Just the Facts

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March 24, 2025 | By City of GT

Over 55 Permits Issued Under No-Fee Program for Windstorm Repairs
Grand Terrace, CA - March 28, 2025 -

The City of Grand Terrace’s Building & Safety Division is seeing strong community response following the City Council’s approval of a temporary permit fee waiver for windstorm-related repairs. Since the program launched, more than 55 no-fee permits have already been issued.

Approved on February 11, 2025, the fee waiver applies to qualifying repairs related to the January 21st windstorm and is available through July 22, 2025.

Eligible permit types include:

Residential and commercial reroofs
Residential fences over 6 feet
Block walls
Residential main panel upgrades
Installation of residential generators, transfer switches, energy storage systems, or batteries

To qualify, repair work must be directly related to windstorm damage.

Building & Safety counter hours:
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday

The City encourages affected residents and business owners to take advantage of this program while it last. For more information, contact the Building & Safety Division at 909-954-5181.

Grand Terrace Staff Teams Up to Grow a Greener Community
Grand Terrace, CA - March 28, 2025 - Code Enforcement and Public Works staff have teamed up to support a citywide effort to expand our tree canopy. After surveying properties without parkway trees, Public Works mailed over 300 letters to residents offering a free tree—along with an easy agreement to water and maintain it.

This initiative leads into the Earth Day Tree Planting Event on Saturday, April 26 at 8:00 a.m., where volunteers and staff will hit the ground planting. While attendees wait for transportation to planting sites, the City is actively working to partner with organizations such as Burrtec, West Coast Arborist, and DigAlert to provide informational materials or small giveaways at the event.

City of Grand Terrace Enhances Pet Recovery Efforts with New Community Bulletin Board
Grand Terrace, CA - March 28, 2025 - The City of Grand Terrace is excited to announce the installation of a community bulletin board at the dog park on Vista Grande Way. This new addition provides residents with a dedicated space to post flyers and notices about lost or missing pets, streamlining pet recovery efforts and enhancing community communication.

The bulletin board serves as a centralized location for pet-related announcements, helping pet owners quickly spread the word about missing animals. By reducing clutter in public areas and consolidating notices in one easily accessible place, the initiative aims to improve efficiency in pet recovery efforts.

"We understand how distressing it can be when a pet goes missing. As code enforcement and animal control officers, we not only enforce regulations but provide the community with valuable resources” said Code Enforcement Officer Tabatha Barefield. “This bulletin board will help residents connect and work together to reunite lost pets with their owners more quickly and while also keeping residents in compliance.”

In addition to posting flyers, pet owners are encouraged to take proactive steps in pet recovery, including:

Acting Quickly: As soon as a pet goes missing, post on the bulletin board and notify local animal shelters, veterinarians, and social media groups.
Providing Clear Information: Flyers should include a recent photo of the pet, a brief description, contact details, and any distinguishing features.
Utilizing Multiple Resources: While the bulletin board is a valuable tool, residents should also use online platforms like neighborhood forums, and lost pet databases,.
Ensuring Identification: Microchipping and using a collar with an ID tag can significantly increase the chances of a lost pet being returned home.

The City of Grand Terrace remains committed to fostering a pet-friendly and connected community. Residents are encouraged to make use of the new bulletin board and support one another in keeping pets safe and accounted for.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputies Arrest Loma Linda Man for Fraudulent Vehicle Purchases in Grand Terrace
Grand Terrace, CA - March 28, 2025 - The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has arrested a suspect connected to multiple fraudulent vehicle purchases using stolen checks in Grand Terrace and surrounding communities. Deputies Roger Alfaro, Nicholas Vaca, and Edson Gonzalez led the investigation and successfully apprehended Jorge Luis Navas-Rodriguez.

On March 4, 2025, Victim 1 met with Navas-Rodriguez in Grand Terrace to sell a vehicle. The suspect used a stolen check for payment, which Victim 1 discovered the next day when attempting to cash it. That same day, Victim 2 unknowingly purchased the now-stolen vehicle from Navas-Rodriguez.

Later, on March 16, 2025, the suspect used the same fraudulent scheme to purchase another vehicle from Victim 3, who deposited the check electronically before learning it was stolen. In response to these incidents, Deputy Roger Alfaro authored an arrest warrant.

On March 26, 2025, deputies and detectives from the Central Station executed a search warrant at the suspect’s residence, where they uncovered evidence related to the crimes.

