Plan and how it will be connected with existing City amenities.
Further discussion followed.
A motion was made by Council Member Armando Carmona , seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Chris Barajas, to adopt Resolution Nos. 2025-09 and 2024-10, entitled:
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-09 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF JURUPA VALLEY ACCEPTING PARK PROPERTY
WITHIN THE PARADISE KNOLLS SPECIFIC PLAN AREA PURSUANT
TO THAT CERTAIN IRREVOCABLE OFFER OF DEDICATION OF
REAL PROPERTY PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION
7050 DATED OCTOBER 6, 2022 AND RECORDED IN THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ON OCTOBER 7, 2022 AS DOCUMENT NO. 2022-0422107
RESOLUTION NO. 2025 -10 - A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN
AGREEMENT TO CONVEY 2.75 ACRES OF PARK PROPERTY TO
JURUPA AREA RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT WITHIN
PARADISE KNOLLS SPECIFIC PLAN AREA FOR PARK AND
RECREATION PURPOSES
Roll Call:
Ayes: C. Barajas, A. Carmona, V. Sanchez, G. Silva
Noes: B. Berkson
Absent: None
19. COUNCIL MEMBER REQUESTS FOR FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Council Member Armando Carmona requested an update on the Santa Ana River and the Trails Master Plan.
Mayor Brian Berkson requested that staff organize a community meeting with Southern California Edison to allow residents the opportunity to express their concerns about the recent power outages.