COGCast

The One About Local Control - Part 2 Oct 27, 2021

Building off of part one of our two part series on local control, the COGCast continues the conversation with Mayor Kevin Bash from the City of Norco to discuss what local control means to him in light of the needs of our growing population.

The One About Local Control - Part 1 Oct 27, 2021

With growth on the horizon for Western Riverside County, and the greater Inland Empire, several community-shaping decisions will be made by locally elected officials that will impact communities for years to come. On this episode of the COGCast, we sit down with Mayor Kevin Bash from the City of Norco for part one of a two-part series on local control. This episode will focus on his perspective on what local control means to him when it comes to the area of housing.

The One About Early Childhood Development Education - Part2 Sep 16, 2021

Building off of part one of our two part series on early childhood development education, we continue the conversation discussing the role and impact of early childhood development centers in our local communities.

Episode two features Tammi Graham, Executive Director of First 5 Riverside, and Pamela Robinson, Director of Concilio Child Development Center.

The One About Early Childhood Development Education - Part 1 Sep 01, 2021

Early childhood development centers remain a key cornerstone of our local community, investing in future leaders and providing essential care for children as their parents work.

But how has COVID-19 and its multifaceted impact influenced the sustainability of this industry, especially in our ever-growing region? What are some of the challenges and solutions that need to be considered moving forward? To address some of these questions, the COGCast will feature a special two episode series on early childhood development education.

Part one of this two part series features JoAnne Lauer, Assistant Superintendent for Riverside County Office of Education, and Sarah Burnett, Early Childhood Education Professor at Norco Community College.

The One About the City of Eastvale Jun 30, 2021

The City of Eastvale is one of the newest cities in Western Riverside County, recently incorporated in 2010. Since incorporation, the City has become home to more than 73,000 residents - making it one of the fastest growing cities in California. Over the past year, communities across the Country faced challenges related to the spread of COVID-19. On this episode of the COGCast, we hear how the City of Eastvale responded to these challenges in hope and resilience with guest speaker, Bryan Jones, City Manager at the City of Eastvale.

The One About the Bureau of Land Management May 25, 2021

The Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency (RCHCA) works to maintain and restore habitat for the endangered Stephens' Kangaroo Rat. Many of the efforts undertaken by RCHCA over the past 25 years would not be possible if not for the partnerships formed with agencies like the Department of Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM). More specifically, the BLM’s Threatened and Endangered Species Program leads the conservation and recovery of federally listed species and has worked closely with RCHCA over the years. On this episode of the COGCast, we are joined by James Gannon, BLM’s Fuels Program Manager for the California Desert Interagency Fire Program. This episode is released as a part of RCHCA's programming for Conservation Month. Check out the website for more information!

The One About Collaborative Conservation Efforts May 13, 2021

Over the past 25 years, the Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency has had a core focus to acquire and conserve habitat for the endangered Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat (SKR). Recently the agency completed the Rangewide Management and Monitoring Plan for the SKR which is intended to unify various organizational efforts to protect the species. On this episode of the COGCast, we welcome two scientific pioneers from the Conservation Biology Institute, also known as CBI, who assisted the RCHCA in this effort. Be sure to tune in for this episode with Dr. Wayne Spencer, Chief Scientist, and Deanne DiPietro, Senior Science Coordinator for Conservation Biology Institute.

The One About the State of Water in the Subregion Apr 29, 2021

Eastern Municipal Water District, also known as EMWD, plays a key role in Western Riverside County providing water to more than 850,000 people living and working in the subregion. EMWD's mission is to deliver value to their diverse customers by providing safe, reliable, economical, and environmentally sustainable water, waste water, and recycled water services. To share more about EMWD and the state of water in the subregion, Lanaya Voelz Alexander, Senior Director of Water Resources Planning at EMWD, joins the COGCast on this episode. Tune in today!

