Candidates and residents tell Jurupa Valley council signs were removed; staff tells residents how to report violations

Several residents and local candidates told the Jurupa Valley City Council they believe campaign signs have been removed selectively from private fencing used for political banners.

Tyler Burn (public commenter) said several of his campaign banners, and banners for other challengers, were removed from a fence that has hosted campaign signage in past election cycles and later were found in a dumpster on Vernola Ranch property. Burn said the mayor’s banner appeared to remain in place and described statements in prior meetings about financial contributions from the property owner to council campaigns; he called the pattern a potential conflict of interest and urged a fair process.

Rebecca Byrne (introduced by staff as Rebecca Byrne, Director of Parks and Recreation, Division 3) said she was appalled by the actions earlier that day. Other commenters, including business owner David Danish Maya and Emmanuel Suarez, described repeated removals and damage to banners across multiple campaigns and asked the council to address the issue.

Planning and code enforcement staff explained the complaint process: temporary sign regulations are in the municipal code and complaints alleging illegal signs should be made to planning or code enforcement; if a sign was stolen a sheriff’s report is appropriate; allegations that a campaign committed violations may be referred to the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). Council members asked staff to investigate the specific incidents raised at the meeting and to brief the council about findings.

Council directed staff to follow up with code enforcement and to report back on the instances raised during public comments. The meeting record contains residents’ allegations but no staff finding or enforcement action taken at that time.