COLTON COURIER We ekly
Vol 151, N O. 4 8
December 14, 2023
T
Colton City Council Greenlights Ambitious Climate Action Plan Update, Sets Robust 15 Percent GHG Reduction By Manny Sandoval
iecn.com
SBPD Saves 3-Year-Old from Being Shot by Armed Suspect Pg. 3
he City Council of Colton, in a decisive move on December 5th, 2023, unanimously approved a groundbreaking update to the City's Climate Action Plan (CAP). Spearheaded by City of Colton Development Services Director Mark Tomich, the updated plan lays out an aggressive strategy to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, in line with California's rigorous environmental standards.
Leading the charge with innovative environmental solutions, the updated plan outlines significant measures to reduce GHG emissions. These include encouraging the use of mass transit, electrification of the community fleet, waste diversion and reduction, and renovations to enhance water efficiency in existing buildings.
"We've crafted a plan that not only addresses our immediate needs but also sets the stage for long-term environmental resilience," said Mark Tomich, highlighting the plan's comprehensive approach.
The CAP update, an effort four years in the making, builds upon the City’s initial CAP adopted in 2015. The revised plan sets a city-specific emissions reduction target of 15% below 2008 levels, demonstrating Colton's commitment to meeting and exceeding state environmental goals.
San Bernardino’s Instagram Worthy Miracle on Court St. is Illuminating the City Until December 16 Pg. 5
Assemblymember Inland Empire Reyes Ne Brings Community wspapers Stakeholders Together Of fice: (909) 381-9898 for Roundtable on E dito rial: iecn 1@mac.com Sustainable Logistics Adver tising: sales@iecn.com Legals : iecnlegals@h otmail.com
Pg. 8
Inland Empire Community Newspape rs Of fice: (909) 381-9898 Edit or ial : iecn1 @ma c.com Adver ti si ng: iecn1 @ma c.com Legals : iecnl egal s@gm ail .com
The plan is structured into three distinct phases for implementation. Phase 1 (20232025) focuses on developing necessary ordinances, identifying funding for GHG reduction projects, and conducting a costbenefit analysis. Phase 2 (2026-2027)
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
Colton’s City Council meetings are held at the City’s Civic Center at 650 N La Cadena Dr.
involves evaluating the effectiveness of the initial measures, incorporating tracking into city operations, and updating the GHG inventory. Finally, Phase 3 (2028-2030) continues the evaluations and adjustments, implementing remaining measures and planning for post-2030 actions.
Addressing the building sector, which accounts for a significant portion of regional GHG emissions, the plan sets forth performance standards for new developments, aiming for substantial emission reductions.
Tomich emphasized, "By targeting the largest sources of emissions and promoting green practices, we're adopting a comprehensive approach to mitigate our environ-
mental impact."
Fiscal impacts of the plan are minimal, with existing budgeted staff positions handling the additional responsibilities. This strategy reflects Colton's dedication to sustainable practices, balancing environmental responsibility with fiscal prudence.
The City of Colton's revamped Climate Action Plan represents a bold step forward in environmental sustainability. Through its detailed measures and phased implementation approach, the plan aims to significantly reduce GHG emissions, reinforcing Colton's role as a leader in climate action.
S a n B e r n a r d i n o ’ s C i t y Wa y H o s t s S u c c e s s f u l S m a l l B u s i n e s s H o l i d a y M a r k e t w i t h M a y o r Tr a n a n d S u p e r v i s o r B a c a ’ s S u p p o r t
T
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
City Way President Ray Bloom, Mayor Helen Tran, and Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr., with City Way reps at the successful Small Business Holiday Market.
By Manny Sandoval
he City of San Bernardino witnessed an exceptional display of local entrepreneurship and community spirit at the Small Business Holiday Market on December 2nd. Organized by City Way, a community economic development group, the event showcased nearly three dozen small business vendors, offering everything from artisan handmade jew-
elry to barbeque rubs.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
A small business vendor ‘Rub This Spice’ selling its multi-purpose meat seasoning to a new customer.
The festive market received an additional boost with the appearances of San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran and County Supervisor Joe Baca Jr. Both officials took the stage to express their support for the small business community.
Mayor Tran highlighted the significance of the entrepreneurs present. "I'm excited
that all of you are here showcasing your business as entrepreneurs; you are the backbone of our community," she said. Praising City Way's efforts, Tran added, "As your mayor, I want to ensure we're partnering and have a community filled with flourishing small businesses. If you thrive, we thrive; if we thrive, you thrive, too. It's an honor to be here, and know we have your back." Holiday Market cont. next pg.