The One About the Impact of Water Apr 14, 2021

Western Municipal Water District, also known as Western, is one of the largest public agencies in Riverside County providing both wholesale and retail customers with water, wastewater (sewer), and recycled water services. Western serves nearly 1 million people across 527-square miles in Western Riverside County. Despite water’s vast impact on the region, there are many misconceptions surrounding where our water comes from, what we do with it, and why the role of water districts is paramount to the quality of life in the region. To help address some of these questions, this podcast episode features Craig Miller, General Manager at Western. Tune in today!

The One About the IE Tech Bridge Apr 06, 2021

The Inland Empire Tech Bridge is anchored by the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Corona Division and will serve as a regional hub of innovation for the Navy command and local partners in academia, nonprofit and private industries. This synergistic network will seek to find faster, better solutions to warfighter challenges while stimulating local economic growth and development. On this episode of the COGCast, Troy Clarke, Inland Empire Tech Bridge Director, joins us on the COGCast to share about Tech bridge and it’s anticipated impact in the Inland Empire.

The One About Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Government Mar 29, 2021

As an entrepreneur and owner of two businesses in the downtown area of the City of Riverside, Councilmember Ronaldo Fierro brings a unique and dynamic perspective to the conversation surrounding regional innovation and economic recovery in light of the impact of COVID-19. Tune in for the most recent COGCast episode with City of Riverside Councilmember Ronaldo Fierro today! This episode is being released in anticipation for Riverside County's Innovation Month happening April 2021!

The One About Innovation Month Mar 18, 2021

Save the date for Riverside County's Innovation Month happening April 2021! Innovation Month is a time dedicated to commemorating inventive and entrepreneurial activities in Riverside County. To share more information on the month-long event and Riverside County's overarching economic development efforts, Rob Moran, Deputy Director of Riverside County Business and Community Services, joins us on the COGCast.

The One With Bill Fulton Feb 25, 2021

Bill Fulton has served in various roles throughout Southern California. He has been a journalist, a Mayor for the City of Ventura, a Planning Director for the City of San Diego, and has established himself as a leading advocate for smart growth. Now, in his current role as the Director of the Kinder Institute for Urban Research at Rice University, Bill Fulton continues his work as a thought leader. On this episode of the COGCast, Bill Fulton joins the discussion to share his thoughts on California's future regarding the state's slowing population growth and the implications this could have for local municipalities.

The One About Cal Cities Feb 03, 2021

The League of California Cities, also known as Cal Cities, is an association of California city officials who work together to enhance their knowledge and skills, exchange information, and combine resources so that they can influence policy decision that affect cities. On this episode of the COGCast, Erin Sasse, Regional Public Affairs Manager for Riverside County, joins the discussion to talk about how COVID-19 has impacted the legislature and what local governments can anticipate in the year to come.

The One With Joel Kotkin Jan 19, 2021

Described by the New York Times as “America’s uber-geographer,” Joel Kotkin is an internationally recognized voice on economic, political, and social trends. He is the of author numerous books, including his most recent release titled, “The Coming of Neo-Feudalism: A Warning to the Global Middle Class." Currently, Mr. Kotkin is the Presidential Fellow in Urban Futures at Chapman University in Southern California. Tune in for this episode of the COGCast as we sit down with Joel Kotkin to discuss his projections for Western Riverside County and California at large.

The One About Changing the Inland Empire Narrative Dec 16, 2020

The Inland Empire is often defined by an unfortunate regional narrative that rarely depicts the many innovative efforts undertaken and milestones achieved. How did this happen? What needs to be done in order to change the regional brand? On this episode of the COGCast, we welcome Steve Lambert, Partner in the 20/20 Network, a unique public affairs and strategic communications firm that works to assist entities elevate their brand by establishing a more effective narrative.

The One About the City of Menifee Nov 12, 2020

As a vibrant and young city in the heart of southwest Riverside County, the City of Menifee has grown exponentially since incorporation in 2008 and is recognized as one of the top 10 cities for growth in southern California with a 2.4% growth rate per year. So what is in store for the City of Menifee and how is it preparing for additional growth?

