By Allen Payton

Following an investigation, Contra Costa District Attorney Mark A. Peterson announced today, Wednesday, August 5, 2015 the filing of a single misdemeanor charge alleging a violation of section 18351 of the California Elections Code against Jeffery J. Belle, Area 5 Trustee for the Contra Costa County Board of Education. Belle DA Complaint 08-05-15

According to a press release from Peterson, “It is alleged that Jeffrey [sic] Belle, a candidate in an election, knowingly made a false statement of a material fact in a candidate’s statement with the intent to mislead the voters in connection with his campaign for election to a nonpartisan office.”

Belle was elected last November, defeating incumbent County School Board Trustee Cynthia Ruehlig.

“Voters are entitled to know the truth about their candidates when they are voting.” Peterson said, “The democratic process is fundamental to our system of government. The integrity of our elections is fundamental to that process and must be protected.”

Section 18351 of the Elections Code reads “Any candidate in an election or incumbent in a recall election who knowingly makes a false statement of a material fact in a candidate’s statement, prepared pursuant to Section 11327 or 13307, with the intent to mislead the voters in connection with his or her campaign for nomination or election to a nonpartisan office is punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).”

On his ballot statement Belle stated he had a “Bachelor’s degree in Political Science.” Ruehlig & Belle candidate statements

However, in an October article by Herald staff, “according to The Office of the Registrar at Oklahoma City University, although Belle did attend the school, and did study political science, he did not receive a degree from them.”

In an interview with this writer, on October 27, 2014 Belle admitted that he did not have a degree because he still had to pay some fees to the school. He explained that Oklahoma City University works with American University in a program called the Washington Semester, the hours from which applied to his degree.

“I still owe American University for room and board for that semester of almost $3,000,” Belle claimed. “However, in 1989 I walked in the graduation, and they acknowledge it, but they won’t confer the degree, until then.”

“I don’t have to take any more courses,” he added. “That’s why I’m able to take the Master’s degree program in Public Administration, with an emphasis in Health Policy and Public Policy, from the American Public University System.”

However, his explanation about the fees has proven to be false, as well. Earlier this year, his now-estranged wife, Carmen stated the fees had been withheld from her tax return, yet Jeff still didn’t have his degree. He was working toward a Master’s degree, last year, but Belle had to discontinue that since he did not yet have his Bachelor’s degree, which is required in order to obtain a Master’s degree.

Belle’s false claim of a college degree on his candidate’s statement and false explanation appear to be part of a pattern.

The October Herald article further stated:

“Belle has also come under fire for making false claims regarding his education. For example, at one time he claimed to have obtained a Ph.D. from Harrington University, in London. The ‘school’ is well-documented as a diploma mill, where, according to some reports, degrees could be obtained for as little as $1400, and have even been handed out to pet dogs and cats. During his October 22 [2014] press conference, however, Belle admitted he did not have a Ph.D.

Belle has repeatedly given conflicting statements regarding his education. On his application to serve as Antioch’s representative to the Contra Costa Transportation Authority – Citizen’s Advisory Committee (CCTA-CAC), received by the Antioch City Clerk’s office on July 30, 2013, Belle states that he is scheduled to complete a Masters in Public Administration (MPA) in 2014 from Grand Canyon University. On his Linked-in profile, though, he states that he received his MPA from American Public University System in 2014. At the media event he held on October 22, Belle admitted he has no Master’s Degree.

Also on the CCTA-CAC application, Belle states that he has a BS in Political Science from Oklahoma City University / American Public University.

A different statement appears on his linked-in profile, where he says that he obtained that degree from Oklahoma City University in 1988. At the media event he held on October 22, Belle was repeatedly asked by CBS Channel 5 television reporter Da Lin whether or not he had a Bachelor’s degree at all. Belle, at one point, mentioned having obtained a Bachelor’s degree from ‘Biosystems Institute,’ but then quickly backpedaled, and refused to address the question further.”

His LinkedIn profile now states next to Education, “American Public University System.”

More recently, Belle continued his pattern of making false statements with regards to his residency.

When asked where he now lives, in response to both a Facebook post by Carmen, that she and her daughter now live in Sacramento, after he and they were evicted from their rented Antioch home in April, as well as rumors Belle was no longer living in his district, he said he now lives in Brentwood. Carmen said Jeff had told her that he lives in Pittsburg. Yet, the information Belle provided to the County Office of Education was an address for a mailbox inside a mailing business in Antioch.

