Have you ever wondered what the early settlers in Visalia, such as Nathaniel Vise, Ben Maddox, Benjamin Willis, and Steven Mather, would have thought if they had seen our day? Visalia was founded in 1852, and numbered around 3,000 by the turn of the century. I suspect that they would be amazed to see a city of 130,000 people today, with its historic downtown, Mooney Boulevard, a large hospital, beautiful homes, and wide, straight paved streets, all surrounded by thousands of acres of farmland.
They probably would have laughed if someone had suggested that someday there would be ice skating in downtown Visalia. However, in late December 2015, for 15 days, Visalia in fact had its own Enchanted Ice Rink. This new adventure was brought to us by the city Parks & Recreation department. They installed 1,500 square feet of synthetic ice at the Garden Street Plaza, and over 1,300 skaters of all ages participated, along with several thousand spectators.
The evening of December 21 was our last city council meeting for 2015. The closed session ended much sooner than expected, and with some time to kill before the next meeting, I decided to get some exercise and take a walk from city hall east down Main Street. I soon arrived at the Garden Street Plaza to check out this new event. I saw many skaters, both new and experienced, enjoying the ice rink, with the Disney movie "Frozen" playing on a big screen in the background. I could almost imagine being by a frozen lake, or in New York City, watching the ice skaters. However, this was right here in our own downtown. The Garden Street Plaza was decorated in an ice garden theme, and concessions were being sold. This was such a unique event that no money needed to be spent on advertising. Local radio stations, newspapers and television channels voluntarily publicized the event. Many of the local merchants reported an increase in foot traffic and sales during the ice rink run.
Of course, we always have to consider how to pay for an event like this. The program generated $14,772.00 in revenue compared with $16,637.00 in expenses. These expenses included the rink rental, staffing, decorations, licensing, restrooms and fencing.
The city hopes to sponsor this activity in future years with a larger ice rink, and to generate a positive cash flow with additional sponsorships. For those who participated, memories of a lifetime were made. And to our city founders, you missed out on a great event!
PROJECT HOMELESS CONNECT
The 8th annual Project Homeless Connect event was held January 28 at the Rescue Mission. This is a one-day, one-stop event, designed to provide those in our community who are experiencing homelessness or who are at risk of becoming homeless, the critical services and housing they need to become self-sufficient. The many volunteers provided medical and dental care, California I.D. replacement, vision screening, eyeglasses, employment counseling, veterinary care, haircuts, bicycle repair, and much more.
I try to attend this event each year and am always impressed by the many local volunteers who give selflessly of their time and resources to help the less fortunate. This is Visalians helping Visalians, and Visalia at its best!
HOW I SPEND MY TIME
I'm often asked"what does a city council member do and how much time does it take? My answer usually is that "it varies from week to week." Let me give you some insight as to how I spent the week prior to writing this article. Remember, in addition to serving on the council, I have a full-time law practice, and have other family, social and religious duties and obligations to meet. Monday, 7:00 a.m., meeting with the city manager to discuss city issues; 12:00 p.m. meeting with the Visalia Civic Joint Powers board; 4:30 p.m. meeting at city offices with mayor and facilitator to finalize plans for city retreat; Wednesday, 7:30 a.m.. meeting with the Tulare County Economic Development Corporation in Exeter; 2:00 p.m., meeting with Frank Miramontes to make a video for upcoming TCEDC workshop; Thursday, 8:00 a.m., Project Homeless Connect at the Rescue Mission to present a city resolution; Friday, City Council Retreat at the Convention Center from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; Saturday, download City Council agenda and staff reports to study over the weekend for the following Monday's city council meeting; start all over again. I also check my city emails a couple times a day (daily city emails average approximately 20), and return phone calls.
DONUTS AND DISCUSSION
My next Donuts and Discussion will be held on Saturday, March 26 from 7:00-8:30 a.m., at Mavericks on Caldwell. Please join me and other city officials to discuss any questions or concerns you have about what's going on down at city hall, and have a donut on us!
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
(559) 713-4400 x 3313
Warren.gubler@visalia.city
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Monday, February 1, 2016
WHY I WRITE
Direct Magazine published my first commentary in September 2010, which means that I've been writing this monthly article for 5½ years now. In reviewing my old posts, found at directfromwarren.blogspot.com, my initial articles from 2010 covered such topics as the Riverway Sports Park, the Historic Visalia Walking Trail, the Senior Center, city budget issues and salary negotiations with the five city employee unions.
At the time, I was still a relatively new city council member, having been first elected in 2009. The City of Visalia has a public relations department with capable employees who usually write the speeches, editorials and articles on behalf of council members. Most politicians have ghost writers. However, for Direct Magazine, I've always elected to write the articles myself. At least to me they seem a little more authentic, and give me an opportunity to share my thoughts. As an elected figure, I want to express my independent viewpoints, perhaps giving you a little different peek into the workings of city government. On the other hand, because I don't have my writings pre-approved by the city, I can't blame them for my mistakes! I claim sole responsibility for the content.
