Urgency Ignored: Riverside County Criticized for Inaction on Animal Services, Scams, and Traffic Safety

Fred Roggin highlighted Riverside County's failure to address critical community issues during Monday's Roggin Report. From unresolved leadership in animal services to rising traffic fatalities, the county faces mounting criticism for its lack of urgency in tackling problems. Animal services remain in disarray following lawsuits and the departure of its director. Despite spending $2.5 million on consultants, the county has yet to hire a replacement. Roggin shared the distressing story of Henry, a poodle adopted from a shelter with untreated injuries, raising concerns about care for vulnerable animals. Doug Baker and Jim Walker criticized the county’s inaction, calling for immediate leadership to steer the department toward humane practices. Roggin also shared a cautionary tale of predatory scams. A Rancho Mirage senior was pressured into a $9,400 driveway repaving job, which doubled in cost without a written agreement. The resulting shoddy work left her seeking recourse. Roggin advised residents to avoid unsolicited contractors, demand written contracts, and consult trusted neighbors or friends. Traffic fatalities were another focus, with recent deaths involving cyclists and golf cart drivers underscoring the dangers of shared roads. Timothy Lillard tragically lost his life in a golf cart collision, highlighting the need for safer infrastructure. Community members pushed for the completion of the CV Link, which could provide cyclists and pedestrians with dedicated pathways to reduce accidents. Roggin urged local officials to prioritize these pressing issues and act decisively to protect the community. Accountability, he emphasized, must become the cornerstone of leadership to foster safety and trust in the region. For more insights and solutions, visit the newsroom section of our website and stay tuned to The Roggin Report.