After emails and a phone call, last month, informing staff for the County Office of Education about the location of Belle’s address that they had on file, the following week, Katie Gaines, Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources provided a new address as reported to her by Belle. That address has been confirmed to be a residence in Antioch, within the district. But, it has not yet been confirmed if he actually lives there.

Belle represents parts of Antioch, Pittsburg, Bay Point and Brentwood, and all of Oakley, Bethel Island, Knightsen and Clyde on the board.

According to the District Attorney’s press release, the maximum penalty for a violation of California Elections Code section 18351 is $1,000.

Check back for more details as this story further unfolds.

By Allen Payton

Antioch residents, once again, participated in the annual National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4 to promote safety in their neighborhoods.

An effort of the National Association of Town Watch, according to their website,

“National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live.

National Night Out enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community and provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.”

In addition to police officers, firefighters serving Antioch also showed up with one of their fire engines at the gathering on Tompkins Way, which was organized by neighborhood residents Stephanie Sterling, and Steve and Roxanne Huddleston. The event at the Huddleston’s home included a potluck dinner and gave about 70 residents who attended the chance to meet and get to know each other. That way they all will better know who belongs in their neighborhood and who doesn’t.

For more information on Antioch’s Neighborhood Watch program click here.

For more information on National Night Out visit www.natw.org.

 

 

By Allen Payton

Today, Tuesday, August 4, 2015, Antioch resident and real estate broker, Mark Jordan filed an official complaint with the Contra Costa District Attorney’s office against Antioch’s mayor and council members for their approval of the city’s use of water and sewer funds for police.

This is a continuation and escalation of his effort to end the practice, in response to a Antioch Herald column on the issue posted to the newspaper’s website in June, which can be viewed here.

After placing the council on notice and threatening to file a complaint with Antioch Police Chief Allan Cantando at the most recent City Council meeting on July 28, 2015, Jordan attempted to do so. However, in an email exchange between the two, including Cantando asking Jordan to cite the the specific Penal Code that the Council was violating, the Chief wrote “We have been in discussion with the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office, Government Corruption Unit regarding your complaint. They have advised that your best course of action would be to contact them directly via their ;Complaint Form’ available at the link below.”

Jordan has pursued that course of action.

His felony complaint, which can be viewed here, (Jordan Complaint.City of Antioch to DA), states “All Citizens of the City of Antioch” are victims, gives the type of violation as “Illegal transfer of public Funds, et all” [sic] and the nature of complaint as “Violation of Oath of Office, Violation of State of California Constitution,” specifically Propositions 13, 26 and 218. Jordan claims there is no connection between the collection of sewer and water funds paid for by Antioch ratepayers and spending them on police.

“I claim that the illegal transfers from the Antioch Water and Sewer Funds are a taking from the public without basis in law, legal nexus or legal justification and that this taking of public funds is public malfeasance and grand theft pursuant to Penal Code 487, a felony,” the complaint states. “A legal nexus is required by law and none exists.”

Jordan further claims that the transfer from the sewer and water funds to the police department budget amounts to a tax without a vote of the people.

“Also; that this transfer is a creation of windfall for the General Fund and is nothing short of a specific tax without voter approval as required by the State Constitution.”

He cites two lawsuits, one each against the City of San Juan Capistrano and the other against the City of Redding, California to support his argument.

The next step is for the District Attorney’s office to decide whether or not to deliver Jordan’s complaint to the county Grand Jury.

By Alia Bickham

The room was buzzing with conversation prior to the call to order at the July 28th City Council meeting and the Council got an earful from residents and city workers. This certain meeting was dedicated to the late Council Member Gary Agopian, and his widow, Robin Agopian was appreciative of the full room as her husband was “passionate for negotiations” and always looking out for the needs of the people.

Mayor Wade Harper remembered Agopian saying he “…led by example.”

Council Member Mary Rocha stated, “he won’t be forgotten.”

Community event announcements included: Sizzling Summer Night Fundraiser at Antioch Senior Center August 14, the Clean Energy Meeting at the Nick Rodriguez Community Center on August 15, and the Second Annual Gary Agopian Boat Race October 17 and 18.

Public Comments get heated

During public comments, Antioch Realtor and resident Mark Jordan expressed concern with what he called the illegal actions of the Council regarding transfers from the water and sewer funds for police and tiered water rates. He asked the Council to take a hard look at restructuring the tiered system.

