The Ontario City Council convened for its latest meeting, highlighting community engagement and significant developments in local programs. The session began with a Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer led by community members, setting a collaborative tone for the evening.
During the public comments segment, residents expressed gratitude for the city’s initiatives, particularly the successful \"veil pop-up\" program organized by the Economic Development Department. Local business owners Jonas and Eva Nachus praised the program for providing valuable opportunities to artists and vendors, emphasizing its positive impact on the community.
In a key report from a closed session, the City Council authorized the initiation of litigation against Inyo Networks, doing business as Onward, signaling a proactive approach to legal matters affecting the city.
The meeting also featured a special ceremony recognizing the Ontario 5K Reindeer Run, which attracted nearly 4,000 participants last December and raised over $100,000. The Ontario Montclair Schools Foundation will receive approximately $79,880 from the event, which will support the Ontario Montclair Promise Scholars Program. This initiative aims to prepare local youth for college through various educational activities and scholarships.
Felix Melendez, executive director of the Ontario Montclair Schools Foundation, highlighted the importance of community investment in youth education and thanked the city for its ongoing support. He noted that the partnership has enabled the foundation to provide nearly $90,000 in scholarships to local students.
The council also discussed amendments to the application process for student representatives on the Parks and Recreation Commission, ensuring that priority is given to applicants from local middle and high schools while allowing for the inclusion of college-age students if necessary.
The meeting concluded with a streamlined consent calendar, reflecting the council's commitment to efficient governance and community-focused initiatives.