The three-member committee met Tuesday to begin establishing the voter-approved government watchdog position, focusing on recruitment and appointment processes.
Harley (left) and Riley, two certified search K-9s with California Task Force 6, rest after their recent deployment to assist with flood search and rescue efforts in Kerr County, Texas. (Ken Crawford)
Friday Gazette: July 25, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Friday! While we take pride in seeking out and telling the stories that reflect the best of Riverside, we try to keep the cheerleading to a minimum. But today, we’re making an exception to thank Harley (lying down) and Riley (sitting)—along with the rest of California Task Force 6—for representing our city so well while assisting with recovery efforts after the central Texas floods earlier this month.
Thank you for your incredible work and for bringing Riverside’s spirit of neighborliness to people in need, wherever they may be. Welcome home.
Eight Months After Voter Approval, Inspector General Implementation Finally Begins
The three-member committee met Tuesday to begin establishing the voter-approved government watchdog position, focusing on recruitment and appointment processes.
Riverside's Inspector General Committee convened its inaugural meeting Tuesday, eight months after voters approved the government watchdog position. The three-member panel, led by Councilmember Steven Robillard, began the process of implementing the oversight role that won 64% support in November 2024.
Driving the meeting: The committee focused on recruitment and appointment procedures for the new Inspector General position.
Most of the session was held in closed session, with no reportable action taken.
Why it matters: The Inspector General will have authority to investigate fraud, waste, and abuse within city government, conduct audits, and provide annual reports.
The position is estimated to cost over $500,000 annually once fully established.
The backstory: Measure L, which created the Inspector General role, originated from recommendations by two consecutive charter review committees starting in 2018.
Pete Benavidez, who chaired the Charter Review Committee, expressed surprise and satisfaction with the measure's passage.
What's next: The committee's next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 12, at 1 p.m. in the Art Pick Council Chamber at City Hall.
Go deeper: Some residents continue to raise concerns about the inspector general's independence, as the position serves at the pleasure of the City Council and Mayor.
Riverside Rescue Team Returns from Texas Flood Response
Five firefighters, two search dogs spent 15 days assisting with recovery efforts after July 4 flooding.
Rescue team members (from left): Sharon Gattas and Riley, Peter Sellas and Harley, with Riverside Fire Chief Steve McKinster.
Five Riverside firefighters and two search dogs completed a 15-day deployment to Kerr County, Texas, assisting in search and recovery operations following devastating July 4 floods. The team, part of California Task Force 6, worked across a 120-mile search area, coordinating with FEMA and local agencies.
Driving the news: The deployment included targeted searches in areas inaccessible to ground crews, primarily conducted from boats due to changed river conditions.
Team members faced challenges including extreme humidity, poisonous snakes, wild boar, and difficult terrain.
Why it matters: The mission provided closure for families affected by the floods, transitioning from rescue to recovery efforts.
"We understand that we're providing closure for these families because at some point, they cling to hope that they'll encounter their loved one and that they'll find them alive," said Peter Sellas, task force emergency service coordinator.
The big picture: California Task Force 6 is one of eight FEMA urban search and rescue task forces in California and one of 28 nationally.
The team has previously deployed to major incidents including the Oklahoma City bombing, World Trade Center attacks, and Hurricane Katrina.
What's next: Riverside continues to serve as the host agency for the multi-jurisdictional team, ready to respond to future disasters requiring specialized rescue capabilities.
Congress Passes Budget Bill with SNAP, Medicaid Reductions
Local food bank warns cuts could affect millions in California, Inland Empire.
Feeding America volunteers load groceries into a car trunk during a special Mother’s Day food distribution event in the Inland Empire. (Courtesy of Feeding America Riverside/San Bernardino)
Feeding America Riverside San Bernardino (FARSB) warns of "biggest cuts" to nutrition and healthcare programs "in a generation," impacting millions of Californians.
Driving the news: Congress passed a budget reconciliation bill cutting Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid, sparking concern from food banks already struggling with increased demand.
FARSB estimates the cuts will eliminate 6 billion meals annually nationwide and strip healthcare from at least 8 million people.
Why it matters: The legislation comes as food insecurity rises and grocery prices remain high, particularly affecting children, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.
FARSB CEO Carolyn Fajardo says, "This is not the time to scale back essential programs that help families stay afloat."
The impact: FARSB, serving as the primary food source for over 250 local nonprofits in the Inland Empire, distributes more than 3.1 million pounds of food monthly.
The organization reaches over one million households annually through various programs.
What's next: FARSB plans to work with Feeding America and the California Association of Food Banks to support affected residents and calls on lawmakers to strengthen support systems for struggling families.
Go deeper: For more information on advocacy efforts, visit FeedingIE.org/advocacy.
Meet this week’s featured furry friend from the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center. Dedicated to eliminating pet homelessness, the center provides compassionate care and facilitates adoptions for animals in need of loving homes. Find your new companion and help support their mission of humane care and responsible pet ownership.
🐾 Alumni Update: Last week's featured pet, Coco, has been adopted! 🎉
Bear is as lovable as he looks. His easygoing nature makes him a natural friend to dogs, cats and kids alike. Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood, a trip to the park or a ride in the car, Bear is always ready to tag along and make every outing better. True to his name, he’s a cuddly teddy bear with a heart of gold. Bear is currently in foster care; to meet him, please email fostercare@petsadoption.org.
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