Humboldt County Grand Jury
2014-2015
From the annual report
The consolidated year-end volume. The individual investigations it contains are listed separately below.
📑 Year-End Report
The full consolidated volume; individual reports are listed below.
Individual reports (14)
Findings & Recommendations
16 findings
F1:
Grass and weeds have begun to grow through the asphalt on the following airfields: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works remove grass and weeds from runways and repair cracks, as needed at: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport. (F1)
F2:
Trees need to be topped or removed for operational safety at the following airfields: Murray Field, Garberville Airport, Rohnerville Airport, Kneeland Airport and Dinsmore Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works remove or top trees to enhance operational safety at: Murray Field, Garberville Airport, Rohnerville Airport, Kneeland Airport and Dinsmore Airport. (F2)
F3:
Pavement is beginning to ravel and needs to be repaired at the following airfields: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repair the raveling pavement, as needed at: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport. (F3)
F4:
Some tenants are in arrears with their hangar rents at Murray Field and the Garberville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works verify rent income and institute a plan for revenue recovery with those tenants who are in arrears with hangar rent payments at Murray Field and Garberville Airport. (F4)
F5:
The replacement airport landing beacon at Murray Field does not have the capability to be adjusted to the correct angle for operational safety.
F6:
Two runway edge lights are not functioning at Murray Field.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repair the Murray Field non-functioning runway edge lights to enhance operational safety. (F6)
F7:
An open-air hangar roof at Garberville Airport needs to be repaired.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repair the Garberville Airport open-air hangar roof. (F7)
F8:
Runway holding position markings are faded and must be remarked at Garberville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repaint the Garberville Airport runway holding position markings to enhance operational safety. (F8)
F9:
Kneeland Airport does not have adequate runway safety area lengths beyond either runway end. The airport is currently permitted to have inadequate lengths by the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works consider ways to bring the Kneeland Airport runway safety area lengths up to current standards. (F9)
F10:
The Dinsmore Airport runway does not match the length as reported on Form 5010-1. It was reported as 2,510’ but was measured as 2,350’. This discrepancy must be corrected by July 1, 2015 to avoid suspension of its state airport permit.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works complete a Corrected Airport Permit Application for Dinsmore Airport indicating the correct runway length before July 1, 2015 to avoid suspension of its state airport permit. (F10)
F11:
The BOS has an airport advisory committee to advise them on matters regarding aviation in the county. Public Works does not share the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ annual inspection notification letters with the committee.
Related Recommendations (2)
R11:
The Humboldt Grand Jury recommends that Public Works share Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ annual inspection notification letters with the Humboldt County Airport Advisory Committee. (F11)
R12:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors (BOS) direct the Humboldt County Airport Advisory Committee to recommend alternatives to the BOS for realignment of the Aviation Division outside of the Humboldt County Department of Public Works. (F11) (F14)
F12:
The Grand Jury could not identify a lead person with direct BOS authority to negotiate with an additional airline for BOS approval.
Related Recommendations (1)
R13:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the BOS assign one person with the authority to negotiate a deal for additional airline services and grant the designee a direct line of communication to the BOS. (F12).
F13:
There is a duplication of services between Public Works’ Aviation and General Services Divisions in certain areas.
Related Recommendations (1)
R14:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the BOS direct the County Administrative Officer (CAO) to perform an audit of the internal procedures between the Public Works’ FLYING AROUND HUMBOLDT AIRPORTS Aviation Division and General Services Division to eliminate any duplication of services. (F13) (F14)
F14:
The Aviation Division’s overall fund balance has been in the red since the FY 2009-10.