On this episode of the COGCast, Gina Gonzalez, Economic Development Director, and Cheryl Kitzerow, Community Development Director, will share more about the City, its initiatives, and its future.

The One About Wildfires Oct 19, 2020

Since the beginning of the year, wildfires have burned over 3.1 million acres in California. To put this into perspective, 2020's acres burned is 26 times higher than the acres burned in 2019 for the same time period. The devastation of these disasters calls local leaders to understand the scope of the issue and what can be done to help. Tune in for the latest podcast episode featuring Council Member Matt Rahn from the City of Temecula, who also serves as the Director for California State University San Marcos’s Environmental Leadership Institute and Wildfire Program.

The One About Ontario International Airport Oct 07, 2020

Ontario International Airport was established in 1929 and was named the fastest growing U.S. airport in 2018 and 2019. Serving 18.7 million residents in southern California, Ontario Airport plays a key role in the economic ecosystem of the Inland Empire region. Aside from its passenger travel, Ontario Airport is also heavily involved in the air cargo industry, handling over 750,000 tons in 2018. On this episode of the COGCast, Ontario Aiport’s Deputy CEO, Atif Elkadi, joins us to share about how COVID-19 has impacted Ontario Airport and what the future holds for this regional economic driver.

The One With Senator Scott Wiener Sep 16, 2020

Senator Scott Wiener represents California Senate District 11, which includes the Cities of San Francisco, Broadmoor, Colma, and Daly City, as well as portions of the City of South San Francisco. Elected in 2016, Senator Scott Wiener has undertaken a concerted effort to address California's housing crisis, as well as other areas including transportation, healthcare, and much more. Tune in for this episode of the WRCOGCast as we sit down with Senator Scott Wiener as he shares his thoughts on housing, COVID-19, and vision for the future of California.

The One About the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce Sep 03, 2020

The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce (IERCC) supports businesses throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. Focusing primarily on mid-to-large size enterprises within the region, the IERCC provides a platform for c-suite level executives to network with like-minded business individuals. On this episode of the COGCast, Edward Ornelas, President of the IERCC, shares about his vision for the organization and the greater Inland Empire.

The One About the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce Aug 17, 2020

Chambers of commerce play a critical role by providing collaboration opportunities between local companies and the public sector. These efforts are especially important as businesses and jurisdictions navigate in a COVID-19 world.

Tune in for this episode of the WRCOGCast as we sit down with Patrick Ellis, President & CEO of the Murrieta/Wildomar Chamber of Commerce, to discuss how the Chamber is working to champion, engage, and promote local businesses in the midst of COVID-19.

The One About Lewis Group of Companies & the Inland Empire Aug 04, 2020

Lewis Group of Companies has a longstanding history of partnership in the Inland Empire. The company first began in 1955 and over its 65-year history, it has continued to establish itself as a regional contributor and catalyst for development. Randall Lewis, Executive Vice President for Marketing at Lewis Group of Companies, joins this episode of the COGCast to share his take on the future of the region in response to recent disruptions.

The One With Kome Ajise Jul 20, 2020

As the largest metropolitan planning agency in the country, the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) undertakes a variety of efforts to elevate the quality of life throughout the region. One of the agency's latest accomplishments was the development of Connect SoCal, a 45-year Regional Transportation Plan with an integrated Sustainable Communities Strategy. Intended to be a long-range visioning plan, this foundational document will help set the pace for the greater southern California region far into the future. Tune in for this podcast episode as Kome Ajise, SCAG Executive Director, shares about Connect SoCal, housing, and more!

The One With Dr. Wallace Walrod Jul 06, 2020

With a longstanding career in regional economics, Dr. Wallace Walrod has directed strategic partnerships with organizations like Toshiba America Information Systems, Inland Empire Economic Partnership, John Wayne Airport, and many more. His career is marked by leading research and economic advising efforts for various agencies throughout the southern California region including the Southern California Association of Governments and Orange County Business Council. Dr. Walrod is a Managing Partner at Tech Coast Consulting Group and joins the WRCOGCast to share about his economic projections for the Inland Empire.

