Fresno County Grand Jury

2022-2023

4 reports

Findings & Recommendations 9 findings
F1: There are insufficient tools, equipment and employees available to maintain the cemetery. This has caused the cemetery to become neglected, which is disrespectful to the veterans who are buried there.
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Related Recommendations (6)
R2: The Director of Public Works and Planning should obtain bids for outsourcing the maintenance of VLC by December 31, 2023. The Grand Jury feels that outsourcing could be a cost saving measure. (F1)
R3: The Director of Public Works and Planning should explore the option of replacing cemetery sod with low maintenance pebble/rock by September 30, 2023. The Grand Jury feels that this could be a cost saving measure because it would reduce the need for full time maintenance and reduce the use of water. (F1) (F2) (F3).
R4: The Director of Public Works and Planning should assign sufficient staff to adequately maintain the cemetery on a consistent basis by December 31, 2023. (F1).
R6: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors should adopt a separate annual budget for the VLC by December 31, 2023. (F1)(F3)
R7: The Director of Public Works and Planning should have staff purchase the necessary tools and equipment specific to the needs of VLC. These tools should be maintained in working order and stored at the cemetery by December 31, 2023. (F1) 33
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F2: The irrigation system is not adequate to provide consistent water to the entire cemetery. This should be resolved when the reclaimed water irrigation system is installed in 2023/2024.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R1: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors should approve one-time funding for the improvements necessary at VLC by December 31, 2023. (F2)
R3: The Director of Public Works and Planning should explore the option of replacing cemetery sod with low maintenance pebble/rock by September 30, 2023. The Grand Jury feels that this could be a cost saving measure because it would reduce the need for full time maintenance and reduce the use of water. (F1) (F2) (F3).
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F3: There are no funds allocated specifically for VLC in the Fresno County budget.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R3: The Director of Public Works and Planning should explore the option of replacing cemetery sod with low maintenance pebble/rock by September 30, 2023. The Grand Jury feels that this could be a cost saving measure because it would reduce the need for full time maintenance and reduce the use of water. (F1) (F2) (F3).
R6: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors should adopt a separate annual budget for the VLC by December 31, 2023. (F1)(F3)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F4: The locked restrooms are repeatedly vandalized. The restrooms have been boarded up and there is no access available.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R5: The Director of Public Works and Planning should have the outdoor restrooms removed due to ongoing vandalism by December 31, 2023. (F4)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F5: The cinder block wall surrounding the water tank is in disrepair. This is unsightly and hazardous.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R8: The Director of Public Works and Planning or the Fresno County Board of Supervisors should have the cinder block wall repaired by July 31, 2023. (F5)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F6: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors recently approved the use of ARPA funds for reclaimed water for VLC. After the Grand Jury initiated this investigation, this funding was approved.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F7: There appears to be no consistent coordination between Fresno County Parks Department and organizations who are interested in donating time and/or funds to VLC.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F8: Several dead trees along the cemetery walkways were hazardous to people who visit the cemetery; this has been rectified by removal of the trees by the Fresno County tree crews.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
F9: There was a lack of adequate signage directing visitors to VLC. This has been corrected, the signs are now updated, and there are plans to provide more 32 directional signs from Hwy 99.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R9: The Director of Public Works and Planning should appoint a current employee to be a liaison with volunteer groups who are interested in supporting VLC by July 31, 2023. (F7) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05 the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933(c), it is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. Required Respondents: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F2, F3, F5, F6) and (R1, R6, R8) Invited Respondents: Director of Fresno County Public Works and Planning (F1, F4, F5, F7, F8, F9) and (R2,
Findings & Recommendations 6 findings
F1: The Board of Supervisors has not sufficiently outlined its expectations of the Citizens Review Panel by providing them with a detailed outline of their oversight responsibilities.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R6: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors should adopt a separate annual budget for the VLC by December 31, 2023. (F1)(F3) Response: The County of Fresno allocates a Net County Cost allocation for all County- maintained park acreage including VLC. Doing so as a larger budget allocation cuts overhead and administrative costs. County of Fresno plans to continue these standard accounting practices and assist the Department of Public Works and Planning to identify priority areas, including VLC.