Related Recommendations (3)
R12:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors (BOS) direct the Humboldt County Airport Advisory Committee to recommend alternatives to the BOS for realignment of the Aviation Division outside of the Humboldt County Department of Public Works. (F11) (F14)
R14:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the BOS direct the County Administrative Officer (CAO) to perform an audit of the internal procedures between the Public Works’ FLYING AROUND HUMBOLDT AIRPORTS Aviation Division and General Services Division to eliminate any duplication of services. (F13) (F14)
R15:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Public Works’ Aviation Division and the Sheriff’s Department meet to strategize ways to reduce the cost differential for security services at CRCHCA. (F14) (F15)
F15:
The Aviation Division is subsidizing a security cost difference of $85,000 at CRCHCA for FY 2014-15. FLYING AROUND HUMBOLDT AIRPORTS
Related Recommendations (1)
R15:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Public Works’ Aviation Division and the Sheriff’s Department meet to strategize ways to reduce the cost differential for security services at CRCHCA. (F14) (F15)
F47:
EFFECTS OF ASSEMBLY BILL 109 AND PROPOSITION 47 ON THE PROBATION DEPARTMENT F2. The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center is not fully staffed by either the Humboldt County Probation Department or the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services. This understaffing is detrimental to the successful functioning of its programs. F3. The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center does not have adequate and appropriate space to meet its programmatic needs. Space is needed to accommodate all the services under one roof and to provide confidentiality for group and individual meetings. F4. Offenders have not been prosecuted for improperly removing and discarding GPS monitoring devices at an approximate cost of $1,000 each. F5. Having the Humboldt County Director of Health and Human as the only member of the Community Corrections Partnership to represent that department creates barriers to effective collaboration among staff from Social Services, Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Programs, and Employment Training. F6. The Humboldt County Probation Department has provided sound leadership in the implementation of AB109 and Proposition 47 requirements.
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R5:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works replace the Murray Field landing beacon and adjust it to the correct angle to enhance operational safety. ( F5)
Findings & Recommendations
16 findings
F1:
Grass and weeds have begun to grow through the asphalt on the following airfields: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works remove grass and weeds from runways and repair cracks, as needed at: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport. (F1)
F2:
Trees need to be topped or removed for operational safety at the following airfields: Murray Field, Garberville Airport, Rohnerville Airport, Kneeland Airport and Dinsmore Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works remove or top trees to enhance operational safety at: Murray Field, Garberville Airport, Rohnerville Airport, Kneeland Airport and Dinsmore Airport. (F2)
F3:
Pavement is beginning to ravel and needs to be repaired at the following airfields: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repair the raveling pavement, as needed at: Murray Field, Garberville Airport and Rohnerville Airport. (F3)
F4:
Some tenants are in arrears with their hangar rents at Murray Field and the Garberville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works verify rent income and institute a plan for revenue recovery with those tenants who are in arrears with hangar rent payments at Murray Field and Garberville Airport. (F4)
F5:
The replacement airport landing beacon at Murray Field does not have the capability to be adjusted to the correct angle for operational safety.
F6:
Two runway edge lights are not functioning at Murray Field.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repair the Murray Field non-functioning runway edge lights to enhance operational safety. (F6)
F7:
An open-air hangar roof at Garberville Airport needs to be repaired.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repair the Garberville Airport open-air hangar roof. (F7)
F8:
Runway holding position markings are faded and must be remarked at Garberville Airport.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works repaint the Garberville Airport runway holding position markings to enhance operational safety. (F8)
F9:
Kneeland Airport does not have adequate runway safety area lengths beyond either runway end. The airport is currently permitted to have inadequate lengths by the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works consider ways to bring the Kneeland Airport runway safety area lengths up to current standards. (F9)
F10:
The Dinsmore Airport runway does not match the length as reported on Form 5010-1. It was reported as 2,510’ but was measured as 2,350’. This discrepancy must be corrected by July 1, 2015 to avoid suspension of its state airport permit.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works complete a Corrected Airport Permit Application for Dinsmore Airport indicating the correct runway length before July 1, 2015 to avoid suspension of its state airport permit. (F10)
F11:
The BOS has an airport advisory committee to advise them on matters regarding aviation in the county. Public Works does not share the Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ annual inspection notification letters with the committee.
Related Recommendations (2)
R11:
The Humboldt Grand Jury recommends that Public Works share Caltrans Division of Aeronautics’ annual inspection notification letters with the Humboldt County Airport Advisory Committee. (F11)
R12:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors (BOS) direct the Humboldt County Airport Advisory Committee to recommend alternatives to the BOS for realignment of the Aviation Division outside of the Humboldt County Department of Public Works. (F11) (F14)
F12:
The Grand Jury could not identify a lead person with direct BOS authority to negotiate with an additional airline for BOS approval.