The One About Planning in a Post-COVID-19 World Jun 18, 2020

As the world begins to look forward to reopening after COVID-19, there are unprecedented challenges that leaders will navigate as they consider how to strategize their city and organization for the future. In light of COVID-19 and its ramifications, what are the practical implications and lessons learned from these new experiences? How will COVID-19 shape planning and other city management practices? On this episode of the COGCast, Dr. Brian Nakamura, Assistant Professor at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University, who also served as the City Manager for various California cities, shares his take on what the future holds and how cities can optimize current opportunities for a better tomorrow.

The One About Entrepreneurship May 11, 2020

The Inland Empire Center for Entrepreneurship (IECE) at California State University, San Bernardino, supports the efforts of students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and small business owners in the Inland Empire by delivering a wide range of programs and services. Their efforts have provided assistance to approximately 70,000 individuals and have been recognized globally as one of the top 35 entrepreneurship programs. Tune in for this episode of the COGCast with IECE Director, Dr. Mike Stull.

The One About the 2020 Census Apr 07, 2020

The 2020 census is mandated by the constitution and counts every living person in the United States. Conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, the census provides critical data for communities around the nation leading to billions of dollars in federal funding for hospitals, fire departments, schools, roads and other resources each year. On this episode of the COGCast, Riverside County District 2 Supervisor, Karen Spiegel, shares about Riverside County’s efforts on the 2020 Census. Please note this podcast was recorded prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and information shared in this podcast may have changed. For the most up to date information regarding the Census, please visit the website. For more information about Riverside County’s efforts on COVID-19, please visit the website.

The One With Professor Ron Loveridge Mar 26, 2020

Ron Loveridge has a lifetime of public service. From serving as a City of Riverside Councilmember beginning in 1979, to serving as Mayor from 1994 to 2012, he is a highly regarded regional, state, and national leader. In addition to his time as an elected official, Loveridge has also taught young professionals at the University of California, Riverside, for 55 years (and counting) - investing in the future generations of civic leaders. On this episode of the COGCast, we sit down with Professor Loveridge as he shares about his story, leadership, and the historic city of arts and innovation, the City of Riverside.

The One About the Clean Cities Coalition Mar 06, 2020

Riverside County was one of several counties in California that received a failing grade for air quality according to the American Lung Association’s 2019 “State of the Air” report card. The report noted that while Riverside County has seen progress and a steady downward trend in pollution, the area continues to experience elevated pollution, making the airspace generally unhealthy. In an effort to improve the region’s air quality, WRCOG’s Clean Cities Coalition seeks to reduce the consumption of petroleum fuels by educating and mobilizing local stakeholders. Be sure to tune in for this episode with Kyle Rodriguez, WRCOG Staff Analyst, who coordinates the Clean Cities Coalition.

The One About SANDAG Feb 20, 2020

The COGcast seeks to feature the many people, programs, and organizations working to make our region the best that it can be. On this episode of the COGcast, we have a unique opportunity to sit down with Hasan Ikhrata, former Executive Director at the Southern California Association of Governments, and current Executive Director of the San Diego Association of Governments, to talk about his role and what he sees as major areas of importance for Southern California. To add to this, Natalie Ikhrata, current WRCOG intern, student at the University of California, Riverside, and daughter of Hasan Ikhrata, will be interviewing her father on this exclusive COGcast episode.

The One About CALCOG Jan 27, 2020

The California Association of Councils of Governments, also known as CALCOG, is comprised of 47 regional agencies across California with the goal to create a collaborative space to have important policy discussions, share information, educate others, and encourage discussions of how to find new solutions for the problems of tomorrow. On this episode of the COGCast, we sit down with Bill Higgins, Executive Director at CALCOG, to learn about the organization and discuss his projections of California's future.

