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Voters Urged to Vote “Yes” for Enhanced Theft Penalties and Treatment-focused Reforms
Business leaders on the Chamber’s Board of Directors recently supported Proposition 36, urging Californians to vote “Yes” on the measure for the November 2024 ballot. The measure will apply solutions to communities and businesses affected by homelessness, fentanyl trafficking, and organized retail theft.
The Chamber has heard from several Riverside businesses that current legislation does not sufficiently protect against habitual theft and robberies. If approved, Proposition 36 will address organized and serial retail theft by holding offenders accountable and classifying repeat theft as a felony for individuals who steal less than $950 if they have two or more prior theft-related convictions. In addition, it will allow for stolen property costs exceeding $950 to be combined from multiple incidents instead of just one, countering current tactics that career criminals use to avoid harsher penalties. Judges will be authorized to impose enhanced punishments to offenders who cause $50,000 or more in stolen goods or property damage.
Currently, these crimes are classified as
misdemeanors and impact public safety for business owners and quality of life for all.
Unfortunately, without stricter consequences, large retailers have threatened to move their operations out of state and out of cities experiencing a rise in theft-related incidents. Businesses are
Chamber business leaders are urging voters to support Proposition 36 to combat homelessness, fentanyl trafficking, and organized retail theft.
facing increased operational costs to replace stolen products and repair property damage caused by theft.
Proposition 36 also aims to alleviate the ongoing fentanyl crisis currently responsible for 20% of youth deaths in California. The measure will keep cities safe by adding fentanyl to the list of hard drugs, making it illegal to possess and sell. Judges will have greater discretion sentencing and applying stricter penalties for dealers whose trafficking causes death or serious injury.
Homelessness and vagrancy continue to be one of the biggest challenges facing residents and businesses in Riverside and across the
In alignment with Chamber advocacy, the Riverside City Council recently agreed to protect property owners’ rights by requiring consent for historical designation applications under the Title 20 municipal code. Previously proposed amendments allowed for the designation of one’s property without their approval, placing additional requirements on owners that wish to develop, redesign, or sell their properties. In essence, this proposed change limited property owners’ ability to manage and maintain their own land without interference.
Property owners will maintain their right to consent in the historical designation application process.
Having thoroughly discussed these proposals at the Chamber’s Economic Development Council meetings and other policy councils, community leaders highlighted a variety of issues with the proposed amendments. While many of the proposals were necessary to clarify aspects of the code, several items stood out as being potentially harmful for business development and community growth. The most pressing issue was a proposal overriding the consent of the property owner to designate their development.
Had this proposal passed, it would be possible to
designate a property or development as historically or culturally significant without the knowledge of the property owner, creating a circumstance where the City of Riverside incurs some of the responsibility associated with the designation. This would add to the burden of meticulous record keeping of attempted procedures for the designation process. This decision to require owners’ consent not only protects property rights, but also shields the City of Riverside from potential litigation that would arise should those applications be approved.
The Chamber recognizes the City’s role in pro-
state. The legislation will utilize the justice system to address the root causes of homelessness like poor mental/behavioral health and substance abuse. A “treatment-mandated felony” will be introduced, allowing those affected by substance abuse or in need of mental health services to receive treatment instead of facing incarceration. Those who successfully complete their treatment plans will avoid jail time and have their charges fully expunged.
The Chamber will continue to work with legislators and others to advocate for common sense reform that protects businesses and creates safer communities.
Ballot Measure Seeks to Create Untried and Duplicative Attempt at Accountability.
We
Despite the heat of summer, the Chamber continues to champion the local community by advocating for developments, projects, and events that benefit Riverside and enhance the quality of life for all. In every decision and choice, the Chamber considers the business community’s best interests. Riverside’s success is a testament to the business community’s determination and resilience.
Looking ahead, the Chamber is thrilled to host several events aimed to strengthen community relationships. The Military Appreciation Picnic, set to take place at March Air Reserve Base on Saturday, September 14, is a testament to the Chamber’s pride in honoring those who selflessly serve to keep Riverside and the nation safe. With over 4,000 servicemembers and their families expected to attend, the event promises a day of live entertainment, food, and beverages.
