California City "Voices of The People" at CalCity.Biz

California City Voices

Commentary For Immediate Release on November 24, 2008

Mayor Elect "Speaks Out"

This week and two weeks ago we heard from Dr. Larry Adams, our Mayor Elect on what he plans for our city, as stated in the Mojave Desert News. He said and I quote "I hope I'm up for it".
I sure hope he is "Up For It", since he was voted in! I guess time will tell.

I found it interesting that he mentioned Michael Ellison and stated that, Mr. Ellison should have listened, he got good advice from businessmen in town, had Mr. Ellison done so, he would have done better. He also stated that Mr. Ellison had lost 2 million dollars when everybody else was making money. First of all, I believe the businessmen Dr. Adams refers to are the same ones who made these same statements in an EDC meeting awhile back that I attended, if so, it was foolish for Dr. Adams to quote him or them. It is a fact that Mr. Ellison's handsomely created billboards, out on the 14 freeway had everything to do with the last building boom, everything. Though we now have 400 or so empty homes, and no billboards, seems to me some of that good advice Ellison was receiving never made it to anyone but him, maybe it should have been a little more disseminated.

Many businessmen have come to California City, Dropped their fortunes and were sent on their way. Very few have survived here. Mr. Ellison received no special favors, and tried desperately to make it here, but seemingly failed, at least here, he may be doing better somewhere else. He also backed the Mayor's election 2 years ago which brought about a loss to Dr. Adams. I hope this belittling of a man who tried to make it here is just sour grapes and not a direct insult to someone that could not survive the seemingly impossible task of doing business in California City.
Dr. Adams should ask those businessmen he is referring to, how They are doing now.

This city has a long way to go. Dr. Adams should take a look at all the projects undone in this city and speak in the same manner of some of those great businessmen. That by the way, have received special treatment. I have never met, or spoken to Mr. Ellison, but I can tell you, I know his pain all to well, having struggled to stay here myself.

I also placed billboards out on the 14 Freeway, and the 58 Freeway during that time and still have one near the Mojave Airport on the 58, we now have 3 new movie studios between here and Rosamond. The billboards work!! Those studios are struggling, but billboards worked.

California City went over 8 years without a building boom prior to Mr. Ellison, he must have done something right, things were sure hopping while he was here, so to say bad things about him now is unfair. The fact is, whoever gave him such good advice that he did not listen to, should try replaying that tape. Maybe we will get another building boom, or a lot less unfinished projects here in California City, not left by Mr. Ellison.

Russell Michael

CCS

Commentary For Immediate Release on November 12, 2008

Thank you Mr. Bohannon

I want to Thank Mr. Bohannon and those that helped him put together a very nice dinner at Ramon's Restaurant to welcome our new Mayor and City Council Person, Dr. Larry Adams our new Mayor and Bill Smith our new city Council person. I felt Both gentleman spoke in Ernest about their plans to help move this city forward and their desire to unite the city council in an effort to bring about the necessary power it will take to realize those ambitions. I want to congratulate them both and wish them the best.

Russell Michael

California City Studios

Press Release November 3, 2008

To the individual who operates the CalCity.biz website,

I want to thank you for collecting in one place as much information as you could find regarding our mayoral and city council elections. It is critical that those of us exercising our right to vote have truthful and factual information with which to make our decisions, and the links you provided to candidate websites helped me immensely to make my selections.

For the Continuation of this letter click Here

Press Release November 1, 2008

Friends and Supporters,

As much as it distresses me to get into the politics of name calling I feel I should answer the latest attack on me by Mayor David Evans.

By Larry Adams

For the Continuation of this letter click Here

Press Release November 1, 2008

Do Headlines Lie ?

It’s truly amazing how, by selectively choosing what to print and how to publish it, and the point you wish to make, you can make a garlic plant smell like a rose.
Point in fact: This week’s Mojave Desert News banner headline; “Grand jury clears CalCity officials.”
Then it goes on to say that they did nothing wrong with the decision not to follow the Planning Commission’s recommendation and thus making Mr. Michaels go through a CUP for his proposal to build a set in his property for a motocross film/series. The article notes that these were stated by a Mr. Glen Chesbrough (don’t know who he is), Chairman, Cities and Joint Powers Committee. The strange thing about this is that the paragraphs preceding his signature are not placed in “quotes” meaning that these comments indeed came from him. The so-called exoneration of City officials, in fact, have no quotation marks. What does that tell you? Well maybe it’s a publishing error, as there are many in every issue. But when you do a bit of research, you find other things that bring questions to mind.

For the Continuation of this letter click Here

Press Release October 30, 2008

The Grand Jury

The grand jury has made a decision in a complaint brought about by a citizen of this city against, the RDA, and the seated City Council. The complaint had it not been brought about, would have resulted in an unfair and unjust award of a multi-million dollar contract, and there is no doubt in my mind about that. Mr. Collins did a good job in stopping yet another transfer of our tax dollars with out fair accountability and justifiable awarding.

Everyone should understand that this is what America is about, fighting the battle is the only way to victory. Mr. Collins fought what he believed and many others as well, to be an injustice. I believe he was right, and I am glad he put up a fight, the city backed off. The Grand Jury investigation could not be stopped, so it went forward and the city was extended a minor, but favorable decision in its favor. But Mr. Collins won a major victory as he stopped an injustice and if nothing else, made the city government take notice.

The Federal government just spent 700 billion dollars plus of our tax money to bail out fools, because we turned a blind eye, thought we could not fight the establishment. Well we were wrong and I say never again, Let those who waste their own money, have ours.

