Archive for May, 2014

Antioch Memorial Day event at Oak View Memorial Park Monday morning.

Sunday, May 25th, 2014

Memorial Day

County School Board votes to deny Dozier-Libbey independent charters

Sunday, May 25th, 2014

By John Crowder

On Wednesday, May 21, the Contra Costa County Board of Education (Board) voted 3 to 1 to deny the petition submitted by the teachers of Dozier-Libbey Medical High School (DLMHS) to convert the campus to a charter school and remove it from under the control of the Antioch Unified School District (AUSD).

Board Trustee Cynthia Ruehlig cast the lone vote in favor of the petition. Trustees Richard Asadoorian, Daniel Gomes, and Pamela Mirabella voted in opposition to the charter proposal.

Prior to Wednesday’s meeting, County Office of Education staff (Staff) had submitted a recommendation to the Board that the petition be denied. In recommending for denial, they stated that, “the Petition presents an unsound educational program and petitioners are demonstrably unlikely to successfully implement the program set forth in the Petition. The Petition does not contain reasonably comprehensive descriptions of all of the elements prescribed by law.”

Staff findings were refuted in a letter submitted to the Board by Paul Minney, an attorney representing the teachers, and by supporters of the move speaking at Wednesday’s meeting. With respect to Staff finding that the charter school would present an unsound education program, Minney’s letter pointed out that the Education Code specifically defined “an unsound educational program” as one that would present, “the likelihood of physical, educational, or psychological harm,” or “was not likely to be of educational benefit” to pupils, noting there was no evidence to support either contention.

Many of the public comments in support of the charter petition dealt with the concerns regarding their plan for assisting low-achieving, special education, and English learner students. Those opposed cited the problems identified by Staff in their report, and noted that many groups in the community, including elected officials, AUSD employees, advocacy groups and business representatives were opposed.

Following public comments on the matter, the Board questioned the teachers, staff, and AUSD representatives.

Ruehlig was the most outspoken in asking questions, beginning her examination by charging the teachers with explaining what they were offering that was not in place when they won a Distinguished School award in 2011. Dr. Cynthia Soraoka responded by detailing her desire to have her students participate in “virtual internships” with doctors from around the world. She described how her efforts to bring such plans to fruition had been stymied by AUSD over the last few years, specifically addressing a lack of technology. Ruehlig then asked how many of the teachers were committed to working at the school who had been involved with Dozier-Libbey when it won the Distinguished School award. Teachers responded that, with two exceptions, the staff would be the same.

Asadoorian asked about the use of the facility currently occupied by DLMHS. AUSD has taken the position that the charter school, if approved, would not be entitled to the use of the facility because of a lack of timeliness in requesting its use. This argument was countered by Minney, who said that, although he was confident that the teachers were legally entitled to the use of the facility, the teachers were willing to delay the conversion until the 2015-2016 school year in order to avoid a protracted legal fight.

Trustee Mirabella took issue with what she considered the lack of a comprehensive plan, as outlined in the petition, to operate the school as a charter.

In explaining their positions just prior to the vote, Mirabella and Ruehlig each weighed in on the proposal. Mirabella said she was voting against the petition, and supporting the findings of county Staff in their assessment that there were too many corrections needed. She went on to say that the intent of the law was to convert low-performing schools to charters, and that this petition had divided the community.

Ruehlig countered that the main question was whether or not we have the right to self-governance. She said her decision was based on the proposal presenting a sound educational program, and that it not only was sound, but was likely to succeed, and was best for the community.

With the rejection of their proposal by both the Antioch and Contra Costa School Boards, teachers must now decide if they will appeal the decision to the State Board of Education.

Antioch Police Department awards annual honors of officers, citizens

Sunday, May 25th, 2014
Antioch Police Department Civilian Employee of the Year Virginia Johnson and Officer of the Year James Colley.

