PUBLIC COMMENT 1
From: Gloriselda Garcia
To: Jon Thorp; Justin Beaver; Chris Venable; Bob Miller; Judy Woolsey; Public Comment; cmann(lavucaipa.gov Subject: Commitment to Fair Governance & Transparency - Chris Mann Contract and Save Yucaipa- Public Comment on Record
Date: Monday, March 3, 2025 1:40:02 PM
Dear City Council Members,
First, I want to thank you for your dedication to serving our community despite the scrutiny, pressure, and criticism that come with your roles. I believe that everyone who steps onto that dais does so with the intent to make a positive difference for Yucaipa. Over the past nine years, I've observed our city leadership evolve, and I respect the weight of the decisions you must make.
I rarely speak publicly or email council members because I trust that those elected take their responsibilities seriously and act in the best interest of our entire city. I've attended meetings to stay informed, share accurate information on social media, and serve as a voice of reason when misinformation spreads. However, I can no longer stay silent as I witness the harmful tactics of the political activist group Save Yucaipa.
For the past two years, this group has actively spread misinformation and manipulated narratives. They have promoted a mob mentality, and their continued harassment has only been reinforced by recent council decisions that appear to reward their aggressive behavior. The decision to pay Kathy Sellers, despite a judge ruling against awarding attorney fees, is particularly concerning. This action emboldens those who weaponize misinformation and seek to manipulate city leadership.
Their agenda has been clear: recall Matt Garner (done), remove the city attorney (done), and now target Chris Mann, Joe Pradetto, and Ben Matlock. Next, they aim to reverse the Wine Country Specific Plan and revoke entitlements for the Serrano Estates. Private conversations and recordings suggest they see Thorp and Venable as allies to their cause. I want to believe that's not the case, but recent voting patterns and public comments raise concerns.
Mayor Thorp, I respected your previous term, where you asked insightful questions without aligning with divisive rhetoric. I urge you to continue using your voice independently, rather than mirroring the tactics of this group.
Regarding city leadership, I appreciated Ray Casey's dedication, even if I didn't always agree with every decision.
While the basins were costly, they benefited our community. YPAC, on the other hand, suffered from poor oversight. The embezzlement scandal ainwas not okay with him wanting "to sweep it under the rug, don't talk about it and the people will forget". I understand why some may have questioned transparency under his leadership. With Chris Mann, I've found city information to be more accessible, and I appreciate the ease of obtaining public records.
While his appointment came with controversy, I believe the council made that decision with careful consideration.
Our city is facing financial challenges. Running lean is necessary to recover, but continually caving to Save Yucaipa will not help us move forward. There are still ongoing lawsuits —how much more of our tax dollars will be wasted appeasing this group?
I recognize the immense pressure you face. Public service is difficult, and personal attacks make it even harder. But I urge you to stand firm in your commitments and make decisions based on facts, not the demands of those who use threats and misinformation as leverage.
When reviewing Chris Mann's contract, evaluate his performance based on the goals set for him. Let the work speak for itself, not the noise from those with personal vendettas. I trust that you will do what is right for Yucaipa as a whole, not just for the loudest voices in the room.
Thank you for your time and your service to our city.
Sincerely, a productive member of our community,
Glory Garcia
PUBLIC COMMENT 2
Subject: Letter of Support for the Renewal of Chris Mann's Contract Dear Members of the Yucaipa City Council,
On behalf of CAL FIRE Local 2881, representing OVER 9,000 dedicated men and women who serve the State Of California and also our beautiful city of Yucaipa. I am writing to express our strong support for the renewal of Chris Mann's contract. Under Chris's leadership, our city has made significant strides in securing a financial future for our city, formulates plans encased in fiscal responsibility, understands needed infrastructure improvements, committed to public safety enhancements, and understands what the community expects from its local government.
Chris has demonstrated a commitment to collaboration, transparency, and the well-being of city employees. Throughout his tenure, we have appreciated his willingness to engage in productive discussions, address concerns, and work toward solutions that benefit both employees and the community. When we present challenges to Chris regarding the efficient delivery of emergency services, Chris is right there ready to engage in proactive discussions that foster collaborative problem solving to best serve our residents.
Stability in leadership is crucial for continued progress, and we firmly believe that renewing Chris's contract is in the best interest of both city employees and the residents we serve.
His vision, experience, and dedication have been invaluable assets to our city, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the years ahead.
We urge the City Council to extend Chris's contract so that we can build upon the successes achieved under his leadership. Now is the time to continue progressing our city with effective leadership under the direction of our council, making Yucaipa the destination city to raise a family that it is. Please feel free to reach out if we can provide further insight or discussion on this matter.
Sincerely,
Liz Brown
CAL FIRE Local 2881