Only our city government can stop all this infighting. Our city government just needs to do what's right. The city has to take notice that they didn't win, they lost, because still another citizen has come to them for answers, and was told to go down the hall and file a complaint. This citizen instead went to where checks and balances are weight out fairly and precisely. Had Mr. Collins not fought this, the out come would have been a whole lot different.

This city is now on notice, "quit giving us reason to come after you". Give us Transparency, open door policies, these are fundamentally ours anyway. Turn your back to the citizens and will find a way to turn your back around.

All of us in this city have to ask why, the complaint in the first place? I have one possible scenario, Good Old Boy's .

Lets see what happens after the election.

No matter who is elected none of us should take their word for anything. let's keep questioning them, and pounding on their doors when there closed, they'll open them. If they don't we have checks and balances at our disposal, use them. Fight like Hell.

Good work Mr. Collins

Russell Michael

ASNBC.COM NEWS

Press Release October 29, 2008

Response to "In the Jar of Prego!”

This is my response to Kevin Schafer's letter "Where's the Beef? In the jar of Prego!"
I would think you could have come up with a better one than that.
By your answers I figure that I must be right on with my assessment of how much this administration has hurt this city.
You and David Evans are really good at twisting words and distorting the truth.
I guess that's what you do when you really have no valid answers to the truth.

For the Continuation of this letter click Here

Press Release October 28, 2008

Biased Political Page

Hello,
Thank you so much for the links to local candidates for the California City elections. This has been very helpful to me, as I could not find this information elsewhere and needed to contact several of these people.

I'm concerned though about a comment at the top of the page that says "The editor@CalCity.Biz Does Not Endorse Any Particular Candidate or Political View." This statement is incorrect.

Near the bottom of this page is a link to "Points to Ponder on Presidential Candidates". At that point, many biased views are given against the presidential candidate, Barack Obama, which I might add, appears incorrect from what I have read. I stopped 3/4ths of the way down because this page is filled with lies.

I think you can say anything you want on a page, but to say you are not endorsing anyone is not true. It is clear this page attacks Obama, so that only leaves McCain to vote for. I am not trying to change your position. Just requesting that you change your statement or remove it so viewers know these are your views. It would have been better if you had just provided a link to each presidential candidate's pages as you did with our local candidates so people can judge for themselves. Let's do our part to be as truthful to the American people as we can be.

Overall, I am grateful that you have put together this page so we can gather information on the candidates.

Sincerely,
Marion Young
California City Resident

PolitiFact
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/attacks/

Which candidate lies the most
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/personalities/

John McCain Website
http://www.johnmccain.com/splash32615.htm

Barack Obama Website
http://www.barackobama.com/

CalCity.Biz Editor Responds :

Thank You for taking the time to express your view here.
If you will, please notice that we are posting the links you have included in your message, completely and without bias.
The editor and staff here are not the writers of the content you find to be biased and only present information as provided by the public, such as yourself. It is the choice of the people to research information and then make a decision as to what you believe or not.
These are also "Not the Only Choices" for Presidential Candidates as you will see if you look here: Keyes, Nader, McKinney and others can be viewed here or here.

Thank You for Your Support,

Editor and Staff at CalCity.Biz

Press Release October 28, 2008

I must weigh in on this media thing with Mr. Peralta and Mr. Deaver

What ???????????? Did Mr. Deaver say no creditable news agency would cover such an event ????????????
Mr. Deaver with all due respect, that's a statement I find offensive, silly, and down right foolish.

You are the only paper in this city, but other news agencies report more news and receive more readers than your paper, that's a fact. Your paper has been adjudicated, which simply means you can print articles presented by courts,
and other court reported official statements.
Your paper is no more creditable then The loop, calcity.biz, asnbc.com or californiacity.com .
The loop does a great job and Asnbc.com works with journalism students from 3 colleges in California,
californiacity.com is reporting millions of hits a year, and you answered statements in calcity.biz .
A news agency in a local community that chooses not to cover local events and creditable news worthy events is
doing a disservice to that community.
Step up, take a look around, others are here and more are coming. For you to discredit them is foolish.
I hope you haven't been here so long that your starting to think that "You Are This City", as others have stated,
they are, in The Mojave Desert News.

I for one, respect the work you are doing Mr. Deaver, and the pressure you are under. But to shun an event like that on September the 29th was wrong!
Not to cover those wishing to change the city because you don't like that they're not telling you who they are, "Is Wrong", not covering the only candidate stumping for Mayor in this city, at this time "Was Wrong". Not allowing a paid add because he voices opinions about someone's religion "Is Wrong"!!
We are all grown ups and can handle the truth, we need people to report it. That's news! Even you not doing those things is news.

Freedom of the press as freedom of expressions is yours to do what you wish with.
You should also keep in mind that you have a civic responsibility and that is a burden you must bare in order to be fair and honest with this community.
We would all like to know who the citizens for a better government are, one way to find out is to attend their meetings and events and ask questions, that what news agencies do, to their credit, whoever they are.

Best Regards,
Russell Michael
ASNBC.COM News
California City Studios Inc.

Press Release October 26, 2008

JUST ANOTHER MEDIA THAT’S IN THE TANK FOR A CANDIDATE

I find it very distasteful to write about this, because sometime in the future, it may come back to bite us, but when you only have one “newspaper of record” in the town you live, and that paper chooses sides and chooses what to publish and what not to publish, someone must speak up.