Navas-Rodriguez was arrested and booked into the Central Detention Center on multiple felony charges, including:

VC 10851(a) – Stolen Vehicle
PC 496d(a) – Possession of a Stolen Vehicle
PC 532(a) – Theft by False Pretenses
An active felony warrant for PC 10851(a) – Possession of a Stolen Vehicle

He is being held on $150,000 bail.

Anyone with information related to this case or who may have experienced a similar crime is encouraged to contact the Central Station at (909) 387-3545. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at www.wetip.com.
Reference Case Nos.: 152500213, 152500248, 122500259

The City of Grand Terrace commends the swift and thorough efforts of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies and detectives, whose work has brought resolution to this case and continues to ensure the safety of our residents.

Beyond Wonderland 2025 Event at NOS Event Center
March 28, 2025- The upcoming Beyond Wonderland SoCal 2025 event is scheduled to run from 4:00 pm to 2:00 am March 28-29, 2025, at the National Orange Show (NOS). The event is expected to bring traffic congestion in the general vicinity. Historically, there have been noise issues associated with the event.

Thousands of attendees are expected. Traffic congestion is anticipated in and around the NOS Event Center causing delays during peak hours.

The festival’s high-volume electronic dance music was a point of contention in previous years, with sound carrying beyond the event site. Organizers state that decibel levels are monitored. A Noise Management Hotline will be available and questions regarding noise management can be directed to the Noise Management Hotline at (424) 303-6017. This hotline operates only during the event hours

Grand Terrace Grows: Let’s Root for a Greener Tomorrow!
Grand Terrace, CA- March 24, 2025-

The City of Grand Terrace is excited to launch Grand Terrace Grows—a new community initiative focused on increasing the number of trees across our city and boosting our tree canopy.

Residents who don’t currently have a parkway tree can request a free tree from a selection of three beautiful options. All that’s required is a simple agreement to water and maintain the tree. Requests must be submitted by April 10, 2025, so don’t miss out!

To kick things off, we’re hosting an Earth Day Tree Planting Event on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. City staff and volunteers will be planting trees throughout residential neighborhoods, and we’re inviting residents of all ages to join in and take part in something great for our community. Light snacks will be provided, and it’s a great way to connect with neighbors while giving back. A waiver form is required and can be completed ahead of time or on the day of the event.

Also that morning, compost and mulch will be available at Mt. Vernon and Canal—free for residents. We’re working on additional giveaway dates to keep the momentum going.

Be a part of something that will benefit Grand Terrace for years to come. Let’s grow together!

Thinking of Planting in the Parkway? Here’s What You Need to Know

Grand Terrace, CA - March 24, 2025-The parkway—the landscaped area between the sidewalk and the street—is City-owned property, but it is maintained by the adjacent property owner. Any improvements in this space, including tree planting or landscaping, must follow City guidelines to avoid potential issues or violations.

If you're interested in planting your own tree:

A no-fee encroachment permit is required, and the tree must be selected from the City’s approved species list.
Unauthorized planting or modifications in the public right-of-way may result in the homeowner being required to remove non-compliant trees, plants, or structures at their own expense.
Homeowners are also responsible for any damage to streets, sidewalks, or public infrastructure caused by unapproved work or plantings.

Prefer the City to plant a tree for you?

You can complete an Agreement for Planting in the Public Right-of-Way.
The City will plant the tree as funding becomes available, and you’ll simply be responsible for watering and maintaining it.

These steps help protect public infrastructure while supporting responsible improvements in our neighborhoods.

Your City Dumpster Is Here to Help—Let’s Keep It Going Strong!

Grand Terrace- March 24, 2025- The City of Grand Terrace is proud to offer a public dumpster in the City Hall parking lot, giving residents a convenient, accessible option for disposing of extra waste and helping curb illegal dumping. It's available for use seven days a week, with trash pickup occurring Monday through Friday.

Since launching this service, it’s been a big help to the community—but we’ve had a few instances where items were left outside the dumpster or piled above the top edge. Let’s work together to make sure this doesn’t become the norm!

Here’s how you can help keep this resource running smoothly:

Check the dumpster before bringing items, especially large or bulky ones.
If it’s full, check back soon—it’s serviced every weekday!
Never leave items outside or stack them above the top edge.

If the dumpster is full when you arrive, a quick return trip another day helps keep the area clean for everyone.