I also find that writing this monthly article is therapeutic, it gives me the opportunity to sift through and digest what has been placed before me at City Hall, and crystalizes my thought process. For our biweekly city council meetings, each council member is usually provided at least 50-60 pages of reading materials, including staff reports, Powerpoint presentations, draft ordinances, and such. I read and mull over each topic in order to form an opinion that I believe will be consistent, and then vote in a way that I hope will benefit my constituents. This article actually provides me a sounding board, an opportunity to bounce ideas off myself.
When I first came up with the idea of writing these articles, I approached a number of publications in the area about publishing them, but they expressed shock that I would even ask! Why should a politician be allowed to provide a regular article, when they were the ones employed to write and give their viewpoints as to what was happening at City Hall? In my mind, freedom of the press extends beyond the hired help, and all citizens, elected or not, should have the opportunity to express their opinions in print. Direct Magazine was the only publication that accepted my offer to write such an article, and for that I am grateful. Direct has been kind enough to give me a regular spot on the inside back cover of their magazine each month since then. Ironically, in the intervening years, as print media has fallen on financial hard times and laid off staff, I've been approached by some of the same publications about writing a regular article for them. But I'm a loyal kind of guy, so I've continued to write exclusively for this magazine, because they first gave me a bully pulpit. That's not to say that periodically, when a bee gets stuck in my bonnet, or when I believe an item needs additional emphasis, that I won't continue to submit editorials to other publications.
Finally, I thank you, my loyal readers, for reading what I have to say in this article each month. Over the years, I have received more and more comments from people who indicate that they anticipate reading my articles each month, whether they agree with my opinions or not. I look forward to continuing to write these articles and hope that I meet your expectations. As always, I encourage you to email or call me with any questions or topics you'd like me to address in future articles.
Water Conservation Update
Beginning in June 2015, the state set a target for Visalia of 32% water usage reduction over 2013 levels. At a recent city council meeting it was announced that in November 2015, Visalia conserved 33% compared to 2013, the first month that we met and exceeded our goal. Residential customers led the way by reducing their water usage by 38%. According to Cal Water, in 2015 the city used approximately the same amount of water as Visalia did in 1998, when our population was about a third less.
With the wonderful winter rains we've been experiencing, it is my hope that the city and the state will cut back on their water restriction mandates, and instead educate the citizens on the benefits of voluntary compliance. As Cicero noted, summum ius, summa iniuria-the more law, the less justice. As for me, I trust the citizens of Visalia.
Continue to pray for rain and for an end to this drought. However, we should all continue to try to conserve this precious resource.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
(559) 713-4400 x 3313
Warren.gubler@visalia.city
At the time, I was still a relatively new city council member, having been first elected in 2009. The City of Visalia has a public relations department with capable employees who usually write the speeches, editorials and articles on behalf of council members. Most politicians have ghost writers. However, for Direct Magazine, I've always elected to write the articles myself. At least to me they seem a little more authentic, and give me an opportunity to share my thoughts. As an elected figure, I want to express my independent viewpoints, perhaps giving you a little different peek into the workings of city government. On the other hand, because I don't have my writings pre-approved by the city, I can't blame them for my mistakes! I claim sole responsibility for the content.
I also find that writing this monthly article is therapeutic, it gives me the opportunity to sift through and digest what has been placed before me at City Hall, and crystalizes my thought process. For our biweekly city council meetings, each council member is usually provided at least 50-60 pages of reading materials, including staff reports, Powerpoint presentations, draft ordinances, and such. I read and mull over each topic in order to form an opinion that I believe will be consistent, and then vote in a way that I hope will benefit my constituents. This article actually provides me a sounding board, an opportunity to bounce ideas off myself.
When I first came up with the idea of writing these articles, I approached a number of publications in the area about publishing them, but they expressed shock that I would even ask! Why should a politician be allowed to provide a regular article, when they were the ones employed to write and give their viewpoints as to what was happening at City Hall? In my mind, freedom of the press extends beyond the hired help, and all citizens, elected or not, should have the opportunity to express their opinions in print. Direct Magazine was the only publication that accepted my offer to write such an article, and for that I am grateful. Direct has been kind enough to give me a regular spot on the inside back cover of their magazine each month since then. Ironically, in the intervening years, as print media has fallen on financial hard times and laid off staff, I've been approached by some of the same publications about writing a regular article for them. But I'm a loyal kind of guy, so I've continued to write exclusively for this magazine, because they first gave me a bully pulpit. That's not to say that periodically, when a bee gets stuck in my bonnet, or when I believe an item needs additional emphasis, that I won't continue to submit editorials to other publications.
Finally, I thank you, my loyal readers, for reading what I have to say in this article each month. Over the years, I have received more and more comments from people who indicate that they anticipate reading my articles each month, whether they agree with my opinions or not. I look forward to continuing to write these articles and hope that I meet your expectations. As always, I encourage you to email or call me with any questions or topics you'd like me to address in future articles.