The One That Kicks Off 2020 Jan 07, 2020

As we launch the new year, the COGCast sits down with WRCOG Executive Director, Rick Bishop, to reflect on 2019 and look forward to 2020. Tune in today to learn about some of WRCOG's upcoming 2020 projects!

The One About the Homeless Point in Time Count Dec 16, 2019

The Homeless Point in Time Count is federally mandated by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, also known as HUD, to count and survey the sheltered and unsheltered homeless populations in cities and counties throughout the nation. The 2020 Riverside County Homeless Point in Time Count will take place on Wednesday, January 29, 2020. This episode of the COGCast will feature Laura Gonzalez-Rivera, Social Services Planner and the 2020 Homeless Point in Time Count Coordinator, from the County of Riverside. For more information on the 2020 Riverside Homeless Point in Time Count, visit www.rivcoexchange.com.

The One About Southern California Edison Dec 04, 2019

Southern California Edison, also known as SCE, is the primary electricity supply company for Southern California. Serving approximately 15 million people over 5 million accounts, SCE plays a key role in our communities. Tune in for this episode of the COGCast, featuring Joshua Torres, Senior Policy Advisor at SCE, to share about this partner organization and provide insight on upcoming projects and technology.

The One About RHNA Nov 18, 2019

Throughout California, there is a housing affordability crisis spurred by a mounting shortage of housing supply. State housing officials estimate that more than 1.3 million homes need to be built in the six-county SCAG region between October 2021 and October 2029. In an effort to address this issue, the Regional Housing Needs Assessment, also known as RHNA, is mandated by State Housing Law as part of the periodic process of updating local housing elements of a jurisdiction’s General Plan.

On this episode of the COGCast, Ma’Ayn Johnson, Housing Program Manager at the Southern California Association of Governments, answers two major questions: What is RHNA? And what does it mean for jurisdictions?

The One About Riverside County's Education System Nov 05, 2019

Riverside County is home to 23 school districts and 515 schools filled with students who will be the leaders of tomorrow. With a widely diverse student population and the always changing future landscape of work, how is Riverside County’s education system positioning itself for future innovation and change? On this episode of the COGcast, Dr. Judy White, Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, shares about her role and what the future holds for the County’s education system.

The One About Addressing Homelessness Oct 23, 2019

This year, Riverside County’s annual Homeless Point in Time count found that there was a 20% increase in the number of people living on the streets compared to last year. County officials further provide perspective that the count is a one-day snapshot and merely represents the “visible” homeless population and not necessarily everyone who lacks a home. Nonetheless, the local impact of homelessness remains a key issue for the region.

On this episode of the COGcast, Monica Sapien and Aaron Petroff from the Social Work Action Group, also known as SWAG, share their organization's approach to help the homeless in Western Riverside County.

The One About SoCalGas Oct 07, 2019

The Southern California Gas Company, also known as SoCalGas, is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility serving 21.8 million consumers across more than 500 communities. For over 150 years, SoCalGas has served central and southern California as a responsible and engaged environmental leader, employer and neighbor. Tune in for this episode of the COGCast as we hear from Lea Peterson, Public Affairs Manager, and Ana Aceves, Program Manager, at SoCalGas.

The One About a More Resilient Inland Empire Sep 20, 2019

In collaboration with the San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA), WRCOG has developed the Resilient Inland Empire (IE) Guidebook that seeks to identify regional vulnerabilities to climate change and develop resources and tools to improve regional resiliency.

To better understand the need for resilience planning, consider the impacts to the Idyllwild area resulting from 2018’s record precipitation- torrential rain caused rain and debris flows to exceed capacity of existing infrastructure, which ultimately led the roads to buckle. For months, stretches of both State Routes 74 and 243 were closed for repairs that exceeded $100 million, isolating the community and extending commutes for residents significantly. This situation is one of many that call local leaders to prepare communities for the threats that weather can pose to the region. To share about the importance of resiliency planning, the COGcast welcomes Aaron Pfannenstiel, Principal at Atlas Planning Solutions.