The Riverside College and Career Fair also returns in September! On September 26, approximately 5,000 students will tour the Galleria at Tyler to interact with representa-
“…the Chamber considers the business community’s best interests…”
tives from over 150 universities and industries. This event lays the foundation for Riverside’s future workforce, giving students the opportunity to explore career and education pathways that will lead them to success.
On a separate note, the Chamber remains steadfast in its advocacy efforts on the legislative front. We have recently reaffirmed our support for the protection of property owners’ rights under Title 20, also known as the Cultural Resources ordinance. This ordinance is
meant to safeguard the City’s rich heritage and promote community pride. The Chamber believes that property owners should maintain their ability to decide if they wish to nominate their property for a historical designation. The Chamber supports protections for property owners that guarantee their consent in the designation process.
As the Chamber shifts gears into election season, we will continue to ensure that business interests are well-represented.
The Chamber gathered community and business leaders at Good Morning Riverside to hear from the Inland Empire Community Foundation’s CEO and President, Michelle Decker, as she addressed the seven vital conditions driving prosperity in the community. Known as the Vital Conditions for Health and Well-Being, this framework transforms abstract concepts into concise, actionable steps that community stakeholders and stewards can utilize to enhance quality of life and create thriving communities.
The vital conditions include a Thriving Natural World, Basic Needs for Health & Safety, Humane Housing, Meaningful Work & Wealth, Lifelong Learning, Reliable Transportation, and Belonging & Civic Muscle. When one or more of these conditions are neglected, people struggle. Urgent services, such as Homeless Services and Unemployment Assistance, are then delivered to remedy these problems. However, a community should be cautious of devoting too many resources to delivering urgent services because it will not create lasting change.
Decker emphasized the importance of balancing vital conditions and urgent services. Balance has the potential to create inherited legacies over generations. Collective action supporting the seven vital conditions benefits Riverside by solidifying practices
that create thriving communities, compounding benefits for the future. Decisions centered around well-being should be prioritized to shape positive outcomes for later generations.
Additionally, Decker encouraged attendees to visit the IE Vital Conditions Network website (https://ievitalconditionsnetwork. org/vital-conditions/) to explore the metrics for the seven vital conditions. Community members can access information that can guide collective action towards areas of improvement in Riverside.
providing practical pathways
Good Morning Riverside also featured updates from other speakers and business leaders. Ward 3 Councilmember Steven Robillard highlighted the Magnolia Center Initiative, which unites community members with City officials to develop lasting solutions for local issues. Riverside Police Department (RPD) Chief Larry Gonzalez reported on public safety initiatives and promoted the Golden Badge Awards recognizing RPD programs benefiting Riverside.
To learn more about Good Morning Riverside and secure your seat at the next event, contact Mary Megan MacGregor at mmmacgregor@riverside-chamber.com or call (951) 683-7100.
24 Hours
The University of California, Riverside (UCR) School of Business is set to open a brand-new facility this fall, just in time for the 2024-2025 academic year. Totaling over 63,000 square feet, this expansion is a landmark moment for the School of Business, transforming their relationship with the surrounding community.
The School of Business plans to organize partner programs with local Riverside businesses, giving them opportunities to connect with students and recent graduates directly, streamlining the transition from academia into the workforce. Capstone projects for Master’s in Business Analytics students will connect Riverside businesses and build upon existing relationships that strengthen the ties of University and community. Tours will teach visitors more about the facility, highlighting opportunities to get involved in the Employer Advisory Board, mentorships, speaking engagements, and more.
lounges, faculty offices, and more. Classes will be held in the large auditorium and state-of-the-art classrooms. Other amenities include optimized working areas, study lounges, computer/finance labs, teaching assistant/tutor rooms, private boardrooms, and more.
Located in what was formally Parking Lot 8 on East Campus Drive, the facility is a worthy addition to the School of Business, whose programs have since outgrown the historic Anderson Hall. The facility is designed for use as collaborative spaces,
The University of California, Riverside School of Business is a valuable resource to the Riverside community. Championing a diverse set of undergraduate degree programs and maintaining the largest undergraduate program in the UC system, this project builds upon the foundation laid by the School of Business throughout the decades. This investment paves the way for the next generation of bright, young entrepreneurs to forge their ideas in Riverside.
Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful (KRCB) recently completed its 2023 Annual Report, demonstrating significant strides in beautification efforts across the City. Over the past fiscal year, more than 6,500 volunteers participated in various programs, including an impressive 87% increase in Adopt-A-Street clean-ups. This surge in community involvement underscores the growing commitment to maintaining and enhancing the local environment.
Recently, 86 dedicated volunteers took part in the Ward 1 Downtown Beautification Project at Fairmount Park and nearby neighborhoods. Their efforts led to the collection of 1,125 pounds of litter, the removal of 130 pounds of green waste, the elimination of 15 graffiti tags, the planting of 40 new plants,
and the repainting of the Fairmount Rose Garden fence.
KRCB continues its momentum with two upcoming beautification projects in September. The Ward 6 Beautification Project will take place at Bryant Park and the surrounding neighborhoods on September 7. Additionally, KRCB is collaborating with the City of Riverside Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department for the Community Climate Action Day: Put the River Back in Riverside event at Bonaminio Park on September 21.
In honor of the Ground Zero volunteers of 2001, KRCB invites the community to participate in the annual Love Your Neighborhood - 9/11 Day of Service. From September 1 to September 11, volunteers can choose a day to engage in activities such as litter collection, graffiti removal, storm drain cleaning, and the removal of illegal signage from street poles in their neighborhoods.
Looking ahead, KRCB is inviting all schools in Riverside to join the 2025 Clean Campus Competition. This initiative aims to expand students’ environmental awareness by encouraging them to care for their school campuses. This year, the competition includes a T-shirt art contest, with the winning design to be featured on the official KRCB T-shirts for the Great American Cleanup.
To register for future KRCB events and volunteer opportunities, visit www.krcb.com or call 951-683-7100.
Ambassador of the Month Values
Connecting with Others
The Chamber is excited to announce that Jorge Franco, Account Executive and Account Manager at Kyocera Document Solutions, has been recognized as the Ambassador of the Month. For over 65
years, Kyocera Document Solutions has been at the forefront of providing cutting-edge office technology, including copiers, printers, phone systems, and document management solutions to businesses across the region.
Franco joined Kyocera in October 2023 and wasted no time immersing himself in the community by becoming an Ambassador in November 2023. His commitment to the community is evident in his work as he focuses on building long-term relationships.
For Franco, the most fulfilling aspect of being an Ambassador is the opportunity to meet with local business owners, learn about their ventures, and become a trusted resource for office technology solutions. His favorite events are grand openings and ribbon-cutting ceremonies, where he enjoys connecting with the people behind the businesses and celebrating their achievements.
Are you passionate about supporting our members and the local business community? Consider joining the Ambassador Committee, where dedicated volunteers focus on member retention and driving the Chamber’s success. To find out more, please contact Adrienne Wonzo at awonzo@riverside-chamber.com or call (951) 683-7100 ext. 217.
Fairmount Park Armory Renovations Aim to “Put the River Back in Riverside”
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson and Representative Mark Takano recently secured $2.5 million in federal funding to transform the historic National Guard Armory at Fairmount Park into a multi-use arts and recreation building. The project will revitalize the north side of Fairmount Park, improve access to cultural and park activities, and encourage visitors and residents to explore the Santa Ana River.
As a key component of Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson’s mission to “Put the River Back in Riverside”, the armory project will utilize the Community Project Funding to breathe new life into the underutilized building. Built in 1959, the 12,000 square foot armory stands at one of the main entranceways to Riverside. The renovation effort has the power to amplify perceptions of Riverside’s beauty as people travel through the City, fostering community pride and improving access to the Santa Ana River and Fairmount Park.
The $2.5 million in federal funding will finance environmental cleanup efforts, building stabilization, and the extensive renovations required to repurpose the armory.
The Chamber appreciates Mayor Lock Dawson’s and Rep. Mark Takano’s efforts, and it will continue to promote projects that enhance the quality of life and reveal Riverside’s natural beauty.
of Historic Hotel
Historic Hotels of America® recently announced that Kelly and Duane Roberts, Keepers of the Historic Mission Inn Hotel and Spa, will receive the 2024 Historic Hotels of America® Steward of History and Historic Preservation Award. The award honors Kelly and Duane Robert’s commitment and investment to preserving The Mission Inn, a National Historic Landmark and cornerstone of Riverside’s history.