Improper Use Warning:

Dumping outside the bin or overfilling it may result in an administrative citation issued to the registered vehicle owner, as cameras are active on-site.

Nominate a Local Nonprofit for Recognition by Assemblymember Leticia Castillo

Each year, members of the California State Legislature are invited to recognize a Nonprofit of the Year from their district. Assemblymember Leticia Castillo is proud to participate and honor a deserving organization from the 58th Assembly District in 2025.

Residents are encouraged to nominate a local nonprofit that has made a significant contribution to the well-being and betterment of the community. Whether through outreach, public service, or support for those in need, this is an opportunity to spotlight the organizations making a difference.

Nominations are due by Monday, March 24, 2025.
To submit a nomination, please complete the form at:
Nomination Form

This is a chance to highlight the impactful work of nonprofits that serve our community every day. Your voice matters—help celebrate those who serve others.

For questions, please contact Assemblymember Castillo’s district office.

City of Grand Terrace Deploys New Animal Control Vehicle to Enhance Safety and Efficiency

Grand Terrace, CA - March 18, 2025 – The City of Grand Terrace has placed a new state-of-the-art animal control vehicle into service, enhancing both animal welfare and officer safety. The new vehicle, a double-cab Ford pickup chassis, is equipped with air-conditioned containment boxes designed to provide a secure and comfortable environment for transported animals.

The upgraded design allows for the safe transport of two large dogs and four smaller animals in individual compartments while incorporating dedicated compartments for protective and safety equipment. Additional features such as all aluminum welded components and removable flooring ensuring a more sanitary and humane experience for animals in the City's care. Accommodations to transport deceased animals in separate compartments will help prevent the spread of pathogens.

This new vehicle replaces an outdated van where both captured animals and deceased wildlife were transported in the same compartments and within the same cab as the officer. By transitioning to a specialized transport system, the City significantly improves working conditions for staff while reducing stress on animals.

Beyond day-to-day animal control operations, the new vehicle’s configuration allows for dual use in disaster and emergency situations. With towing capacity for livestock evacuation and a double cab to accommodate additional staff when needed, the vehicle enhances the City's emergency response capabilities. Additionally, built-in scene lighting improves nighttime operational efficiency, further supporting animal rescue efforts in low-visibility conditions.

"The safety of our officers and the humane treatment of animals remain our top priorities,” said Officer Leila Henderson. “This new vehicle is a major step forward, providing a safer, more efficient, and more adaptable solution for animal control and emergency response.”

The City of Grand Terrace remains committed to ensuring the highest standards in public safety and animal welfare.

Rapid Law Enforcement Response Leads to Swift Arrest in Garage Trespassing Incident

Grand Terrace, CA- March 18, 2025 – On Monday, March 17, 2025, at approximately 9:15 PM, deputies responded an incident in the 22000 block of Pico. A resident confronted an unknown individual inside their detached garage and immediately called 911. Preliminary investigation indicates the suspect gained entry through an unlocked door.

Law enforcement officers arrived on the scene within minutes and located the suspect attempting to exit the garage through a rear door. The suspect was promptly taken into custody without incident and was later booked at the Central Detention Center for trespassing.

This successful response was made possible through the coordinated efforts of deputies from Grand Terrace, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Loma Linda, San Manuel, and Aviation/40King all responded to assist, ensuring a rapid and effective resolution.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

City of Grand Terrace Secures Funding for Senior Nutrition Program Through CDBG

Grand Terrace, CA – March 12, 2025- The City of Grand Terrace remains committed to supporting its senior community by securing continued funding for the Senior Nutrition Program. As part of its ongoing efforts to maintain fiscal responsibility and enhance service delivery, the City Council has approved its funding recommendations for the FY 2025-26 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, administered by the County of San Bernardino Economic Development Agency.

The Senior Nutrition Program, which has been in place since 2017, provides daily hot meals for seniors, promoting both nutritional health and social engagement. This program is funded through the County of San Bernardino Community Development and Housing Department via CDBG allocations. For the upcoming fiscal year, the City will enter into an agreement with Family Services Association (FSA) for the provision of nutrition services.

An additional $10,000 funding for this agreement will be allocated in the FY 2025-26 budget. The program continues to make a positive difference in the lives of Grand Terrace seniors by ensuring access to nutritious meals and fostering a sense of community.

The City of Grand Terrace looks forward to continuing its partnership with Family Services Association and ensuring the well-being of its senior residents.

