San Bernardino, California Development News
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CLOSED SESSION AND REGULAR MEETING OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
Published: Jul 15, 2026
City Council Approves Six-Month Extension for Wildan Contract with Performance Review and RFP Requirement
The City Council discussed Item 32, a contract for professional services with Wildan, with a proposed $700,000 budget for a three-year term with a one-year optional extension. Council Member Ortiz expressed concerns about Wildan's performance and productivity based on negative feedback, suggesting a rejection of the bid or a significant re-evaluation. Council Member Sanchez proposed a six-month extension with a review of Wildan's productivity, timelines, and work product, including an RFP process to assess other engineering firms. Staff indicated that Wildan was the most qualified firm after a rigorous RFP process and that the contractually allowed turnaround time for plan checks is 15 business days. Council Member Ortiz amended the motion to a six-month extension with a review of performance data and an open RFP process to assess other firms. The motion, as amended, passed unanimously.
University Hills Specific Plan Amendment Approved with Conditions to Accommodate Soaring Society Flight Path
The City Council considered a Specific Plan Amendment (23-01) and Tentative Tract Map (20595) for the University Hills Specific Plan, initiated in 1993 and updated in 2008. The proposed amendment by applicant Encore significantly reduces the project's scope, decreasing the number of planned residential units from 980 to 327, lowering residential density from 20 to 3 units per acre, and increasing open space from 235 to 300 acres. The plan also redesigns conceptual park plans, updates the circulation plan for improved emergency access, and shifts focus to single-family residential development instead of student housing. The tentative tract map subdivides 338 acres into 327 single-family lots. A key point of contention was the impact on the Crestline Soaring Society's flight path. After communications between Encore and the Society, a compromise was proposed to relocate two lots (327 and potentially 326 or lot 1) to accommodate the flight path. The council discussed the legality of prescriptive easements and the city's prohibition of hang gliding. Ultimately, the council voted 6-1 to approve a substitute motion to amend the tract map to relocate two lots, with conditional approval directing city staff to draft a resolution for flight access, contingent on the agreement between Encore and the Soaring Society, and the resolution of any potential private litigation.
Homekeep Project Opens, Providing Housing for Homeless Men; New Economic Development Director Appointed
The City Council received an update on the Homekeep project, a partnership with Lutheran Social Services of Southern California and the county, aimed at addressing homelessness. The project celebrated its grand opening, with 120 out of 140 new units for men experiencing homelessness already occupied. These units cater to individuals with low income or complex health and social service needs. Additionally, a 70-bed emergency shelter is currently in operation. The City also announced the appointment of Luis Partio as its new Economic Development Director, who brings over 20 years of experience in the field, including previous roles with the San Gabriel Valley Economic Partnership and Cal State San Bernardino.
City Council Reconsiders McDonald's CUP Application, Scheduling New Public Hearing Amidst Community Opposition
The City Council considered Item 34, a motion to reconsider the denial of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a McDonald's restaurant. The motion to reconsider passed 6-1, with Council Member Bar dissenting. Council Member Abara moved for reconsideration, citing potential undue influence and questioning the process. The City Attorney provided procedural guidance, confirming that a new public hearing would be required, tentatively scheduled for August 19, 2026. Public comments from previous hearings revealed strong community opposition to the McDonald's proposal, citing concerns about traffic, negative impacts on existing businesses, and a desire for development aligned with the city's general plan for mixed-use commercial corridors.
Sunshine Motel Red Tag Appeal Denied by City Council Amidst Building Code Violations Discussion
The City Council heard an appeal regarding a red tag closure and correction notice issued to the Sunshine Motel located at 570 North H Street. The notice was issued by the San Bernardino Building and Safety Division due to numerous unpermitted electrical alterations, additions, and construction, including secured emergency escape windows, an obstructed egress door, and the absence of required smoke alarms. The building was deemed an unsafe condition requiring immediate enforcement action. The appeal was filed by attorney Frank Wiser on behalf of the motel operator and property owners. During the discussion, Council Member Ortiz raised concerns about the underlying issues of prostitution and human trafficking at the motel, which were detailed in a search warrant affidavit. The City Attorney clarified that the current hearing was solely for the appeal of the red tag based on building code violations and not for addressing criminal activity. The council ultimately voted to uphold the red tag closure and correction notice, denying the appeal.
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The San Bernardino News archive
Board of Education Meeting ---July 21, 2026
Board of Education Meeting --- July 21, 2026
SBCUSD Superintendent's Summer Graduation 2026
REUNION DEL ALCALDE Y AYUTAMIENTO
CC S.B. City Council Mtg. w/Multi Audio: 07/15/26
CC S.B. Planning Comm. Mtg.: 07/14/26
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