Below is District Attorney Mike Ramos’ campaign kickoff. Note the only member of the Board of Supervisors who attended this huge gathering of supporters here in the high desert. Although now edited out of the video, the supervisor had glowing remarks for our district attorney.
Archive for the ‘Board of Supervisors’ Category
Investigators Looking Into Arrowhead Regional’s Operations
Allegations of malpractice, licensing shortcomings, operational and managerial miscues and substandard accounting practices at the county hospital are the focus of separate inquiries by federal and state agencies, the Sentinel has learned.
The Sentinel was unable to ascertain whether a rumored survey of the hospital’s operations by auditors working at the behest of the board of supervisors is actually underway.
The issues being looked into include current practices as well as those extending back nearly a decade at the Colton-based facility, which is known as the Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.
The sharpest focus is that on the administrative action of Dev GnanaDev, who is both the current medical director of Arrowhead Regional as well as its head of surgery. GnanaDev also happens to be the president of the California Medical Association.
Some of the suspected problems at the hospital originated at a level well below that of GnanaDev and involved several instances of medical malpractice and faulty diagnoses. Others have been attributed to GnanaDev directly.
One known case, the Sentinel is informed, elicited the interest of federal investigators and involved a thirteen year old girl who had suffered a dislocated neck. Physicians and staff failed to adequately recognize or diagnose the condition, resulting in the child becoming permanently paralyzed. The medical staff further stands accused of having lied to the parents about the situation.
Everyone keeps asking how to help. There is one BIG thing every one of you can do to help, not only me, but everyone in this county who has been abused by the system and that is this. On June 1, 2010 vote for Paul Schrader for Sheriff, Scott Markovich for Second District Supervisor, any opponent of Gary Ovitt’s, and any opponent of Mike Ramos. These bastards need to be kicked out of office!
I am sick to death of the Sheriff’s Department telling me they are trying to help when they have been one of the biggest contributors to my problems. HOOPS NEEDS TO GO! We need a sheriff in there with some integrity.
And we need a Chairman of the Board of Supervisors also with some integrity, including in their chief of staff. If the only way to get rid of Mark Kirk is to get rid of Gary Ovitt, so be it.
Update: I have Ronald’s e-mail address and will be looking fowards to sharing his press releases and maybe a future interview with him shortly.
Looking at the candidate filing status reports from the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters makes me puzzled at some of the people who put their hat in the ring for the June Primary. Who are these individuals?
For one, I am glad Supervisor Ovitt has a challenger. However it took me a bit of detective work to figure out who is Ronald Wall. Ronald Wall is a Democratic Party activist, but what is Ronald Wall also good for? I know that San Bernardino County needs to be cleaned up, but how will Ronald Wall clean up San Bernardino County government and represent the fourth district effectively?
In the 32nd State Senate District, the Republican Party has an announced challenger and he is yet another dark horse candidate. Who is Michael T. Bryant from Ontario, California? He used to have his email address listed, but it was taken down when I tried to ask about his candidacy. I don’t want to end up knocking on his doorstep asking for details about his campaign since he did not leave a phone number, web site or e-mail address.
It would be appreciated for future canidates to have at least a public address even from a place such as hotmail or yahoo so people could offer their support or ask a few questions so they would be informed voters.
If you are any of these individuals feel free to leave a reply on this post, or better yet get in contact with the administration here for an account where you can post your press releases and speeches on how you can make our communities better.
A major allegation contained in the recent announcement of charges in the “windshield crack-like” corruption investigation into San Bernardino County government by District Attorney Mike Ramos and Attorney General Edmund “Jerry” Brown has some interesting twists.
Ramos earlier this week announced a series of reforms necessary to put the power of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors in check. (more…)
Written by Administrator
Posted February 17, 2010 at 10:28 am
The political chatter is heavy this morning with Fontana City Councilwoman Janice Rutherford rattling the sabre at Second District Supervisor Paul Biane.
And of course, rumors have it that hiding behind the scene with Rutherford is the Lewis Group of Companies pledging their financial support. (more…)
According to article on the Press Enterprise blogs, San Bernardino County Second District Supervisor Paul Biane will announce his intent to seek a third term tonight in Rancho Cucamonga. Biane has picked up two opponents, Peter “Scott” Markovich and Dennis Labadie, so far with rumors of Upland mayor John “JP” Pomierski also joining the race. Insiders tell iePolitics that another candidate is also expected to declare shortly. (more…)
- Written by Senor Blogger
- Posted February 16, 2010 at 6:42 pm
The term “idiot” and San Bernardino County Supervisor Josie Gonzales remain synonymous.
San Bernardino County District Attorney Mike Ramos and Attorney General Jerry Brown made sensational corruption allegations last week as an intro to their respective election campaigns.
Allegations that must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. (more…)
In an extraordinarily surprising move, it appears that the four remaining members of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors were not affected by the emotional, pious pleadings of Josie “I wish I had a brain” Gonzales and rejected her ideas about investigating and suing themselves. They claim it is “Premature.”