Related Recommendations (1)
R13:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the BOS assign one person with the authority to negotiate a deal for additional airline services and grant the designee a direct line of communication to the BOS. (F12).
F13:
There is a duplication of services between Public Works’ Aviation and General Services Divisions in certain areas.
Related Recommendations (1)
R14:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the BOS direct the County Administrative Officer (CAO) to perform an audit of the internal procedures between the Public Works’ FLYING AROUND HUMBOLDT AIRPORTS Aviation Division and General Services Division to eliminate any duplication of services. (F13) (F14)
F14:
The Aviation Division’s overall fund balance has been in the red since the FY 2009-10.
Related Recommendations (3)
R12:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors (BOS) direct the Humboldt County Airport Advisory Committee to recommend alternatives to the BOS for realignment of the Aviation Division outside of the Humboldt County Department of Public Works. (F11) (F14)
R14:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the BOS direct the County Administrative Officer (CAO) to perform an audit of the internal procedures between the Public Works’ FLYING AROUND HUMBOLDT AIRPORTS Aviation Division and General Services Division to eliminate any duplication of services. (F13) (F14)
R15:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Public Works’ Aviation Division and the Sheriff’s Department meet to strategize ways to reduce the cost differential for security services at CRCHCA. (F14) (F15)
F15:
The Aviation Division is subsidizing a security cost difference of $85,000 at CRCHCA for FY 2014-15. FLYING AROUND HUMBOLDT AIRPORTS
Related Recommendations (1)
R15:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Public Works’ Aviation Division and the Sheriff’s Department meet to strategize ways to reduce the cost differential for security services at CRCHCA. (F14) (F15)
F47:
EFFECTS OF ASSEMBLY BILL 109 AND PROPOSITION 47 ON THE PROBATION DEPARTMENT F2. The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center is not fully staffed by either the Humboldt County Probation Department or the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services. This understaffing is detrimental to the successful functioning of its programs. F3. The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center does not have adequate and appropriate space to meet its programmatic needs. Space is needed to accommodate all the services under one roof and to provide confidentiality for group and individual meetings. F4. Offenders have not been prosecuted for improperly removing and discarding GPS monitoring devices at an approximate cost of $1,000 each. F5. Having the Humboldt County Director of Health and Human as the only member of the Community Corrections Partnership to represent that department creates barriers to effective collaboration among staff from Social Services, Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Programs, and Employment Training. F6. The Humboldt County Probation Department has provided sound leadership in the implementation of AB109 and Proposition 47 requirements.
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R5:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Public Works replace the Murray Field landing beacon and adjust it to the correct angle to enhance operational safety. ( F5)
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
All the current plans to deal with homelessness are flawed by the critical lack of affordable housing in Humboldt County.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and the Eureka City Council form a housing trust fund structured as a Joint Powers Authority, which includes the current Humboldt County Housing and Homeless Coalition and other county stakeholders to coordinate and administer Humboldt County's efforts to address and end homelessness. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
F2:
A housing trust fund structured as a Joint Powers Authority will provide consistent funding for financing the construction, acquisition, and preservation of affordable housing that would mitigate the lack of affordable housing in Humboldt County.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and the Eureka City Council form a housing trust fund structured as a Joint Powers Authority, which includes the current Humboldt County Housing and Homeless Coalition and other county stakeholders to coordinate and administer Humboldt County's efforts to address and end homelessness. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
F3:
Humboldt County lacks a countywide approach to homelessness that provides a centralized intake service and a coordinated distribution of housing and supportive services.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and the Eureka City Council form a housing trust fund structured as a Joint Powers Authority, which includes the current Humboldt County Housing and Homeless Coalition and other county stakeholders to coordinate and administer Humboldt County's efforts to address and end homelessness. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
F4:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and the Eureka City Council have not implemented a major recommendation of the Focus Strategies report to coordinate their efforts on behalf of the homeless.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and the Eureka City Council form a housing trust fund structured as a Joint Powers Authority, which includes the current Humboldt County Housing and Homeless Coalition and other county stakeholders to coordinate and administer Humboldt County's efforts to address and end homelessness. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R2:
City of Eureka City Council (R1) INVITED RESPONSES
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
