Chino Valley Church Pastor Spradlin leads community gathering with prayer and reflections

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors meeting on March 11, 2025, highlighted significant community contributions and upcoming projects aimed at enhancing local services. The meeting began with a heartfelt prayer led by Pastor Mike Spradlin, who emphasized gratitude for public service and community resilience in the face of potential storms.

A notable segment of the meeting was dedicated to memorials for influential community members. Vice Chair Baca honored Ray Allard, a prominent figure in Fontana known for his engineering contributions and community involvement, and Manuel Ortega, a dedicated family man and father of a local board member. Their legacies were celebrated, reflecting the deep connections within the community.

The meeting also featured special presentations recognizing the retirements of Don Johnson and Robert Escolar, both of whom have dedicated decades to serving the county. Johnson, who contributed significantly to technological advancements, and Escolar, who worked tirelessly in child welfare services, were commended for their impactful careers.

In terms of actionable items, the board discussed several initiatives aimed at improving public health and safety. Vice Chair Baca highlighted the upgrade of three mobile health care units, which will enhance access to health services, including mobile dental care. Additionally, the establishment of a new speed limit in Rialto was approved to improve traffic safety in response to increased congestion.

The board also announced a partnership with the San Bernardino City Unified School District to place a fire station on a school campus, a pioneering project that aims to enhance emergency response capabilities in the area. This collaboration underscores the county's commitment to innovative solutions that benefit residents.

Community engagement was a focal point, with Supervisor Armendaris reporting on a successful resource fair in Fontana that connected over 50 residents with county services. This initiative received positive feedback, showcasing the county's efforts to increase transparency and accessibility.

As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed their commitment to ongoing community support and development, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and proactive measures to address local needs. The discussions and decisions made during this meeting reflect a concerted effort to enhance the quality of life for San Bernardino County residents.