SPECIAL MEETING AGENDA
City Council
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Norco City Hall - Conf. Rooms A and B
2870 Clark Avenue, Norco, CA 92860
CALL TO ORDER 5:30 PM
ROLL CALL Greg Newton, Mayor
Robin Grundmeyer, Mayor Pro Tem
Kevin Bash, Council Member
Gregory Bowen, Council Member
Fia Sullivan, Council Member
CLOSED SESSION
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - ANTICIPATED LITIGATION
Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (d) of Section 54956.9: (1 potential case)
REPORT OF ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION
1. PUBLIC COMMENTS
This is the time when persons wishing to address the presiding governmental body regarding the Consent Calendar, Legislative Matters or items within the subject matter jurisdiction of the legislative body. Please submit a speaker card to the Meeting Clerk. Please limit comments to three minutes or less. The Ralph M. Brown Act limits the governmental body’s ability to respond to comments on non-agendized matters at the time such comments are made. The governmental body shall not discuss or act relative to any general public comment.
2. PLANNING COMMISSION INTERVIEWS
2.A. Interviews and appointment to one Planning Commission unscheduled vacancy.
RECOMMENDATION:
Interview applicants and make appointment to the Unscheduled Vacant Planning Commission Seat.
Staff Report - Pdf
3. ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person who requires a modification or accommodation in order to participate in this meeting is encouraged to contact the City Clerk’s Office at (951) 270-5623 or [email protected] at least 48 hours prior to the meeting so that reasonable arrangements can be made to ensure accessibility. Staff reports are on file in the City Clerk’s Office.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the presiding governmental body regarding any item on this agenda will be available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office during normal City Council Agenda - September 11, 2025
business hours at Norco City Hall, located at 2870 Clark Avenue in Norco. The meeting is recorded.
City Council
STAFF REPORT
Date: September 11, 2025 Agenda Item:
2.A.
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
From: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Prepared By: Dana Roa, City Clerk
Department: City Clerk
SUBJECT:
Interviews and appointment to one Planning Commission unscheduled vacancy.
RECOMMENDATION:
Interview applicants and make appointment to the Unscheduled Vacant Planning Commission Seat.
SUMMARY:
The City of Norco has Committees and Commissions that advise the City Council on various aspects of City government. The Council is requested to review the applications submitted for one unscheduled vacancy on the Planning Commission and interview each applicant. Staff is recommending that the City Council make appointment of one applicant to serve the remainder of the four-year term expiring on June 30, 2027.
BACKGROUND:
Any resident of the City of Norco may serve on a City Commission. No member is selected on the basis of representing a specific business, district, organization, or cause. Service on City Commissions is a four-year term, unless the appointment is to fill an unscheduled vacancy. General requirements for Committees and Commissions state that applicants must be a permanent resident of Norco, at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, take the oath of office, and never convicted of a felony.
Applications for Planning Commission were solicited through the release of a public notice. At the City Council Meeting of August 20, 2025, the City Council made a motion to interview those applicants that attended the meeting. The following applications spoke on their behalf and from which the Council can make its appointment following the interviews. If the Council does not feel there is a match with current applicants they may ask for the recruitment be opened again for additional applicants.
Tara Young
Dan Chamberlain
Dennis Hutnik
Dillon Wemple
Kenny Munic
An appointment to a Commission or Committee is an honor and a responsibility. The City Council has confidence in the judgment and integrity of its appointees and relies on them for information and recommendations on specific matters. As advisors to the Council, Commission and Committee Members are required to regularly attend meetings, understand their duties and roles, and work to contribute to the betterment of the community.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact for this item.
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC PLAN:
This item is consistent with Strategic Direction No. 4 - Communication and Stakeholder Experience: Enhance the stakeholder experience, engage the community, and build brand awareness through proactive, effective and consistent communication.
REVIEWED AND APPROVED BY:
Certified as to Availability of Funds: Joshua Calhoun, Finance Director Approved by: Lisette Free, City Manager
Approved as to Form: Harper and Burns, LLP, City Attorney ATTACHMENT(S):
Planning Commission Applicants
Governmental Body Application
Submission Date: August 7, 2025
Applicant Type: New Applicant
Primary Selection: Planning Commission
Name: Tara Young
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Basic Requirements: I am a citizen of the United States I am a resident of the City of Norco
I am at least 18 years old
I am a registered voter
Felony Conviction: No
Length of Residency: 7
Employment Status: Employed
Norco Business Owner: Yes
Business Name: Horsetown Coffee Company
Employed in Norco: Yes
Business Name: Tonja Bambrook
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Community Involvement (List any boards, commissions, committees and/or organizations on which you are currently serving or have served on)
Planning Commission 2023-2025
EDAC 2020-2022
Libertarian Party of California Executive Committee - Southern Area Coordinator 2021-2023, At-Large member 2025 to present)
Employment Background (List titles and duties)
Currently an Executive Assistant to Tonja Bambrook, areas of focus include home staging, social media marketing, CRM organization, and concierge team.