We recently sent a press release to the Mojave Desert News to be published in the next issue, which we thought it would be of interest to its readers, since it dealt with the candidacy for mayor of California City. Here’s the press release (in red type):

For Immediate Press Release…

PERALTA MEETS, GREETS & ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Saturday, Oct 25, 3 p.m. -- Thanks to the citizens who attended the “Meet, Greet & Ask” event at Cal City Park’s Pavilion Center and had the opportunity to listen and ask questions of candidate Lou Peralta, for Mayor of California City.

Those who were there were able to partake in the refreshments and snacks and speak with Lou Peralta. We also like to thank those of you who posed excellent questions for Mr. Peralta. We hope he was able to answer them all.

A big thank you must also go to Mr. Russell Michael, (the only local media on hand) for covering the event for ASNBC News. We appreciate his unbiased coverage.

Sadly, we were truly disappointed that our local newspaper (Mojave Desert News) did not see fit to send a reporter to cover an important political event for the City. It’s not that they did not know about the event since Mr. Peralta spent considerable money on a quarter page ad in the Mojave Desert News to promote his candidacy and invite people to the “Meet, Greet & Ask” event.

Peralta, we believe, is the only candidate to have hosted such an event; allowing voters to hear his platform and ask questions that they are most concerned about. No other candidate has done as much.

Moreover, Peralta is also the only candidate to employ good old-fashion campaigning methods, by outfitting his red Jeep with speakers and promoting his candidacy all over town. According to the candidate, many people came out from their homes or businesses showing their delight to see such energetic, creative and exuberant campaign manner. Lou Peralta would like to thank everyone who gave him a thumbs-up as he traveled throughout the City. He will continue through November 4 to promote not only his candidacy but the future of California City.

On November 4, be sure to vote.

Lois Davis, Campaign Manager.

Shortly after it was e-mailed to the Mojave Desert News, we received the following response from its publisher:

Lou, most real media don't cover events like this, even if someone buys an ad...

Bill Deaver
Editor/Publisher
Mojave Desert News
661.824.8417

So here’s is what I just sent Mr. Deaver, Publisher of Mojave Desert News. Am I wrong?:

Bill, I hate to butt heads with you once again, but allow me to make several observations:

I totally disagree when you say: “Lou, most real media don't cover events like this, even if someone buys an ad...” –

Bill I believe you are wrong on that premise.

· · Mojave Desert News is not the L.A. Times, the Chicago Tribune (don’t even want to wish you to be like the New York Times), and not even the Valley Press.

· · For all intents and purposes, Mojave Desert News is a local newspaper, dedicated to local news, mainly centered around California City, Mojave, Boron and Tehachapi.

· · I estimate that its coverage is about: 40% Cal City; 30% Mojave; 20% Boron; and 10% Tehachapi and other.

· · Cal City deserves to receive up-to-the-minute news. In this case, our having a “Meet, Greet & Ask” the candidate rally (which no other candidate in the city even thought about having), I believe was newsworthy TO THIS COMMUNITY.

· · And, in the case of the upcoming elections for this City, I really think it’s important to cover all viewpoints.

· · May I say that this is not the first time you have dictated what deserves coverage and what does not. For example: You didn’t cover the first debate (Sep 29) of the candidates because you didn’t think it was a credible group that sponsored it. (I have my own views about that but that’s another subject matter.) Yet, well over 140 people were in attendance. Moreover, they were quite a varied group of people with no particular individual as their favorite.

· · On the other hand, you covered the debate of September 30, because you thought it was more important and credible. By the way, that debate only drew about 120 people in attendance. The audience was “stacked” for Mr. Evans, and as soon as the people running for the School Board were excused from the stage and left, nearly 40% of the crowd (48) left with them.

· · Contrary to what you say “real” media does cover mayoral races when it affects the very same community the newspaper sell ads and subscriptions and covers events for its readers. Mojave Desert News failed its readers in this case.

· · Lastly, it’s very clear that you think that my candidacy is a joke and does not deserve the courtesy that you give others. Now I get it.

Respectfully,

Lou Peralta

Press Release October 25, 2008

Lou Peralta answers to Mayor Evans statement of facts regarding Lou Peralta.

Isn’t this fun folks?

Mayor’s Statement of Facts to Lou Peralta

Note: Mayor Evans’ comments remain in black ink

Note: Lou Peralta’s comments and retorts are in red ink

Mr. Peralta’s comment regarding my having tunnel vision is inaccurate and the “pot calling the kettle black.” Also, if Mr. Peralta is going to be a serious candidate for any office he might want to get his facts correct. I am serious sir, noted by the fact that you seem to place all your political posters next to mine. I must be doing something correct. I Got the facts correct, Mr. Mayor because I was there at each occasion where you stated what I wrote about. Unless I’ve heard you incorrectly, that is what I’ve heard. Getting correct facts is paramount to being the mayor and essential to leadership. Mr. Peralta flunks this test on all counts.

As mayor it is my responsibility to weigh and assess what is in the best interest of ALL citizens. Not just those who come in from out of town. Mr. Peralta’s only concern is bringing off-road vehicles into our downtown area as well as creating a 1500 acre lake for recreation. Mr. Mayor, it’s very convenient to site only the things that you can articulate an argument. How about listing all others…

For example: You say that all I want is just to bring off-roaders into town and have a 1500 acre lake? THAT’S ABSOLUTELY 100% PERCENT CORRECT, MAYOR. But why stop there? Why don’t you mention the following which I have posted on this very same page, August 20, 2008 and is further articulated in my promotional package which we’ve handed out in the thousands. TO WIT:

During the first year of my administration, I will implement task forces to explore what I know best: promotions, businesses and tourism.

