Minutes of the February 28, 2005 Board meeting

California Highway Patrol Officer Joe Zizi provided information about traffic collisions (833 last month in the CHP Santa Fe District); Sober Graduation education event is about to go to high schools; and student seat belt education program is underway. He introduced Sergeant Matt Booth, who will be assigned to work in Hacienda Heights as a part of the increased staffing for our area.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy J. Nanquil presented information regarding graffiti and tagging, requested citizen alertness to the problem, and requested that such activities be reported promptly. Captain Smith provided updates about the team concept for our area, but suggested that their staffing is very low and that measure will be delayed.

A long-time resident of Hacienda Heights, living on Las Tunas, shared their problems with a neighbor's septic tank spilling over into the street. Numerous efforts to resolve the problem have been ineffective. Supervisor's Deputy Dickie Simmons offered his assistance in the matter.

The Hacienda - La Puente Unified School District requested an opportunity to present their ideas to the HHIA Board on how to utilize the future funding from the Puente Hills Landfill tipping fees, specifically for a Community Performing Arts Center. That presentation will be scheduled for the March meeting.

Jesse Saucedo, from Congresswoman Grace Napolitano's office, suggested that she would be pleased to hear from constituents in her district on issues of importance to the community.

Supervisor Don Knabe's deputy, Dickie Simmons, spoke about the Taste of the
Heights event at Pathfinder Park in Rowland Heights on May 25, and added that they have increased the parking at the facility. He also requested residents to call 800-675-HELP for graffiti and pothole problems. He added that a new edition of the Hacienda Heights Connection newsletter is about to be published. A draft has been sent to the HHIA Board for any additions or corrections.

Barbara Fish gave an update on the 7th Avenue trailhead, the Harbor Blvd animal underpass (planning stages), and the serious damage to the Arroyo Pescadero fire roads due to the heavy rains. Information about the trailhead will be included in the HHIA newsletter.

Bud Welch provided updates on the Puente Hills Landfill, and the possible upgrading to the gas facility. New one-gallon plants are being planted at the landfill. The turnout for the MRF tour was poorly attended. A study is in progress to comply with the conditional use permit requiring alternate structures. Trash rates will be increasing to $1.77 per ton due to rising operational costs.

Michael Williams moved to approve the new chair assignments for the Board Members (as shown under Leadership above). Unanimous approval.

Michael Williams moved to approve the celebration of the HHIA's 50th
Anniversary of its incorporation in 1955, sometime this year in the
September-October timeframe. Approved unanimously. Several Board members volunteered to assist.