An internal investigation found two code enforcement supervisors spent years allegedly harassing immigrant street vendors, including entering homes without warrants and seizing property.
The Board of Public Utilities voted unanimously to forward the increase to the City Council, which holds a public hearing June 23.
Perry’s resignation leaves the Ward 6 council seat vacant until the election winner is sworn in.
The state grant brings Riverside significantly closer to the $20 million needed for the new community hub.
The City of Riverside has garnered a $10 million state grant to fund the new Spc. Jesus S. Duran Eastside Library, moving the city significantly closer to the $20 million needed for the project. The grant is part of the California State Library's Building Forward Library Facilities Infrastructure Grant program.
The funds will enable Riverside Public Library to construct a standalone branch, replacing the current facility in a shopping center at the corner of University and Chicago Avenues. The new library will be built at Bobby Bonds Park near University and Kansas avenues.
"The new location at Bobby Bonds Park will not only be more accessible but will also create a synergy with the park, offering residents a one-stop destination for leisure and learning," said Erin Christmas, Library Director for the City of Riverside.
"I cannot express the excitement and pride my heart and head is feeling," said Tina Ruvalcaba, Spc. Jesus S. Duran's daughter when asked about the new library. "With the new location and state of the art facility, the Eastside residents will be able to learn of my father's short life and his heroism. It will be a great, safe location for children and teens in this neighborhood!"
The $10 million allocation complements a prior $4.5 million state grant and an additional $1 million recently committed by the city. The project is currently in its design phase.
When asked about the design, Erin Christmas expressed particular enthusiasm for a flexible program space that will allow for indoor-outdoor programming. "This feature will be on the side closest to the Chavez Center, adding a distinct element to the new library," said Christmas.
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson lauded the funding, noting that libraries serve as "trusted neighborhood hubs for learning, innovation, and connecting."
Christmas also pointed out a fiscal advantage. "Transitioning to a standalone facility will save approximately $280,000 in annual lease payments for the current location," she said.
The California State Library's Building Forward program has disbursed over $172 million to 34 local libraries across the state. This initiative addresses critical maintenance needs, improves energy efficiency, and broadens digital and physical access. As a result, seven new library buildings—including Riverside's Duran Eastside Library—will be erected, and 27 existing libraries will undergo energy-efficiency upgrades.
The Riverside Community Sailing Program opens its 2026 season with races featuring local donors and a councilmember alongside youth sailors.
The aerial light performances on June 17 and July 1 are part of the city's Summer Concert Series and America's 250th Anniversary celebrations.
In this final installment, Anthony Solorzano explores Riverside through the eyes of a transplant, as the memory of a hometown slowly fades.
Keep Riverside Clean and Beautiful is recruiting volunteers for two Saturday morning cleanups in June across the unincorporated communities.
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