Water Conservation Update
Beginning in June 2015, the state set a target for Visalia of 32% water usage reduction over 2013 levels. At a recent city council meeting it was announced that in November 2015, Visalia conserved 33% compared to 2013, the first month that we met and exceeded our goal. Residential customers led the way by reducing their water usage by 38%. According to Cal Water, in 2015 the city used approximately the same amount of water as Visalia did in 1998, when our population was about a third less.
With the wonderful winter rains we've been experiencing, it is my hope that the city and the state will cut back on their water restriction mandates, and instead educate the citizens on the benefits of voluntary compliance. As Cicero noted, summum ius, summa iniuria-the more law, the less justice. As for me, I trust the citizens of Visalia.
Continue to pray for rain and for an end to this drought. However, we should all continue to try to conserve this precious resource.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
(559) 713-4400 x 3313
Warren.gubler@visalia.city
Friday, January 1, 2016
CELEBRATE OUR ACHIEVEMENTS
How did 2015 slip by so
quickly?! I believe it's beneficial for Visalia to look back at our 2015
accomplishments, as we celebrate the start of a new year.
MOONEY BOULEVARD:
Mor Furniture and outlet
store opened in February. HomeGoods, a popular home furnishing store,
celebrated their grand opening in November. Opening soon in the same
center will be Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW). A 4-unit commercial space
is being built next to Toys R Us; so far, Shoe Palace, an athletic footwear and
apparel retail chain, has been announced as a tenant. Plans have been
approved to raze the former Mimi's Café in order to construct two new
restaurants in its place, still to be announced. Five Guys Burgers and
Packwood Creek Dental opened at Packwood Creek, with Rubio's Mexican Seafood to
follow soon. Developer Dave Paynter recently purchased the Sequoia Plaza
where Walmart is located, and will be filling that place again. And
Visalia Mall just announced that Blaze Fast-Fired Pizza, the nation's leading
build-your-own pizza chain, is going into its building next to Union Bank in
May 2016. .
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN:
Easley's Gun Shop has
relocated to Surplus City's prior location, and is now known as The General's
Trading Post, offering hunting gear, man cave stuff and local furniture.
Sequoia Brewing has opened at Main and Locust. Ed Dena's Auto Center is
occupying the site on East Main and Ben Maddox formerly occupied by Sy's
Quality Automobiles. Rio Grill closed its Main Street location but a new
restaurant is expected in that space in the next few months. Sacred Tiki Tattoo
Parlor moved into the old Midtown News location. Quizno's closed at the
Comfort Suites, rumored to be replaced soon by Deli Delicious. Sam
Sciacca's anticipated mixed-use development in the old Link's building is on
track to open soon, featuring a wine tasting retail store and a beauty salon,
and six residential units above. Tazzaria purchased Glick’s, and updated
the deli and bakery. Finally, the big news is that Imagine U Children's Museum
is now open. Take your kids and grand kids and have a great time!
NORTH VISALIA:
At Orchard Walk, new retail
developments include Leslie's Pool Supply, Don Roberto Jewelers, an AT&T
Store, Nice Nail and Spa, Verizon and Visalia Modern Dentistry. Oval Park
is finally getting the Caltrans street work done, which will improve
walkability and traffic flow. The old gas station building on the corner
of N.E. Third and Court has been rehabbed and is now offering Thai food.
Derrel's Mini Storage began construction of their 201,400 square foot mini storage
complex at Goshen and Demaree. This includes widening Demaree to
hopefully improve traffic flow. Visalia Care Dental has located at the
southeast corner of Ferguson and Dinuba. Plans are going forward for a
Self Help Enterprises multi-family project on the northwest corner of Ferguson
and Dinuba. Conceptual site plans are going through the city for approval
of a large retail shopping center south of Orchard Walk which includes multiple
anchor pads, restaurant and smaller retail spaces, and for a new Kaweah Delta
Urgent Health Care Center near Demaree and Riggin. The Houston
Neighborhood Park opened and will be a terrific asset for the families in that
area.
INDUSTRIAL PARK:
A 95-room, four-story
Residence Inn (extended stay Marriott Hotel) received its CUP and should break
ground soon next to Fresno Pacific off Plaza Drive. Pinnacle Premix has
opened on Shirk and Sunnyview, a new company which mixes vitamins and minerals
into ag and pet food products. Hydrite Chemical expanded and acquired a
vacant industrial building and land at Clancey and Doe. Pacific Stihl
expanded into a 140,000 square foot space near Riggin and Plaza, which nearly
triples their previous space and more than doubles its dock doors from eight to
eighteen. rePlanet, the state's largest recycling company, has relocated
on West Goshen. And Lloyd and Adam Heller are expected to construct over
800,000 square feet of new rail-served spec buildings near Doe and Shirk.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS:
Seaport Airlines opened and
continues to provide excellent service for our local airport. Ridership
is dramatically up and should meet the requirements for maintaining our
essential air services . Corner Café, an east Visalia diner, will soon be
moving to Key West Shopping Center at Goshen and Akers. The Marriott has
new owners and is being remodeled. Holiday Inn by the airport has
switched brands to Wyndham, and $6 million in renovations and updates are
currently taking place. A Holiday Inn Express will be locating near
Adventure Park. Also, look for Skywalk Visalia, a trampoline and extreme sports
complex opening next to Chuck E. Cheese. Visalia Parkway is now open
behind Target which will increase east/west driveability. Last but not least,
Visalia once again has a Wienerschnitzel, now open on East Noble. And for
my Christmas wish, I've asked Santa for a new Nordstrom E-commerce Fulfillment
Center in our industrial park, bringing 1,000 jobs with it.