Antioch Police Department Civilian Employee of the Year Virginia Johnson and Officer of the Year James Colley.  photo courtesy of Antioch Police Department

James Colley is Antioch Police Officer of the Year

By John Crowder

On Thursday, May 15, the Antioch Police Department honored their outstanding employees, retirees, and citizens who had contributed to the success of the department at a ceremony held in City Hall.

Acting Captain Aguinaga (left), who was awarded the Distinguished Service Award, with Lt. Robin Kelley.

Acting Captain Aguinaga (left), who was awarded the Distinguished Service Award, with Lt. Robin Kelley.  photo courtesy of APD

Captain Leonard Orman opened the ceremony by welcoming everyone, and later acknowledging the local dignitaries in attendance. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Acting Captain Diane Aguinaga, and an invocation was given by Reverend Robert Rien of Antioch’s St. Ignatius Church.

Chief Allan Cantando presented the awards during the ceremony. As each person being honored was called forward, he made a point of sharing a personal story and thanking them for their contributions. Officer James Colley was selected by his peers as the Officer of the Year, while Virginia Johnson was named the Civilian employee of the Year. Distinguished Service Awards went to Acting Captain Aguinaga and Sergeant Tarra Nissen, while Officer Ryan Andelin was recognized for 10 years of service.

Several officers received Meritorious Service Awards, including Officers Wardell Carter, Ted Chang, Rick Hofman, Martin Hynes, Christopher Kidd, Kristopher Kint, James Perkinson, and Police K9 “Bo.” Virginia Johnson was also recognized for her work in Support Services, while Frank Rupani was honored as Reserve Sergeant.

Chief Allan Cantando with retiring Sergeants Mitch Schwitters and Robert Quintero. photo courtesy of Antioch Police Department

Chief Allan Cantando with retiring Sergeants Mitch Schwitters and Robert Quintero. photo courtesy of Antioch Police Department

Three officers and a civilian were recognized for acting to save lives, including Officers Meghan Miller, Shawn Morin, and Ryan McDonald, and citizen Kevin Brady. Brady and McDonald had worked together to save the life of Brady’s neighbor, Donald Cooper, after he suffered a heart attack last year at his residence.

Two people received Citizen Service Citations. Roxanna Ramirez Del Rio was honored for her role in helping Antioch police quickly locate a young girl who had been kidnapped earlier this year. Emphasizing how critical time is in such cases, Chief Cantando noted that Del Rio’s action had saved the girl’s life.

Hailey Hartrick, a 12-year-old Antioch girl, was also lauded for her efforts to raise money for ballistic vests for the K9 unit. Hartrick ended up raising close to $12,000 for the cause by hosting numerous fundraising events.

Reserve Officer Chris Ming retired after more than 29 years with the Antioch Police Department.

Reserve Officer Chris Ming retired after more than 29 years with the Antioch Police Department. photo courtesy of APD

Cantando also presented plaques to retirees. They included medical retirements for Sergeant Scott Freier and Officers Diane Freier, Preston Garcia, Chris Walters, and Joe Zanarini. Chris Ming retired as a Reserve Officer. Service retirements included Captain Steve McConnell, Lieutenant Pat Welch, Sergeants Steve Bias, Robert Quintero, and Mitch Schwitters, Officers Vince Augusta and Kevin Kollo and Lead Dispatchers Karen Rezentes and Maria Spainhower.

Antioch Council considers citizens proposed residential landlord rental tax, again

Sunday, May 25th, 2014

By John Crowder

At the May 13 meeting of the Antioch City Council, city staff asked for direction from the Council with respect to a citizen’s proposal for the implementation of a residential landlord rental tax. City Manager Steven Duran explained that the idea for the tax was put forward over a year ago, and an initiative proposal was now gathering signatures in support of the idea.

A group known as the Friday Morning Breakfast Club (FMBC) is currently spearheading the signature gathering effort in support of the tax. FMBC was founded in February, 2009, by three local political figures, Arne Simonsen (currently Antioch City Clerk), Don Freitas (former Mayor of Antioch), and Gary Gilbert. According to Simonsen, FMBC was founded as a kind of “think tank,” made up of people from all different political parties and ethnicity’s, but who could “disagree but not become disagreeable.” Their focus, was to consider “what is best for Antioch.” Since its inception, the group has grown to approximately sixty members, with about twenty showing up at any given meeting. Former Mayor Freitas usually chairs the meetings, which typically involve listening to invited speakers followed by open discussion of issues.