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) 63 REQUIRED RESPONSES: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6; R1, R2, R7) INVITED RESPONSES: Citizen Review Panel (F1-F2; R1-R2) FCFL Librarian (F3-F6; R3-R7)
F2: The irrigation system is not adequate to provide consistent water to the entire cemetery. This should be resolved when the reclaimed water irrigation system is installed in 2023/2024. Response: As stated above, consistent water to the entire cemetery should be achieved when the reclaimed water irrigation system is installed.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R1: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors should approve one-time funding for the improvements necessary at VLC by December 31, 2023. (F2) Response: The County of Fresno allocated one-time funding for VLC in FY 19/20 within Org 2540 and FY 20/21 within Org 8867 (Capital Projects – Parks). The Department of Public Works and Planning was charged with completing the VLC project identified in the one-time funding allocations. In addition, as stated above, the Board of Supervisors also approved ARPA money to be utilized for VLC in FY 22/23. The Department of Public Works and Planning is also responsible for completing the projects identified for the VLC ARPA allocation. The County Administrative Office is currently working with the Department of Public Works and Planning to identify one-time funding needs that will include projects/equipment that will benefit VLC.
R2: The Board of Supervisors should select and maintain a full complement of representatives to the Citizens Review Panel for their districts to ensure proper oversight of Measure B utilization. Completed by September 30, 2023.(F2) 62
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) 63 REQUIRED RESPONSES: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6; R1, R2, R7) INVITED RESPONSES: Citizen Review Panel (F1-F2; R1-R2) FCFL Librarian (F3-F6; R3-R7)
F3: There are no funds allocated specifically for VLC in the Fresno County budget. Response: The Department of Public Works and Planning is given a Net County Cost allocation specifically for the Parks Org 7910 every year. VLC is part of the County-maintained park inventory and is included in the maintenance rotation along with the rest of the County of Fresno maintained parks acreage.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R3: The FCFL Librarian in conjunction with associated stakeholders should schedule planning sessions and develop an Operational Service Delivery Plan implementing ongoing measurable metrics for each of the listed expenditures and OSDP items as outlined in the Measure B Ordinance. Commencing not later than December 31, 2023. (F3)
R6: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors should adopt a separate annual budget for the VLC by December 31, 2023. (F1)(F3) Response: The County of Fresno allocates a Net County Cost allocation for all County- maintained park acreage including VLC. Doing so as a larger budget allocation cuts overhead and administrative costs. County of Fresno plans to continue these standard accounting practices and assist the Department of Public Works and Planning to identify priority areas, including VLC.
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) 63 REQUIRED RESPONSES: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6; R1, R2, R7) INVITED RESPONSES: Citizen Review Panel (F1-F2; R1-R2) FCFL Librarian (F3-F6; R3-R7)
F4: The FCFL does not have a current, detailed and prioritized Long Term Facilities Plan referenced in the 2012 Measure B Ordinance (MBO).