When all of these new
developments are considered together, we can see that 2015 was indeed a very
good year for our city. We expect more commercial growth in 2016, which
will further strengthen our tax base and meet the needs of our local
citizenry. Happy New Year to all!
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
Visalia Times Delta Editorial January 1, 2016
2015 WRAP-UP
How did 2015 slip by so quickly?! As is tradition, my New Year's article looks back on some of the business accomplishments of the past year in Visalia.
MOONEY BOULEVARD:
Mor Furniture and outlet store opened in February. HomeGoods, a popular home furnishing store, celebrated their grand opening in November. Opening soon in the same center will be Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW). A 4-unit commercial space is being built next to Toys R Us; so far, Shoe Palace, an athletic footwear and apparel retail chain, has been announced as a tenant. Plans have been approved to raze the former Mimi's Café in order to construct two new restaurants in its place, still to be announced. Five Guys Burgers and Packwood Creek Dental opened at Packwood Creek, with Rubio's Mexican Seafood to follow soon. Developer Dave Paynter recently purchased the Sequoia Plaza where Walmart is located, and will be filling that place again. And Visalia Mall just announced that Blaze Fast-Fired Pizza, the nation's leading build-your-own pizza chain, is going into its building next to Union Bank in May 2016. .
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN:
Easley's Gun Shop has relocated to Surplus City's prior location, and is now known as The General's Trading Post, offering hunting gear, man cave stuff and local furniture. Sequoia Brewing has opened at Main and Locust. Ed Dena's Auto Center is occupying the site on East Main and Ben Maddox formerly occupied by Sy's Quality Automobiles. Rio Grill closed its Main Street location but a new restaurant is expected in that space in the next few months. Sacred Tiki Tattoo Parlor moved into the old Midtown News location. Quizno's closed at the Comfort Suites, rumored to be replaced soon by Deli Delicious. Sam Sciacca's anticipated mixed-use development in the old Link's building is on track to open soon, featuring six residential units above, and a wine tasting retail store and a beauty salon. Tazzaria purchased Glick’s, and updated the deli and bakery. Finally, the big news is that Imagine U Children's Museum is now open. Take your kids and grand kids and have a great time!
NORTH VISALIA:
At Orchard Walk, new retail developments include Leslie's Pool Supply, Don Roberto Jewelers, an AT&T Store, Nice Nail and Spa, Verizon and Visalia Modern Dentistry. Oval Park is finally getting the Caltrans street work done, which will improve walkability and traffic flow. The old gas station building on the corner of N.E. Third and Court has been rehabbed and is now offering Thai food. Derrel's Mini Storage began construction of their 201,400 square foot mini storage complex at Goshen and Demaree. This includes widening Demaree to hopefully improve traffic flow. Visalia Care Dental has located at the southeast corner of Ferguson and Dinuba. Plans are going forward for a Self Help Enterprises multi-family project on the northwest corner of Ferguson and Dinuba. Conceptual site plans are going through the city for approval of a large retail shopping center south of Orchard Walk which includes multiple anchor pads, restaurant and smaller retail spaces, and a new Kaweah Delta Urgent Health Care Center near Demaree and Riggin. The Houston Neighborhood Park opened and will be a terrific asset for the families in that area.
INDUSTRIAL PARK:
A 95-room, four-story Residence Inn (extended stay Marriott Hotel) received its CUP and should break ground soon next to Fresno Pacific off Plaza Drive. Pinnacle Premix has opened on Shirk and Sunnyview, a new company which mixes vitamins and minerals into ag and pet food products. Hydrite Chemical expanded and acquired a vacant industrial building and land at Clancey and Doe. Pacific Stihl expanded into a 140,000 square foot space near Riggin and Plaza, which nearly triples their previous space and more than doubles its dock doors from eight to eighteen. rePlanet, the state's largest recycling company, has relocated on West Goshen. And Lloyd & Adam Heller are expected to construct over 800,000 square feet of new rail-served spec buildings near Doe and Shirk.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS:
Seaport Airlines opened and continues to provide excellent service for our local airport. Ridership is dramatically up and should meet the requirements for maintaining our essential air services . Corner Café, an east Visalia diner, will soon be moving to Key West Shopping Center at Goshen and Akers. The Marriott has new owners and is being remodeled. Holiday Inn by the airport has switched brands to Wyndham, and $6 million in renovations and updates are currently taking place. A Holiday Inn Express will be locating near Adventure Park. Also, look for Skywalk Visalia, a trampoline and extreme sports complex opening next to Chuck E. Cheese. Last but not least, Visalia once again has a Wienerschnitzel, now open on East Noble.
