Executive Committee Meeting Recap
March 1, 2010

Collected  In TUMF revenues thus far for FY 2009/2010, $9.3 million.

Collected  Since program inception, $517 million in total TUMF revenues.

Anticipated  For release in April, WRCOG’s annual TUMF Program Report for 2009. The report provides details on TUMF revenues and expenditures for the year and since Program inception, and highlights projects completed and underway that are fully or partially funded by TUMF revenues.

Approved  An agreement with the County of Riverside for the Magnolia Grade Separation Project was approved ($648,000 in TUMF funds).

Debuted  A 1-minute long English and Spanish version census video emphasizing the importance for Riverside County residents to complete and return the 2010 Census forms that are being mailed out. The video will be widely distributed to local media, faith-based organizations, chambers, rotaries, non-profits, senior centers, schools and others for viewing. Additionally, Census inserts are being included in the billing cycles for EMWD, WMWD and the Jurupa Community Services District. Census ads are also appearing on a number of electronic billboards in the WRCOG region. (Note: it is estimated that Riverside County stands to lose $250 million over the next ten years if only 1% of every 100 people fails to be counted!! These federal funds are used for infrastructure, schools, senior centers, and a number of other services.) March 2010 is Census Month and WRCOG is working to ensure that all of Riverside County is counted.

Expanded  WRCOG’s Regional Energy Efficiency Retrofit Loan Program, to include funding for water conservation improvements.

Opposed  AB 1594, which would prohibit construction of a peripheral canal, unless expressly authorized by the Legislature.

Supported  “The Local Taxpayer, Public Safety and Transportation Act” (sponsored by the League of California Cities) which prohibits the State from shifting, taking, borrowing, or restricting the use of tax revenues dedicated by law to fund local government services, redevelopment projects, or transportation projects and services.

Set  WRCOG’s annual General Assembly, for Thursday, June 24, 2010 at the Morongo Casino, Resort & Spa. The General Assembly keynote speaker will be announced at the April Executive Committee meeting.

Announced  As keynote speaker for WRCOG’s annual “Advancing the Choice” Expo, Christine Ervin, the first President & CEO of the U.S. Green Building Council, and former U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Department of Energy. The “Advancing the Choice” Expo will be held on April 27 at the Eagle Glen Golf Club in Corona.

Scheduled  To provide a presentation to the WRCOG Planning Directors Committee on March 11, Sean Litchney, from the State Office of Planning and Research (OPR). Mr. Litchney will discuss recently adopted General Plan legislation and OPR’s guidelines, and discuss General Plan / SB 375 relationships. A joint Riverside / San Bernardino County planners “Roundtable” session will occur at the meeting.

Confirmed  To speak to the WRCOG Planning Directors Committee in May 2010, Cathy Creswell, with the State Department of Housing and Community Development. Ms. Creswell will discuss Housing Element Compliance and the Regional Housing Needs Assessment.