City of Montclair

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. During public comment, one speaker addressed the council regarding organizing local trappers to manage the feral cat population and inquired about funding mechanisms for spaying and neutering. Another speaker, representing the US Small Business Administration, informed the council and residents of San Bernardino County, including Montclair, about the availability of federal disaster assistance loans following the December winter storms, detailing eligibility, loan amounts, and interest rates, with an application deadline of April 6th. Two subsequent speakers addressed Council Member Ben Lopez regarding judicial findings that held him liable for sexual harassment, oppression, malice, and fraud, urging his resignation and requesting the council amend bylaws to establish a zero-tolerance standard for harassment. Following public comment, the council adopted the consent calendar as amended. Communications included an announcement regarding the upcoming annual Red Cross blood drive, the 'Battle of the Badges,' scheduled for February 24, 2026. The City Attorney requested closed session to discuss potential litigation on multiple items, including matters involving Fuentes Garcia versus Lopez and Ibanas versus Montlair. The City Manager announced a special meeting for a mid-year budget review on March 2nd and shared updates on community events and city actions, such as the start of fire debris abatement at the former Calavera site and the installation of a protective wall by Union Pacific Railroad to mitigate theft issues.

The meeting commenced with the invocation and pledge of allegiance, including special remembrance for service members and seasonal greetings for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. A significant portion of the session involved public comment and Mayor's communication regarding the recent court ruling against Council Member Ben Lopez for sexual harassment, including discussions on the city's financial liabilities, the council's previous censure resolution (Resolution No. 22-3344), and calls for Lopez's resignation or further restrictive actions. The City Council also heard a presentation from the Community Activities Commission announcing the winners of the 27th annual holiday home decoration contest, featuring the homes of the Torres, Flores, and Gonzalez families.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by an adjournment in memory of former fire chief Troy Almont. Council Member Mendez participated remotely due to illness, with the City Attorney confirming compliance with remote participation provisions. The council heard presentations, including a recognition ceremony for Ryan Anthony Miller, a veteran recently honorably discharged from the U.S. Army, whose banner was accepted by his mother. The council also welcomed new Human Resources Manager, Mina Goel, who joined the city on December 8, 2025. During public comment, residents raised concerns regarding an RV situation in a private parking lot and persistent issues with a commercial property's security alarm, noise, and trespassing; the City Manager addressed these matters, noting involvement of Code Enforcement and the Police Department. The agenda also included a public hearing concerning Ordinance Number 25-1014 to amend the zoning code regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), involving updates related to Assembly Bill 2533 (unpermitted ADUs/JADUs) and Senate Bill 1211 (replacement parking rules).

This strategic plan outlines the necessary background information for the formal establishment of the San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust. It provides a detailed overview of regional housing needs, analyzes various funding opportunities, and identifies priority activities. Key focus areas include providing gap financing for housing development, supporting housing preservation and rehabilitation, engaging in land banking, and offering housing and services for individuals experiencing homelessness. The plan also emphasizes local program support and technical assistance to address the region's housing shortage and enhance affordable housing initiatives.

This white paper proposes a strategic framework for establishing and operating a San Bernardino Regional Housing Trust to address the housing supply and affordability crisis in San Bernardino County. It recommends a dual Joint Powers Authority (JPA)/nonprofit organizational structure, administered by the San Bernardino Council of Governments (SBCOG). The plan identifies diverse funding sources, including state and federal grants, dedicated taxes and fees, and private contributions. Key programmatic activities are focused on a revolving loan fund, Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) loans, and Community Impact Notes (CINs), supported by a multi-stage implementation plan for its establishment and long-term stability.