Your Local Tax Dollars At Work

Jurupa services district plans lavish galas amid $5 million shortfall


11:32 PM PST on Monday, November 12, 2007
By SANDRA STOKLEYThe Press-Enterprise
MIRA LOMA - The Jurupa Community Services District board of directors is poised to approve $21,000 for parties, including a $10,000 fete at a Jurupa-area country club for retiring directors Paul Hamrick and James Huber.
Tonight's expected action comes in the wake of news that the district is faced with a $5 million shortfall in its 2007-08 fiscal year budget.
Last month, in an effort to stave off future deficits, board members voted a substantial rate increase that will more than double customers' water bills over the next four years.
In addition to the retirement celebration, the district plans to spend $3,500 to buy Thanksgiving turkeys for its 86 employees -- $40 apiece -- and $7,500 for a holiday party for employees and spouses, also at a local country club.
At a local Stater Bros., a 20-pound turkey could be bought for $7.80 to $19.80.
The district provides water and sewer service to residents of Eastvale, Pedley, Glen Avon, Sunnyslope and parts of Mira Loma. All are unincorporated communities in western Riverside County.
Eldon Horst, the district's general manager, said he is sympathetic to concerns, but he added that the turkey giveaway and holiday party are district traditions and the retirement party would honor Huber's and Hamrick's decades of service to the district.
"Mr. Hamrick and Mr. Huber have a long career of service, and recognition for them seems appropriate," Horst said.
Board member R.M. "Cook" Barela called the proposed expenditures "irresponsible" in light of the budget deficit and rate increase.
"How will a 65- or 67-year-old on a fixed income feel about all this when they are facing a rate increase?" Barela asked.
Huber declined to comment.
Board President Kenneth McLaughlin, director Jack Smith and Hamrick did not return messages seeking comment.
Incoming director Kathryn Bogart said it is not the district's responsibility throw a retirement party for Huber and Hamrick because they are elected officials.
"I have no problem with them having a party, but not at the district's expense," Bogart said.