by Doug Wilson, Grand Terrace Resident on 2014-02-05

Last Tuesday a new era began for Grand Terrace. Incoming City Manager Ken Henderson spoke on his own behalf about the goals he hopes to implement in his hometown with the cooperation of the City Council. Grand Terrace is fortunate that it recently found an experienced professional who sharpened his skills on the fringe in Apple Valley. I am spectacularly optimistic. City Managers oversee all of the day-to-day operations of a City, and a group of directors, in this case, the City Council, must be kept informed about all decisions that affect the bottom line within a pre-determined spending limit, much like the Board of a public company. While the Mayor is elected by the voters, a City Manager is appointed and an employee of the citizens “at-large”, kind-of like a Police Chief, (even though most City Managers would characterize their role more like a traffic cop). Meanwhile, a seat has opened up on the beleaguered City Council with the sudden departure of Mayor Pro Tem Bernardo Sandoval. Let’s face it, there’s been a lot of smoke and fire at City Hall. A fiscal emergency was declared. Experts were hired to promote a Utility User’s Tax. The prognosis for success appeared grim, still there was little choice for revenue sources following the loss of the Redevelopment funding. Both sides beat their drums and the voters decided in November. Less than a month later, more than $500,000 in checks were discovered looking for a home. Tax revenues had also increased exponentially and a determination was made that proved more than $700,000 to the benefit annually for Grand Terrace. The City Finance Director shouted, “Hoo-ray!!!” and called off the fiscal emergency. Now we will see if the City Council will appoint the nuts and bolts money person who has the time and the experience to play well with others, watchdog operations, and talk turkey with businesses who could ensure a healthy future for Grand Terrace. Come to the Council Chambers on February 11th at 6:00 pm if you want a ring-side seat. The Council will interview applicants and you’ve already proved you can make a difference.