“I will file a complaint with the Chief of Police,” for taxing citizens illegally for water, Jordan stated.

Similarly, Wayne Steffen expressed the way water usage is calculated is flawed.

“It is impossible to reduce by 28%” he said. “If the billing periods are fluctuating the billing is based on number of units per billing periods and not gallons per day. Stephen suggested council uses gallons per day to calculate water usage and tiered rates.

City Workers Complain to Council

Antioch city workers who are members of Local One, spoke during public comments, as well. They were concerned about high health care service costs and the lack of recognition by the Council, and the lack of a contract.

Joe Carrera, a 25 year city employee wore his “Proud to be Local One” shirt, as did many others. He spoke of equality.

“It makes no sense for the people who make the most money have the best health benefits,” he stated. “Those who are hard workers have to pay more for health benefits. We assist the city in times of need. We the employees endured the pay cut. Some cities gave the furlowed employees a thank you check. The city needs to realize the key to maintain a good work force….you need to retain the employees. This is the city’s chance to get it right and make it right for everyone….if the money is there I just want to know why.”

Wayne Burgess spoke about the parks, and said they’re a safe, inviting places for families.

“I’m generally proud of my city,” he stated. Then he mentioned the tough circumstances in 2009 and cuts included seven full-time and two part-time workers.

“Most of us remain content…knowing the economy will eventually turn around,” Burgess shared. “You voted in January to put us back to full time. Thank you.”

Then he mentioned cut backs and work increases.

“Not only has the city’s bargaining team not come through, but it is not interested in COLA increases or medical benefits. No discussion,”he said, then added that there needs to be shared sacrifice.

Todd Northem, President of Local One spoke about his 15 years in street maintenance.

He spoke of potholes and signage.

“We are there when the emergencies happen,” Northem shared. “Working in traffic is one of the most dangerous jobs. We have no labor contract. 2009 furlows we are all in it together at stake was our community “a bankrupt city means” everyone loses.

“The workers of Antioch kept this city afloat,” he stated.

Manuel Hicks has been working for the city for over 21 years.

“The standard of living should be the same for everyone,” he stated. “We sacrifice for the city. It’s a thankless job. Everybody should get medical the same.”

Johnathan Cordaway said “I was raised here…an Antioch High School grad. Times have been tough. Sacrifice is part of survival. We’re doing all we could to help this city survive.”

“Why doesn’t the City of Antioch not appreciate workers?” he asked.

Mike Davis, also a member of Local One, said “Tonight is about relationships. Local One has sacrificed for six years so that the city could keep its lights on. The city is back on it’s feet….but the employees are much worse off. You heard tonight from your residents, why are you treating us this way?”

He spoke of the city’s two budget reserves of 15% and 23%.

“About four million dollars the city hoards,” Davis stated. “For this year $19 million for equal access to health care. Four to five percent of available funds is what we are asking for. We need your direct staff to show us you value the relationship between your citizens and employees.”

Willie Mims, representing the East County Branch of the NAACP, complained about pay and affordable living.

“I came today to let you know I’m still around, I haven’t gone anywhere.”

He asked the council to introduce body cameras for the police, as it “serves two functions. It protects good police and [exposes] verify bad officers.”

eBART Update

BART Director Joel Keller walked the Council through the planned eBART project, to Antioch. The benefits BART brings to the community include the increase of home, renting values as well as the ever important decrease to commute time, Keller shared.

“BART will be a great addition to the city,” he stated. “Better BART means a better Bay Area.”

The extension to Hillcrest Avenue in Antioch is projected to be completed by May, 2018.

The new pedestrian bridge is “a landmark saying BART is coming to Antioch,” Keller added.

Mayor Pro Tem Lori Ogorchock asked if BART would provide the police officers for the station.

Keller said BART will work with the Antioch Police Department to structure a response plan and an adequate security plan.

Highway 4 Update

Randy Iwasaki, Executive Director of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) provided an update on State Route 4 widening projec. Highway 4 is two-thirds of the way done with the overall widening, he shared.

The CCTA is working with BART to get it into the Highway 4 median faster. Iwasaki also said improvements to the State Route 160/4 Connector Ramps are expected to be completed in early 2016.

Future planning will rely on 65% local dollars, 22% State and 13% in Federal funds.

“A strong economy is the key to transportation funding,” he added.