Currently Owner of Horsetown Coffee Company- rebranding of the former Taveli Ranch. Sales of locally roasted coffee at the EAT Center Farmers Market.
Currently Owner of Be Well Healthy Living- Social media based health coaching.
Formerly owner of Genesis Pro Roofing and Painting- business closed in 2023. Was the RMO (licensed agent) for the company. Managed the office operations.
Educational Background (List degrees, majors, credentials, certificates and/or licenses) Licensed Roofing and Painting Contractor (C39-C33)
Master Health and Wellness Coach
Certified Sylvotherapist
Former California Real Estate Agent
Interior Decorating Certificate
Some college at University of Architecture with studies for Interior Architecture Relevant Experience (Briefly explain how your background, training, education and/or interests specifically qualify you as an applicant for the governmental body you are applying to serve on)
Formerly served on Planning Commission, so I am knowledgeable about the job, duties, and challenges of the position.
Able to read and understand plans/blueprints.
I have been active in political meetings since 2016 that utilize organizational methods like Roberts Rules.
Passion to fight government overreach, such as the challenges that we have as a city fighting Sacramento's know it all handling of local zoning.
Tourism and marketing, which can help our city to thrive and grow in the ways that WE choose, preserving our lifestyle.
Why are you interested in serving on a City of Norco Commission/Committee/Advisory Council?
I love this city and want to fight for our unique lifestyle. We need warriors on our council and commissions that understand the task at hand and will do everything to preserve Norco's agricultural heritage and equestrian lifestyle. I also want to continue to be part of the General Plan process, because I believe that the decisions that we make today will either make or break us in the future.
We must be vigilant to fight for Norco! I am also passionate about the restoration of our beloved Norconian, and ensuring that our remaining open spaces, such as Wylie Labs, or upcoming CRC site, is not developed into more warehouses or tech space, but rather spaces that will preserve our lifestyle, boosting our tourism, and provide community enjoyment.
In your opinion, what are the goals and objectives of the Commission(s)/Committee(s)/Advisory Council(s) you are applying to serve on? From my experience, thinking creatively to keep Norco, Norco. We are bombarded with Sacramento overreach, and we have to be always trying to look at ways to preserve our lifestyle. Helping to
create the General Plan and working closely with City Council to ensure that the Norco of the future is the Norco that we want. Standing up and saying NO to projects that simply don't fit the community needs, such as the Hillside Church. Zero in and focus on the vision and community needs of Norco.
Ensure that all approved projects fit the current code and vision for the city.
If appointed, how would you help achieve these goals and objectives? Analyze the projects that come before us and ask ourselves how it will help or hinder our future vision of Norco. I would still like to look at opportunities to take advantage of our abilities to be an agricultural hub, utilizing protection from CDFA as farmland, to help preserve our large lots. Being an urban agricultural zone has great appeal to the "green" agenda that California loves, because it requires less transport time to get to local restaurants and schools. Partnering with EAT Center and the current programs that are in Riverside County can be a big part of this. Asking the proper questions of staff and digging deeper is something that I have learned is necessary. Sometimes all the information isn't presented and we must do our own homework to know whether or not something works ot doesn't work for our city. I've learned that me must, essentially be a "fighter" .
If appointed to serve, do you see any potential for a conflict of interest claim based on personal interests?
No
APPLICATION AGREEMENT
☒ I understand and agree to the above statements
☒ I have read and understand the contents of the City of Norco’s Code of Ethics, Conflict of Interest Code and Social Media Policy.
☒ I consent to the City of Norco conducting a basic background check if I am selected for appointment.
☒ I agree that all of the information contained in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by submitting this application online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.
Signature: Tara Young Date Submitted: August 7,
2025
Governmental Body Application
Submission Date: May 28, 2025
Applicant Type: New Applicant
Primary Selection: Planning Commission
Name: Dan Chamberlain
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Basic Requirements: I am a citizen of the United States I am a resident of the City of Norco
I am at least 18 years old
I am a registered voter
Felony Conviction: No
Length of Residency: 21
Employment Status: Retired
Norco Business Owner: No
Business Name:
Employed in Norco: No
Business Name:
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Community Involvement (List any boards, commissions, committees and/or organizations on which you are currently serving or have served on)
none
Employment Background (List titles and duties)
Retired merchandiser
Currently hold Life and Health License
Insurance Sales years
Uniform Rental Business / Manager years
Educational Background (List degrees, majors, credentials, certificates and/or licenses) Life and Health Insurance License
Relevant Experience (Briefly explain how your background, training, education and/or interests specifically qualify you as an applicant for the governmental body you are applying to serve on)
Willing to serve
Very analytical person
Dealt with people all my life
Why are you interested in serving on a City of Norco Commission/Committee/Advisory Council?
