Residents Demand Action on Property Rights Amid Utility Dispute

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed critical safety concerns regarding traffic signal battery backups and ongoing property disputes related to easements in Eastvale. The meeting highlighted the need for improved safety measures at intersections, particularly after a recent blackout incident that raised alarms about non-functioning traffic signals. Officials confirmed that while some intersections are equipped with battery backups, the blackout may have been caused by construction work that inadvertently cut power lines.

The discussion also turned to a contentious easement issue involving local homeowners and Southern California Edison (SCE). Residents expressed frustration over their inability to improve their properties due to the presence of utility poles and the lack of communication from SCE. One resident, who has been advocating for the removal of these poles, emphasized that the land in question is owned by the homeowners, who have been paying taxes on it. This raised questions about the city’s plans to develop green space on land that residents believe is rightfully theirs.

City officials clarified that any proposed projects would undergo a feasibility study to determine ownership and assess community needs. They assured residents that no work would commence until ownership issues are resolved. The city plans to engage with residents to gather input on the project, emphasizing that their goal is to serve the community rather than impose changes.

The meeting concluded with a motion to advance the capital improvement plan while recommending that the city council reconsider the inclusion of the SCE easement project until ownership is clearly established. The motion passed unanimously, reflecting a commitment to address both safety and property rights in the community.