San Bernardino residents voice concerns about road maintenance and community engagement

On April 5, 2025, a government meeting in San Bernardino highlighted pressing community concerns regarding infrastructure, local representation, and youth programs. Residents voiced their frustrations over the state of road maintenance and the perceived lack of attention from city officials.

One speaker criticized the quality of recent road repairs, expressing disappointment over what he described as a "slap in the face" to taxpayers. He emphasized the need for better oversight and accountability in city projects, urging officials to prioritize effective solutions rather than temporary fixes. This sentiment was echoed by another resident, Angel Huerta Junior, who lamented the neglect of his neighborhood and questioned the visibility and engagement of local representatives. He called for more direct communication and action from city officials to address the long-standing issues affecting his community.

Ray Blum, a lifelong resident and president of the newly formed Downtown Neighborhood Association, shared positive developments regarding community engagement. He reported on a recent event that attracted significant participation and announced a follow-up planning session aimed at identifying priorities for the downtown area. Blum emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among residents and city leaders to foster progress.

The meeting also featured Terry Boyk, executive director of Project Fighting Chance, who shared the organization's recent national exposure through PBS. He highlighted the overwhelming support received from across the country, including donations aimed at supporting local youth programs. Boyk announced plans for a summer enrichment program, committing to provide a safe and engaging environment for local youth during the summer months.

Overall, the meeting underscored a community eager for improvement and accountability from its leaders. Residents are calling for more effective infrastructure management and greater engagement from their elected officials, while also celebrating the positive strides made in youth programming and community involvement. As the city moves forward, the challenge will be to address these concerns while building on the momentum of community initiatives.