Del Norte County Grand Jury
2015-2016
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
Alder Camp is very clean and is set in the trees and away from the main road. The camp is reached by driving down a long road which is well marked with "Stay Out" signs. The Grand Jury members approaching the camp were stopped by camp personnel in a fire truck ensuring they were authorized visitors. The facility is old but looks to be in great shape. It has a measure of self-sufficiency with its own septic system and back-up power generators.
F2:
The barracks were found to be very sufficient with each inmate having his own personal space. It is small but each space is very clean and organized. Each barracks has its own bathroom and one of the barracks buildings holds the laundry system for the entire camp. There are inmates assigned the duty of doing laundry. The inmates drop off their items in the morning and pick them up upon their arrival back at camp at the end of the day.
F3:
The kitchen is being remodeled because it required multiple upgrades including a new cooling system. At the time of the Grand Jury tour the remodeling project was about halfway through. The workers in the Alder Camp kitchen are very proud of their meals. They make everything from scratch and are known for their homemade bread. Each inmate gets three meals a day and is also eligible to buy snacks at the canteen to keep in their own cabinets. 31
F4:
Each project that the inmates participate in, such as the wood mill or workshop, is supervised by a paid staff officer or Cal Fire Staff. The Alder Camp inmates make many things from wood including toys for donation to the Christmas-time Toys for Tots Program. There is a wood mill where the inmates plane their own boards from timber that has been donated to the program.
F5:
There have been no actual escaped inmates this year from Alder Camp. However, there were two inmates who were found beyond the borders and were considered escapees. They will be tried and were immediately sent back to CDCR Susanville. Since the Grand Jury toured Alder Camp, a news story has reported an inmate who ran away and left the camp. That inmate has since been captured and returned to CDCR Susanville where he will be placed in a more secure facility
Additional Recommendations
2
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The impressive facility was found to be running smoothly and well managed. It is located in a peaceful setting in a very beautiful area. The Grand Jury wishes to commend the hard-working, knowledgeable staff at the Alder Camp facility. It is our recommendation that this camp continue to be funded and managed as it has been and any needs for upgrading and maintaining the facility be attended to in a timely manner by the appropriate authoritative body. With fewer Level 1 inmates in the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation system due to AB 109, perhaps more education of inmates in the traditional state prison system as to the benefits of participating in the work camp system could boost enrollment and interest in the Alder Camp facility.
R2:
The incidence of escapism is relatively low, as most of the Level 1 inmates who participate in Alder Camp prefer the interest and challenge of the work camp to the prospect of serving their sentences out in a traditional manner in state prison. The whole basis of this program is built on trust and cooperation of the inmates. With few annual escapees, it seems the screening process for eligibility is sufficient and should be maintained at the status quo. The opportunity to learn and grow in technical skills and self-assurance is not only valuable but could be transformative for inmates inclined to try a new path and adventure in their lives. BAR-O BOYS RANCH
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F7:
The Local Fair District Board entered into an MOU with the 41st Fair District to provide for funding of the Fairgrounds facilities while waiting for the Governor to sign the Lease Contract. The Grand Jury would like to know from legal counsel: a) if the Local Fair District can continue to provide funding to the 41st District for the continued operation of the Fairgrounds, and b) if the Local Fair District can continue to use an MOU to replace the Lease Contract which the Governor declined to sign, and c) if the Local Fair District can use the MOU to continue to operate in place of the requirements of Sections 5780, 5780.1 (c) and 5780.1 (h) of the Public Resources Code, and d) if the Local Fair District can use the MOU to continue to operate and continue to collect taxes despite their non-compliance with all of LAFCO’s formation requirements in Resolution 14-02? e) if the Local Fair District can use the MOU to continue to operate and continue to collect taxes despite their non-compliance with all of BOS formation requirements in Resolution14-002?
F8:
The MOU dated November 17, 2015 between the Local Fair Board and the 41st District states that the funds transferred between the two boards was initially given as a gift of public funds and later reclassified as a grant of public funds.
F9:
Currently the Local Fair District is accruing an average of $55,000 per month in local sales tax revenue. The sales tax has generated more than $600,000.00 to funding the Local Fair District. The Grand Jury would also like to know if the funds that have been given to the 41st District need to be returned to the coffers of the Local Fair District pending a determination of the status of the special district.
