EL CAJON SEEKS MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS FOR EAST COUNTY MARKET NIGHTS EVENTS
By Chris Berg, marketing and engagement manager, city of El Cajon March 13, 2024 (El Cajon) —The city of El Cajon is inviting experienced and innovative event planners and organizations to submit proposals for the management of the newly conceived East County Market Nights. This weekly event, set to transform downtown El Cajon every Thursday evening, combines a certified Farmers Market with a dynamic nightlife experience, including live music, gourmet food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. Video Preview With the aim of attracting thousands of attendees from San Diego’s East County, the City seeks to partner with a visionary management team to curate an evening that celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the local community. The successful applicant will be responsible for the full spectrum of event management tasks, including planning, vendor management, entertainment booking, marketing, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Key Details: RFP Issue Date: March 13, 2024 Proposal Submission Deadline: April 17, 2024, before 5:00 p.m. Event Overview: A blend of Farmers Market, live music, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden aimed at creating a lively night market atmosphere. Scope of Services: Comprehensive event management, including planning, execution, vendor and entertainment booking, marketing, and security. Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate experience in managing large-scale events, knowledge of relevant licensing and permits, and the ability to operate independently of city resources. The City is looking for proposals that are innovative and demonstrate a clear vision for making East County Market Nights a hallmark event that provides significant value to the community. The selection criteria will focus on creativity, team expertise, implementation strategy, and financial planning. Interested parties are encouraged to obtain the detailed RFP document from the City’s purchasing department for submission guidelines and further information on the project’s scope and requirements. Proposals must be submitted electronically by the specified deadline to purchasing@elcajon.gov. This initiative represents a unique opportunity to contribute to the economic and cultural enrichment of El Cajon and the broader East County region. The City of El Cajon looks forward to reviewing proposals from teams eager to bring this exciting new event to life. The city’s goal to launch the market nights is July, though that may get delayed based on the proposals received, Berg told ECM.
EL CAJON SEEKS MANAGEMENT PROPOSALS FOR EAST COUNTY MARKET NIGHTS EVENTS
By Chris Berg, marketing and engagement manager, city of El Cajon March 13, 2024 (El Cajon) —The city of El Cajon is inviting experienced and innovative event planners and organizations to submit proposals for the management of the newly conceived East County Market Nights. This weekly event, set to transform downtown El Cajon every Thursday evening, combines a certified Farmers Market with a dynamic nightlife experience, including live music, gourmet food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. Video Preview With the aim of attracting thousands of attendees from San Diego’s East County, the City seeks to partner with a visionary management team to curate an evening that celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the local community. The successful applicant will be responsible for the full spectrum of event management tasks, including planning, vendor management, entertainment booking, marketing, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Key Details: RFP Issue Date: March 13, 2024 Proposal Submission Deadline: April 17, 2024, before 5:00 p.m. Event Overview: A blend of Farmers Market, live music, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden aimed at creating a lively night market atmosphere. Scope of Services: Comprehensive event management, including planning, execution, vendor and entertainment booking, marketing, and security. Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate experience in managing large-scale events, knowledge of relevant licensing and permits, and the ability to operate independently of city resources. The City is looking for proposals that are innovative and demonstrate a clear vision for making East County Market Nights a hallmark event that provides significant value to the community. The selection criteria will focus on creativity, team expertise, implementation strategy, and financial planning. Interested parties are encouraged to obtain the detailed RFP document from the City’s purchasing department for submission guidelines and further information on the project’s scope and requirements. Proposals must be submitted electronically by the specified deadline to purchasing@elcajon.gov. This initiative represents a unique opportunity to contribute to the economic and cultural enrichment of El Cajon and the broader East County region. The City of El Cajon looks forward to reviewing proposals from teams eager to bring this exciting new event to life. The city’s goal to launch the market nights is July, though that may get delayed based on the proposals received, Berg told ECM.
