SACRAMENTO, CA – Governor Newsom has signed Senate Bill 536 by Senator Rubio (D-Baldwin Park).  This bill will begin the process to allow the City of Chino to acquire surplus state property located within its jurisdiction and redevelop it for community-oriented uses such as affordable housing, recreation, and education.

“This bill represents an opportunity for the City of Chino to transform unused state property into a community asset and I am glad that the Governor agrees,” said Senator Rubio.

“It is always an honor to work with the City of Chino and because of our collaboration we will improve the quality of life for residents and community members in this great city,” continued Rubio. 

In 2023, the Chino City Council unanimously adopted a resolution to support legislation to begin the negotiating process to acquire the Heman G. Stark Youth Correctional Facility. This facility is located within the City of Chino and was operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation from 1960 to 2010. This currently unused property is located near the physical center of Chino, south of a residential neighborhood and near the Planes of Fame Air Museum, an aviation museum featuring a collection of aircraft and memorabilia with a youth education center.

SB 536 represents the next step in the process for the City of Chino to acquire this property by authorizing the California Department of General Services to sell it to the City of Chino upon terms and conditions that the department determines are in the best interests of the state. Possible uses of the site could include affordable housing, a commercial component, and an agricultural/farm area where people have access to freshly grown produce to reflect the City of Chino’s agricultural roots.

“We are very grateful to Senator Susan Rubio for authoring SB 536,” said Eunice M. Ulloa, Mayor of the City of Chino. “Imagine the former youth correctional facility housing a place that gives children the opportunity to learn about urban agriculture, sustainability and self-reliance, and develop an appreciation for farming and the outdoors from local agricultural instructors and mentors! SB 536 will open the doors to this process of engaging the community to develop this important site into something that provides hope and reflects the region’s past and bright future.”