The One About A Futurist Sep 05, 2019

The future is rarely a clear picture. It is often ambiguous and difficult to plan for. Yet, understanding the future is essential and can help strategically orient an organization for long-term success. So what does the future hold for Western Riverside County? And how can governments prepare and strategically plan for future innovation and change? Tune in for this COGcast episode featuring Futurist, Mark Cofano. Additionally, for more information on the Inland Empire Innovation Week, follow this link: https://inlandempire.innovationweeks.com/tracks/innovation-in-government

The One About How (And Why) to Engage the Public Aug 23, 2019

At its root, public engagement seeks to better involve the community in policy decisions to achieve long-term and sustainable outcomes, processes, relationships, discourse, decision-making, or implementation. However, these engagement efforts can be exceedingly difficult due to a variety of factors including a shift in communication and skepticism of government. So what does effective public engagement look like? On this episode of the COGCast, Ashely Labosier, Executive Director at the Davenport Institute for Public Engagement at Pepperdine University shares her insight on this relevant topic.

The One About Solar for Underserved Communities Aug 09, 2019

California is commonly regarded as one of the pioneering states for energy efficiency measures across the nation. Yet, while alternative and natural energy sources grow in popularity, cost remains a major barrier for many. Working to address this issue, GRID Alternatives is the nation’s largest, community-based, nonprofit solar installer that makes renewable energy technology and job training accessible to underserved communities. GRID's impact has been significant, saving homeowners over $56 million in lifetime electricity costs. Additionally, over 2,700 people have received free hands-on job training to pursue careers in the solar industry. On this episode of the COGCast, Lisa Castilone, Community Development and Tribal Manager, and Kari H’Orvath, Outreach Manager at GRID Alternatives, share how GRID is changing the lives of many across Western Riverside County and beyond.

The One About An Innovation Economy Jul 25, 2019

As it continues to be one of the fastest-growing areas in the country, the Inland Empire faces a variety of challenges common to urbanizing regions. These include including traffic, pollution, adequate and affordable housing, and economic development. Although the region has seen a surge in employment, a recent study conducted by the University of Redlands indicates that the Inland Empire is particularly vulnerable to the automation of a large number of existing jobs. The study concludes that our region is the 4th most vulnerable metro in the nation to automation, with nearly 63% of all current jobs susceptible to automation over the next 20 years. How should we respond to this news? Can we get ahead of the trends? Are there strategies to approach these challenges? On this episode of the COGCast, entrepreneur Fred Walti, President and CEO at The Network for Global Innovation, shares his insight on how the Inland Empire can best position itself for the future.

The One About Connecting the County's Transportation Network Jul 15, 2019

The Riverside County Transportation Commission, also known as RCTC, is the hub for transportation solutions that connect Riverside County as a whole. RCTC is governed by local elected officials representing all of the jurisdictions in Riverside County, and is staffed by a team of public servants that work to connect the County’s vast region by enhancing roads, bridges, sidewalks, express lanes, and more. On this episode of the COGCast, Supervisor Chuck Washington, Chairman of RCTC and Anne Mayer, RCTC's Executive Director, share their insight on how the Agency is responding to the County's growth and transportation needs.

The One About College Grads and the Workforce Jul 01, 2019

There are many college students who call Western Riverside County home. To add to this, the City of Riverside is a top city millennials are moving to (as noted by Time Magazine). With a variety of universities and community colleges, and the general influx of young professionals moving, living, and working in the subregion, how do we create a place of growth for young professionals to encourage their investment in the subregion throughout their career? How can young professionals leverage their skills and abilities as they transition from higher education to the workforce? On this episode of the COGCast, Mike Bishop, Director of the Career Center at California Baptist University shares his insight on the topic.

The One About Workforce Development Jun 14, 2019

Workforce development grows a region’s economic stability by training workers for future, meaningful employment opportunities. This in turn boosts the quality of life throughout a city and the larger subregion. The City of Perris, California has recently announced plans to create the Perris Downtown Skills Training and Job Placement Center, also known as the Skills Center, in the heart of their downtown area. On this episode of the COGCast, we are pleased to welcome Dr. Grace Williams, Economic Development Director at the City of Perris who is leading the charge in this endeavor.