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Related Recommendations (2)
R4: The FCFL Librarian should develop a current detailed and prioritized Long Term Facilities Plan. Commencing not later than December 31, 2023. (F4)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) 63 REQUIRED RESPONSES: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6; R1, R2, R7) INVITED RESPONSES: Citizen Review Panel (F1-F2; R1-R2) FCFL Librarian (F3-F6; R3-R7)
F5: The cinder block wall surrounding the water tank is in disrepair. This is unsightly and hazardous. Response: The Department of Public Works and Planning will be asked to provide a proposal with cost estimate for this work.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R5: The FCFL Librarian should budget for an outside professional media/advertising consultant to aid in the development of a comprehensive advertising and awareness campaign to inform the citizens of Fresno County of the vast array of services available at the FCFL. Completion by September 30, 2023. (F5)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) 63 REQUIRED RESPONSES: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6; R1, R2, R7) INVITED RESPONSES: Citizen Review Panel (F1-F2; R1-R2) FCFL Librarian (F3-F6; R3-R7)
R8: The Director of Public Works and Planning or the Fresno County Board of Supervisors should have the cinder block wall repaired by July 31, 2023. (F5) Response: As mentioned above, the Department of Public Works and Planning will be asked to provide a proposal with cost estimate for this work. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 1. Attachment B 40 41 42 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #2 HAS “MEASURE B” BENEFITED THE FRESNO COUNTY FREE LIBRARY? 43 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. Has Measure B Benefitted the Fresno County Free Library? Measuring Performance
F6: The Fresno County Board of Supervisors recently approved the use of ARPA funds for reclaimed water for VLC. After the Grand Jury initiated this investigation, this funding was approved. Response: As stated above, ARPA funding for reclaimed water for VLC has been approved. 38
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Related Recommendations (1)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) 63 REQUIRED RESPONSES: Fresno County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6; R1, R2, R7) INVITED RESPONSES: Citizen Review Panel (F1-F2; R1-R2) FCFL Librarian (F3-F6; R3-R7)
Findings & Recommendations 9 findings
F1: The Board of Supervisors has not sufficiently outlined its expectations of the Citizens Review Panel (CRP) by providing them with a detailed outline of their oversight responsibilities. Response: The Board of Supervisors disagrees with the finding. Resolution 99-061 states the role of the CRP is to advise the Board of Supervisors regarding the uses made by the Fresno County Library of sales tax revenues and that the advice will include review to ensure that the uses are in accordance with the expenditure plan approved by the voters. Additionally, the CRP presents an annual report to the Board of Supervisors. The report submitted on March 22, 2022 states the Fresno County Library is utilizing Measure B sales tax funds in a commendable manner.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R1: The Board of Supervisors should develop a list of expectations for the Citizens Review Panel of the metrics to be used in evaluating Measure B expenditures. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1) Response: This recommendation will not be implemented. The role of the Citizens Review Panel is to ensure Measure B revenue uses are in accordance with the expenditure plan approved by the voters. Included within the Grand Jury Report No. 2 is the full text of Measure B, which includes language from Fresno County Ordinance Sections 4.20.010 and 4.20.110 describing the purpose and use of the taxes.
R6: The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools should continue working with DBH to have a full-time DBH Counselor assigned to every school where it is feasible and where the circumstances warrant it. This should be accomplished by December 31, 2023. (See F1)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) Response: 80 This recommendation will not be implemented as the Board of Supervisors agrees with the FCFL Librarian’s response to this recommendation. As mentioned within the Librarian’s response to Recommendation No. 5 and 7, the FCFL is working with stakeholders, library jurisdictions and the State Library to implement an Operational Service Delivery Plan to better measure performance, which will be accomplished by December 31, 2023. This mitigates the need for a Program Management firm. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 2. 81 82 83 84 85 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #3 SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY 86 2022-23 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY COULD UVALDE HAPPEN HERE? HOW SAFE ARE OUR SCHOOLS?
F2: There are four vacancies on the CRP, which creates difficulty in achieving a quorum at the CRP meetings. Response: The Board of Supervisors partially agrees with the finding as there are currently three vacancies on the CRP. The CRP is an 11-member board with eight active members at the time of this response.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R2: The Board of Supervisors should select and maintain a full complement of representatives to the Citizens Review Panel for their districts to ensure proper oversight of Measure B utilization. Completed by September 30, 2023. (F2) Response: The Board of Supervisors continually seeks to fill positions on all boards, commissions, and committees. Three positions within the Citizens Review Panel were filled in January and February 2023. The Board of Supervisors will continue to seek candidates to fill the remaining three vacancies.
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) Response: 80 This recommendation will not be implemented as the Board of Supervisors agrees with the FCFL Librarian’s response to this recommendation. As mentioned within the Librarian’s response to Recommendation No. 5 and 7, the FCFL is working with stakeholders, library jurisdictions and the State Library to implement an Operational Service Delivery Plan to better measure performance, which will be accomplished by December 31, 2023. This mitigates the need for a Program Management firm. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 2. 81 82 83 84 85 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #3 SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY 86 2022-23 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY COULD UVALDE HAPPEN HERE? HOW SAFE ARE OUR SCHOOLS?