Hmm . . . they didn’t think that a year ago when they sued those involved in the corruption scandal before there was one ounce of proof of wrongdoing. Here we are a year later and there is still no proof—not a single conviction. So what’s the difference? (more…)
I received an email the other day that asked some questions about Supervisor Neil Derry in reference to a building about to be leased by the county. If the sender of this email will send me their email address, I will forward Supervisor Derry’s response. In trying to keep the email address confidential I even deleted it from my files. (more…)
It seems the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors needs some help doing the right thing. They need YOUR help.
The Board of Supervisors has been covering for District Attorney Mike Ramos for months because they are TERRIFIED of being charged and arrested for issues relating to the Colonies settlement, Fair Political Practices Commission violations, and other items. No matter how one feels about the Colonies settlement, it is clear that we have a District Attorney who has lied to the public and abused his office in other areas not directly related to the current corruption scandal.
The Board of Supervisors can and should waive the right to confidentiality and release all information in connection with Ramos’ misdeeds. The public has the right to know in order to make an informed decision at election time. To put this in perspective, how many of you who voted for Bill Postmus for Assessor would have done so if you had known he had been two rehab twice during his stint on the Board of Supervisors? Well, it’s no different with Ramos. Mike has an addiction too. And he has lied to the pubic as well. It’s time the board come clean on Mike Ramos.
Here is how to do it. Click on www.gmail.com. On the right-hand side, click on “Create an Account” and go through the process of setting up a new email account. It only takes a few minutes. Once it is set up, sign into it and hit the “compose” button in the top left-hand corner.
Copy and paste the following email addresses into the “To” section.
bmitzelfelt@sbcounty.gov, pbiane@sbcounty.gov, nderry@sbcounty.gov, govitt@sbcounty.gov, jgonzales@sbcounty.gov
In the “Subject” line insert: “Release the Background Information on Mike Ramos”
In the body, insert: “Please release all information from closed session in regards to the Mike Ramos sexual harassment investigation. You have the right to waive confidentiality and we have the right to know.”
Note: Of course I’m recommending the use of a Gmail account because they are anonymous. I recommend remaining anonymous. However, for those with a lot of backbone, by all means use your regular email. FYI, the addresses I provided go directly to the supervisors’ Blackberrys, so be respectful.
For those who are willing, I’d appreciate a cc or bcc at info@iepolitics.com
- Written by Administrator
- Posted February 15, 2010 at 12:09 pm
This last week’s developments involving the filing of charges against two former county officials, the naming of five “un-named” co-conspirators, and the reputation destruction of others referred to in a complaint and accompanying arrest affidavit has commenced a chain of events that will reverberate in San Bernardino County for years.
The charges and accusations come with less than one week before the filing period for the June primary election officially opens. District Attorney Mike Ramos is seeking re-election and California Attorney General Jerry Brown is running for Governor.
After the conclusion of a live press conference District Attorney Mike Ramos made it clear to reporters they could deduce who the “un-charged” or “un-named” parties were by carefully reading the criminal complaint. Figuring out the names wasn’t the least bit difficult. Ramos’ venom was evident. He spoke of personal attacks on himself and his family and concerns over his budget being cut.
Former Assessor and County Supervisor Bill Postmus, who already posted $110,000 bail was re-arrested and forced to post an additional $250,000. Former Assistant Assessor Jim Erwin, who had already posted $220,000 bail was also re-arrested and required to post an additional $380,000.
Neither Postmus nor Erwin had ever been late to any court appearance.
The “un-named” individuals are Jeff Burum, co-managing partner, Colonies Partners, Dan Richards, co-managing partner, Colonies Partners, Patrick O’Reilly, CEO, O’Reilly Public Relations, Paul Biane, second district supervisor, and Mark Kirk, chief of staff to fourth district supervisor Gary Ovitt. (more…)
Since you asked, here is contact information for several local Federal Bureau of Investigation offices. FYI, numerous county officials have contacted the Riverside FBI office, interviewed with them, and have requested investigations into wrongdoing in San Bernardino County. So far, nothing concrete has happened. Because so many have already contacted that particular office, I would tend to think they could also stand to hear from some private citizens.
Los Angeles: (310) 477-6565
Riverside: (951) 686-0335
Victorville: (760) 951-7119
If you want to complain or offer evidence about wrongdoing, cover ups, Medi-cal and 1011 fraud at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center specifically, you need to contact the United States Department of Justice at (202) 616-2492, as that investigation is already ongoing.
Dear Members of the Board of Supervisors:
Aren’t all of you tired of being held hostage by an out-of-control District Attorney who uses his prosecutorial powers to threaten and intimidate you when you know you’ve done nothing wrong? Now it looks like he is going to try to extort a larger allocation to his budget so he can waste more money on political persecution.