City of Grand Terrace Successfully Completes FY 2024-25 Street Rehabilitation Project

Grand Terrace, CA – March 12, 2025- The City of Grand Terrace has successfully completed the Fiscal Year 2024-25 Street Rehabilitation Project, marking another step in improving local road infrastructure. The project, which initially faced an unexpected conflict with an existing storm drain line on Mt. Vernon just north of Barton Road, was efficiently redesigned to ensure long-term durability and cost-effectiveness.

During pre-construction assessments, a storm drain line was found to interfere with the planned work. To avoid unnecessary repaving, City staff worked closely with the Design Engineer and contractor to adjust the project scope. The modified plan included the paving of Mt. Vernon from Barton Road to Main Street, shifting the original section of work south of Barton Road. This necessary adjustment required a change order and an additional appropriation of $19,500 to update the project plans.

Despite this modification, the project was completed on schedule in January 2025. City Council formally accepted the 2024-25 Street Rehabilitation Project as complete, approved the final payment and additional appropriations, and authorize the filing and recording of the Notice of Completion.

The 2024-25 Street Rehabilitation Project was carried out in compliance with all environmental regulations, incorporating sustainable construction practices to minimize environmental impact while enhancing road conditions.

The total cost of the project was $840,125, funded through a combination of Road Maintenance and Rehabilitation Account (RMRA) funds, Gas Tax revenues, Measure I allocations, and city reserves.

The City of Grand Terrace remains committed to maintaining and improving its infrastructure to enhance safety and accessibility for all residents.

City of Grand Terrace Approves Mandatory Microchipping for Dogs

Grand Terrace, CA – March 12, 2025 – The Grand Terrace City Council has approved a new ordinance requiring all dogs within the city limits to be microchipped as part of an effort to enhance pet safety, increase recovery rates, and reduce the burden on local animal control services.

The newly approved microchipping requirement strengthens these efforts by ensuring a reliable, permanent form of identification that remains with the pet for life, even if collars or tags are lost or removed.

Microchipping is a quick and safe procedure, similar to a routine vaccination. A small chip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under the pet’s skin using a tiny needle. The microchip is made of biocompatible materials, reducing the risk of adverse reactions. This method has been used safely in pets for decades and provides a lifelong means of identifying lost animals and reuniting them with their owners.

“In situations such as accidental escapes or natural disasters, microchipping is a crucial tool for quickly identifying and recovering lost pets,” said City Manager, Konrad Bolowich. “This initiative will significantly increase the likelihood of pets being safely returned home, reducing stress on both animals and owners while also decreasing sheltering costs for the City.”

By implementing this measure, Grand Terrace joins a growing number of communities nationwide that recognize the benefits of microchipping in ensuring responsible pet ownership and reducing the number of lost or abandoned animals in shelters.

Law Enforcement Investigating Two Separate Burglaries in Grand Terrace

Grand Terrace, CA – March 10, 2025- The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is actively investigating two separate burglaries that occurred in the city on Sunday, March 9, 2025. While both incidents involved forced entry into businesses, there is no evidence at this time to suggest that they are related. Law enforcement is working diligently to identify and apprehend the suspects responsible.

The first incident took place at approximately 12:34 a.m. at AutoZone in Grand Terrace. Deputies responded within three minutes to a glass break sensor activation and discovered that the front glass door had been smashed. Deputies made contact with store management to retrieve surveillance footage and gather additional information. The investigation remains ongoing.

The following evening, at approximately 11:30 p.m., an unknown suspect broke the glass door of Vegan Korner and entered the business. The suspect stole multiple items before fleeing the scene. Deputies recovered video surveillance footage from inside the business and collected multiple latent fingerprints, which will be sent to a lab for analysis. Unlike the AutoZone burglary, no alarm activation was received by law enforcement, delaying the response time.

Deputies responded quickly to both incidents and are actively pursuing leads, including forensic analysis of fingerprints and video surveillance footage. The Grand Terrace community is encouraged to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement to aid in the investigation.

To help local businesses enhance security and prevent similar crimes, the Sheriff’s Department offers the following recommendations:

Ensure alarm systems are properly functioning and that keyholders are readily available for emergency contact.
Install and regularly maintain high-quality surveillance cameras with clear visibility of entry points and interior spaces.
Utilize reinforced glass or security film to make forced entry more difficult.
Keep valuable items secured and out of immediate sight from windows and doors.
Improve exterior lighting and install motion sensors to deter criminal activity.
Conduct routine security assessments and consider working with local law enforcement for additional crime prevention tips.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department remains committed to protecting businesses and residents in Grand Terrace. Anyone with information regarding these incidents is encouraged to contact the department at 909-387-8313. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the WeTip hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME

For full details, view this message on the web.

