The City Council on Monday recognized two outstanding Marines for their dedication and four multi-family complexes for becoming greener. Council recognitions are designed to pay homage to those who make a difference in Mission Viejo.
Lance Corporal Deron J. Johnson was recognized as “Marine of the Quarter” and Sergeant Camilo R. Osuna was honored as “Noncommissioned Officer of the Quarter.” The recognition of these dedicated individuals is part of an ongoing effort by the City’s Marines & Sailors Adoption Committee to provide year-round support to Mission Viejo’s adopted troops. The honor, which includes impressive gifts, is meant to help boost morale and remind the selfless Marines and Sailors of this community’s unwavering support.
Johnson and Osuna were selected by their peers for their “stand-out” performance over the past three months. Possessing strength and spirit, the men are already at the top of their class in annual training requirements such as rifle marksmanship; water survival and physical fitness; academic testing; professional military and off-duty education; community involvement; and military specialty qualifications. Joining several hundred of their peers, the Marines then competed in a physical fitness test, uniform inspection, and faced an interview panel.
The fruits of their labor have also earned each Marine a one-night stay at Anaheim Marriott, compliments of the hotel; VIP seating at an Angels game courtesy of Charles Abbott & Associates; and a $150 gift certificate for dining and entertainment.
Four Mission Viejo properties – Valencia, Arroyo Vista, Casa Loma and California Terrace – were also honored for implementing successful recycling programs.
Since 2007, the City has worked with 15 of the 17 multi-family complexes in the City to implement recycling programs. Through these proactive efforts, more than 3,800 housing units, representing over 88% of multi-family residents, now have access to recycling. Recycling programs save money because commercial and multi-family recycling is free through the City’s contract with Waste Management of Orange County.
Valencia, Arroyo Vista, Casa Loma and California Terrace have all embraced recycling as a way to make their community greener and to save some green as well. For example, California Terrace Homeowners Association implemented a recycling program in September 2008 and has since reduced its trash bill by 55%. The property has saved nearly $32,000 on its trash bills since the program was implemented. While many homeowners associations are raising their monthly association dues, California Terrace has decreased them for the next budget cycle while increasing its reserves and balancing its budget, thanks in part to the more than $10,000 per year saved on trash bills.
The Valencia Condominiums Community Association, one of the largest HOAs in the City, saves more than $800 per month since implementing its recycling program in September 2009.
As a result of launching its recycling program in May 2009, Casa Loma saves nearly $500 per month. The property is currently exploring implementing a community garden for its residents and using food waste and green waste compost generated by residents as fertilizer.
Arroyo Vista Apartments has been recycling for years and is committed to saving the environment. Residents can drop-off their bottles and cans at designated recycling centers around the property. When these fill, the property manager redeems them and uses the refund value to throw a party for residents.
To watch Monday’s presentations and entire City Council meeting, visit the City’s website at www.cityofmissionviejo.org.