It’s time to take your authority and power back. Grow a pair!! Seriously. (more…)
Sources close to the investigation have revealed that San Bernardino County District Attorney Mike Ramos wanted to have arrest warrants issued for all five John Does at the same time that warrants were issued for former Assessor Bill Postmus and former Assistant Assessor Jim Erwin. It was Attorney General Jerry Brown who crushed Ramos’ plan to arrest Colonies Partners Jeff Burum and Dan Richards, consultant Patrick O’Reilly, Fourth District Chief of Staff Mark Kirk and Second District Supervisor Paul Biane. It was also Brown who insisted that they not be personally named in the complaint.
One can only imagine the discussion during the special closed-door San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday, February 16, 2010, called by Supervisor Josie Gonzales. I wonder which of the four remaining supervisors will be blessed with the duty of having to explain to Gonzales the identities of John Does 4 and 5. At least it will be entertaining for the others.
So Josie, since you seem to think the Board of Supervisors needs to investigate itself, where do you propose to start? Do you realize that all four of the remaining supervisors and a number of their support staff “profitted” from the Colonies settlement in one way or another. So, do you believe that the other four supervisors should place themselves on Administrative Leave and let you run the show? (more…)
As previously reported, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors (BOS) is only meeting this year 27 out of 52 weeks, which proves we could do just fine with a part-time Board of Supervisors. Besides for the usual 12 “dark” weeks due to regular holidays, the BOS has found an additional 13 holidays to celebrate to justify their additional “darkness.”
Next Tuesday is “Do a Grouch a Favor Day,” which is an appropriate reason to be dark. Unfortunately, San Bernardino County District Attorney Michael Ramos has gotten in the way with his corruption scandal implicating two of five sitting board members. Fifth District Supervisor Josie Gonzales has called for an emergency closed session meeting on Tuesday in an email that read:
Due to the shocking new allegations of a far-reaching criminal conspiracy contained in the Postmus-Erwin complaint released today, I ask that an emergency closed session meeting of the Board of Supervisors be scheduled. The members of the board must be apprised of our legal options and give direction expeditiously.
Ya know, next time Moonbeam is in town, Josie needs to join him and Ramos on the podium. They would make a great three-some.
Of course, the Board of Supervisors didn’t listen to iePolitics and get rid of County Counsel Ruth Stringer when they had the chance. Now they have to get their legal advice from her. They might all just as well attend dressed in orange jumpsuits.
Sacramento-based sources claim that Senator Robert Dutton (R-31) will throw his hat into the ring to unseat embattled San Bernardino County Second District Supervisor Paul Biane. Three others, Upland Mayor John “JP” Pomierski, KCAA radio host Peter “Scott” Markovich, and publisher of The Alpenphorn News, Dennis Labadie, have all expressed interest in the seat, with the latter two having already declared their candidacies.
Biane was implicated this week as John Doe 5 in a criminal complaint alleging conspiracy and bribery when San Bernardino County District Attorney Mike Ramos filed charges against former Assessor and Board of Supervisors Chairman Bill Postmus and former Assistant Assessor and Third District Chief of Staff Jim Erwin. This, combined with other on-going legal issues, opens the door for a likely successful unseating of Biane. (more…)
Yesterday’s new conference with San Bernardino County District Attorney Michael “sexual predator” Ramos and California Attorney General Jerry “Moonbeam” Brown seemed to include a lot of hyperbole and leave out a few facts. In one of the latter political whore’s best effort at grandstanding, Brown stated,
What is significant here is the most appalling corruption case in decades, certainly in the history of San Bernardino County and maybe California itself. Individuals corrupted public office and were able to grab more than $100 million of the taxpayers’ money through this scheme.
There is one very big problem with this statement. The county had lost twice in court already. It was strongly suggested to the county by the trial court judge that it attempt to reach a settlement. The Colonies asked for $300 million and the county settled for $102 million. That settlement was negotiated with the help of a mediator who just happened to be a retired California Supreme Court Justice.
Jim has a copy of the last page of the agreement and a bio of the justice on his blog. To read Jim’s entry, click here.
Generator will prevent any releases of leachate as required by state regulations
SAN BERNARDINO, CA – The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors acted to protect the safety of the public near the Heaps Peak Disposal Site on Feb. 9th.
The Board authorized the release of funds to install a generator to prevent any release of leachate in the event of a power failure at the Heaps Peak Disposal Site as required by state regulations. (more…)
Gets Financial Boost from Supervisor Neil Derry
Derry procures $40,000 in funding for event preparation
SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Seeking to capitalize on the anticipated economic boom that will result from hosting the Amgen Tour of California in Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County Supervisor Neil Derry worked to procure various sources of funding to assist in preparation for the May 21st event.
The Tour of California is a world-class cycling event featuring Lance Armstrong and other internationally known competitors.