SANTEE SEEKS PLAN FOR PARK AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT BARN SITE
By Mike Allen March 13, 2024 (Santee) — Santee is hoping to strike a deal with San Diego County to create a new park surrounding the historic Edgemoor Barn as well as much needed affordable housing. At its most recent meeting on Feb. 28, the city council approved a resolution supporting a collaborative effort between the city and county for a plan on some 21 acres next to the Las Colinas Women’s Detention Center. Santee Councilman Ronn Hall, who brought the plan to the full council for a formal resolution, said he first proposed the concept to several County Supervisors in 2020. But it was only recently that Supervisor Joel Anderson, who represents East County, indicated the plan might be amenable to the entire five-person board. “I’m trying to be proactive and helpful (about striking a deal for the property),” he said. “It’s taken about four years, but they’re finally listening.” Before unanimously backing the conceptual plan, Santee councilmembers saw a proposed map of the county land that sits just east of the women’s jail at Riverview Parkway and Magnolia Avenue. Most were skeptical that the county could be trusted to agree to anything the city desired, citing a history of being disregarded. The feeling goes back to 2009 when the county Board of Supervisors approved a plan to replace and expand Las Colinas from 15 acres to 45 acres in a new facility that could handle about 1,200 female inmates. The vote to approve was 4-1, with then Supervisor Dianne Jacob casting the dissenting vote. The new jail facility opened in 2014. Councilman Rob McNelis noted the part of the proposed map of five acres described as “other county uses.” “That’s there for a reason,” he said. “They absolutely know what they want to use this for.” He added it could be used for a homeless shelter. Hall responded that as it stands today, the county could decide to use the entire parcel for whatever it wanted, regardless of Santee’s desires. By being proactive and allowing for a big chunk of the property for affordable housing, the city might be able to gain some open space parkland, he said. “The whole point of this (concept) is coming up with a something we can all work with….and how can this benefit everybody,” Hall said. Anderson listened to Santee residents last year when the county was floating a plan to build tiny houses as temporary shelters for the growing population of homeless, and many logged their strenuous objections. He said then he wouldn’t force the city to accept something that so many didn’t want. Hall said he’s talked with a couple of residential developers who may be interested in putting forth a plan, but so far the entire concept is in the very early stages. He had no idea of what number of housing units the property could accommodate, but hoped it would be a mix of for-sale condos and rentals. ECM called Anderson for a comment, but was told he was off dealing with a minor medical procedure. Mayor John Minto expressed optimism for the plan, saying the type of housing at the property would be attractive even though some might consider the term affordable less than desirable. The key thing is to strive to do everything possible so the land surrounding the Edgemoor Barn is designated as a park. “We can have a top-notch park like area,” Minto said. Members of the Santee Historical Society provided the council with their support for the concept. Once the county agreed to the plan, it would open up potential grant funds from various government and nonprofit sources to improve the structure, which was built in 1913 and registered on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. The land that now houses the Barn and the jail was once a working dairy farm, a polo pony ranch, and an early tourist attraction. San Diego County purchased the property in 1923 and established parts of it as a home for the aged and indigent. The Edgemoor barn is currently a museum that houses the Santee Historical Society.
SANTEE SEEKS PLAN FOR PARK AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT BARN SITE
By Mike Allen March 13, 2024 (Santee) — Santee is hoping to strike a deal with San Diego County to create a new park surrounding the historic Edgemoor Barn as well as much needed affordable housing. At its most recent meeting on Feb. 28, the city council approved a resolution supporting a collaborative effort between the city and county for a plan on some 21 acres next to the Las Colinas Women’s Detention Center. Santee Councilman Ronn Hall, who brought the plan to the full council for a formal resolution, said he first proposed the concept to several County Supervisors in 2020. But it was only recently that Supervisor Joel Anderson, who represents East County, indicated the plan might be amenable to the entire five-person board. “I’m trying to be proactive and helpful (about striking a deal for the property),” he said. “It’s taken about four years, but they’re finally listening.” Before unanimously backing the conceptual plan, Santee councilmembers saw a proposed map of the county land that sits just east of the women’s jail at Riverview Parkway and Magnolia Avenue. Most were skeptical that the county could be trusted to agree to anything the city desired, citing a history of being disregarded. The feeling goes back to 2009 when the county Board of Supervisors approved a plan to replace and expand Las Colinas from 15 acres to 45 acres in a new facility that could handle about 1,200 female inmates. The vote to approve was 4-1, with then Supervisor Dianne Jacob casting the dissenting vote. The new jail facility opened in 2014. Councilman Rob McNelis noted the part of the proposed map of five acres described as “other county uses.” “That’s there for a reason,” he said. “They absolutely know what they want to use this for.” He added it could be used for a homeless shelter. Hall responded that as it stands today, the county could decide to use the entire parcel for whatever it wanted, regardless of Santee’s desires. By being proactive and allowing for a big chunk of the property for affordable housing, the city might be able to gain some open space parkland, he said. “The whole point of this (concept) is coming up with a something we can all work with….and how can this benefit everybody,” Hall said. Anderson listened to Santee residents last year when the county was floating a plan to build tiny houses as temporary shelters for the growing population of homeless, and many logged their strenuous objections. He said then he wouldn’t force the city to accept something that so many didn’t want. Hall said he’s talked with a couple of residential developers who may be interested in putting forth a plan, but so far the entire concept is in the very early stages. He had no idea of what number of housing units the property could accommodate, but hoped it would be a mix of for-sale condos and rentals. ECM called Anderson for a comment, but was told he was off dealing with a minor medical procedure. Mayor John Minto expressed optimism for the plan, saying the type of housing at the property would be attractive even though some might consider the term affordable less than desirable. The key thing is to strive to do everything possible so the land surrounding the Edgemoor Barn is designated as a park. “We can have a top-notch park like area,” Minto said. Members of the Santee Historical Society provided the council with their support for the concept. Once the county agreed to the plan, it would open up potential grant funds from various government and nonprofit sources to improve the structure, which was built in 1913 and registered on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. The land that now houses the Barn and the jail was once a working dairy farm, a polo pony ranch, and an early tourist attraction. San Diego County purchased the property in 1923 and established parts of it as a home for the aged and indigent. The Edgemoor barn is currently a museum that houses the Santee Historical Society.
