The three-member committee met Tuesday to begin establishing the voter-approved government watchdog position, focusing on recruitment and appointment processes.
Crepe myrtles in bloom line Lemon Street on a summer afternoon in Downtown, just steps from the Riverside Community Arts Association gallery. (Lori Raffy) Have a photo that captures the spirit of Riverside? Share it with us and help celebrate the beauty of our community!
Thursday Gazette: July 24, 2025
Hello Riverside, and Happy Thursday! The City Council’s Inspector General Committee held its first meeting Tuesday to begin implementing the new government watchdog position, approved by voters with 64% support last November. Hit reply to share your questions or thoughts—your perspective could help guide our coverage as this new role takes shape.
Riverside City Council Unanimously Designates City Hall as Historic Landmark
The civic building, constructed between 1973-1975, receives recognition for its unique blend of brutalism and new formalism architectural styles designed by prominent local firm.
From across Tequesquite Arroyo, City Hall rises like a fortress on a hill, its mass unmistakable. (Ken Crawford)
Riverside City Council unanimously voted to designate the controversial 1970s City Hall as a historic landmark. The brutalist structure, an icon of the city's skyline, will now receive protection for its unique architectural significance.
Driving the news: The landmark designation protects the building's exterior character while allowing interior modifications for daily operations.
The decision recognizes the work of local architectural firm Ruhnau, Evans and Steinman, particularly Swiss architect Kurt Steinmann.
Why it matters: The designation ensures the preservation of a significant piece of Riverside's architectural history for future generations.
It demonstrates the city's commitment to preserving diverse architectural styles, including modern and controversial designs.
The backstory: Constructed between 1973 and 1975, the building at 3900 Main St. has long been a polarizing presence in Riverside's landscape.
Its brutalist design, characterized by bold, heavy forms, blends with elements of new formalism.
What they're saying: Councilmember Philip Falcone emphasized the building's iconic nature, stating, "Nowhere else will one find a building that resembles this City Hall."
Preservation advocate Jennifer Mermilliod, who completed the landmark application pro bono, stressed the importance of the 50-year perspective in evaluating architectural importance.
What's next: The landmark status will help ensure the building's preservation while allowing it to continue serving as the city's administrative center.
City Launches 'Insider' Sessions to Teach Residents Government Process
About 30 residents attended inaugural meeting where the City Clerk demonstrated how citizens can address policy concerns through existing mechanisms.
City Clerk Donesia Gause presents at Council Insider meeting. (Ken Crawford)
About 30 residents attended Riverside's first "City Hall Insider" session, aimed at breaking down barriers between citizens and local government. The initiative seeks to encourage civic participation by explaining municipal procedures and decision-making processes.
Driving the meeting: City Clerk Donesia Gause led the presentation, offering practical guidance on council meeting procedures and public comment protocols.
Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson and Councilmembers Philip Falcone and Sean Mill were in attendance.
Why it matters: The session empowers residents to engage effectively in local governance, where opportunities for meaningful participation are more accessible than in national politics.
Understanding civic processes can transform frustration into actionable participation.
The big picture: Gause provided insights on effective public comment, explaining the difference between consent calendar and discussion items, and how residents can request changes to the agenda.
The session also addressed recent changes to the city's public transparency rules, demonstrating how knowledge of procedures can lead to more effective civic engagement.
What's next: Riverside plans to hold additional "City Hall Insider" sessions to continue building civic literacy among residents.
Old Riverside Foundation hosts Salvage Saturday at The Weber House July 26 from 9 a.m.-noon, featuring architectural salvage including a historic Stalder Building skylight plus free wood and trim giveaways.
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