“All eyes will be on San Bernardino County as hosts the first mountaintop finish and I am excited about the immediate economic impact and broader ability, to showcase our region as a great place to do business,” Supervisor Derry said. “Past host cities and surrounding regions have seen a noticeable impact in economic activity and we are hopeful to benefit from the same during these tough economic times.” (more…)
This post could have just as easily been entitled, “I told you so again” but honestly I am very saddened by today’s news regarding John Does 1 through 5 as described in the Jim Erwin/Bill Postmus arrest affidavit. I was writing a message to Mark Kirk when I remembered a comment I made in my first “Blood Stains” post which read (emphasis added):
The elected leaders in this county have blood stains on their hands, not from touching the hand of the crucified Christ, but from playing with the Devil and destroying the innocent, the poor and the weak. They have not used their power and authority with wisdom, grace, or benevolence, but rather with selfishness, abusiveness, intolerance, indifference and mean-spiritedness.
Doing what is right can sometimes be painful, but will never be as painful as being brought to one’s knees by an angry God who gave in abundance only to see it unappreciated and abused. Everyone on the Fifth Floor has been given an abundance; some would say an overabundance. One day many of them may wake up to find it gone and their power gone too. Then it will be they who ask for grace and mercy. Maybe if they are lucky we will have replaced them with leaders with integrity who show them more grace and mercy than the current leadership has shown us. (more…)
I’m sure that is what the reporter who called me a little while ago regarding Former Assessor Bill Postmus’ and Former Assistant Assessor Jim Erwin’s early morning arrests was thinking. Well, yes, as a matter of fact I do believe this is just another attempt by a desperate district attorney to be re-elected and a governor-wannabe-again feeling the pressure from Meg Whitman.
Ramos will do anything to deflect from his own misdeeds. And time will prove these charges are as trumped up as the last ones.
One thing comes to mind here and that is something Postmus keeps telling me. He claims this whole corruption scandal is the result of Mike Ramos wanting to get at Jeff Burum. He thought Erwin would roll on Jeff the first time. If anything, their friendship seems stronger. I expect today’s event to strengthen it even more. (more…)
First off, First District Chief of Staff David Zook called me today to set the record straight. He says he never received my messages and I will give him the benefit of the doubt. He also said they purposely leave appointees in expired terms expired. That being said, here is another email I received from a Havasu Lake resident:
Dear Sharon,
Please refer to the 2-9-10 BOS consent calender #2 (f) reappointment of Mike Aleksich to the Havasu Lake M.A.C (g) reappointment of Terry Gardner to the Havasu Lake M.A.C.
First District has decided to go ahead with these appointments even though we are still awaiting the disclosure of the documents (Minutes from the M.A.C. and it subcommittees as well as any appointment books, phone logs and correspondence) requested on 5-26-09 and subsequently obfuscated by Karen Chamberlain, unappointed M.A.C. secretary and wife of triple felon and M.A.C. chairman Gary Chamberlain.
The obfuscation of these documents from all who have asked for them, Robert Eland from first district and Daniel Hauter from the county councils office, fits nicely into the pattern and practice of bald faced corruption here in San Bernardino County.
The proposed reappointment of individuals with dirty hands to our corruption plagued M.A.C. without the disclosure of the documents in question should be tabled until disclosure has occurred and the public has had a chance to comment. How can the BOS make an informed decision as to the appointees record without the minutes?
In the past Tim Millington (Special Districts) actually had to drive out here and seize a box of records from Karen to compel compliance with an earlier Records Request! And Brad maintained her in the position of Secretary!
This situation is all too familiar; it’s negligent. At no time in the past ten years has Brad (nor his predecessor and mentor Bill Postmus) ever taken the time to attend even one of our M.A.C. meetings which are held under the auspices of the First District Supervisors Office!
Now Brad wants to double dip the disrespect with the imposition of these two corrupt cronies!
It is important to note that this is a Bill Postmus Legacy issue, Bill Having first appointed both of the cronies in question, Terry Gardner sitting on the M.A.C. without appointment from 2005-2010.
Common sense would preclude anyone involved with the corrupt M.A.C. or Bill Postmus from serious consideration for appointment to represent the town of Havasu Lake.
No M.A.C. is much safer than a corrupt M.A.C. unable or unwilling to behave in a responsible manner. A quarterly visit from the Supervisor would more than suffice to replace our M.A.C.
Thank You
P.S. Even with the two proposed appointments our M.A.C. still lacks a quorum!
In fairness to former First District Supervisor Bill Postmus, he swears to me he attended at least one Havasu Lake MAC meeting. And David Zook seems like he wants to resolve this issue. He indicated that the only individuals at this point who have applied for the positions are the incumbents. I guess we will see what happens.
I always laugh at those who can’t wait to tell me that the blog is “insignificant.” Early Saturday morning I received a text message from First District Chief of Staff David Zook saying he was told I mentioned he was not returning my messages. Then at 12:45 a.m. this morning I receive an email from County Spin Doctor (just kidding David!) David Wert advising me that he was working “late” to be sure he got in his 40 hours this week and was trying to get an answer for me. For those who think no one cares what we write on the blog, I always find these types of communication interesting.