SANTEE SEEKS PLAN FOR PARK AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING AT BARN SITE
By Mike Allen March 13, 2024 (Santee) — Santee is hoping to strike a deal with San Diego County to create a new park surrounding the historic Edgemoor Barn as well as much needed affordable housing. At its most recent meeting on Feb. 28, the city council approved a resolution supporting a collaborative effort between the city and county for a plan on some 21 acres next to the Las Colinas Women’s Detention Center. Santee Councilman Ronn Hall, who brought the plan to the full council for a formal resolution, said he first proposed the concept to several County Supervisors in 2020. But it was only recently that Supervisor Joel Anderson, who represents East County, indicated the plan might be amenable to the entire five-person board. “I’m trying to be proactive and helpful (about striking a deal for the property),” he said. “It’s taken about four years, but they’re finally listening.” Before unanimously backing the conceptual plan, Santee councilmembers saw a proposed map of the county land that sits just east of the women’s jail at Riverview Parkway and Magnolia Avenue. Most were skeptical that the county could be trusted to agree to anything the city desired, citing a history of being disregarded. The feeling goes back to 2009 when the county Board of Supervisors approved a plan to replace and expand Las Colinas from 15 acres to 45 acres in a new facility that could handle about 1,200 female inmates. The vote to approve was 4-1, with then Supervisor Dianne Jacob casting the dissenting vote. The new jail facility opened in 2014. Councilman Rob McNelis noted the part of the proposed map of five acres described as “other county uses.” “That’s there for a reason,” he said. “They absolutely know what they want to use this for.” He added it could be used for a homeless shelter. Hall responded that as it stands today, the county could decide to use the entire parcel for whatever it wanted, regardless of Santee’s desires. By being proactive and allowing for a big chunk of the property for affordable housing, the city might be able to gain some open space parkland, he said. “The whole point of this (concept) is coming up with a something we can all work with….and how can this benefit everybody,” Hall said. Anderson listened to Santee residents last year when the county was floating a plan to build tiny houses as temporary shelters for the growing population of homeless, and many logged their strenuous objections. He said then he wouldn’t force the city to accept something that so many didn’t want. Hall said he’s talked with a couple of residential developers who may be interested in putting forth a plan, but so far the entire concept is in the very early stages. He had no idea of what number of housing units the property could accommodate, but hoped it would be a mix of for-sale condos and rentals. ECM called Anderson for a comment, but was told he was off dealing with a minor medical procedure. Mayor John Minto expressed optimism for the plan, saying the type of housing at the property would be attractive even though some might consider the term affordable less than desirable. The key thing is to strive to do everything possible so the land surrounding the Edgemoor Barn is designated as a park. “We can have a top-notch park like area,” Minto said. Members of the Santee Historical Society provided the council with their support for the concept. Once the county agreed to the plan, it would open up potential grant funds from various government and nonprofit sources to improve the structure, which was built in 1913 and registered on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. The land that now houses the Barn and the jail was once a working dairy farm, a polo pony ranch, and an early tourist attraction. San Diego County purchased the property in 1923 and established parts of it as a home for the aged and indigent. The Edgemoor barn is currently a museum that houses the Santee Historical Society.
