The Town Crier’s reporting of propane prices and policies of the six companies that serve the Hill began after reader inquiries. Readers said they often did not understand how prices were set and how they varied from company to company. Beginning Jan. 28, and continuing thereafter every two to three weeks, we queried local providers…

A Riverside County Superior Court judge has ordered a battery of medical assessments for Steven Taylor Rutherford, 48, of Banning. The doctor’s report is expected back for a May 1 hearing. In February, Rutherford was charged with 13 felony counts of arson with enhancements, including use of a delayed ignition device and having a prior…

Victims of recent wildfires whose property was damaged or destroyed may be eligible for property tax relief in Riverside County. In response to the disasters, Assessor-Clerk-Recorder Larry Ward and Treasurer-Tax Collector Don Kent have teamed up to assist victims countywide. Taxpayers may be eligible to have their property reassessed and their Dec. 10 property tax…

Local water districts oppose it, too The possibility of the state Legislature imposing a tax on local water bills is looming. Throughout the state, local water districts and media are objecting to a tax on water — a critical human need. During meetings last week, the boards of the Fern Valley and Pine Cove water…