Several members of the FMBC came forward during Tuesday’s Council meeting in order to express support for a Rental Tax. Freitas spoke first, describing FMBC as a group of “civic-minded individuals.” He stated that they wanted to see a “stable, secure, source of revenue” for the city, and noted that Measure C is a temporary measure. “Rental units are a business,” he went on to say, “we always want to treat business in a fair and equitable manner.” He further commented that he thought it was wrong that those operating this type of business did not contribute financially to the city, and that the Rental Tax proposal would correct that inequity. “Nobody likes taxes and assessments, but everybody wants municipal services provided,” he continued.

Larry Harrison, a 45-year resident of Antioch spoke following Freitas. He told the Council that even though gathering signatures was, “out of his comfort zone,” as a consulting civil engineer, he considered the Rental Tax important enough for him to put forth effort to see it placed on the ballot in November.

Marty Fernandez then spoke in support of the measure, noting that he, also, had been out getting people to sign the petition for the Rental Tax. Marie Livingston noted that there were about 12,000 rental units in Antioch, that the fee would generate approximately $2.7 million in revenue, and that rental units in town generated a greater requirement for police services. Local real estate broker, Mark Jordan, said that, even though he owns rental property in Antioch, he supports the Rental Tax. He said that, as an Antioch resident, he was willing to pay more out of basic fairness.

After several others also spoke in favor of the Rental Tax, Council members commented on the issue. All spoke in support of the idea. Harper stated that he had, “made a commitment to support the tax.” Council Member Monica Wilson said, in reference to the idea being brought forth previously, “I supported it then, I support it now.” The rest of the Council, Rocha, Tiscareno and Agopian also expressed support.

Following their discussion, the Council voted 5-0 to direct the city manager to continue discussions with stakeholder groups, including FMBC, and to return with a staff recommendation for a tax initiative at the council’s next meeting on May 27th.

Another potential tax change, presented by Duran, was to increase the Business License minimum tax from $25 to $100. Harper asked Duran if it would make passage of a measure more difficult by putting more than one thing on the ballot. “Yes,” he said, but noted that he did not think the increase was too substantial, given that the $25 fee had been established in the 1940’s. The staff report provided to the Council indicated that both Brentwood and Oakley already had minimum business license taxes of $100 in place.

Man shot in Antioch on Monday, police seek shooter

Tuesday, May 20th, 2014

By Acting Sergeant John Fortner, Antioch Police Field Services Bureau

On Monday, May 19, 2014, at 11:46 A.M., Antioch Police responded to Hudson Court and Fairview Avenue on a report of gun shots heard in the area. Upon arrival officers located an adult male suffering from an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was treated at the scene by emergency medical personnel and transported to a local area hospital.

Witnesses reported hearing five to six gun shots and observing a dark colored vehicle driving away from the area immediately following the gun fire. The vehicle was last seen driving southbound on Fairview Avenue towards Somersville Road. An area search for this vehicle was conducted but it was not be located. There is no suspect information at this time.

The victim is being treated at a local area hospital for serious, but non life-threatening gunshot wounds.

This incident is still under investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Investigations Bureau at 925-779-6926. You may also text a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using the key word ANTIOCH in the body of the text.

Colangelo for Congress in 9th District

Thursday, May 15th, 2014

In the Republican Primary race for the 9th Congressional District, which includes about 70% of Antioch, there’s a clear choice.

Steve Colangelo, a long-time businessman in San Joaquin County is the only candidate who appears to be running a serious campaign to unseat incumbent Jerry McNerney.

His opponents include the former County Clerk of Stanislaus County, which isn’t in the district and who whose main claim to fame is that she’s received death threats for running.