TWO MOUNTAIN LIONS KILLED BY VEHICLES IN CREST AND OCEANSIDE
By Miriam Raftery Photo: Oceanside mountain lion, via city surveillance video March 13, 2024 (San Diego) — Two mountain lions have been struck and killed by vehicles on local roadways so far this month. On March 1 in Crest, a mountain lion was hit by a car in the early morning hours at the junction of Dehesa Road and Sloan Canyon Road. “My husband, on his way into San Diego, saw the cat along with others that had pulled over,” said Gloria Chadwick, a member of the Grossmont Healthcare District board of directors. After federal wildlife services removed the animal, she told ECM, “Someone has set up a little monument. The big cats have always been here in Dehesa and this recent one has been seen by lots of regular walkers.” On March 10, a young male mountain lion, or cougar, was killed by a car in Oceanside near North River Road and Wilshire, NBC 7 reported. It is not yet known if the lion killed was the same one spotted in recent days in downtown Oceanside, trotting through the parking lot at City Hall and other areas, according to the California Fish and Wildlife Service. Vehicles pose major threats to the big cats. According to a study by the University of California, Davis, 535 mountain lions were killed by vehicles on California highways between 2015 and 2022. There are ways to reduce such deaths. Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation in 2022 that requires the state to identify locations where barriers such as freeways prevent them from moving freely. The new law also requires the state to prioritize building crossings to allow mountain lions and other wildlife to cross safely. The world’s largest wildlife crossing is under construction in Los Angeles County in Agoura over Highway 101, and is expected to be completed next year. The action there comes after the highway death of the famous Hollywood Hills mountain lion known as P-22. Additional crossings are anticipated in California in the future.
TWO MOUNTAIN LIONS KILLED BY VEHICLES IN CREST AND OCEANSIDE
By Miriam Raftery Photo: Oceanside mountain lion, via city surveillance video March 13, 2024 (San Diego) — Two mountain lions have been struck and killed by vehicles on local roadways so far this month. On March 1 in Crest, a mountain lion was hit by a car in the early morning hours at the junction of Dehesa Road and Sloan Canyon Road. “My husband, on his way into San Diego, saw the cat along with others that had pulled over,” said Gloria Chadwick, a member of the Grossmont Healthcare District board of directors. After federal wildlife services removed the animal, she told ECM, “Someone has set up a little monument. The big cats have always been here in Dehesa and this recent one has been seen by lots of regular walkers.” On March 10, a young male mountain lion, or cougar, was killed by a car in Oceanside near North River Road and Wilshire, NBC 7 reported. It is not yet known if the lion killed was the same one spotted in recent days in downtown Oceanside, trotting through the parking lot at City Hall and other areas, according to the California Fish and Wildlife Service. Vehicles pose major threats to the big cats. According to a study by the University of California, Davis, 535 mountain lions were killed by vehicles on California highways between 2015 and 2022. There are ways to reduce such deaths. Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation in 2022 that requires the state to identify locations where barriers such as freeways prevent them from moving freely. The new law also requires the state to prioritize building crossings to allow mountain lions and other wildlife to cross safely. The world’s largest wildlife crossing is under construction in Los Angeles County in Agoura over Highway 101, and is expected to be completed next year. The action there comes after the highway death of the famous Hollywood Hills mountain lion known as P-22. Additional crossings are anticipated in California in the future.
TWO MOUNTAIN LIONS KILLED BY VEHICLES IN CREST AND OCEANSIDE
By Miriam Raftery Photo: Oceanside mountain lion, via city surveillance video March 13, 2024 (San Diego) — Two mountain lions have been struck and killed by vehicles on local roadways so far this month. On March 1 in Crest, a mountain lion was hit by a car in the early morning hours at the junction of Dehesa Road and Sloan Canyon Road. “My husband, on his way into San Diego, saw the cat along with others that had pulled over,” said Gloria Chadwick, a member of the Grossmont Healthcare District board of directors. After federal wildlife services removed the animal, she told ECM, “Someone has set up a little monument. The big cats have always been here in Dehesa and this recent one has been seen by lots of regular walkers.” On March 10, a young male mountain lion, or cougar, was killed by a car in Oceanside near North River Road and Wilshire, NBC 7 reported. It is not yet known if the lion killed was the same one spotted in recent days in downtown Oceanside, trotting through the parking lot at City Hall and other areas, according to the California Fish and Wildlife Service. Vehicles pose major threats to the big cats. According to a study by the University of California, Davis, 535 mountain lions were killed by vehicles on California highways between 2015 and 2022. There are ways to reduce such deaths. Governor Gavin Newsom signed legislation in 2022 that requires the state to identify locations where barriers such as freeways prevent them from moving freely. The new law also requires the state to prioritize building crossings to allow mountain lions and other wildlife to cross safely. The world’s largest wildlife crossing is under construction in Los Angeles County in Agoura over Highway 101, and is expected to be completed next year. The action there comes after the highway death of the famous Hollywood Hills mountain lion known as P-22. Additional crossings are anticipated in California in the future.