City of Grand Terrace Planning Commission Recommends Approval of Housing Element Update

Grand Terrace, CA- March 5, 2025 – On February 27th, the City of Grand Terrace Planning Commission has voted to recommend approval of the City’s Housing Element update, forwarding its recommendation to the City Council for final consideration. This critical step ensures that Grand Terrace remains compliant with state housing laws while proactively addressing local housing needs.

The Housing Element serves as a key component of the City’s General Plan, outlining strategies to accommodate residential growth, promote affordability, and support sustainable development. It also ensures the City meets its Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) through proper land use planning and zoning updates.

Following an extensive public review process and collaboration with planning consultants, the updated Housing Element identifies 20 opportunity sites for future residential development, encompassing approximately 97.3 acres proposed for rezoning to allow for high-density housing. By strategically upzoning these areas, the City aims to expand housing opportunities, encourage smart growth, and maintain compliance with state-mandated housing requirements.

In addition to zoning updates, the Housing Element introduces a range of initiatives, including incentives for affordable and special-needs housing, streamlined approval processes for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and expanded fair housing outreach efforts. The plan also emphasizes infrastructure improvements to enhance community livability.

With the Planning Commission’s recommendation, the Housing Element will now move to the City Council for final approval. Adoption of the plan and completion of the proposed rezonings will secure the City’s standing with state housing authorities and position Grand Terrace for future growth and development.

The City Council is expected to review the Housing Element update at an upcoming meeting. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the discussion and stay informed about how these efforts will shape the future of housing in Grand Terrace.

Springtime Brings Increased Wildlife Activity: Understanding and Coexisting with Urban Wildlife

Grand Terrace, CA – March 5, 2025- As spring arrives, residents may notice an increase in wildlife activity throughout the community. Due to urbanization, land development, and climate change, many native species have adapted to living near humans. In the coming months, sightings of opossums, skunks, raccoons, coyotes, and various bird species may become more frequent.

While some wildlife may seem like a nuisance, many species provide valuable benefits to the local ecosystem. Opossums are nocturnal marsupials which help keep environments clean by consuming decaying matter, ticks, slugs, snails, and even venomous snakes. They are non-aggressive and play a vital role in controlling insect and pest populations. Despite their reputation, skunks offer natural pest control by feeding on rodents, black widow spiders, scorpions, and other harmful insects. Raccoons are highly intelligent and adaptable and help control populations of small rodents and insects. They also aid in seed dispersal, contributing to plant growth and biodiversity. As natural predators, coyotes help regulate populations of rodents and other small mammals, maintaining ecological balance. They also help control populations of feral cats and other species that can negatively impact local wildlife. Birds of Prey (Hawks, Owls) play a crucial role in controlling rodent populations, helping to naturally manage pests that could otherwise become problematic. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy ecosystem.

To promote peaceful coexistence with local wildlife, residents are encouraged to follow these guidelines:

Close off potential den sites under decks, porches, and sheds.
Avoid using rodenticides, as they can poison these natural predators.
Do Not Feed Wildlife: Feeding can make animals dependent on humans and increase conflicts.
Secure Food Sources: Store pet food, birdseed, and garbage in animal-proof containers.
Protect Pets: Keep small pets indoors, especially at night, to prevent encounters with predators.
Seal off access points to attics, basements, or crawl spaces where animals may seek shelter.
Respect Their Space: Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid handling them.
Use Humane Deterrents: Motion-activated lights and sprinklers can discourage wildlife from entering unwanted areas.

By taking these precautions, Grand Terrace residents can foster a balanced and harmonious environment where humans and wildlife coexist safely.

City of Grand Terrace Hosts 18th Annual Blue Mountain Hike

Grand Terrace, CA- March 3, 2025 – The City of Grand Terrace proudly hosted the 18th Annual Blue Mountain Hike on Saturday, March 1, 2025, providing community members with a unique opportunity to explore the city's iconic peak. This highly anticipated event is the only day each year when hiking is permitted on Blue Mountain, drawing hundreds of participants eager to experience its breathtaking views and challenging terrain.