When all of these new developments are considered together, we can see that 2015 was a very good year for our city. We expect more commercial growth in 2016, which will further strengthen our tax base and meet the needs of our local citizenry. Happy New Year to all!
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
(559) 713-4400 x 3313
Warren.gubler@visalia.city
MOONEY BOULEVARD:
Mor Furniture and outlet store opened in February. HomeGoods, a popular home furnishing store, celebrated their grand opening in November. Opening soon in the same center will be Designer Shoe Warehouse (DSW). A 4-unit commercial space is being built next to Toys R Us; so far, Shoe Palace, an athletic footwear and apparel retail chain, has been announced as a tenant. Plans have been approved to raze the former Mimi's Café in order to construct two new restaurants in its place, still to be announced. Five Guys Burgers and Packwood Creek Dental opened at Packwood Creek, with Rubio's Mexican Seafood to follow soon. Developer Dave Paynter recently purchased the Sequoia Plaza where Walmart is located, and will be filling that place again. And Visalia Mall just announced that Blaze Fast-Fired Pizza, the nation's leading build-your-own pizza chain, is going into its building next to Union Bank in May 2016. .
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN:
Easley's Gun Shop has relocated to Surplus City's prior location, and is now known as The General's Trading Post, offering hunting gear, man cave stuff and local furniture. Sequoia Brewing has opened at Main and Locust. Ed Dena's Auto Center is occupying the site on East Main and Ben Maddox formerly occupied by Sy's Quality Automobiles. Rio Grill closed its Main Street location but a new restaurant is expected in that space in the next few months. Sacred Tiki Tattoo Parlor moved into the old Midtown News location. Quizno's closed at the Comfort Suites, rumored to be replaced soon by Deli Delicious. Sam Sciacca's anticipated mixed-use development in the old Link's building is on track to open soon, featuring six residential units above, and a wine tasting retail store and a beauty salon. Tazzaria purchased Glick’s, and updated the deli and bakery. Finally, the big news is that Imagine U Children's Museum is now open. Take your kids and grand kids and have a great time!
NORTH VISALIA:
At Orchard Walk, new retail developments include Leslie's Pool Supply, Don Roberto Jewelers, an AT&T Store, Nice Nail and Spa, Verizon and Visalia Modern Dentistry. Oval Park is finally getting the Caltrans street work done, which will improve walkability and traffic flow. The old gas station building on the corner of N.E. Third and Court has been rehabbed and is now offering Thai food. Derrel's Mini Storage began construction of their 201,400 square foot mini storage complex at Goshen and Demaree. This includes widening Demaree to hopefully improve traffic flow. Visalia Care Dental has located at the southeast corner of Ferguson and Dinuba. Plans are going forward for a Self Help Enterprises multi-family project on the northwest corner of Ferguson and Dinuba. Conceptual site plans are going through the city for approval of a large retail shopping center south of Orchard Walk which includes multiple anchor pads, restaurant and smaller retail spaces, and a new Kaweah Delta Urgent Health Care Center near Demaree and Riggin. The Houston Neighborhood Park opened and will be a terrific asset for the families in that area.
INDUSTRIAL PARK:
A 95-room, four-story Residence Inn (extended stay Marriott Hotel) received its CUP and should break ground soon next to Fresno Pacific off Plaza Drive. Pinnacle Premix has opened on Shirk and Sunnyview, a new company which mixes vitamins and minerals into ag and pet food products. Hydrite Chemical expanded and acquired a vacant industrial building and land at Clancey and Doe. Pacific Stihl expanded into a 140,000 square foot space near Riggin and Plaza, which nearly triples their previous space and more than doubles its dock doors from eight to eighteen. rePlanet, the state's largest recycling company, has relocated on West Goshen. And Lloyd & Adam Heller are expected to construct over 800,000 square feet of new rail-served spec buildings near Doe and Shirk.
OTHER DEVELOPMENTS:
Seaport Airlines opened and continues to provide excellent service for our local airport. Ridership is dramatically up and should meet the requirements for maintaining our essential air services . Corner Café, an east Visalia diner, will soon be moving to Key West Shopping Center at Goshen and Akers. The Marriott has new owners and is being remodeled. Holiday Inn by the airport has switched brands to Wyndham, and $6 million in renovations and updates are currently taking place. A Holiday Inn Express will be locating near Adventure Park. Also, look for Skywalk Visalia, a trampoline and extreme sports complex opening next to Chuck E. Cheese. Last but not least, Visalia once again has a Wienerschnitzel, now open on East Noble.
When all of these new developments are considered together, we can see that 2015 was a very good year for our city. We expect more commercial growth in 2016, which will further strengthen our tax base and meet the needs of our local citizenry. Happy New Year to all!
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
(559) 713-4400 x 3313
Warren.gubler@visalia.city
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
WINNING NEVER GETS OLD
The inaugural Visalia Senior Games are now history. Over 250 people registered for these games, with competition spread out over four days. The competitors came from 50 cities throughout California and as far away as Oregon and Texas. We heard nothing but compliments about how smoothly our games were run and how much fun they were. For results and pictures, visit visaliaseniorgames.com.
