Development News for Norco, California

Four Norco Students Awarded 2026 Waste Management Scholarships

Glenda Chavez from Waste Management presented the 2026 scholarship recipients. Four Norco residents attending Norco High School or JFK High School were awarded $2,500 each towards their educational expenses. The scholarship program is a new initiative established with the city's waste management contract to support local students.

City Adopts 2025 Water Management and Shortage Contingency Plans

The city council reviewed and approved the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) and the 2025 Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP). The UWMP, prepared every five years, outlines water demands through 2050, reviews existing supplies, and evaluates measures for reliability. Norco serves approximately 15 square miles, with 7,960 connections. Water supply capacity (11,500 acre-feet) exceeds projected demand (around 7,000 acre-feet by 2050). The city purchases most of its water, with wells supplying about 17%. The WSCP includes a multi-stage conservation plan, with mandatory measures in stages two through five, aiming for up to 50% reduction in stage five. The city has emergency water connections with neighboring agencies like Corona. Rebate programs and building code compliance support conservation efforts.

Council Receives Updates on Regional Board Activities and Local Events

Council heard reports from regional boards. Councilmember Bash reported on the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Plan meeting, noting Norco's success in receiving its share of funds and participating in the Cal City Smaller Rural Cities Information Group. He also discussed new leadership at the Western Regional Council of Governments, highlighting the potential for a strong alliance with Corona and Eastvale to secure funding. Additionally, he shared positive news about an $11 million grant secured by the Western Riverside Council County Conservation Authority. Councilmember Sullivan reported on the RTA board meeting, and Councilmember Newton mentioned the Northwest Mosquito board meeting, highlighting 100% employment. Various council members also attended local events like graduations and Memorial Day observances.

Western Riverside Council County Conservation Authority Secures $11 Million Grant, Additional $6 Million Expected

The city council was presented with an update on the Western Riverside Council County Conservation Authority, which has secured a significant grant of $11 million, with an additional $6 million anticipated. This funding is intended for environmental mitigation efforts, specifically to preserve wildlife corridors by allowing passage through urban areas when habitats or protected species are disturbed. Councilmember Bash expressed optimism about potential future funding for the city through collaborations with Corona and Eastvale within the Western Regional Council of Governments.