Big Bear Lake, CA, March 29, 2012, 12:00 noon – At what was meant to be the groundbreaking ceremony in the Village this morning to celebrate the new Village Renaissance Construction Project, members who attended were shocked to hear that the project has been delayed by the State. This project was to be one of the last items funded by the now dismantled Improvement Agency. As of February 1st of this year, the State dissolved every Redevelopment/Improvement Agency Statewide. However, the City Council funded the Village reconstruction project before the dissolution deadline set by the State. According to Mayor Bill Jahn, the State informed the City of Big Bear Lake two days ago of an intent to challenge the City’s use of Improvement Agency funding and projects. The City has released a statement explaining that they are optimistic about resolving the situation as soon as possible and that, in contrast to State deliberations have maximized the public process to fully inform citizens, businesses and State officials of their plans and funding priorities. Additionally, the City says they have thoroughly complied with every request the State has made along the way in regards to the wind down of the Improvement Agency. The Village Renaissance Construction Project was set to begin construction on April 2nd and run through the summer to include the complete reconstruction of the Village “L” with new streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks, pavers, mid-block crossings, lighting, street signs and two outdoor fire pits with seat walls. Former Chairman of the former Improvement Agency, Councilwoman, Liz Harris, stated that this is a hiccup; it’s not the end. She instructed the audience to watch for what happens next by visiting the City’s website for a steady stream of information. She also stated that we need to take the next step in beautifying our town. Mayor Jahn added that we’re going to move forward with this project, hopefully, this year. In reaction to the project’s delay, City Manager, Jeff Mathieu said that we do not have a friendly government in Sacramento and that locally controlled and locally governed is our motto. Community members can visit the City’s website at citybigbearlake.com.