General Plan Update

The Council then heard from consultant Dick Loweke on the General Plan for Land Use Element and Zoning Ordinance update- updating the Land Use Element and Zoning Ordinance and the 19 Focus Areas.

Harper asked about an employment area. “I like the sound of that,” he said. “What does that mean?”

Loweke responded, “Look at policies that will encourage that to happen so it’s efficiently set up to fit in the market place.

The Council then approved the authorization to execute contracts with three potential additional planning consultants, Dudek, Rincon, and M-Group each amounting less than $100,000 for a term of 3 years.

“Pay as you go?” asked Ogorchock. “Yes,” was staff’s reply.

City Gets Unexpected State Funds

City staff asked the council to provide direction on the use of prior unfunded State mandates received by the city and adopt a resolution amending the fiscal 2014-2015 budget amount of $793,767 in “one time monies” from the state, as City Finance Director Dawn Merchant referred to the funds. She suggested possibilities for the funds, including applying some to the police supplementary retirement plan, a build up to the General Fund reserves or use some or all funds for a capital fund project.

Ogorchock wanted to pay down the city’s unfunded liability. Harper supported that but proposed using the funds about solar programs for energy savings.

“If we could outfit community buildings with solar there would be an ongoing savings for the community,” he said.

Ogorchock made a motion to put the money in the General Fund and not spend it. Rocha seconded the motion and it passed, unanimously on a 4-0 vote, because Council Member Monica Wilson absent during the meeting.

New park playground equipment

The Council award a contract of $127,681 for playground equipment for Contra Loma Park. First 5 has been active in ranking our parks. This is the number one priority park by them. From last year, the funds are there. The installation will be completed in 16-20 weeks, but possibly even less in an 8-10 week timeframe. However, improvements such as cameras and lighting are not included in the contract.

“We believe it’s time to take… our parks back,” said resident Debra Polk. “We need lighting, surveillance, and the basketball court to make a major change in the lives of families.”

“It is on our radar,” Harper responded. “Thank you for being our partner on this. This is a good start.”

Road Improvements

The council voted to approve road improvements in downtown.

They amended the 2014-2015 Capital Improvement Budget to increase Gas Tax funding for the Downtown Roadway Pavement Rehabilitation project in the amount of $50,000 and increase the existing contract with MCK Services, Inc. for $73,389.50 totaling $684,514.50

The council also authorized the expenditure of a alittle more than $77,000 for the completion on additional road work.

“They [residents] really appreciate all the work going on,” said Harper.

Rocha encouraged the continuation of beautifying the community.

“Hopefully these streets will last us ten to twenty years,” said Public Works Director/City Engineer Ron Bernal.

The council also approved improvements to Ninth Street, increasing the existing contract with MCK Services, Inc. in the amount of $135,902.82 and also authorized a final payment of $98,236.24.

“From A to H Street this completes that entire road way,” said Bernal. “This project had additional costs such as additional concrete and excavation, water main leakage repair which estimated an amount of $135,000.

The extra costs and investment are “part of a trust factor with the council,” he added.

The next meeting of the Antioch City Council will be on Tuesday, August 11, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers on Second Street in downtown. Meetings can also be viewed on Comcast TV Channel 24 or via livestream on the city’s website at www.ci.antioch.ca.us.

Dear Editor:

The City of Antioch needs to face some of our key problem areas and failures head on or continue its downward spiral as the kids now call Antioch the “New East Richmond.”

The Code Enforcement program has continued to be a major dismal failure. Even though they have the ability to fine absentee slumlords $1,000 per day penalties, in addition to contracting the clean up which could then be placed on their annual tax bill for payment.

No more excuses. This program needs a major overhaul. Section 8 over all is a good program, helping those that need a little extra support, but there are three- to four percent of the approximately 2,000 Section 8 homes that are creating all the major problems and multiple police calls. These same out of town slumlords need to be held accountable similar to the Section 8 program in Pittsburg, where you get two strikes and you’re out. No more rent money for these slumlords. It’s not that complicated.

Antioch has also now become the dumping ground for panhandlers. They are everywhere. Safeway, Wells Fargo and just about every freeway off ramp. Why? Because Pittsburg, Oakley and Brentwood have all cracked down on this problem 100% and Antioch has sat by and done nothing.

If our Antioch officials will just take the lead and follow other successful programs that are already in place in other surrounding communities, I think there is still hope for a major turnaround for Antioch.

If not we will be the New East Richmond or maybe even worse.

Greg Feere

Antioch