For years, we have tried to bring “industry” and “commerce” to our city, with limited successes. However, limited effort has been used to go after tourism, recreation, entertainment and sports, which are our natural resources and a potential major source of revenue. I will appoint a Tourism Director for the city. This person must have tourism, sports and promotional experience, must have an inkling of what the music, film and television industries are all about, and be prepared to find ways to bring people into our city. We will target businesses and events that can fetch new revenues to our city.

Here is a partial list of how I think we should start offering our city as their destination point:

· · A major “Fun Center” that will attract not only our citizens but people from surrounding cities and those who visit us on weekends and holidays.

· · Use our Sports Center for a myriad of entertainment, recreational and sporting activities in addition to the city’s own functions.

· · Complete the hotel and mall, even if we have to pass a bond, or find private investors.

· · Work with other developers who are also in “limbo” with their respective projects. Encourage everyone to work together for a common cause. We have terrific, albeit, unfinished projects that if a few smart people get together to find solutions for each other, will be completed.

Invite promoters that promote:

· · Regional, statewide and national airplane races

· · Fishing tournaments

· · Jet Ski events in our new lake or in our existing smaller park lake

· · Radio-Control model boat racing

· · Special golf tournaments and promotions

· · Regional and National sky diving events

For the Continuation of this letter click Here

Press Release October 24, 2008

Mayor's Statement Of The Facts

Mr. Peralta’s comment regarding my having tunnel vision is inaccurate and the “pot calling the kettle black.”
Also, if Mr. Peralta is going to be a serious candidate for any office he might want to get his facts correct.
Getting correct facts is paramount to being the mayor and essential to leadership. Mr. Peralta flunks this test on
all counts.
As mayor it is my responsibility to weigh and assess what is in the best interest of ALL citizens.
Not just those who come in from out of town. Mr. Peralta’s only concern is bringing off-road vehicles into our
downtown area as well as creating a 1500 acre lake for recreation. With all the other important issues we face he has tunnel vision!
I am concerned with ALL citizens; those who support off-roaders in town as well as the many citizens who do not. At the final meeting
(Second Reading) approving off-roaders riding into our city I supported the ordinance and resolution, so local business could benefit.
However, I did so only after a sunset provision was inserted so we could cancel the program should it become unworkable for our residents.
This is the first thing about my record Mr. Peralta got wrong.
Next, Mr. Peralta states I did not support charging OHV fees to those who come to our community and ride in our desert.
Once again, Mr. Peralta does not have his facts and is wrong. I voted for the program and was a leader on the council to get it passed.
The council did get those fees passed under my leadership, something the previous council could not get done in the previous ten years.
Then, as a follow-up, I met with Senator Roy Ashburn so he could aid our city in making certain this ordinance for OHV fees would be protected by state legislation.
Mr. Peralta gets it all wrong! The issues of this city are related to the quality of life.
This means a city that is safe from crime, free from trash, government that is accountable, Section 8 compliance and developer impact fees.
We are working toward making our city a great family community with all the associated benefits of industry and retail establishments.
These are the issues. GET A CLUE LOU!
Oh, I forgot something, Mr. Peralta states in his campaign literature, and in his commentary to the Mojave Desert News, he does not "know all the city’s issues." He did get that right!

Mayor David Evans

Press Release October 24, 2008

“Where’s the Beef? In the Jar of Prego!”

I'm curious to know how anyone can feel or brandish about that this city has gone “downward or backward?” Even if you cannot or do not choose to attend the city council meetings, it is hard to imagine how anyone who reads either of the two local newspapers can miss what has been going on in the city over the past several years. The news has reported every major event, program or idea that either the city council or the citizens have come up with to improve the city and I will elucidate them later to refresh memories!

It also appears that a large portion of the ill will of some individuals centers on the previous city manager. There was discord as to his methods and manner of doing business. There was concern that the city council went along with and condoned his actions. There is nothing further from the truth. The council in closed session several times was direct and provided measurable standards and corrections of what we expected to be met. Further, since the previous administration hired him and failed to ever give clear direction, it became incumbent upon this council to rectify that issue. There were council members who were against this and wanted immediate termination, however, in all fairness we afforded the opportunity to the city manager to come under a new contract with a performance expectation upon which to be rated. And it was during this time period that the city manager self-terminated his employ, prior to receiving his first performance feedback which would have highlighted continued sub-standard discrepancies.

While there was a damage path created by that manager, we have moved forward and upward in the hiring of our current manager Linda Lunsford. She has done a wonderful job of clearing the mine field, patching up relationships and moving the city forward. The outpouring of support regarding her hiring was wonderful. And she has worked tirelessly with this council to rectify the past and build to the future.

Who is Alex Kazan? In recent weeks Mr. Kazan has met at city hall with the city manager, mayor and several councilmen on separate occasions. In these introductory meetings, Mr. Kazan has described his vision and desire to bring his investor group to our city and among other things, build a grocery store and theater. In his opinion, Alex Kazan says, “there will definitely be a supermarket in Cal City before the end of 2009.” Well, we’ve been here before; however, I’m cautiously optimistic that Mr. Kazan will do what he has indicated.