The other is retired U.S. Marshall Tony Amador who is currently Chairman of the Republican Party of San Joaquin County.

Instead of fulfilling his role of recruiting and supporting good candidates, he’s running as one. Amador couldn’t even get the support of a majority of the members of his own Central Committee, which says a lot.

The top two candidates move on to the General Election in November. Colangelo should be one of them.

Three men rob CVS store on Somersville in Antioch, Thursday morning

Thursday, May 15th, 2014

Drive car through front window

By Lieutenant Don La Due, Antioch Police Field Services Division

On Thursday, May 15, 2014 at approximately 5:54 A.M., the Antioch Police Department responded to an alarm at the CVS at 2511 Somersville Road. There was additional information that a vehicle had been driven through the front window of the business and a burglary had occurred. Officers located a vehicle in the area believed to be involved in the CVS burglary and engaged in a vehicle pursuit with it that began in Antioch and was ultimately terminated in the Concord/Walnut Creek area.

Antioch PD detained one subject from the vehicle prior to the pursuit. Walnut Creek PD located and detained two other subjects in their jurisdiction which were later determined to be the other occupants of the vehicle APD pursued. Those two were also arrested. The vehicle was also located.

No other details are being released at this time regarding the suspects or the burglary pending further investigation by APD Detectives.

Anyone with information about this incident can contact the Investigations Bureau at (925) 779-6939. You may also text a tip to 274637 (CRIMES) using key word ANTIOCH.

Watchdog: Viewpoints on June ballot measures

Wednesday, May 14th, 2014

Watchdog-LogoBy Barbara Zivica

June is a busy month for voters. The Contra Costa County official ballot asks voters to decide on various candidates and two ballot measures. One is the Veterans Housing and Homeless Prevention Bond Act which deserves a yes vote. The second is a ballot measure in regard to public records, open meeting and state reimbursements to local agencies. Vote no on this one as it just frees the state from having to reimburse cities and counties for complying with a state mandate and potentially will cost local governments tens of millions of dollars annually.

Two other local agencies, the Contra Costa Community College District and the Delta Diablo Sanitation District, are seeking more money from district residents. The difference is you get to approve or disapprove CCCCD’s June 3rd Measure E bond measure which requires 55% vote approval but you don’t get to vote on Delta Diablo Sewer proposed service charge increase although the district is accepting written protests and will hold a Public Hearing on the $17.86 service charge increase on June 11th at 5:30.

A little background on both:

CONTRA COSTA COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT’S MEASURE E: For the past twelve years the district has gone to voters time and time ago for more money and voters have approved bonds totaling $406.5 million that, according to the Contra Costa Taxpayers Association will cost taxpayers over one billion dollars. Now the district wants voters to approve another $450M in new bond debt.

In November 2012 the CCCCD asked voters to approve a bond measure to “maintain high quality education, support course offerings and instruction programs, including healthcare, technology and public safety, increase access to support services and prepare students for university transfer.” However, two months prior to seeking voter approval Los Medanos College put out a legal notice inviting pre-qualified contractors to bid on a $10 to $15 million student service remodel, project subject to a Project Stability Agreement (PSA) between the college district and the CCC Building and Construction Trades Council. Such agreements are discriminatory because they exclude non union workers and can raise the cost of a project by 12 to 18%.

This June’s Measure E states that bond proceeds will generally be used to upgrade school sites, school facilities and support facilities but doesn’t guarantee that all of the projects listed in the Bond Project list will be funded or completed. The measure also states that all projects will fall under district construction policies – Project Stability Agreements (PSA) limiting completion and increasing project costs. Vote NO on Measure E.

DELTA DIABLO SANITATION DISTRICT PROPOSED $17.86 SEWER SERVICE CHARGE INCREASE: The current sewer service charge is $273.10 annually per single family resident. An additional $17.86 per year would bring the total amount to $290.96 for tax year 2014. (2015 to be discussed at the public hearing.) Frankly, I’ve become opposed to what’s becoming increasing large annual increases on all special taxes and assessments on my property tax bill.