F10:
LAFCO requires the Local Fair District to reimburse the 41st District for the cost of being formed. The Grand Jury questions why LAFCO would make this requirement? Did the 41st District use public funds to create the Local Fair District? If so, the Grand Jury would like to know if this was an improper use of public funds by the 41st District. Since the Grand Jury does not have responsibility or oversight authority over this State Agency, should this matter be referred to the Attorney General’s Office for further review? Request for Legal Opinion The Grand Jury requested a legal opinion from the Del Norte County Counsel in order to ascertain if in fact the Local Fair District has been legally formed in accordance with the statutes of 5780, 5780.1(c) and 5780.1(h) of the Public Resources Code and if the Local Fair District is in compliance with the LAFCO requirements and the BOS requirements (questions 5 through 7 in the Findings Section above). In addition, the Grand Jury further requested the County Counsel provide legal opinions and guidance on all of the above listed questions 4, and 8 through 11 in the Findings Section above. The County Counsel’s Office recused itself citing a conflict of interest since that office helped with the formation of the Local Fair District. The Grand Jury has subsequently referred the above questions to the presiding Judge of the Superior Court. The Judge has subsequently referred the questions to the District Attorney’s office for review. Lacking further legal counsel and guidance the Grand Jury cannot complete it’s review of the Del Norte County Fairgrounds Recreation and Parks District.
Additional Recommendations
3
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Grand Jury cannot make a complete list of recommendations due to the fact that we have requested legal advice for Items 4 through 11 in the Findings Section. When the Grand Jury receives proper legal opinions, guidance and instruction on how to proceed, the next Grand Jury will be better able to complete this section of this report.
R2:
The Grand Jury recommends the Local Fair Board needs to post the monthly agendas in two or more public places and online so that the public can have better access to the information.
R3:
The Grand Jury recommends the Local Fair Board post their monthly Meeting Minutes more publicly and online so that the public can have better access to the information. Closing Statement of the Grand Jury This Grand Jury very strongly suggests that the next Grand Jury take up the issues raised herein. The Grand Jury discovered these problems in late March. The Grand Jury recognizes that the delay of timely legal advice was due to the late discovery of the fact that the Governor declined to sign the Lease Contract. It is evident to the Grand Jury after reviewing all of the documentation, that the public voted for the establishment of the Local Fair District and the sales taxes increase which was to be specifically used for the control, management and operations of the Fair and the fairgrounds and questions whether the sales tax can be given to another district (the 41st District in this case) to accomplish that function.
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
Deputy Director Kent Burrow was very informative and accommodated all inquiries.
F2:
Bar-O Boys Ranch is a 42-bed facility and there are currently 18 boys in residence.
F3:
The staff encourages the youth to better themselves physically, educationally, and vocationally.
F4:
The barracks are maintained in a neat and orderly manner, but the physical condition of the barracks and bathroom remain outdated and in dire need of remodeling or replacement. The time is well past due for these issues to be addressed.
F5:
The atmosphere of the complex is one of professionalism where security is stressed at all times. COMMENDATIONS The facility appears to be very secure and well run and the level of knowledge held by the staff is appreciated by the 2015/2016 Del Norte County Grand Jury. We are interested in seeing how the reduced numbers of those incarcerated due to AB109 and the Public Safety Realignment will continue to affect the local institution and our community. DEL NORTE SHERIFF STATION AND COUNTY JAIL Summary Six members of the 2015/2016 Grand Jury made a visit to the Del Norte Sheriff Station and County Jail on November 23, 2015, as authorized by the California Penal Code. In addition to the detention facility tour, the same six Grand Jury members held an interview with Commander Bill Steven of the Del Norte County Jail. Background The current jail was originally constructed in 1960. A remodel in the early 1990’s included a new wing with a more modern design. While the jail has 168 beds, it currently houses a range of 90-105 inmates due to a self- imposed cap, which is a result of staffing limitations. Methodology An interview with Commander Steven was held before the tour of the facility in order to allow Grand Jury members to become more familiar with the jail and its operations before viewing the facility. Discussion The tour of the Del Norte County Jail was led by Commander Steven who was very informative and answered all questions asked of him. The jail appears to be well organized and running efficiently. The facility provides weekly programs which include: Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, religious services, mental health and parenting classes. GED assistance is available through College of the Redwoods, and they are currently in the process of setting up a computer tablet lab. Inmates are also afforded the opportunity to receive a ServSafe Certificate while working in the kitchen. A single dispatcher handles all sheriff, city police, ambulance, fire, state park, and 911 emergency calls, along with the receptionist duties of the Sheriff Department, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All of this work is completed in a very small, cramped office space located within the Sheriff Station. There is a plan in place to expand the dispatch area into the outer office by building a wall separating the outer office area from the main hallway. This construction is expected to be completed within the next year. Findings
Additional Recommendations
5
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Grand Jury continues to recommend to the Board of Supervisors that the barracks be replaced. This is the fourth year that we have made this recommendation and it is apparent that the right level of priority is not being placed on this problem.