The Grand Jury! The city has been threatened with a Grand Jury probe by an individual who frankly has the cart before the horse! I welcome a Grand Jury interview. When they proceed down the path they’ve been lead and ask what we as an RDA are doing about the Desert Jade project and “giving the project out without going to bid”, I will with all honesty have to say, “WE HAVE DONE NOTHING OF THE SORT AND NOTHING HAS BEEN DECIDED!” In fact, it is on indefinite hold due to mitigating factors and information that has come to light, since we (the RDA) held a community requested workshop to review additional options for Senior Housing. That’s the truth and That’s the FACT! It will then be up to the Grand Jury to find that they have been spun up on a witch hunt that has no merit!

BINGO! The Grand Jury on 22 Oct 08 exonerates the city council/RDA and city manager of all issues! “it has been determined that the City Counsel/Redevelopment Agency and the City Manager have been straightforward in the operation of your City concerning these complaints.” CASE CLOSED! See Confirmation Letter Here

For the Continuation of this letter Click Here

Press Release October 20, 2008

!!! Where’ s The Beef !!!

Our present mayor, DAVID EVANS, has a campaign slogan of ONWARD,UPWARD and FORWARD. I think a more suitable slogan for him would be BACKWARD, DOWNWARD and BACKWARD again. What has he accomplished for this city that has been good? He likes to take credit for things that the citizens of this city have made possible. Increase the size of our police department ? Yes! The citizens of this city made that possible by increasing the SPECIAL TAX from 75 DOLLARS to 100 DOLLARS. We did it ! Not him!
He states that the city has removed more than 39 TONS of trash. This is true. Who did it ? DAVD STAFFORD, by picking it up with the combined efforts of the citizen volunteers doing it, that’s who. He takes credit for completing the SPORTS ARENA. He didn’t start it and still it was finished under his administration. I do have much more to say about this fiasco in the following paragraphs. I gladly give him credit for the way this project was handled. He takes credit for the recent road repairs the city has made. This seems to be a very popular thing to do around election time in this city. What about the I 1/2 YEARS prior to this time? What was done? Nothing, except for a little patching here and there. For the past 2 YEARS our streets, curbs and gutters have been allowed to deteriorate and fill up with weeds and icons. WE PAY SPECIAL TAX MONEY TO TAKE CARE OF OUR STREETS! ! Where is it? I don't mean just the boulevard and the main areas. I mean the side streets and the neighborhood streets. The ones that you and I drive on and use every day. What good does it do to make the entry and main drag look good to visitors to our city when as soon as they get off the beaten path, they see what it’s really like in the neighborhoods?
I am not a politician, nor do I have any desire to be one. I am hardly ever politically correct. I say what I think and I usually don’t pull any punches. JOHNNY MILLER once said:”PEOPLE WORRY SO MUCH ABOUT BEING POLITICALLY CORRECT THAT NO ONE TELLS THE TRUTH ANYMORE.” I agree with that statement ! I am in a u:ique position since There is nothing that I want from this city and there is nothing that they can do to hurt me. Unfortunately many people in this city are not in that position, so they stay quiet regarding what goes on. One thing that I have heard in this city is I,I,I or ME,ME,ME. Why can't the people of this city come together and try to do what is best for this city as a whole? Everyone just seems to think about themselves and to blazes with the rest. This needs to change and we all need to come together for the good of the community.
CALIFORNIA CITY STUDIOS:
CBS YES,THE TV STATION offered this company a Million DOLLAR deal to build a reality TV show set. The MICHAEL’S took their plan to the PLANNING COMISSION and were approved to do it. Everything’s good right?! Wrong! ! BILL WAY stopped it! Why did he do this? Who knows. For whatever reason he stopped a very good deal for this city and the MICHAEL’S. They tried to threaten a lawsuit and did take their case to the GRAND JURY. They won but by then it was too late. CBS could not wait and took their project somewhere else. Somewhere to a city that wanted their business. Who snows how many others could have followed the CBS lead. It’s too late now. We Will never know. Did this administration step in and try to solve the problem? NO!! They backed BILL WAY. Please note that COUNCIL
MEMBERS DR. NICK and CATHY STRONG tried to help the MICHAELS get this done. The other COUNCIL MEMBERS AND MAYOR EVANS backed BILL WAY and another good deal /opportunity for this city was lost.

For the Continuation of this letter Click Here

Press Release October 12, 2008

Lou Peralta Responds

I thank you for your courage to join our effort to make positive changes to this City.
I had the pleasure to sit next to you during the September 29 forum, and I know you were very nervous
about public speaking. However, you shared great ideas with me and I wish to compliment you for your courage
to attempt to do something meaningful for your community. I can assure you that if I am honored to be elected
mayor of California City, I will call upon you to assist us in making California City a greater community.

In deference to your comments of paring down the list of mayoral candidates to one or two, I also agree.
Recently, as Ms. Nichols suggested, Mr. Adams, Mr. Sellers and myself got together to discuss the very same
subject Ms. Nichols broached.
Three or four mayoral candidates would certainly dilute the vote when running against an incumbent.
Former Mayor Adams is passionate about this City. He wants to work hard to make this city great, and basically follow what he started years ago.
Mr. Seller is also passionate. He wants nothing but good things for everyone to enjoy living here. He’s a businessman and recognizes the needs of the city.
Like the gentlemen above, I’m also passionate about California City.
However, I wish to take a different path to achieve my goals, one that has never been
attempted before. I don’t wish to run the city with business as usual in mind. I want to attempt new things to make our lives here in California City vibrant, joyful, and full of great expectations and our economy richer. At the end of our harmonious meeting we all decided for each of us to continue our paths and let the best man win. Moreover, we all agreed that this city deserves a change from the top. It’s up to the voters now to do what they think is correct. Personally, I believe Mayor Evans has tunnel vision. He does not see the opening at the end of the tunnel.
Recently, and on several occasions before, I was accused by Mayor Evans for wanting an “Off-Road Disneyland” for our community.
His tone was tantamount to a soft slap to the face, condescending and pompous. I would say; “From Mr. Evans’ mouth to God’s ears.”
That and many other ideas of mine would be greatly beneficial to our community. I would love to have an off-road Mecca, just like I would like to have California City be the Mecca for soccer tournaments, fishing tournaments, mountain bike competitions, the biggest national Boy Scout and Girl Scout Jamborees, the best place to visit Spas, golf courses, the absolute best city to open new hotels that surround our magnificent lake and the best city to
welcome manufacturing plants and commercial enterprises that will bring in more people to this city than we know what to do with. Yes. I’m for that 100%.