Hikers gathered at the starting point at Palm Ave & Honey Hill Dr., with the event officially beginning at 8:00 AM. The last check-in was at 10:45 AM, and the return trek commenced at 12:00 PM. This year’s hike saw an impressive turnout of over 600 participants, all of whom enjoyed the picturesque landscapes and camaraderie that make this event a cherished tradition.

The Blue Mountain Trail is a 4.1-mile out-and-back route that is generally considered moderately challenging, with an average completion time of approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes. The hike offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding region, making it a must-attend event for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The success of this event was made possible by the collaborative efforts of Grand Terrace City staff, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, San Bernardino County Search and Rescue, San Bernardino County Fire, the Grand Terrace CERT team, and the Boy Scouts. Their dedication ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

For more details about the annual Blue Mountain Hike and other community events, visit the City of Grand Terrace's official events page at www.grandterrace-ca.gov.

City of Grand Terrace Supports Local Soccer Club During Richard Rollins Park Field Repairs

Grand Terrace, CA - February 26, 2025 – The City of Grand Terrace is dedicated to fostering community engagement and supporting local sports activities. In light of the essential turf renovations at Richard Rollins Community Park, the City has collaborated with the Grand Terrace Community Soccer Club to ensure their programs continue seamlessly. As a result, TJ Austin Park will temporarily host the soccer club's activities from February 24 through May 4, 2025.

During this period, the fields at TJ Austin Park will be available for the soccer club's use on weekdays from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The City acknowledges that this adjustment may lead to increased traffic on Robin Way and Raven Way and appreciates residents' patience and understanding during this time. This temporary arrangement underscores the City's commitment to supporting local youth sports and ensuring uninterrupted practice and game schedules.

To accommodate evening practices, the City has installed portable light towers at TJ Austin Park. Residents who observe the lights remaining on after scheduled activities are encouraged to contact the City at (909) 954-5200 and select option #1 for assistance.

The City of Grand Terrace remains steadfast in promoting recreational opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. We value the community's cooperation as we undertake these improvements to our park facilities, ensuring they serve our residents effectively for years to come.

City of Grand Terrace Moves Forward with Playground Improvements at Richard Rollins Park

Grand Terrace, CA - February 21, 2025 – The City of Grand Terrace is enhancing park safety and aesthetics with planned improvements at Richard Rollins Park. In September 2019, the City was awarded a $19,000 grant through a specified grant from the Department of State Parks and Recreation, dedicated to enhancing playground facilities.

In February 2025, the funds were designated for the installation of 11 solar-powered light bollards around the larger playground area, along with the trimming of four trees above the playground to improve safety and visibility. The bollards are scheduled for installation during the last week of February.

Well-lit park areas are essential for community safety and enhancing the overall aesthetics of public spaces. The addition of solar-powered light bollards will extend the park’s usability into the early evening hours, creating a safer environment for families and visitors while enhancing the beauty of the area. Improved lighting also helps deter potential safety concerns and fosters a welcoming atmosphere for recreation and leisure activities.

These actions are part of the City’s ongoing commitment to quality parks. The City continues to seek financing opportunities through grants and other funding sources to improve and maintain park facilities. This dedication reflects the City’s commitment to providing high-quality parks that enhance the quality of life for residents and increase the overall desirability of living in Grand Terrace.

City Announces Turf Fertilization and Reseeding in Parks and Sports Fields

Grand Terrace, CA - February 21, 2025 – The City of Grand Terrace is committed to maintaining high-quality parks and sports fields for residents and visitors. As part of our ongoing turf maintenance program, the City is currently fertilizing and reseeding various turf areas to ensure healthy, durable, and safe playing surfaces. Regular fertilization and reseeding are essential for maintaining dense grass coverage, strong root growth, and resistance to wear and disease. Fertilization provides essential nutrients that enhance the turf’s appearance and functionality, while reseeding fills in bare or thinning areas, ensuring a consistent playing surface and preventing soil erosion. To allow for proper absorption of nutrients and establishment of new grass, certain fields and park areas will be temporarily closed during maintenance.

Fields receiving chemical fertilization will be closed for 24 to 48 hours to prevent contact with fertilizers, which can be harmful if tracked into waterways or ingested by pets. Fields receiving organic fertilization will be closed for different durations based on use, with non-sports areas closed for 3 to 7 days and sports fields or high-use areas remaining closed for at least 2 weeks to allow for proper decomposition and microbial activity. After reseeding, fields will remain closed for 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the grass type, weather conditions, and germination rates, ensuring young seedlings establish properly before heavy use.