The delay in dredging this year by the Army Corps of Engineers has prevented access to Humboldt Bay by large commercial vessels. This has resulted in the loss of over $350,000 to the local economy. Timely dredging to 48 feet of the deep harbor channel and turning basin is crucial for safe passage of commercial vessels.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors request the Army Corps of Engineers complete dredging to 48 feet as soon as possible. (F1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors lobby legislators to ensure funding for annual dredging is a priority at the state and federal levels. (F1,F2)
F2:
Annual lobbying of Congress for increased, maximum funding of the Army Corps of Engineers is paramount in keeping Humboldt Bay commercially sound as well as safe. 7
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors lobby legislators to ensure funding for annual dredging is a priority at the state and federal levels. (F1,F2)
F3:
As cost share sponsor, the Harbor District borrowed $4 million as its share of the total $17 million cost of the initial deepening of the harbor in 2001. The Army Corps of Engineers is obligated to annually maintain the harbor depth of 48 feet, subject to available funding. Any improvement or modernization of the bay may require the Harbor District to again be the cost share sponsor.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Harbor District consider establishing a dedicated dredging reserve fund, accumulating money, ahead of need, with the goal of reducing the need to borrow and incur interest obligations when sponsoring future harbor dredging to augment the declining surcharge fund. (F3)
F4:
The Harbor District has been successful in generating new revenue streams and stabilizing finances.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Harbor District continue to pursue new revenue and economic development as a high priority. (F4, F5)
F5:
The Harbor District is pursuing new and increased revenue opportunities with expanded oyster operations, increased use of Redwood Terminal 2, and other potential projects.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Harbor District continue to pursue new revenue and economic development as a high priority. (F4, F5)
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
There are unsecured hazardous materials at the Eel River Conservation Camp.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends securing the hazardous materials at the Eel River Conservation Camp. (F1)
F2:
The Eureka Police Department storage facilities are inadequate to accommodate the amount and type of evidence needing to be stored.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the relocation of evidence at the Eureka Police Department facility to a larger, more secure facility to make available much needed space for staff and day-to-day operations. (F2)
F3:
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department Boatyard storage facilities are inadequate to accommodate the amount and type of equipment and evidence stored.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Department Boatyard provide weather-secured storage access for perishable equipment. (F3) 9
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
The Headwaters Fund Charter mandates a drafting of a review, and by interpretation, a written charter review every three years. There is no evidence any such reviews were ever drafted or written.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt Board of Supervisors direct the Headwaters Fund Board to begin the process of drafting a full and thorough charter review. (F1)
F2:
The Headwaters Fund Charter mandates public participation in the drafting of charter reviews every three years. There is no evidence that public participation was ever a part of the drafting of a charter review.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt Board of Supervisors direct the Headwaters Fund Board to create and implement a plan for public input into the drafting of a charter review. (F2)
F3:
The Headwaters Fund Charter mandates that the funds are kept working in the community in perpetuity. The current Headwaters Fund Charter investment portfolio managed by the Humboldt County Treasurer does not meet the necessary requirement of lasting in perpetuity and over time will erode the fund’s ability to serve its stated purpose.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors amend the Headwaters Fund Charter, Section 3 - Control and Oversight, to allow the Humboldt Area Foundation to manage the Headwaters Fund investment portfolio. (F3)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt Board of Supervisors or their appointed proxy begin the contract negotiations necessary to transfer the management and oversight of the Headwaters Fund Investment Portfolio to the Humboldt Area Foundation. (F3) 7
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
There is community concern as to the Jacoby Creek Charter School Board’s understanding and implementation of Brown Act provisions.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education direct the Humboldt County Office of Education to review its leadership and 3 educational roles in servicing the Brown Act Training needs of the many diverse school boards within Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education direct the Humboldt County Office of Education to find the requisite “encouragement” necessary to make sure that thorough Brown Act training is attended, adhered to and available. (F1, F2, F3)
F2:
There is community concern regarding actions taken by the Fortuna Elementary School Board and that those actions might not be in full compliance with the Brown Act.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education direct the Humboldt County Office of Education to review its leadership and 3 educational roles in servicing the Brown Act Training needs of the many diverse school boards within Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education direct the Humboldt County Office of Education to find the requisite “encouragement” necessary to make sure that thorough Brown Act training is attended, adhered to and available. (F1, F2, F3)