Another great example of the Mayor having tunnel vision is the recently enacted California City Trail #1. I’ve been the sole proponent of this effort since my wife and I were living in Cantil at our rancho over ten years ago. Mayor Evans was the only person who opposed the measure at a recent Council meeting, saying that (I’m paraphrasing): “we’re opening a can of worms.” Fortunately it passed by a majority. But don’t take my word, all you need to do is to go to
the IMC Business Center and ask the business owners about their improvements in revenues. Ask our police officers how OHV’ers who ride into town are behaving and how grateful they are to have this opportunity.

Now we need to open a cross-walk into Aspen Mall and also Trail #2 and Trail #3 to help other areas and other businesses of the city.
During early meetings of the Off-Road Committee, Mayor Evans fought not to have the California City OHV License fee enacted. I’ve been suggesting this for over ten years, ever since I proposed the very same thing to City Manager Steve West. Nonetheless, it passed thanks to the efforts of many in the city and volunteers. Now, we have collected well over $60,000 from March 3, 2008 to date including the very slow summer months). These are moneys that are being used to offset city costs for OHV users and to help improve Borax Bill Park, and other related services. Conservative estimates are that the city will collect from $100,000 to $110,000 before the end of the year.
Can you imagine if we had started the OHV License fee ten years ago how much better we would be?

As Ms. Nichols stated so eloquently; we need the change from the top. We need to have this city represented by people who really care and just don’t take credit for something that they were forced to accept.

On November 4, my name will be in the ballot as a candidate for mayor. Vote for me and give me the opportunity to prove what I can do for this city. You will not regret it.

Thank you,
Lou Peralta
toohot@proprllc.com

Press Release October 11, 2008

Ms Nellie Nichols message to California City

It is with some sadness that I make the following decision to step aside from running for Mayor, even though many of my friends and family would like for me to continue.

I have given this much thought and have come to this conclusion…as I understand it there were 7 total Mayor candidates until the Meet The Candidates Forum last week when Mr. Fisher dropped out because of the number of persons running which he stated would divide the total votes in the election to a point that the existing Mayor could win on that point alone.

Using the same logic that Mr. Fisher gave about divided votes, I also wish to step aside from this election and sincerely hope that one or two of the other candidates would consider doing the same to greatly reduce the possibility of the existing Mayor to remain in office another two years.

If they would be so humble to do so, I would encourage them to join me by endorsing/supporting Mr. Michael Sellard as candidate for Mayor. I believe Mr. Sellard would be a good, fair and honest Mayor and truly have our communities interest at heart.

I plan to support his campaign, work closely with the Citizens for Better Government and help where needed to turn our community around for the better. I wish to thank those who were encouraging me to run and were there to support me.

Thank you,

Nellie Nichols

Press Release October 6, 2008

The Truth about the Sports Center

I have been silent too long and now after deciding to run for Mayor it is time to set the record straight. Some people have two misconceptions; one is that the Sports Center was to be totally finished under the Eagle Contract, and two, Eagle filed a law suit.

The previous city manager went to several people in the community to have a small building built in exchange for 50 acres. No one stepped forward. The city manager asked us to build the Sports Center. I looked at the poor condition of Central Park, the political condition of the council and obvious to all, the overvaluation of the 50 acres. I stated that the building he wanted was too small, and the council and others would likely use the project as a political pawn.

A plan was drawn for a larger Sports Center shell which had to have a “minimum value” of $500k. Well the rest is now history; Mr. Way did not follow the specific city council instructions and violated both City and California law concerning surplus property. He also changed the building location resulting in structural plans being “revised again”. Then he turned his back on the project. In spite of record high winds and the hot wind of negative political adversity, the Contract was completed on schedule.

If the City had truly made this a “joint effort” as was declared at the ground breaking, the Center would have opened sooner, as Eagle was willing to work to completion. It is so interesting how some people state how wonderful they are while taking credit for the hard work of others.

The city audited Eagles books and found that $635k was accounted for and the city spent about $400k for the interior. The Sports Center is worth $2.25M. BTW all we asked for was a small plaque honoring my son Shawn who loved kids and had just lost his battle with cancer; then Mr. Way announced that he sold the naming rights. Now Kathy and I are trying hard not to focus on past but on the future and how we as a community can work together. We put our money out front, and waiting a year to get settlement for our work has hurt us. Our City can and should treat people better than this.

There is no law suit as the current city manager and I are working together with the mess Mr. Way left when he left town with his accolades and plaques. Three individuals really need to be thanked for their efforts on the Sports Center: Michael Garcia, Linda Lunsford and Ed Waldheim.