R2:
The Sheriff and Board of Supervisors should continue to pursue State Funds and grants to complete the planned jail remodel and other efforts to modernize and improve the facility.
R3:
The disrepair of the southern wall of the facility should be addressed immediately with a plan established for repair.
R4:
The dispatch staffing issue and work area should be continually reviewed by subsequent Grand Juries until resolved.
R5:
The Del Norte County Board of Supervisors must revise the budget to allocate funding for additional dispatcher positions. Priority should be given to this situation due to our community being at a higher risk while this problem continues. 38
Findings & Recommendations
8 findings
F1:
There is an immediate need for more officers to fully staff the police department. Even when the current vacancies are filled, there will be a need to increase the number of officers.
F2:
There are only four Reserve Officers, one of whom is a retired regular officer who volunteers his time. The current Reserve Officer staff is insufficient in number to properly augment the patrol function.
F3:
The computerized reporting system is not compatible with allied agencies.
F4:
Maintenance, repairs and janitorial tasks are being performed by police officers.
F5:
The police department building is at best adequate. There is inadequate utilization of the available adjacent lot.
F6:
The motorcycle currently assigned to the police department in not needed.
F7:
The Explorer Post Cadets provide a valuable service to the department and are a credit to the community.
F8:
The rapport between the law enforcement agencies is impressive and all involved should be commended.
Additional Recommendations
7
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
In a recent review of the City’s financial status, it was found that the City currently has a surplus of $800,000 and has been looking into various ways these monies can be utilized. It is recommended that some of these funds be used to facilitate recruitment and retention of officers in the Crescent City Police Department. There should never be a time when one officer is working alone, but should have a “back-up” to assist for officer safety purposes. This would address current and anticipated personnel shortages and should include a dedicated detective position. The officers have been working a plan of three twelve-hour shifts per week in addition to covering for one another for all vacancies, sick leave, etc. These Herculean efforts should be applauded. However, staff burnout is an eventuality under conditions of personnel shortages.
R2:
Funding should be obtained either through the regular budgetary process or grant funding to increase the number of reserve officers up to a minimum of eight. Further, training needs to be provided to reserve officers in order that they reach a Peace Officer Standards and Training Level I proficiency.
R3:
Support for the Explorer Cadets should be made by the City Council in the budgetary process and they should be given public recognition for their valuable service to the community.
R4:
Chief Minsal’s intent to sell the department motorcycle should be encouraged, with the proceeds transferred to the General Fund of the city. 28
R5:
Although the Chief terms the facility as “adequate”, it was noted during a tour of the facility that quarters are cramped. Outside of minor modifications, nothing significant has been done to improve the facilities for the police department since acquisition of the building approximately twenty-five years ago. The building is old and in need of repair and remodeling. There is also an immediate need for a canine exercise and training yard at the Police Department location.
R6:
The current computerized reporting system needs to be upgraded in order to be compatible with allied agencies such as the Sheriff’s Office, District Attorney, etc. This would provide better exchange of information and networking to the betterment of the community.
R7:
In order to free up officers for police work, the City should provide maintenance personnel to perform janitorial and maintenance tasks for the police facility. This would allow for a more efficient use of the highly trained officers.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.