The largest sports group were those playing pickleball, with 141 entries. Remember that many people competed in multiple events. Participating were 107 from Tulare County of which 83 were from Visalia, 88 from the valley, and 40 from elsewhere throughout the state.
Various business sponsors from throughout the community contributed $16,650.00 in cash, as well as over $5,000.00 of in-kind donations. I particularly want to thank Marilyn Mitchell and Jostens for their valiant effort at the last minute to get out a multi-page, full color brochure for the participants, and Kaweah Delta Health Care District for being our principal sponsor.
We couldn't have been blessed with better weather, sunny and in the 80's the entire time. At registration, competitors were given a goody bag that included a colorful, high quality Senior Games tee shirt, coupons, the brochure, welcome packet and other information. At the opening ceremonies at Riverway Sports Park, there was a torch lighting and parade, speeches, an honor guard, the Mighty Oaks Barber Shop singers, and a drum team, followed by a tri-tip barbeque catered by Tres Bien. Friday evening was a second social, this time at the downtown Garden Street Plaza featuring appetizers by the local Lions clubs and music by "Borrowed Time."
The registration fee was $25.00, plus an additional fee for each event participated in. One friend asked me why it cost so much. I indicated that for the price, the athletes not only got to compete, but received medals, shirts, goody bags, a dinner and the Friday night social. This compares favorably to other senior games, such as the Huntsman Games in southern Utah, where the basic registration fee is $100.00, plus extras.
City manager Mike Olmos, a last minute entrant in golfing, picked up a gold medal. Afterwards, he indicated that the other golfers at the clubhouse looked enviously at his medal, saw the scores, realized that they could have likely medaled in their own age groups as well, and promised to participate next time.
Including sponsorships, ad sales, donations, registration fees and merchandise sales, $29,000.00 in total cash was generated. Monies raised were sufficient to cover the cost of putting on the event while using no city funds.
I particularly want to compliment the Parks & Recreation Dept. for the wonderful job they did in putting on these almost perfect Senior Games, especially since this was our first attempt. Also, I'd like to thank all of those who volunteered, and served on the senior games planning committee, enthusiastically donating their time to make this event a success.
We are looking forward to putting on the second Visalia Senior Games. Planning is already under way. Items under consideration include additional sporting events (e.g. track and field, swimming, disc golf, foot golf), and changing the date to the springtime so as not to conflict with other events. Now that we have the website up and running, the templates, the welcome packet and brochure, and other logistics figured out, next time will be even bigger and better. Senior Games have a social aspect to them, we couldn't have had a nicer group of people visiting Visalia. And they motivate seniors to stay in shape and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. We've challenged each of this year's participants to bring at least one friend with them next time, which by itself would double our numbers.
Remember, as the Visalia Senior Games motto says, "Winning Never Gets Old." Thanks again to everyone for making this a successful inaugural event. We look forward to it growing over the years, and becoming a signature event and a local economic stimulus.
In conclusion, at this holiday time, I wish all Visalians a special season of friends, family and peace.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
The largest sports group were those playing pickleball, with 141 entries. Remember that many people competed in multiple events. Participating were 107 from Tulare County of which 83 were from Visalia, 88 from the valley, and 40 from elsewhere throughout the state.
Various business sponsors from throughout the community contributed $16,650.00 in cash, as well as over $5,000.00 of in-kind donations. I particularly want to thank Marilyn Mitchell and Jostens for their valiant effort at the last minute to get out a multi-page, full color brochure for the participants, and Kaweah Delta Health Care District for being our principal sponsor.
We couldn't have been blessed with better weather, sunny and in the 80's the entire time. At registration, competitors were given a goody bag that included a colorful, high quality Senior Games tee shirt, coupons, the brochure, welcome packet and other information. At the opening ceremonies at Riverway Sports Park, there was a torch lighting and parade, speeches, an honor guard, the Mighty Oaks Barber Shop singers, and a drum team, followed by a tri-tip barbeque catered by Tres Bien. Friday evening was a second social, this time at the downtown Garden Street Plaza featuring appetizers by the local Lions clubs and music by "Borrowed Time."
The registration fee was $25.00, plus an additional fee for each event participated in. One friend asked me why it cost so much. I indicated that for the price, the athletes not only got to compete, but received medals, shirts, goody bags, a dinner and the Friday night social. This compares favorably to other senior games, such as the Huntsman Games in southern Utah, where the basic registration fee is $100.00, plus extras.
City manager Mike Olmos, a last minute entrant in golfing, picked up a gold medal. Afterwards, he indicated that the other golfers at the clubhouse looked enviously at his medal, saw the scores, realized that they could have likely medaled in their own age groups as well, and promised to participate next time.
Including sponsorships, ad sales, donations, registration fees and merchandise sales, $29,000.00 in total cash was generated. Monies raised were sufficient to cover the cost of putting on the event while using no city funds.
I particularly want to compliment the Parks & Recreation Dept. for the wonderful job they did in putting on these almost perfect Senior Games, especially since this was our first attempt. Also, I'd like to thank all of those who volunteered, and served on the senior games planning committee, enthusiastically donating their time to make this event a success.