Respectfully,

Michael and Kathy Sellard

September 25, 2008

Letter to Editor:

The purpose of this letter is to discuss the rationale why “The Citizens for a Better Government” will hold a separate and independent “Meet the Candidate” forum on September 29, 2008.

There have been some changes in personnel in our Planning Commission (appointed by the Mayor/City Council) and the Chamber of Commerce, which may seem on the surface as benign to some and disturbing to others when you begin to follow the power game/politics of the community.

We have heard rumors of the Mayor and City Council actions recently that gave us cause to do some home work of our own. We did some research into a Land Purchase (aka 152) made by the City for $4.3M for future use? The problem is, we can not find any independent property appraisals/statistics that will value the property any where near what your tax dollars paid for it. Along with that, it appears the Mayor/City council did most of the discussion and procurement actions during closed session meetings.

Another very curious City Council/RDA activity surrounds the proposed “Desert Jade IV” housing/building project. We could not agree more that these type of projects are needed for our senior citizens…however, we are very concerned how our elected officials and City Officials conduct the process which is dictated very clearly by California State Public Contract Codes. After reviewing 2007/2008 to date City Council and RDA meetings, we discovered once again, that most of the discussions on this topic were done in closed sessions.

Most recently at a public City Council meeting it was clear to us that the RDA/City Council was ready to make a $9.3M total project cost decision with out following California State Public Contract Codes which clearly states in section 20162.When the expenditure required for a public project exceeds five thousand dollars ($5,000), it shall be contracted for and let to the lowest responsible bidder after notice. This means there shall be an open and fair solicitation of prospective bidders, not covertly given to one contractor.

It is for these reasons we felt it necessary to conduct our political forum/open discussion, independent of a potentially staged meeting with controlled results that satisfy the current regime in office today. Our meeting offers a true unbiased look at those candidates that participate in our forum.

Written by: William Tarvin

Citizens for a Better Government

Special Thanks to Jean Paul LeBlanc in Support of "City Voices" and California City by the Editor@Calcity.Biz

September 22, 2008

Open Letter to California City Council and Community:

Upon evaluation of the magnitude and the expenses involved with the “Proposed Desert Jade project”, I Jilly Banker, being a California City resident, have prepared this information for consideration.

For some time now, I have followed intently the many council meetings in California City regarding the matter of the Desert Jade Senior Housing (DJSH) proposed project.

Which is what compels me to voice my opinion on this particular subject since it concerns me that a handful of residents are trying to seemingly strong-arm the City Council (city residents) into confirming their claim of owning this proposed project, as if it had been legitimately awarded and needs to start this project now as if this is very urgent. However, now I believe the State Budget is no longer an issue with relation to the RDA funds. This is of questionable relevance.

To start with, I have a few questions about this proposed project, along with some observations and opinions with suggestions for resolutions.

Q. 1. Under what circumstances did this project become a private proposal ?

Q. 2. Has this proposed project been introduced to council correctly as California City

Municipal Code (CCMC) requires when a project cost will be above 75K ?

Q. 3. On the list of city priorities where does this project fall into place ?

Q. 4. Did California City Residents vote on this project to be considered a feasible choice ?

Q. 5. How well does this project serve the community compared to the estimated cost ?

Could this be of direct benefit to 5-9 people now and when completed possibly 80-100 after time and or another project benefitting 40-100 and at completion 100+ people or the entire city for many years to come?

If question # 3s’ answer places this matter on the low end of the city priority list then council should stop wasting time discussing this subject along with giving a false sense of consideration to this group of individuals that are thinking they have a chance to sell this project to the city as they think they have an exclusive right to do so. If the priority is low, shelve it for the time being and possibly address the matter in the future.

If question #2s’ answer was negative and protocols were not followed then the discussion should be moot, none, zip, zero, end of discussion.

Because the Public Works Director should have all the particulars in place for the project package to be properly bid on and open to public examination.

If my observations are correct, then some time ago it had been suggested to add an additional 80 units of housing to the DJSH facility.

This suggestion and by whom it was made is an important issue, since you have a Municipal Code which you must abide by. These codes have been created and adopted specifically for California City.

Should the City Public Works Director have introduced this item, according to Municipal Code¹… then this item would be considered legitimate as presented by the City and its Council.

It seems long ago, that city council did recognize this item (rightly or wrongly) introduced by 4Star Const. / Viento, Inc. At that time this funding apparently was to have come from a loan to be acquired through the CalFHA. However, at that time the “numbers” did not quite “Work Out” and the entities got too busy to pursue this proposed project (4yrs ago).

I observed, in the previous meeting that the individuals who brought up this project, spoke as if they had already been awarded the contract to start and complete this project. It appeared this group tried to strong-arm the council into making their claim legitimate as if no one would notice, by having the council decide in a yes or no vote to direct moneys from the RDA to this project in order to start earth work on-site.

By-the-way, I do not believe RDA moneys have been earmarked or specially set aside for this purpose.

Has the group in question been retained as a fact finding entity ?

I do not believe this to be true, because it turns out that the Mayor has been retained by the group in his profession as a CPA, which thereby constitutes a conflict of interest as mayor & client relationship, and the numbers that this group came up with are said to be “proprietary”.

Hiring the mayor does not make this project or the group legitimate as if they own the contract for this proposed project. This is why the project is only a “Proposed Project at Best.”

Currently this group is no longer busy and seeks a large scale profitable project to work on. They know there are moneys in the RDA and wish to apply it to their so called project (for low-moderate senior housing). These funds, according to this group are for moving dirt or “ground work” to prepare for the rest of this proposed project. This proposed plan sounds all too familiar as when an entity actually received funds from the city to do “ground work” and pursue development on their property next to the library².