They all dis our blogs, but they sure do read them!
- Written by Administrator
- Posted February 7, 2010 at 2:01 am
It seems San Bernardino County Supervisor Paul Biane would like all of us to drink his flavor of “Kool-Aid”.
However, in Biane’s case it’s either a bottle of Kettle One vodka or a few bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Biane, who himself has apparently been a subject of focus by District Attorney Michael Ramos is attempting to woefully spin a ridiculous story that no one believes.
The District Attorney has made a referral to the California Fair Political Practices Commission related to a trip the two-term county supervisor and incoming county administrative officer Greg Devereaux took with two West Valley businessmen in September 2008.
While Devereaux appears to have made an honest attempt to comply with state law regarding such travel by public officials, Biane did the opposite. (more…)
After posting the story below, I received a not-so-happy email regarding the situation at Havasu Lake. It was not aimed at me, but at Supervisor Mitzelfelt. Here it is:
Dear Sharon:
These are the people that caused you to write about BLOODY HANDS, and you are familiar with the theory of “DIRTY HANDS”, it seems that they cannot tell the truth if their life depended on it!
I am in possession of the official record and Frank Bigwood is not on the M.A.C! Becky Griffin confirmed this in a telephone conversation with me and insisted that the published M.A.C. roster is accurate and no other appointments have been made to our M.A.C.
Mike Aleksich and Terry Gardner have been part and parcel of the corrupt, fraudulent M.A.C. both displaying highly questionable ability to deal in good faith with issues of public safety.
Both Terry and Mike have taken part in a campain to actually dissuade C.H.P. patrol of Havasu Lake as well as actual violations of law, Brown act, Public records act,and more!(CORRUPTION)
Both Terry and Mike have sat on a County Board when they Knew very well that the make up of that board was in fact Fraudulent with two never appointed imposters(Rich Fiala, Lucille Ogle) and a triple felon as chair! Our M.A.C. has lacked a quorum since 2004 at least and these people were part of the deception!
The record of events at Havasu Lake is clear. These appointments do nothing to better our dire situation, the appointment of Frank Bigwood being especially detrimental to political discourse at already troubled Havasu lake. Frank serves as editor of the Havasu Sun where he was forced to agree not to carry any hard news coverage of Havasu Lake in our only local paper! A quick review of the past several years of The Sun shows this to be true.(Franks#1.760.858.4729)
As far as our M.A.C. goes it is even worse, during Gary, Terry’s and Mike’s tenure of fraud our local school was closed and not one mention at M.A.C., our Court House was closed and not a word,our locals being pre-occupied with carrying on vendettas against neighboring individuals and businesses, as well as attempting to shield 502s. This sad record speaks for itself and indicates that these individuals are not qualified to serve on our M.A.C.
Frank is not on the M.A.C. and anyone who alleges otherwise is a liar, lets see the appointment documents! Thank you !
I just came across this comment on the blog. I do not know how I missed it. Can anyone shed some light?
I take that route on occasion because it is peaceful and beautiful. It would be a shame to see this happen to that area.
Dear Sharon, IEPolitcs came recommended to me as a possible way to shut down a boondoggle of a project perpetrated on us my our Board of Supervisors. They plan on widening the road on which we live. It is Summit Valley Road, it connects Hesperia to the I-15 via a very winding road called State Hwy 138. They intend to use eminent domain and steal property to make Summit Valley Road a 4 lane expressway, which will dump into a two lane very winding 138. They have had the meetings and told us to our face that this project is 5 to 7 years off, but we found out today that it is very close to going into the construction phase. I am so sick of lying politicians. There must be some recourse to make them accountable to their constituencies. I would be eternally grateful for any help you could provide. Thank you. Debra Hennington Weisser
You know Brad, this would have been so much less embarrassing for you if your Chief of Staff would have just returned my text message. He didn’t even have to talk to me. But in the end, at least we have made progress. No more convicted felon on the MAC. And there are two appointments being made on Tuesday. Very good. Still not sure how Frank Bigwood is on the MAC, but maybe there was a board item not in file at the clerk’s office.
I also noticed you are going to help out the Havasu Senior Center. Good for you. I know the good people of Havasu Lake appreciate your efforts.
|
There is still the problem of the disappearing MAC minutes taken by the felon’s wife. Or has that been resolved too? Stringer’s office seems to be putting up roadblocks to keep the public from being able to view those minutes.
With the pending arrival of newly hired San Bernardino County Administrative Officer Greg Devereaux, we are pondering some points:
- Will Assistant County Administrative Officer Dean Arabatzis now be required to work 40 hours a week at the County Government Center? Five days a week, every week?
- Will the Fifth Floor continue to be a ghost town on both sides of the isle on Fridays?
- Will CAO Devereaux also work five days a week?