The Mission Inn has a significant economic impact on the City. Every year, the historic hotel attracts thousands of tourists and sightseers to the City with its status and events, such as the Festival of Lights SwitchOn Ceremony, stimulating Downtown Riverside’s local economy.
After The Mission Inn officially closed in 1985, Kelly and Duane Roberts sought to restore the hotel to its former glory. They dedicated seven years and $55 million to renovate and preserve the property, reopening in 1992. Since then, Kelly and Duane Roberts have elevated The Mission Inn to new heights, accumulating numerous awards and accolades for the hotel.
Kelly and Duane Roberts will be honored at the 2024 Historic Hotels Annual Conference on November 21 at The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia. The Chamber applauds their monumental achievement and dedication to maintaining one of Riverside’s most iconic landmarks.
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moting and protecting developments of historical or cultural significance and is pleased to see the City Council agree with the community on the best path forward.
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nisms to provide oversight and accountability, including both internal and external audits as well as review of government functions by the Mayor and City Council in public meetings. Even the elected officials are accountable through voter engagement in the electoral process. Creating an additional office with unlimited scope and a requirement to provide sufficient funds to conduct its work would create an expensive and unnecessary waste of public funds.
In addition, the City of Riverside already employs a council-manager form of government, which provides a useful method for ensuring professional management of the City as an organization as well as accountability to elected officials and their constituents. If voters approve Measure L, Riverside would be the only city in California with a council-manager form of government as well as an inspector general position.
The Chamber believes that ensuring existing accountability mechanisms remain strong is more effective and efficient than embedding a new untried and untested position within the City Charter. Riverside voters will vote on Measure L on the November 2024 ballot and can pass the measure by a simple majority vote. The Chamber urges Riverside residents and business leaders to vote “No” on Measure L.
For more information about Measure L, visit the websites of the Riverside County Registrar of Voters (www.voteinfo.net) or the Riverside City Clerk’s Office (www.riversideca.gov/cityclerk).
With SB 366, the State will focus its efforts on achieving water supply goals, ensuring the region has sufficient access to clean water.
As a champion for business growth and the community, the Chamber is supporting SB 366 by Assemblymember Anna Caballero and Senator Richard Roth to create a sustainable water future. The bill would establish a water supply target plan and modernize the California Water Plan that would secure, sustain, and manage water resources for current and future generations.
California’s water supply reliability is in a crisis. Water agencies across the State have been working diligently to diversify their local water supplies to meet the increasing needs. But, as demonstrated by the ongoing climate impacts and diminishment of water resources, agencies need help and cannot do it alone. Statewide, regional, and local water supply projects must be prioritized, funded, and constructed to realize a water-resilient future.
The “North Star” target plan works within the current water plan to apply needed reform that has not been considered for decades. It will transform water management by establishing long-term supply targets for the State to achieve by specific deadlines. In addition, this would update state agency requirements to develop plans to
achieve and sustain these goals into the future.
The existing plan heavily depends on water cutbacks and rationing, which affects 40 million Californians and their water resources. SB 366 addresses this issue by reshaping California’s water management approach. Rather than focusing on managing scarcity, the State will now aim for strategic water supply goals to ensure adequate water for communities, agriculture, and the environment.
Water supply is central to our homes and communities, habitat and environment, recreation and tourism, and business and economic success. SB 366 fulfills the generational responsibility to develop a water system that will adapt to changes in the environment and allow the state to thrive now and in the future.
The Chamber will continue to support measures that support economic growth and create sustainable infrastructure. For more information, contact Quirina Ramirez at qramirez@riverside-chamber.com or call 951-683-7100.