F3: The Fresno County Free Library (FCFL) does not have a current, detailed Operational Service Delivery Plan (OSDP) document that expands the OSDP outlined in the 2012 Measure B Ordinance (MBO). Response: The Board of Supervisors agrees with the finding.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) Response: 80 This recommendation will not be implemented as the Board of Supervisors agrees with the FCFL Librarian’s response to this recommendation. As mentioned within the Librarian’s response to Recommendation No. 5 and 7, the FCFL is working with stakeholders, library jurisdictions and the State Library to implement an Operational Service Delivery Plan to better measure performance, which will be accomplished by December 31, 2023. This mitigates the need for a Program Management firm. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 2. 81 82 83 84 85 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #3 SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY 86 2022-23 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY COULD UVALDE HAPPEN HERE? HOW SAFE ARE OUR SCHOOLS?
F4: The FCFL does not have a current, detailed and prioritized Long Term Facilities Plan referenced in the 2012 Measure B Ordinance (MBO). Response: The Board of Supervisors agrees with the finding.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R3: The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools should assist school districts with limited funds to obtain serviceable secondhand surveillance, communication, protection, and safety equipment by helping identify funding or equipment sources. This should be accomplished by December 31, 2024. (See F4 and F5)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) Response: 80 This recommendation will not be implemented as the Board of Supervisors agrees with the FCFL Librarian’s response to this recommendation. As mentioned within the Librarian’s response to Recommendation No. 5 and 7, the FCFL is working with stakeholders, library jurisdictions and the State Library to implement an Operational Service Delivery Plan to better measure performance, which will be accomplished by December 31, 2023. This mitigates the need for a Program Management firm. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 2. 81 82 83 84 85 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #3 SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY 86 2022-23 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY COULD UVALDE HAPPEN HERE? HOW SAFE ARE OUR SCHOOLS?
F5: The FCFL number of registered users falls short of the average for comparably sized and budgeted library systems in the state as reported on the fiscal year 2020-2021 spreadsheet located on the State Library’s California Public Libraries Statistics database website. Response: The Board of Supervisors agrees with the finding given the methodology used to interpret the data located within the 2020-2021 State Library Statistics spreadsheet. However, as indicated by the FCFL Librarian, the FCFL has the highest number of registered users within the local area library system (San Joaquin Valley). Additionally, Fiscal Year 2020- 2021 was the last of a 10-year decline in registered users.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R3: The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools should assist school districts with limited funds to obtain serviceable secondhand surveillance, communication, protection, and safety equipment by helping identify funding or equipment sources. This should be accomplished by December 31, 2024. (See F4 and F5)
R4: The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools should recommend to local school district boards that they conduct a study to determine if each public school (K-12) can have at least one trained and equipped sworn School Resource Officer (SRO). This should be implemented by June 30, 2024. (See F5) 98
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) Response: 80 This recommendation will not be implemented as the Board of Supervisors agrees with the FCFL Librarian’s response to this recommendation. As mentioned within the Librarian’s response to Recommendation No. 5 and 7, the FCFL is working with stakeholders, library jurisdictions and the State Library to implement an Operational Service Delivery Plan to better measure performance, which will be accomplished by December 31, 2023. This mitigates the need for a Program Management firm. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 2. 81 82 83 84 85 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #3 SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY 86 2022-23 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY COULD UVALDE HAPPEN HERE? HOW SAFE ARE OUR SCHOOLS?