This group 4 Star Constr./Viento, Inc. appear to claim exclusivity in this matter. If this is fact, then please explain to the public, How and When did this happen? I have not been a resident for many years and I am therefore asking and seeking out the history or background on this matter for clarification. Contributions and volunteer services to the city are just that, Contributions. No one is entitled to be granted any contracts because of this type of action. (Contributions / donations & volunteering services).

I do not believe that the citizens of this Great City want to go into debt for 30 yrs. In order to simply aid an elite group of the community.

By my estimated calculations, in-the-long run, only less then 100 people will benefit in roughly 30 yrs(time to repay the loan). Yet the minority at the onset of the proposed project (10-25) will benefit greatly and the rest of the citizens will have to pay the these costs for the duration of the loan.

Who gains much and who loses significantly? (See chart below)

DJ Chart

When local history shows City Projects started, then not completed, that is the time to “Stop and Clearly Prioritize” the cities projects and overall needs. Most importantly to “Focus on What Really Matters”, and “What is truly needed” for this community and to stay the course to completion or fruition.

If this City is unable to hire additional police and fire personnel due to budgets, then this city can not afford additional senior housing at an expense to the community of $56,646 as a monthly loan payment. This amount could be the salary for one individual serving the community as Police or Fire personnel for a year or some valuable equipment added to these departments….

A loan amount of $9.2ML, estimated at a 6.25% interest rate will in 30 yrs grow to a total of $20,392,554ML with a monthly payment of $56,646.

How much of this amount is defrayed by income from the residents? Allow me to calculate this for 80 residents @ $275 per month for 30 years = $7,920,000. (See chart above)

With an additional amount (shortage) to be paid by California City = $12,472,554

Monthly owed = $34,646. Thereby to still be operating in the red. These calculations do not include the maintenance/management of these premises which is suggested at over $100K per year.

If RDA funds are in place as a reserve, then these reserves should stay reserves.

This proposed project at the DJSH is “Not Prudent” and “Not Reasonable” along with being “Not Profitable for the community” in plain and simple terms.

So basically, this is “Just Not Worthwhile to Pursue” under the proposed terms.

(Does not matter who would be doing it, it is just wrong). The numbers tell the story.

In closing,

Please exercise due consideration for the information presented here along with your own common sense and Cease all Discussion of this project until Protocols and Procedures are met by All Parties according to the California City Municipal Code.

Thank you for All Your Positive Efforts to This Community,

Jilly Banker / California City Resident

September 21, 2008

Commentary For Immediate Release.

Small town politics, California City California

What is really wrong with Our City ?

I feel the anger in Bill Smith's sign in front of Ace Hardware, he wants change. I feel the hurt in Patrick Bohannon's letter in the Mojave Desert News, about our roads, he wants change. I have felt the pain of rejection by this City council past and present. I'm still waiting on a water line and the work was approved! I have seen people on the city council talk down to us, the citizens of this city, because we reject what they are doing, or question it.

I feel any city council that doesn’t question those who want to contract for large sums of money from our city tax payers, ought to be put in line. I am under the belief that the city was put on notice about the price of this project for senior housing. I feel slighted by the fact that this senior housing project started out at cost plus 10% but is now all about profit. I am flabbergasted that so many people had to leave the room when that project came up this last time, but every other time some of them stayed, I want change.

Every administration we have had has acted the same way. Mr. Bohannon stated were painting the roads again, it is election time. Mr. Smiths sign infers we paid to much for the airport project, the sports center and that the city is doing little to get a market and is even unfriendly to business.

What is the real problem with our city? Why are so many city funded projects sitting vacant and in ruble? Why is the motel/hotel unfinished? Why don't we have a large grocery store? Why did we pay so much for the Airport Project, the sports center, and why our other business waiting for what they were promised.

Personally I don't think we paid to much for the Air port Project. Personally if I new it was for sale and could have raised the money there would be a film school there right now. I personally believe the road that leads to our city needed paved and they did a good job, our city looks great as you drive in. I believe that the last time it was none, during last election, it was done with shoe polish and I'm still removing it from my car, which at the time was brand new.

It cost me 85.000.00 to settle debt made during my fight with this city council and I still owe a few thousand that needs to be paid soon. In that fight we lost, a good television show that we will never get back. The city lost tax dollars and retail revenue.

Am I bitter? I am, but I am trying to weigh, what is, against what was and the equation unfortunately is the same. The Mayor angrily stated that he's tired of people going to the grand jury about this city. That's something he can correct, just stop giving reason. The grand jury and the County's DA'S office are our lines of defense, our checks and balances and I encourage every one to keep that in mind. Let the Mayor rant and rave all he wants, we need checks and balances obviously.

Where does this leave us? I'll be dammed if I know, I can't imagine going backwards. I don't feel anyone running for mayor other than Larry Adams and Mayor Evans qualify to run this city. Does Bill Smith really want to be on the city council? Or does he just want to correct what's wrong with it? There are a lot of questions that will be answered in the way the city council handles the senior housing project. Will it be fare? Will the tax payers be treated fairly? Will this city council look at that senior housing project and make the right decision that's best for the tax payers?

Look at the air port project we are paying as we go no pain there, it's actually a great asset. We need to do something with it!! For the sports center we gave away dirt, no one was using it and no one wanted it. We may have paid a little much, but we got a sports center!! The road leading into town is important!

I have knowledge that, the new road and cleaning up a few spots on