The City carefully selects grass seed mixtures tailored to different playing surfaces. Play areas and recreational turf receive a blend of tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass, providing a soft, durable surface with good drought resistance. Soccer fields are seeded with a combination of bermudagrass and perennial ryegrass, ensuring a smooth, firm surface with high wear tolerance and fast recovery from cleat damage. Baseball fields use a mix of bermudagrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass to provide a firm and even playing surface, while the outfield turf remains soft and durable, and ryegrass ensures winter coverage.

To maintain the integrity of different turf varieties, the City will begin using separate contractors for maintaining different field types to prevent cross-seeding. Additionally, mowing equipment will be thoroughly cleaned after use on different turf areas to prevent the spread of turf diseases and invasive weeds.

Current Field Closure Schedule:
Richard Rollins Park: Field rebuild, closed February 10 to May 29
Veterans Park: Fertilization, closed February 14 to February 28
Dog Park: Fertilization and reseeding, closed March 3 to April 17

The City is committed to providing high-quality turf for the community to enjoy. Through proper fertilization, strategic reseeding, and responsible maintenance practices, we are ensuring safe, high-performing, and long-lasting turf surfaces for all types of recreation and competitive play. We appreciate the community’s patience as we work to improve our parks and sports fields.

Grand Terrace Honors the Legacy of Angeline Petta

Grand Terrace, CA – February 19, 2025 – The Grand Terrace City Council has unanimously approved a measure to waive all fees associated with the use of Susan Petta Park for the memorial service of Angeline “Ann” Petta, a beloved founding member of the community.

Angeline Petta passed away peacefully on January 26, 2025, at the age of 97. Ann’s legacy in Grand Terrace is immeasurable, as she dedicated her life to the betterment of the city through volunteer work, advocacy for education, and community service. She was instrumental in the success of Grand Terrace Community Art Shows, the City Historical Committees, and the Friends of the Library, where she championed literacy and education for local children.

Ann’s passion for education was lifelong. After earning her degree from the University of Chicago, she became an elementary school teacher, taking great pride in shaping the futures of her students, some of whom achieved national recognition.

Ann and her husband, Anthony (Tony) Petta, moved to Southern California with a shared dream of building a thriving community. Together, they established TP Real Estate and played a pivotal role in the incorporation of Grand Terrace in 1978, with Tony serving as the city’s charter mayor. Their unwavering commitment to community development helped lay the foundation for the city's growth and unity.

In a final act of generosity, Ann donated a valuable parcel of land to the City of Grand Terrace to be developed into a community library in honor of her husband, ensuring that future generations will benefit from her dedication to education and civic service.

The City Council’s decision to waive the fees for the family’s use of Susan Petta Park for Ann’s memorial is a small but meaningful tribute to a woman who gave so much to Grand Terrace. Ann’s contributions will be felt for generations, and the community is deeply grateful for her lifelong commitment.

Details regarding Ann’s memorial service will be shared with the public as they become available.

City of Grand Terrace Implements Official Incident Reporting Protocol

Grand Terrace, CA – February 19, 2025 – The City of Grand Terrace is implementing a new incident reporting protocol to improve response efficiency and ensure all community concerns requiring law enforcement intervention or staff response are properly documented and addressed.

Due to a significant increase in communications through social media, texting, and direct contacts, city staff have faced challenges in effectively managing and responding to community reports. As a result, the City is reinforcing the use of official reporting channels to ensure timely and appropriate action.

Key Points of the Program:

City staff do not monitor social media platforms for incident reports. Any reports made via these channels will not receive a response or be considered for future action.
Alternative reporting methods, such as social media posts or direct messages, can delay critical responses and hinder the City’s ability to maintain accurate records of service calls.
Properly documented reports allow for more effective resource allocation and ensure that best practices are applied in managing community concerns.
For non-emergency situations requiring law enforcement intervention, residents should call the San Bernardino County Sheriff's dispatch at (909) 884-0156. This line is available 24/7 and allows dispatchers to prioritize responses, accurately record incidents, and coordinate resources effectively.
Alternatively, dispatch services can be accessed by calling the main City Hall number at 909-354-5200 and selecting option #1
The initiative is aimed at improving response efficiency and ensuring that all reports are handled through the proper channels. By utilizing the designated reporting methods, the City can provide better service and maintain a complete record of community concerns.