ALLEBATM
Yubisela Hernandez Yucca Valley, CA 92284 (909)206-8907
Credit/Debit Card Processing
Applied Behavior Autism Center
Shamica Morton 3877 12th St Riverside, CA 92501 (951)455-6488
abautismcenter.com Health Care Programs
Eyeview Eyewear
Hamzah Rashid 2116 Galleria at Tyler Riverside, CA 92503 (951)466-1966 Specialty Shops
“As a new member of the Chamber, my experience has been great! I joined to gain more exposure, build relationships, and connect with community leaders. I am happy to report that, in a short time, I have already met several businesses with potential collaboration opportunities. The Chamber has been incredibly supportive, and I look forward to growing alongside this fantastic group.”
Sami Kahn Founder/CEO Saepius Technology Solutions
Jream Solutions
Jay Washington 3610 Central Ave Riverside, CA 92506 (951)223-1622 jreamsolutions.com
Marketing
Madres Brunch Mel Zepeda 1805 University Ave Riverside, CA 92507 (951)533-4396 https://www.madresbrunch.com/ Restaurants
Ohmio, Inc.
Zayn Mashat 6868 Airport Dr Riverside, CA 92504 (818)818-8266 www.ohmio.com Transportation/Services
leaders met for an early morning at the
Olympian Barber Shop
Alex Villanueva 1820 Columbia Ave #B-3 Riverside, CA 92507 (951)660-4347
olympianbarbershoprv.com
Hair Salon/Men & Women
Peak Suspension
Nick Psomas 2061 Third St #G Riverside, CA 92507 (951)560-9211 peaksuspension.com
Automobile/Parts/Supplies/ Wholesale
Plant Galaxy
Shanna Bottoni 1270 Center St Riverside, CA 92223 (951)900-5011 plantgalaxy.net
Cannabis Dispensaries
The Riverside Downtown
Farmers Market
Oscar DeLeon 3521 Main St Riverside, CA 92501 (714)345-3087
Farmers & Outdoor Markets
Saepius Techonology Solutions
Sami Khan Riverside, CA 92508 (949)701-7061 saepius.com
Technology/IT Solutions
Sky Zone Trampoline Park
Gregory Hendricks 4031 Flat Rock Rd Riverside, CA 92505 (951)554-2370 skyzone.com/riverside Amusement Places
know.
So Cal Slim Clinics
Gary Gillman 7177 Brockton Ave #114 Riverside, CA 92506 (954)858-5439 www.socalslim.com
Health Care/Care Management Non-Medical
Superglass Windshield
Repair
Chris Del Matto Ladera Ranch, CA 92694 (302)547-0496 superglassinlandempire. com/
Automobile/Repairs, Paint & Services
Tacos Al Fuego
Lauryn Miramontes 16810 Van Buren Boulevard #101 Riverside, CA 92504 (951)965-3633
tacosalfuego.com
Restaurants
Willis Wealth Management LLC
Roston Willis 11801 Pierce St #200 Riverside, CA 92505 (951)289-5515
Fax: (951)755-1657
Financial Services
“The Chamber has been invaluable on many levels with its events, networking, advocacy, business news, and directory that we have used to great advantage. As a nonprofit, we were not sure how beneficial membership would be, but the Chamber gives us access to businesses and individuals we would not otherwise be able to meet with on our own.”
Janice Rooths President
The Black Arts Museum
Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed into law a package of property crime and retail theft legislation to provide stricter criminal penalties for repeat offenders and additional tools for felony prosecutions in California. In addition to Proposition 36, these new, stronger laws provide robust tools to hold offenders accountable for smash-and-grab, robberies, property crime, retail theft, and auto burglaries.
Business leaders have vocalized the urgent need for reform regarding the impact of retail crime. Large retailers have had to change their operations because crime has directly impacted shoppers and their experiences. Employee retention is decreasing due to forced store closures and the unsafe environment that has been created. The ten public safety laws create a balanced solution that disrupts retail crime rings while maintaining crucial criminal justice reforms.
“These new laws present a better way forward — making our communities safer and providing meaningful tools to help law enforcement arrest criminals and hold them accountable,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
This package introduces the following:
• AB 2943 (Zbur) allows an officer to arrest a person for shoplifting with probable cause, even if the act did not take place in the officer’s presence.
• AB 2943 (Zbur) provides that the term of probation for shoplifting or petty theft would be two years.