F6: The 2012 Measure B Ordinance funding mandate to “supplement and not supplant” the existing funds received from the County exceeds the mandated minimum of the 2012 MBO. Response: The Board of Supervisors agrees with the finding.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R7: The Board of Supervisors and the FCFL Librarian should consider hiring a professional Program Management firm to assist in developing a comprehensive long term plan for maximizing the stewardship of public funds more in line with similar sized and similarly funded libraries. Implementation by December 31, 2023. (F1-F6) Response: 80 This recommendation will not be implemented as the Board of Supervisors agrees with the FCFL Librarian’s response to this recommendation. As mentioned within the Librarian’s response to Recommendation No. 5 and 7, the FCFL is working with stakeholders, library jurisdictions and the State Library to implement an Operational Service Delivery Plan to better measure performance, which will be accomplished by December 31, 2023. This mitigates the need for a Program Management firm. This concludes the Board of Supervisors’ comments on the Findings and Recommendations of the Fresno County Grand Jury Report No. 2. 81 82 83 84 85 FRESNO COUNTY GRAND JURY FINAL REPORTS AND RESPONSES REPORT #3 SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY 86 2022-23 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury Report No. SCHOOL SAFETY AND SECURITY IN FRESNO COUNTY COULD UVALDE HAPPEN HERE? HOW SAFE ARE OUR SCHOOLS?
F7: Local schools and law enforcement work well and cooperate closely.
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F8: Fresno County DBH, FCOE, Fresno County schools, and local law enforcement have developed a highly effective and collaborative methodology to identify and intervene when a student is identified as a potential risk.
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F9: A well-designed and appropriately monitored video surveillance system with trained staff is an important and valuable safety system for schools.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R5: The Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, the Fresno County Sheriff, and local Police Chiefs should recommend to school district boards that they maximize the use of video surveillance, including properly staffed and trained operators. This should be accomplished by June 30, 2024. (See F9)
Findings & Recommendations 5 findings
F1: The decision for purchasing new hydrants is based primarily on the lowest bidder and FCFD is not included in the hydrant selection and purchase process.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R2: The DPU-W Manager should include input from the FCFD on the selection and purchase of new hydrants. This should be implemented by September 2023. (F1) (F2) (F5).
R4: The FCFD should review their internal system to ensure fire hydrant inspections between stations are completed efficiently and on time. This should be completed by December 2023. (F3) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05, the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. It is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of the receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. The Grand Jury acknowledges that recommendations dealing with infrastructure, such as 125 the replacing and standardizing city fire hydrants, will be an ongoing process. The intent of the recommendations are to have the responsible departments recognize the long-term benefits and incorporate standardization into future actions. The scheduled software upgrades and new technology will provide communication platforms that improve department interactions and should be implemented as they become available. The other recommendations are offered to support the people involved with the operation, maintenance, and use of this complex water delivery and hydrant system for the public protection of the City of Fresno. Invited Respondents: FCFD - Fire Chief (F1, F2, F3, F4,) (R1, R2, R3, R4) DPU-W - Manager (F1, F2, F4, F5) (R1, R2, R3)
F2: Communication between FCFD and DPU-W regarding the maintenance and repair of fire hydrants is through inefficient communication systems and emails.
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Related Recommendations (4)
R1: The FCFD Chief should share the scheduled upgraded program with the DPU-W to streamline communications between all parties so the requisition of necessary repairs and reporting on completions of repairs could be more effectively tracked. This should be completed by March 2024. (F2) (F4)
R2: The DPU-W Manager should include input from the FCFD on the selection and purchase of new hydrants. This should be implemented by September 2023. (F1) (F2) (F5).
R3: The FCFD Chief should initiate scheduled quarterly meetings with DPU-W Manager, and the City of Fresno Purchasing Department to improve communications between departments. To be completed by December 2023. (F2) (F4)
R4: The FCFD should review their internal system to ensure fire hydrant inspections between stations are completed efficiently and on time. This should be completed by December 2023. (F3) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05, the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. It is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of the receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. The Grand Jury acknowledges that recommendations dealing with infrastructure, such as 125 the replacing and standardizing city fire hydrants, will be an ongoing process. The intent of the recommendations are to have the responsible departments recognize the long-term benefits and incorporate standardization into future actions. The scheduled software upgrades and new technology will provide communication platforms that improve department interactions and should be implemented as they become available. The other recommendations are offered to support the people involved with the operation, maintenance, and use of this complex water delivery and hydrant system for the public protection of the City of Fresno. Invited Respondents: FCFD - Fire Chief (F1, F2, F3, F4,) (R1, R2, R3, R4) DPU-W - Manager (F1, F2, F4, F5) (R1, R2, R3)
F3: Each FCFD fire station has different levels of priority calls and demands for services resulting in some stations having substantially less time for inspecting hydrants.