I want to give back to the City where I live
In your opinion, what are the goals and objectives of the Commission(s)/Committee(s)/Advisory Council(s) you are applying to serve on? To assure that proper protocol's are followed. To offer opinions and input for new and existing projects within the city. To protect the City's interests.
If appointed, how would you help achieve these goals and objectives? By listening to those involved and making appropriate decisions and recommendations If appointed to serve, do you see any potential for a conflict of interest claim based on personal interests?
none
APPLICATION AGREEMENT
☒ I understand and agree to the above statements
☒ I have read and understand the contents of the City of Norco’s Code of Ethics, Conflict of Interest Code and Social Media Policy.
☒ I consent to the City of Norco conducting a basic background check if I am selected for appointment.
☒ I agree that all of the information contained in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by submitting this application online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.
Signature: Dan Chamberlain Date Submitted: May 28, 2025
Governmental Body Application
Submission Date: May 16, 2025
Applicant Type: New Applicant
Primary Selection: Planning Commission
Secondary Selection(s): Planning Commission
Name: Dennis Hutnik
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Basic Requirements: I am a citizen of the United States I am a resident of the City of Norco
I am at least 18 years old
I am a registered voter
Felony Conviction: No
Length of Residency: 46
Employment Status: Retired
Norco Business Owner: No
Business Name:
Employed in Norco: No
Business Name:
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Community Involvement (List any boards, commissions, committees and/or organizations on which you are currently serving or have served on)
Served on the Streets and Trails Commission for two (2) terms, eight (8) years total.
Employment Background (List titles and duties)
*Contract Disaster Specialist with the Department of Homeland Security, FEMA ~20 years *Contract Senior Construction/Building Inspector for DHS/FEMA Same ~20 years *Contract Building Inspector with the City of Corona, between DHS/FEMA deployments *Various positions in the construction industry, 30 years *Engineering position in the field of aerospace, 5 years Educational Background (List degrees, majors, credentials, certificates and/or licenses) Electrical Engineering - Associate Degree
Building Official with ICC and CALBO
Building/Construction Certs (32) with ICC and CALBO
Relevant Experience (Briefly explain how your background, training, education and/or interests specifically qualify you as an applicant for the governmental body you are applying to serve on)
Working as a Disaster Specialist applied my knowledge of building codes and standards nationwide while advising Cities, Townships, Counties and State Agencies to post disaster rebuilding. The position of Senior Building/Construction Inspector for multiple years has kept me in tune with today's needs of acceptable construction methods.
Why are you interested in serving on a City of Norco Commission/Committee/Advisory Council?
The Streets and Trails Commission commissioner position was a rewarding experience and moving on to the Planning Commission will seem to be a better fit for my past employment experience.
In your opinion, what are the goals and objectives of the Commission(s)/Committee(s)/Advisory Council(s) you are applying to serve on? Being fair, following applied guidelines and keeping in mind the individual decision being made today may effect the Community as a whole in the future. A Commissioner's decision is based on applied documentation while leaving personal feeling out of the situation.
If appointed, how would you help achieve these goals and objectives? Apply the City approved Codes and Standards along with the background of the State of California and the UBC when necessary.
If appointed to serve, do you see any potential for a conflict of interest claim based on personal interests?
No conflict of interest at this time.
APPLICATION AGREEMENT
☒ I understand and agree to the above statements
☒ I have read and understand the contents of the City of Norco’s Code of Ethics, Conflict of Interest Code and Social Media Policy.
☒ I consent to the City of Norco conducting a basic background check if I am selected for appointment.
☒ I agree that all of the information contained in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by submitting this application online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.
Signature: Dennis Hutnik Date Submitted: May 16, 2025
Governmental Body Application
Submission Date: January 5, 2025
Applicant Type: New Applicant
Primary Selection: Planning Commission
Secondary Selection(s): Parks & Recreation Commission
Name: Dillon Wemple
Address:
Phone:
Email:
Basic Requirements: I am a citizen of the United States I am a resident of the City of Norco
I am at least 18 years old
I am a registered voter
Felony Conviction: No
Length of Residency: 29
Employment Status: Employed
Norco Business Owner: No
Business Name:
Employed in Norco: No
Business Name:
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Community Involvement (List any boards, commissions, committees and/or organizations on which you are currently serving or have served on)
City Council Candidate - Norco 2024 election
Community outreach - discussed and informed residents of current and upcoming changes to city policies, taking the feedback and concerns to be presented before council.