• AB 3209 (Berman) creates a “retail theft restraining order” prohibiting a person convicted of organized retail theft, shoplifting, theft, vandalism, or assault of a retail employee from entering the establishment for up to two years.
• AB 2943 (Zbur) protects retailers from being cited or fined for repeatedly reporting retail theft.
The retail theft package will strengthen enforcement and adapt to evolving criminal tactics to ensure perpetrators are effectively held accountable. The Chamber will continue to advocate for legislation that protects business growth.
Riverside Medical Clinic has provided families in the Inland Empire with quality care for more than 85 years.
With six locations, we provide a wide range of services, from routine care and on-site digital imaging and lab work, to urgent care and outpatient surgery.
Our primary care providers (PCPs) can easily refer to specialists who are colleagues at Riverside Medical Clinic. We can meet many of your family’s specialized needs right here, including orthopedic, neurologic, cardiac, pediatric and OB/GYN care.
Let our family care for you and yours.
Your healthcare, your way.
Our Convenient Locations Eastvale
12742 Limonite Ave. Eastvale, CA 92880
Brockton/Riverside
7117 Brockton Ave. Riverside, CA 92506
Jurupa Valley
6250 Clay St. Riverside, CA 92509
Mission Grove
19314 Jesse Lane, Suite 100 Riverside, CA 92508
Moreno Valley
6405 Day St. Riverside, CA 92507
Temescal Valley
21634 Retreat Parkway
Temescal Valley, CA 92883
Stay connected with the Chamber and create your next business opportunity at one of our signature events. Visit www.riverside-chamber.com or call 951-683-7100 for more information on any of the Chamber’s events. The Chamber will follow current CDC/CDPH guidelines at the time of the event.
WED | SEPTEMBER 4
Business In Action
7:15 AM • CHAMBER’S BOURNS BOARDROOM
3985 UNIVERSITY AVE.
Join us for a morning of networking and fun with local business leaders. Learn how to leave a mark with your branding from Marcy Decato of Creative Solutions Marketing & Printing.
THUR | SEPTEMBER 5
INSIDE La Sierra
7:30 AM • LA SIERRA HIGH SCHOOL
4145 LA SIERRA AVE.
Join members and local leaders at this upcoming INSIDE La Sierra hosted by La Sierra High School. Get all the latest information about developments and projects in the area. Connect with members and chart new paths for growth in Riverside.
THUR | SEPTEMBER 12
Good Morning Riverside
7:15 AM • THE HISTORIC MISSION INN HOTEL & SPA
3649 MISSION INN AVE.
Join business and community leaders as they convene at Good Morning Riverside to stay up-to-date on events in Riverside. Hear from this month’s keynote speaker, Riverside County Executive Officer Jeff Van Wagenen. Thank you to our sponsor, Optum.
FRI | SEPTEMBER 13
Governmental Affairs Council
12:00 PM • ZOOM
Join members for a discussion of key local, state, and federal government issues. Members determine the Chamber’s position on a variety of business-related issues according to the Board-approved policy platform.
TUE | SEPTEMBER 17
INSIDE Magnolia Center
7:30 AM • LETO FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC. 3233 ARLINGTON AVE. SUITE #105
Join members and local leaders at INSIDE Magnolia Center to get the latest information on new developments. Check out new businesses in the Magnolia Center area and see what projects are coming to your community. Connect with members and chart new paths for growth in Riverside.
WED | SEPTEMBER 18
Business In Action
7:15 AM • CHAMBER’S BOURNS BOARDROOM 3985 UNIVERSITY AVE.
Convene with local business leaders for networking opportunities and business insights from expert speakers that will help your business flourish.
THUR | SEPTEMBER 19
AfterHours Business Mixer
5:00 PM • RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL 4510 BROCKTON AVE.
Get a behind-the-scenes view of Riverside Community Hospital’s Graduate Medical Education programs at this month’s AfterHours Business Mixer. Establish new connections and promote your business by becoming a tabletop exhibitor.
TUE | SEPTEMBER 24
Economic Development Council
7:30 AM • CHAMBER’S BOURNS BOARDROOM 3985 UNIVERSITY AVE.
Be the catalyst for change in Riverside and create a lasting impact. Learn about the key takeaways from the Bank of America Small Business Finance Research report.