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Related Recommendations (1)
R4: The FCFD should review their internal system to ensure fire hydrant inspections between stations are completed efficiently and on time. This should be completed by December 2023. (F3) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05, the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. It is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of the receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. The Grand Jury acknowledges that recommendations dealing with infrastructure, such as 125 the replacing and standardizing city fire hydrants, will be an ongoing process. The intent of the recommendations are to have the responsible departments recognize the long-term benefits and incorporate standardization into future actions. The scheduled software upgrades and new technology will provide communication platforms that improve department interactions and should be implemented as they become available. The other recommendations are offered to support the people involved with the operation, maintenance, and use of this complex water delivery and hydrant system for the public protection of the City of Fresno. Invited Respondents: FCFD - Fire Chief (F1, F2, F3, F4,) (R1, R2, R3, R4) DPU-W - Manager (F1, F2, F4, F5) (R1, R2, R3)
F4: The Tiburon Software program is being replaced by a new software platform called First Due which will include additional monitoring and notification options.
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Related Recommendations (3)
R1: The FCFD Chief should share the scheduled upgraded program with the DPU-W to streamline communications between all parties so the requisition of necessary repairs and reporting on completions of repairs could be more effectively tracked. This should be completed by March 2024. (F2) (F4)
R3: The FCFD Chief should initiate scheduled quarterly meetings with DPU-W Manager, and the City of Fresno Purchasing Department to improve communications between departments. To be completed by December 2023. (F2) (F4)
R4: The FCFD should review their internal system to ensure fire hydrant inspections between stations are completed efficiently and on time. This should be completed by December 2023. (F3) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05, the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. It is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of the receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. The Grand Jury acknowledges that recommendations dealing with infrastructure, such as 125 the replacing and standardizing city fire hydrants, will be an ongoing process. The intent of the recommendations are to have the responsible departments recognize the long-term benefits and incorporate standardization into future actions. The scheduled software upgrades and new technology will provide communication platforms that improve department interactions and should be implemented as they become available. The other recommendations are offered to support the people involved with the operation, maintenance, and use of this complex water delivery and hydrant system for the public protection of the City of Fresno. Invited Respondents: FCFD - Fire Chief (F1, F2, F3, F4,) (R1, R2, R3, R4) DPU-W - Manager (F1, F2, F4, F5) (R1, R2, R3)
F5: The water supply and existing hydrant delivery system has earned Fresno City the highest rating from the ISO insuring agency.
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Related Recommendations (2)
R2: The DPU-W Manager should include input from the FCFD on the selection and purchase of new hydrants. This should be implemented by September 2023. (F1) (F2) (F5).
R4: The FCFD should review their internal system to ensure fire hydrant inspections between stations are completed efficiently and on time. This should be completed by December 2023. (F3) Request for Responses: Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 933.05, the 2022-2023 Fresno County Civil Grand Jury requests responses to each of the specific findings and recommendations. It is required that responses from elected County officers or agency heads are due within 60 days of the receipt of this report and 90 days from the governing body of a public agency. The Grand Jury acknowledges that recommendations dealing with infrastructure, such as 125 the replacing and standardizing city fire hydrants, will be an ongoing process. The intent of the recommendations are to have the responsible departments recognize the long-term benefits and incorporate standardization into future actions. The scheduled software upgrades and new technology will provide communication platforms that improve department interactions and should be implemented as they become available. The other recommendations are offered to support the people involved with the operation, maintenance, and use of this complex water delivery and hydrant system for the public protection of the City of Fresno. Invited Respondents: FCFD - Fire Chief (F1, F2, F3, F4,) (R1, R2, R3, R4) DPU-W - Manager (F1, F2, F4, F5) (R1, R2, R3)