Community workshops were conducted in each community as part of the engagement process. In addition, input was gathered through the Countywide Plan website. As part of the process, participants defined the strengths of and opportunities for their community. The word cloud was created using the input provided during the Strengths, Opportunities, Values and Aspirations exercises and served as part of the base information utilized to develop the Focus and Action Statements of the Community Action Guide. The word cloud quickly informed participants of key issues and focus areas that could be addressed in the guide. The more a word or phrase was articulated, the larger the word appears in the cloud. The full results of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats gathered as a part of the engagement process is found in the Community Profile.

The Values are those shared assets, principles, standards, mores, and in the judgement of the community, what is important in the lives of its residents and businesses. A community’s values are an important consideration in shaping its aspirations, focus and actions.

As a community we value:

• Rural Culture. Mentone residents value their community’s rural culture and quiet, honest way of life.
• Local Economy. Mentone residents value an economic core of local businesses and good schools.
• Open Space. Mentone residents value the preservation of local agriculture and open spaces.
• Safety. Mentone residents value maintaining a safe community that is comfortable and enjoyable for all residents.
• Public Transportation. Mentone residents value regional access through public transportation.

The community profile is a summary of the social, cultural, economic, and historic dimensions of Mentone. It presents data collected through secondary sources to inform future actions. The profile, together with future studies and information gathered from residents, highlights essential facets and “tells the story” of the Mentone Community.

2019 Community Profile (opens in a new window)

Residents recognize the need to create a sustainable and resilient community during the community planning process and acknowledged the steps necessary to ensure that adequate infrastructure and resources are available to handle changing conditions.

For many residents, agriculture represents their livelihood and is a very important aspect of the community. Agritourism has drawn many residences, who came to Mentone because of the rich agricultural history. Those who call Mentone home treasure the preservation and expansion of the groves and agricultural uses in the community.

Residents engage in a collaborative planning effort with local community organizations, schools, and other interested stakeholders to prepare and implement a study to increase open space and recreational opportunities identified by the community. Our community identified several potential locations and narrowed the search through a community vote. Fundraising efforts and sponsorships from local businesses result in new neighborhood parks, while local interest groups create signage for existing hiking and biking trails in the area.

Our community implements strategies for more efficient and pedestrian friendly means of transportation, including working with Omnitrans to organize new bus routes. We also support construction of sidewalks in limited areas to make the community more accessible for everyone. These improvements create a more pedestrian friendly atmosphere while keeping up with needed infrastructure maintenance to our roads and existing sidewalks.

1. Establish a façade and sign improvement program that defines the Mentone look and feel.

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2. Preserve and expand agricultural production within Mentone through agritourism, urban agricultural practices, nurseries and the development of community gardens.

3. Construct a community center that accommodates community-focused events, evening meetings, and recreational activities.

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4. Promote expanded economic and tourism activity along Mentone Boulevard (Highway 38) that highlights the community’s history, and proximity to the San Bernardino Mountains.

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5. Advocate for changes in development standards requiring new development to set aside land for open space and/or agricultural use.

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1. Advocate and collaborate with Caltrans to develop a master plan for signage, striping, and lighting along Highway 38 that enhances public safety and pedestrian connectivity.

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2. Identify and advocate for improvements along major roadways in Mentone that are impacted by development activities outside of the community.

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3. Coordinate with local transit agencies to increase mobility in the community through improved transit services.

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4. IN PROCESS: Advocate the development and expansion of pedestrian pathways and trails that connect Mentone to open space areas such as the San Bernardino Mountains and Santa Ana River.

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5. Support the County’s expansion of the Santa Ana River Multipurpose Trail.

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1. Promote, through a public education campaign, the effective use of private outdoor lighting that enhances resident and business safety, while protecting night sky views and resources.

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2. Establish an access and functional needs assessment for residents and businesses within Mentone.

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3. Advocate for improved water quality and sewage infrastructure throughout the community, resulting in less groundwater pollution and water quality issues within local waterways.

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1. Establish a non-vehicular mobility plan to advocate for additional bike paths and pedestrian paths that connect to existing and proposed regional trail networks.

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2. Develop and incorporate historical information and signage throughout the community regarding natural resources and amenities.

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1. Establish an effective communication process between Mentone, the County, and adjacent cities that increase information and understanding of planning projects and initiatives.

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2. Coordinate with County Fire and Sheriff Departments on calls for service information that can be shared with businesses and residents.

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