- Will County Counsel Ruth Stringer and her deputy county counsels be allowed to continue to accrue millions in leave balances?
- What will replace our beloved “Service First”?
- Will Chicken Man show up to board meetings in a chicken suit?
- Will Board of Supervisors staff follow Devereaux’s lead and start working five days a week, 40 hours a week?
- Will department heads caught lying and cheating have consequences similar to line staff?
- Will David Wert be required to work 40 hours a week, five days a week, every week?
- Will department heads who go on vacation be required to green-slip their time?
- Will non-elected department heads be allowed to continue bonking their line staff?
- Will anything be done about sexual harassment and racial discrimination in the work place?
- Will anything of significance ever get accomplished by the Fifth Floor in a timely manner?
- Written by Senor Blogger
- Posted February 5, 2010 at 6:42 am
Remember John Hueston?
Hueston is the “special counsel” who brought a civil action against Republican Party official and former San Bernardino County Assessor Bill Postmus and several of Postmus’ former aides and advisors.
His civil lawsuit against Postmus was heralded by the anti-Postmus crowd and unquestioned by the local media.
Maybe it’s time for the media – and more importantly, the board of supervisors – to start asking pertinent questions
John Hueston, who is a Democratic Party luminary, apparently has billed an estimated $700K from county taxpayers in compiling a 33-page “report” skewering many rising Republican Party officials and staff in San Bernardino County and California – and even throughout the Unites States. Hueston’s “report” spared no Republican – Bill Postmus, and nearly all GOP county supervisors, were slimed by his lackluster research, which relied on third-hand rumors, gossip, speculation, and wild conclusions drawn by supposed super lawyer John Hueston. (more…)
- Written by Blogger
- Posted February 5, 2010 at 12:22 pm
One has to admit the political buzz in San Bernardino County is non-stop.
Many reverberations have crossed the transom regarding District Attorney Michael A. Ramos’ motivation for his politically charged actions over the past 18 months.
Some motivations that have surfaced of late have gained credibility.
While Ramos is employing the “I’m fighting political corruption” mantra in limited public appearances throughout the county, other issues have arisen that involve not only Ramos, but his Orange County-based consultant David Ellis, owner of Delta Partners, LLC.
It becomes really slimy and underhanded from here.
While Ramos is mostly known for his interest in having serial extramarital affairs, drunkenness, and an affinity for golf, he also worries about his political future. With his past, who wouldn’t.
Ellis on the other hand cares about three things and three things only. Those being Franklin, Grant, and Jackson!
He’ll sell anyone down the river for a buck.
Let’s talk about a couple targets of the Ramos/Ellis tag team. (more…)
Throughout the investigation into the sexual harassment complaint against San Bernardino County District Attorney Mike Ramos, iePolitics suggested that the final report against Ramos would be scathing. That was based on several factors. First, we had seen some of the evidence first hand—evidence that we mistakenly believed could not be covered up. Second, we had sources close to the investigation. Third, Ramos loves to drink and spill his guts. Even he confided to his drinking buddies that his days were numbered.
We expected the report to be out some time in November, but suddenly there was one delay after another. And, Ramos started flexing his muscles once again, sending his investigators out to harass members of the Board of Supervisors and their staffers with frivolous questioning and intimidation. Then we heard of the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) referrals just days before the report was to go before the Board of Supervisors and guessed a deal had been cut. It was upsetting, but not surprising, to see the final report. No one can objectively look at that final report and not come to the conclusion that something smells, stinks actually.
The report reeks so badly of deal-cutting between certain members of the Board of Supervisors and Ramos that formal calls have been made for federal investigators to intervene to determine if crimes have been committed. Several current and former Government Center employees have already interviewed with federal investigators regarding Ramos’ actions.
When one compares the aggravated circumstances of Second District Supervisor Paul Biane’s FPPC filings (or lack thereof) and newly-hired County Administrative Officer Greg Devereaux’s “mistake” to the approach taken with Jim Erwin, it is obvious one or more persons have been given special treatment. The question is, “In exchange for what?” And that exchange, if proven, carries far harsher criminal penalties than an FPPC fine.
Despite inaccurate headlines by local newspapers, the already-completed report did NOT clear Ramos of lying to the public nor did it clear him of the allegations that he had a sexual relationship with one or more subordinate employees or of having a sexual relationship with Public Defender Doreen Boxer, which could be the most problematic of all of the allegations against Ramos. The report also did not clear his executive staff and some attorneys of sexual rendezvous with subordinates in the stairwells, misuse of county vehicles, time card fraud, political activity on county time, illegal wiretaps, and a host of other allegations that appear to have enough footing to warrant further investigation. (more…)
It seems our illustrious San Bernardino County First District Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt and his Chief of Staff David Zook do not care that they have a three-time felon running the show in one of the communities in their district. Here is the latest announcement:
MAC REPORT
We will be scheduling a MAC meeting
For sometime in March. I hope to have
discussion/answers regarding the following
items:
- Plan for our next assigned Sheriff Deputy
-Updates on the Havasu Water Company
from our citizens committee
-17 Mile Road Cleanup
-New roof for the senior centerTime and date of the meeting will be posted
as soon as possible.Gary
I debated about posting this to the blog or sending private messages to the two individuals this intended for, San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors Chiefs of Staff David Zook and Matt Brown. David will not return my text messages and I have been hearing what both have to say behind my back so I decided to be out front with this post.