Employment Background (List titles and duties)
General Atomics - Financial Analyst
Costco Wholesale - Licensed Optician
Educational Background (List degrees, majors, credentials, certificates and/or licenses) Bachelors of Science - Business Administration with Emphasis in Business Intelligence Minors in Finance, Accounting, and Economics
Relevant Experience (Briefly explain how your background, training, education and/or interests specifically qualify you as an applicant for the governmental body you are applying to serve on)
My current role requires future forecasting and careful consideration of the impacts of everyday decisions to ensure continued success of programs, and the company at large. I am well prepared to take into account the unique position of Norco as a smaller community centered between larger cities that continue to urbanize, setting goals that preserve our rich history of animal-keeping, horse-loving and agriculture.
Why are you interested in serving on a City of Norco Commission/Committee/Advisory Council?
I have a passion for planning and the intricacies that make a city work. I believe we have the ability to stack functions providing increased value to our residents, making effective use of the resources and taxes over which we steward. Careful planning and smart design can help build a resilient community that thrives for years to come.
In your opinion, what are the goals and objectives of the Commission(s)/Committee(s)/Advisory Council(s) you are applying to serve on? The planning commission makes decisions that impact the city of Norco for years to come. These members design and provide feedback on policies that attract residents, businesses, and build a base of revenue for the city of Norco that allows us to function with a level of autonomy independent from handouts.
If appointed, how would you help achieve these goals and objectives? As a resident of Norco, I have studied and learned as much as I am able to become a greater asset to the city. I research and communicate my findings, taking feedback into consideration from others in my neighborhood. I will continue to be an ambassador for good ideas, and take public input and perception into account when working as a representative on the Planning Comission.
If appointed to serve, do you see any potential for a conflict of interest claim based on personal interests?
I do not see any conflict of interest, and am committed to recusing myself where appropriate should one arise.
APPLICATION AGREEMENT
☒ I understand and agree to the above statements
☒ I have read and understand the contents of the City of Norco’s Code of Ethics, Conflict of Interest Code and Social Media Policy.
☒ I consent to the City of Norco conducting a basic background check if I am selected for appointment.
☒ I agree that all of the information contained in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by submitting this application online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.
Signature: Dillon Wemple Date Submitted: January 5,
2025
Governmental Body Application
Submission Date: May 31, 2025
Applicant Type: New Applicant
Primary Selection: Planning Commission
Name: Kenny Munic
Address:
Phone: 7 9
Email:
Basic Requirements: I am a citizen of the United States I am a resident of the City of Norco
I am at least 18 years old
I am a registered voter
Felony Conviction: No
Length of Residency: 0
Employment Status: Employed
Norco Business Owner: No
Business Name:
Employed in Norco: No
Business Name:
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Community Involvement (List any boards, commissions, committees and/or organizations on which you are currently serving or have served on)
Served on. Sores in college
Employment Background (List titles and duties)
Licensed Realtor
Director of Ops for a property management company
Wholesale bakery and restaurant owner
Educational Background (List degrees, majors, credentials, certificates and/or licenses) MBA candidate at Claremont
Bachelors of Art in Business University of Texas
Graduate Ritz Escoffier culinary school Paris licensed Realtort.
Relevant Experience (Briefly explain how your background, training, education and/or interests specifically qualify you as an applicant for the governmental body you are applying to serve on)
I manage complex groups of people with competing agendas and desired interests Why are you interested in serving on a City of Norco Commission/Committee/Advisory Council?
I just moved here and want to see this community thrive In your opinion, what are the goals and objectives of the Commission(s)/Committee(s)/Advisory Council(s) you are applying to serve on? Keep Norco rural
If appointed, how would you help achieve these goals and objectives? I would advocate for like minded people like me as well as address the needs for progress.
If appointed to serve, do you see any potential for a conflict of interest claim based on personal interests?
No
APPLICATION AGREEMENT
☒ I understand and agree to the above statements
☒ I have read and understand the contents of the City of Norco’s Code of Ethics, Conflict of Interest Code and Social Media Policy.
☒ I consent to the City of Norco conducting a basic background check if I am selected for appointment.
☒ I agree that all of the information contained in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge. I further agree that, by submitting this application online or otherwise, I am affixing my digital signature to this form as of the date submitted.
Signature: Kenneth Munic Date Submitted: May 31, 2025