The One About Homelessness May 31, 2019

Homelessness continues to be a rising issue in Southern California creating public health, public safety, and humanitarian complications. It’s multifaceted and systemic nature can be overwhelming. So how can local agencies address homelessness in Western Riverside County? How have others addressed this issue before? Tune into this episode of the COGCast as we welcome Kris Murray, former Councilmember from the City of Anaheim, who played an instrumental role in addressing homelessness in Anaheim.

The One About Walking, Biking, and Horseback Riding...oh my! May 17, 2019

Active transportation utilizes non-motorized transportation modes, like walking, biking, and horseback riding that promote overall wellness, health, and safety throughout communities. In an effort to help support active transportation initiatives in our subregion, WRCOG hired a project team led by consultant Fehr and Peers to create The Western Riverside County Active Transportation Plan, also known as ATP. This document aims to improve access to non-motorized transportation options within the subregion. Tune into this episode of the COGCast, to learn about active transportation and the bright future it has in Western Riverside County with Miguel Nunez, Senior Associate at Fehr and Peers.

The One About Recycling May 03, 2019

Local jurisdictions alongside WRCOG and other partners have developed the Solid Waste Cooperative, which is intended to help Western Riverside County reach State mandated goals for recycling waste and extending landfill life. The Solid Waste Cooperative also works to instill stewardship values and empower the local community to recycle through education and community outreach. Tune into the most recent COGCast episode with Kyle Rodriguez, staff analyst at WRCOG, to learn more about the Solid Waste Cooperative.

The One About Robots and Jobs - Part 2 Apr 17, 2019

In part one of this two-part segment on automation, Dr. Johannes Moenius from the University of Redlands explained what automation is and how it is projected to impact the Inland Empire. His research indicated that about 50% of jobs in the United States are susceptible to automation, for the Inland Empire 63% of jobs are susceptible to automation. On this episode of the COGCast, Dr. Johannes Moenius discusses best practices for how to prepare communities for the coming automation.

The One About Robots and Jobs - Part 1 Apr 17, 2019

Forthcoming advances in robotics, automation, machine learning, and artificial intelligence could have profound impacts on the local economy affecting a variety of industries and the local workforce. Studies indicate that many of these prospective changes could happen over the next five years. With this information, a few questions arise for our local area: What is automation and how does it apply to the Inland Empire? And how do we prepare our communities for this change? To address these two questions, the COGCast welcomes Dr. Johannes Moenius for a two-part segment featuring his research on the implications of automation.

The One About Clean Energy Financing Apr 03, 2019

With almost 40 million residents, California is commonly regarded to as one of the pioneering states for energy efficiency and water conservation measures. Due to its drought-zone environment, seismic activity, and prevalent sunshine, there is a need to keep innovation and safety at the forefront of development. With the variety of improvement opportunities available to both residential and commercial property owners, the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program administered by the Western Riverside Council of Governments, helps owners finance property retrofits to become greener, more energy efficient investments. Tune in for the most recent COGCast episode with Casey Dailey, the Director of Energy & Environmental Programs at the Western Riverside Council of Governments, to learn about the PACE Program!

The One About Madaffer Enterprises Mar 20, 2019

Innovation continues to shift and change the world we live in. From smart cities to autonomous vehicles, technological advancements are shifting the status quo. In this changing landscape, leaders must be mindful to understand what the coming technology is and how it can affect communities in the future.

On this episode of the COGCast, we welcome Jim Madaffer, President of Madaffer Enterprises, to learn more about the coming technology and how it can impact our subregion.

The One About SCAG Mar 05, 2019

With 6 counties, almost 200 cities, and 19 million residents, the Southern California Association of Governments, also known as SCAG, is the largest Metropolitan Planning Organization in the nation. Acting as a catalyst for Southern California, SCAG seeks to foster innovative regional solutions that improve the quality of life for the growing population that call this area home. Through collaboration, planning, regional advocacy, and the promotion of best practices, SCAG addresses key issues that Southern Californians face everyday.