We are looking forward to putting on the second Visalia Senior Games. Planning is already under way. Items under consideration include additional sporting events (e.g. track and field, swimming, disc golf, foot golf), and changing the date to the springtime so as not to conflict with other events. Now that we have the website up and running, the templates, the welcome packet and brochure, and other logistics figured out, next time will be even bigger and better. Senior Games have a social aspect to them, we couldn't have had a nicer group of people visiting Visalia. And they motivate seniors to stay in shape and enjoy a healthy lifestyle. We've challenged each of this year's participants to bring at least one friend with them next time, which by itself would double our numbers.
Remember, as the Visalia Senior Games motto says, "Winning Never Gets Old." Thanks again to everyone for making this a successful inaugural event. We look forward to it growing over the years, and becoming a signature event and a local economic stimulus.
In conclusion, at this holiday time, I wish all Visalians a special season of friends, family and peace.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
WINNING NEVER GETS OLD
The inaugural Visalia Senior
Games is now history. Over 250 people registered for these games, with
competition spread out over four days. The competitors came from all over
California and as far away as Oregon and Texas. From those who have
attended senior games elsewhere, we heard nothing but compliments about how
smoothly our games were run and how much fun they were. For results
and pictures, visit visaliaseniorgames.com.
The largest sports group were
those playing pickleball, with 141 entries. Remember that many people
competed in multiple events. Participating were 107 from Tulare County of
which 83 were from Visalia, 88 from the valley, and 40 from elsewhere
throughout the state.
From various businesses
throughout the community, we raised $16,650.00 in cash, as well as over
$5,000.00 of in-kind donations. I particularly want to thank Marilyn
Mitchell and Jostens for their valiant effort at the last minute to get out a
multi-page, full color brochure for the participants.
We couldn't have been blessed
with better weather, sunny and in the 80's the entire time. At
registration, competitors were given a goody bag that included a colorful, high
quality Senior Games tee shirt, coupons, the brochure, welcome packet and other
information. At the opening ceremonies at Riverway Sports Park, there was
a torch lighting and a parade. Included in the Wednesday opening ceremony
were speeches, the Mighty Oaks Barber Shop singers, and a drum team,
followed by a tri-tip barbeque catered by Tres Bien. Friday evening was a
second social, this time at the Garden Street Plaza downtown featuring
appetizers by the local Lion clubs and music by "Borrowed
Time."
The registration fee was
$25.00, plus an additional fee for each event participated in. One friend
asked me why it cost so much. I indicated that for the price, the
athletes not only got to compete, but received medals, goody bags, a dinner and
the Friday night social. This compares favorably to other senior games,
such as the Huntsman Games in southern Utah, where the basic registration fee
is $100.00, plus extras.
City manager Mike Olmos, a
last minute entrant in golfing, picked up a gold medal. Afterwards, he
indicated that other golfers at the clubhouse looked enviously at his medal and
realized that they could have probably medaled in their own age groups as well,
and promised to participate next time.
Including sponsorships, ad
sales, donations, registration fees and merchandise sales, $29,000.00 in cash
was generated. Funds raised were sufficient to cover the cost of putting
on the event while using no city monies.
I particularly want to
compliment the Parks & Recreation Dept. for the wonderful job they did in
putting on these almost perfect Senior Games, especially since this was our
first attempt. Also, I'd like to thank all of those who volunteered, and
served on the senior games committee from the community and enthusiastically
donated their time to make this a success.
We are looking forward to
putting on the second Visalia Senior Games. Planning is already under
way. Items under consideration include additional sporting events (e.g.
track and field, swimming, disc golf, foot golf), and changing the date to the
springtime so as not to conflict with other events. Now that we have the
website up and running, the templates, the welcome packet and brochure, and
other logistics figured out, next time will be even bigger and better.
We've challenged each participant to bring at least one friend with them next
time which by itself would double our numbers.
Remember, as the Visalia
Senior Games motto says, "Winning Never Gets Old." Thanks again
to everyone for making this a successful inaugural event. We look
forward to it growing over the years, and becoming a signature event and an
economic stimulus for our city.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
Editorial, Visalia Times Delta 10/31/15
Sunday, November 1, 2015
RESIDENTIAL WASTE COLLECTION UPDATE
The state of California has set a mandate that 75% of solid waste is to be diverted to recycling by the year 2020. Currently, Visalia's diversion rate is 71%. To help meet this state mandate, the city council has authorized staff to start the process of converting to a residential three-can collection system, i.e., separate cans for solid waste, recyclables, and green waste, as opposed to the current split-can system. It will cost approximately $5 million to implement the three-can system and to provide new cans for all residents. The conversion will not result in a rate increase. It is estimated that the three-can system will be implemented sometime during the next three years.
Once implemented, the cost to operate a three-can system will not be much more than the current split-can system. A split truck can only service about 800 split cans a day, while a single-body truck can service about 1,200 cans a day. Single-body trucks cost about $40,000.00 less than split trucks. Two single-body cans don't cost any more than one split can. Split trucks have to dump more often in a day than single-body trucks, because when one side of a split truck fills up, the truck has to take the materials to the dump even though the other half of the truck may not be completely full.