I’ve known David very casually for a while as we both worked for the same department at one time. I know David is a very dedicated family man and he seems to have a strong faith in God. I have never met Matt in person but have spoken to him over the phone a few times and have exchanged some text messages and emails with him. From what I have heard about Matt, he too is a dedicated family man and has a strong faith. I also worked for his mother-in-law, Sandy Harmsen, for a couple of years. So for various reasons I have always tried to cut both David and Matt some slack on the blog. However, that slack has ended.
My “career” as a blogger began as a result of corruption within the San Bernardino County Transitional Assistance Department and San Bernardino Public Employees Association. The “career” has lasted for almost four years now because, as we all know, corruption is rampant and widespread in San Bernardino County, touching every department in one way or another. (more…)
- Written by Blogger
- Posted February 4, 2010 at 11:41 am
InlandPolitics.com has learned that the outside law firm hired by county supervisors to handle litigation against former Assessor Bill Postmus and five others has already exceeded its budget with little or nothing to show for it.
Attorneys John Hueston and Leeran Factor from the law firm of Irell and Manella were given an appropriation limit of $500,000 by county supervisors last spring. A number already well above any potential recovery in the litigation.
County sources now say expenses have inexplicably escalated and the amount is now approaching $700,000. However, county supervisors have given no additional spending authority above the original amount.
County supervisors are described as being distressed over the situation. (more…)
The story from InlandPolitics below is simply amazing. We all heard the rumors of District Attorney Mike Ramos putting the screws to Supervisor Paul Biane. We heard stories of him being in hiding and waiting for District Attorney investigators to show up at his door to place him in handcuffs. His attendance at Board of Supervisors meetings waned. He looked sullen when he did appear in public. Some suspected it was his alcoholism but those in the know knew it he was scared to death. He seemed paralyzed.
Why shouldn’t he be scared? Of course he should be scared. The stories of backroom payments from developers abound but those could be true or they could be urban legend. What we know to be true are the unreported gifts such as the recent revelation about the trip with a developer on a private jet to a football game back East. There are also other stories of trips to Mexico and Cuba. And we know from the “Jim Erwin Model” that such lapses result in felony charges and arrests. Paul has had a lot to be worried about. (more…)
As I started reviewing the financials for the 63rd Assembly District, I came across a trend that prompted me to dig a little deeper. We will post more tomorrow, but for now take a look at the donations from Lewis Homes, one of the largest developers in the state of California. You will see a lot of money being donated to political campaigns, but as we will show tomorrow, that is only part of the story: (more…)
- Written by Administrator
- Posted February 3, 2010 at 5:26 pm
Supervisor Paul Biane
Campaign finance records obtained from the San Bernardino County Registrar of Voters reveal a county supervisor retained a criminal defense attorney last year.
Apparently, Second District Supervisor Paul Biane was concerned enough over an investigation by District Attorney Mike Ramos that he retained legal counsel. Records show Biane paid $49,782.53 from his campaign funds to the Los Angeles-based law firm of Corbin, Fitzgerald and Athey LLP for legal services. (more…)
- Written by Administrator
- Posted February 3, 2010 at 12:25 pm
The campaign finance disclosure statements for members of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors have some interesting characteristics of note.
Here is the annual summary of all five supervisors who collectively raised $899,384.54 in 2009.
Not bad for a poor economy.
(more...)
Crestline resident and KCAA radio host Peter “Scott” Markovich has announced his candidacy for the position of San Bernardino County Second District Supervisor currently held by Paul Biane. Markovich is the second opponent to announce his intentions to run. His website can be found at: http://www.markovichforcountysupervisor.com/
Maybe when San Bernardino County’s Chief Legal Eagle Ruth Stringer is booted in a few weeks, President Obama will appoint her to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. From our experience she would be a perfect fit with the aberrant justices already sitting on that bench.
Under Stringer’s matronly tutelage we have all been blessed to learn new legal concepts not taught in any law school but practiced with fervor here in San Bernardino County. For example, “fornicating” is apparently synonymous with “deliberating” as in the “deliberative process.” We are not sure what an elected official and his inamorata would deliberate about at 2 a.m. that the public isn’t entitled to know since the “deliberating” is taking place on our dime. We also haven’t figured out why salmon and wine can be made public but the raw oysters and asparagus cannot. Perhaps it is the “Stringer Rule of Libidinous Measure.”
by Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt – San Bernardino County (bio) (email)(print)
1-31-2010 6:50 pm The Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District’s governing board this past Monday decided to send a letter to Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Legislature requesting the suspension and/or repeal of AB32, the “Global Warming Solutions Act.” This action was prompted by imminently conflicting federal and state regulations and the simple bad economic timing of implementing such a law now or in the near future. (Continued below.)