On this episode of the COGCast, we learn more about SCAG with Darin Chidsey, Interim Executive Director at SCAG.

The One About Western Riverside Energy Partnership Feb 19, 2019

The Western Riverside Energy Partnership, also known as WREP, is a partnership between Southern California Edison, Southern California Gas Company, WRCOG, and 15 member jurisdictions. This partnership assists WRCOG members identify and implement energy efficient projects to increase utility bill savings, while also equipping the community to carry out sustainable best practices in their homes and businesses. On this episode of the COGCast, we learn about WREP and the impacts it has on the local community with Anthony Segura, Staff Analyst at WRCOG.

The One About IEEP Jan 29, 2019

The Inland Empire is comprised of both San Bernardino and Riverside counties. While many people consider the Inland Empire part of the Greater Los Angeles area, the reality is that it has its own set of challenges and opportunities unique to the area. The Inland Empire Economic Partnership, also known as IEEP, works to improve the economic climate of the Inland Empire to enhance the quality of life for both the residents and businesses that live, work, and play in our fast growing region.

On this episode of the COGCast, we learn more about the IEEP alongside Paul Granillo, President and CEO of the IEEP.

The One About Young Professionals Jan 04, 2019

The Western Riverside County is home to approximately 200,000 college students served by both private and public colleges and universities. Once degreed, however, many students leave the region to find work elsewhere. To address this issue, local jurisdictions are participating in a new program working to develop this young talent to become competent and confident professionals who will stay in the subregion and perhaps find a career in local government. On this episode of the COGCast, we explore a unique endeavor, the WRCOG Fellowship Program.

The One About Rats Dec 14, 2018

As Western Riverside continues to grow, conservation of the areas natural resources is important in order to maintain urban and wildlife balance in our communities. Healthy ecosystems depend on plant and animal species as their foundation. More specifically, wildlife conservation plays an important role in balancing the ecosystem. When a species becomes endangered, it is a sign that the ecosystem is failing.

On this episode of the COGCast, we explore The Riverside County Habitat Conservation Agency (RCHCA), the agency responsible for maintaining and restoring habitat for the endangered Stephen's Kangaroo Rat alongside Princess Hester, Director of Administration for the RCHCA.

The One About Western Community Energy Dec 07, 2018

The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) has been working with local governments to develop a new program, Western Community Energy, which will provide residents and businesses a choice in the energy supply it receives, enable local control over rate setting, and offer rates competitive to Southern California Edison. These Programs, commonly called “Community Choice Aggregation” – or CCA’s -are growing in popularity throughout California.

On this episode of the COGCast, we will explore CCA’s in more detail and are pleased to welcome Barbara Spoonhour, Deputy Executive Director of Operations for WRCOG, to the COGcast.

The One About Streetlights Nov 30, 2018

There are tens of thousands of streetlights in our communities that we truly only notice when the light is out or when a pole is knocked over by a vehicle. We take them for granted, expect them to work, and don’t think much otherwise about them. But who owns the streetlights? What are the maintenance costs? How much energy do they consume? Could streetlights be an opportunity for economic development? On this episode of the COGCast, we explore WRCOG's innovative Regional Streetlights program, which is projected to save more than $60 million over a 20-year period. Our featured guest on this episode of the COGCast is the architect of the Program, Tyler Masters, Program Manager at WRCOG.

The One About TUMF Nov 21, 2018

Traffic congestion is usually cited as one of the most important issues affecting the daily quality life for our residents and businesses in Inland Southern California. As Western Riverside continues to be among the fastest growing regions in the nation how will more growth affect traffic, and what can be done about it?

On this episode of the COGCast, we explore one of WRCOG's most influential and successful programs the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF), with the WRCOG Director of Transportation and Planning, Chris Gray.

So...what is WRCOG? Nov 13, 2018

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