Other positives about a three-can collection system include increased diversion and decreased contamination by adding capacity and convenience. City customers can request a smaller can or a larger can, depending on their particular waste needs, and rates will be structured based on can size.
It is becoming more difficult to find manufacturers who make split-can trucks, and even the split cans themselves. Visalia is the last city in California to use the split-can system, and may be one of the last in the nation.
Of course, there are some cons to this conversion, such as customers will have to store an extra can and there will be an additional truck pass each week. However, the consequences remaining with the split-can system include the difficulty of meeting the increased diversion requirements mandated by the state, more contamination of recyclables, and decreasing availability of split cans and split trucks, along with the resulting increasing costs for specially built split trucks and cans.
As the city moves forward with implementing the three can collection system, citizen input and feedback will be sought and more information will be shared with the public as it becomes available. My wife Alisa has already told me that I get to haul that extra can to the curb each week!
One of the many good things about Visalia city staff is that they constantly strive to keep up with current technology and efficiencies. The city council also approved the solid waste division to start the process to acquire an in-house account management system with Associated Technology Improvements. The implementation costs of this new system will be about $750,000.00. However, the staff study estimates that the annual savings from a new account management system will be about $750,000.00.
ADDITIONAL CITY UPDATES:
Developer Dave Paynter recently purchased the Sequoia Plaza Shopping Center (which includes Walmart, Burlington Coat Factory and Ashley Furniture on South Mooney). Mr. Paynter already owns Sequoia Mall and the Dick's Sporting Goods center, which means that Mr. Paynter now controls three corners of the Caldwell and Mooney intersection. Mr. Paynter is a well-known developer who has had many successes locally. Look for more new stores and upgrades at these locations as Mr. Paynter works to redevelop them.
Construction of the Visalia Parkway crossing at Packwood Creek to the west of Target on South Mooney is finally underway. This will connect the southern boundary of the city and will allow travelers to drive on the Visalia Parkway from County Center east through to Mooney Blvd.
If you have questions or topics regarding the city which you would like to have addressed in future articles, please email Warren at wgubler@ci.visalia.ca.us, or call (559) 713-4400 x 3313. For past articles, visit directfromwarren.blogspot.com.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
Once implemented, the cost to operate a three-can system will not be much more than the current split-can system. A split truck can only service about 800 split cans a day, while a single-body truck can service about 1,200 cans a day. Single-body trucks cost about $40,000.00 less than split trucks. Two single-body cans don't cost any more than one split can. Split trucks have to dump more often in a day than single-body trucks, because when one side of a split truck fills up, the truck has to take the materials to the dump even though the other half of the truck may not be completely full.
Other positives about a three-can collection system include increased diversion and decreased contamination by adding capacity and convenience. City customers can request a smaller can or a larger can, depending on their particular waste needs, and rates will be structured based on can size.
It is becoming more difficult to find manufacturers who make split-can trucks, and even the split cans themselves. Visalia is the last city in California to use the split-can system, and may be one of the last in the nation.
Of course, there are some cons to this conversion, such as customers will have to store an extra can and there will be an additional truck pass each week. However, the consequences remaining with the split-can system include the difficulty of meeting the increased diversion requirements mandated by the state, more contamination of recyclables, and decreasing availability of split cans and split trucks, along with the resulting increasing costs for specially built split trucks and cans.
As the city moves forward with implementing the three can collection system, citizen input and feedback will be sought and more information will be shared with the public as it becomes available. My wife Alisa has already told me that I get to haul that extra can to the curb each week!
One of the many good things about Visalia city staff is that they constantly strive to keep up with current technology and efficiencies. The city council also approved the solid waste division to start the process to acquire an in-house account management system with Associated Technology Improvements. The implementation costs of this new system will be about $750,000.00. However, the staff study estimates that the annual savings from a new account management system will be about $750,000.00.
ADDITIONAL CITY UPDATES:
Developer Dave Paynter recently purchased the Sequoia Plaza Shopping Center (which includes Walmart, Burlington Coat Factory and Ashley Furniture on South Mooney). Mr. Paynter already owns Sequoia Mall and the Dick's Sporting Goods center, which means that Mr. Paynter now controls three corners of the Caldwell and Mooney intersection. Mr. Paynter is a well-known developer who has had many successes locally. Look for more new stores and upgrades at these locations as Mr. Paynter works to redevelop them.
Construction of the Visalia Parkway crossing at Packwood Creek to the west of Target on South Mooney is finally underway. This will connect the southern boundary of the city and will allow travelers to drive on the Visalia Parkway from County Center east through to Mooney Blvd.
If you have questions or topics regarding the city which you would like to have addressed in future articles, please email Warren at wgubler@ci.visalia.ca.us, or call (559) 713-4400 x 3313. For past articles, visit directfromwarren.blogspot.com.
Warren Gubler
Visalia Vice Mayor
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