AB32 calls for California to cut its “greenhouse gas” emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 – a reduction of 30 percent – followed by an 80-percent reduction from 1990 levels by 2050.
The Mojave Desert AQMD, as an agency charged with and committed to improving air quality, raised some eyebrows as a result of the announcement of its soon-to-be-issued request, including those of KFI’s John and Ken, who interviewed me as a member of the district board on Thursday. (You can listen to the interview by clicking here.)
(more…)
- Written by Administrator
- Posted February 1, 2010 at 7:00 am
InlandPolitics.com has learned that incoming San Bernardino County Administrative Officer Greg Devereaux is looking at outside talent for key positions in his new administration.
Which positions are being looked at by Devereaux is not clear, but county supervisors appear to be allowing the incoming chief full authority to manage and get the house in order.
By all accounts Devereaux is doing just that.
More questions continue to be raised regarding the recently released report into the conduct of District Attorney Michael Ramos and his department, involving a former mistress of Ramos.
I last focused on statements made to investigators by Ramos and the number of inconsistencies.
Now let’s look at the treatment of Investigative Technician Cheryl Ristow. Ristow had a 17-month long affair with Ramos in the 2003 to 2005 period of time.
Even though it would now appear it was more of a relationship of necessity and convenience for Ramos.
Wanna have sex? Just pick up the phone.
After all, Ramos is the DA.
San Bernardino County’s past continues to haunt us. It is not corruption, at least not exactly, but we find that yet another former Chairman of the Board of Supervisors is making news. This time we have to go back even further than Jerry Eaves to find the culprit.
Barbara Cram Riordan, a 1961 University of Redlands graduate, served on the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors from 1983 until her third full term ended in 1996. Prior to her stint with the County of San Bernardino, she served on the Redlands City Council for four years.
Riordan was appointed to the California Air Resources Board in 1991 by then-Governor Pete Wilson, reappointed in 1999 by former-Governor Gray Davis and again in 2004 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. She served as Chairman of the Air Resources Board twice for short periods of time. She has also previously served on the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District Board of Directors.
So what does all of this have to do with killing jobs and scandal you might ask? Has anyone been listening to KFI640’s John and Ken of late? If not, you are missing out. (more…)
At the last court appearance former Assistant Assessor and Chief of Staff Jim Erwin made in front of Judge Duke Rouse, arguments were heard to have an evidentiary hearing to recuse the District Attorney’s office from Erwin’s case. During those arguments, the deputy Attorney General assisting in the prosecution suggested to Judge Rouse that Erwin wants to be given “special” treatment. This particular statement highlights the ignorance of the Attorney General’s office in reference to the political corruption in San Bernardino County. (more…)
The 2010 San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors meeting calendar is posted to the county’s website. Now that our board members have achieved their full 50-percent raise, they are offsetting it by only showing up for public board meetings slightly more than 50 percent of the time. The board is dark 25 out of 52 weeks this year.
No wonder Ruth Stringer and Dean Arabatzis haven’t been fired. It’s hard to fire someone for doing something one is doing oneself.
I would suggest this proves that a part-time Board of Supervisors would be more than appropriate. These people need to work for a living and have less time to live off of our dime. With benefits they are making well over $250,000 a year. For what?
2010 Board of Supervisors Meeting Dates
| January 2010 | 5 | 12 | 19 | 26 | |
| February | 2 | 9 | 16 | 23 | |
| March | 2 | 9 | 16 | 23 | 30 |
| April | 6 | 13 | 20 | 27 | |
| May | 4 | 11 | 18 | 25 | |
| June | 1 | 8 | 15 | 22 | 29 |
| July | 6 | 13 | 20 | 27 | |
| August | 3 | 10 | 17 | 24 | 31 |
| September | 7 | 14 | 21 | 28 | |
| October | 5 | 12 | 19 | 26 | |
| November | 2 | 9 | 16 | 23 | 30 |
| December | 7 | 14 | 21 | 28 | |
| January 2011 | 4 | 11 | 18 | 25 |
| Red indicates no meeting date. |
First citations in Third District issued
SAN BERNARDINO, CA – San Bernardino County code enforcement officers issued their first administrative citation in the Third District in January.
The first citation was issued on Jan. 19 to a Big Bear City property owner using a single family residence as a rental property without the required short-term rental permit. On Jan. 26, a property owner in Landers was cited for inadequate water and sanitation at a rental property.
One of the most difficult aspects of enforcing county codes in the past was an inability to provide enough pressure on violators to compel them to abate the nuisance in a timely fashion. The process would involve numerous warnings and court time before the offenders would comply or county workers would be allowed to abate the nuisance.
(more…)