F3:
The Brown Act training provided by the Humboldt County Office of Education is inadequate to meet the needs of the many small and rural school boards existing within Humboldt County.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education direct the Humboldt County Office of Education to review its leadership and 3 educational roles in servicing the Brown Act Training needs of the many diverse school boards within Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education direct the Humboldt County Office of Education to find the requisite “encouragement” necessary to make sure that thorough Brown Act training is attended, adhered to and available. (F1, F2, F3)
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
2 findings
F1:
There are people arrested in the outlying areas of Humboldt County, brought to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility who qualify for California Penal Code Section 686.5 mandated travel assistance, who are not being informed they have the legal right to request such assistance.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Humboldt County Correctional Facility Officers, as part of the release process, inform those people, who qualify under California Penal Code 686.5, that they are eligible for transportation assistance back to the place of their arrest and that they have the legal right to ask for such assistance. (F1, F2)
F2:
The refusal to inform those that qualify under California Penal Code Section 686.5, that they have the legal right to ask for travel assistance is currently the deliberate practice of the Humboldt County Correctional Facility under the direction of the Humboldt County Sheriff.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that Humboldt County Correctional Facility Officers, as part of the release process, inform those people, who qualify under California Penal Code 686.5, that they are eligible for transportation assistance back to the place of their arrest and that they have the legal right to ask for such assistance. (F1, F2)
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
Equipment: Emergency response crews lack needed modern gear and equipment. Rural responders are sometimes forced to use obsolete gear and clothing which do not adequately protect them. The lack of modern equipment jeopardizes safety and impairs the response capability of rural emergency response crews.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that for the coming five years, Humboldt County should compensate for decades of dwindling resources by assigning a minimum of 20% of the Measure Z tax revenue to rural fire and emergency service providers, to address long-standing equipment deficiencies, as recommended by the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
F2:
Communication: A secure and reliable communication system is needed by the fire and emergency services units.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that for the coming five years, Humboldt County should compensate for decades of dwindling resources by assigning a minimum of 20% of the Measure Z tax revenue to rural fire and emergency service providers, to address long-standing equipment deficiencies, as recommended by the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
F3:
Safety is a concern for citizens in rural Humboldt County: The 90,000 rural residents of Humboldt County have become increasingly apprehensive about their personal safety and the welfare of their property. 4
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that for the coming five years, Humboldt County should compensate for decades of dwindling resources by assigning a minimum of 20% of the Measure Z tax revenue to rural fire and emergency service providers, to address long-standing equipment deficiencies, as recommended by the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors set a goal to have all Humboldt County residents covered by a fire and emergency services district within five years. (F3, F4)
F4:
Tax base: The industries and commercial activities which supported the legislature’s “local/traditional/self-tax” policy of fire and emergency services in Humboldt County have faded away in the past 50 years. The present system is unfair to ratepayers who live in a district and find themselves paying for their own fire and emergency services and also for nonsubscribers who live in “no district” territory.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that for the coming five years, Humboldt County should compensate for decades of dwindling resources by assigning a minimum of 20% of the Measure Z tax revenue to rural fire and emergency service providers, to address long-standing equipment deficiencies, as recommended by the Fire Chiefs’ Association of Humboldt County. (F1, F2, F3, F4)
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors set a goal to have all Humboldt County residents covered by a fire and emergency services district within five years. (F3, F4)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors go beyond the Measure Z temporary funding and move to a permanent funding model for a regional fire and emergency services district. (F4, F6, F7)
F5:
A county fire and emergency services officer: Humboldt County has a constellation of fire and emergency services organizations, with dedicated first responders. The lack of a county- level Director of Fire and Emergency Services, comparable to the Sheriff, to oversee and assist the local district personnel and programs, impacts the county-level ability to interact with state government, local, and city fire departments, and with the Sheriff’s Office.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors establish a Humboldt County Director of Fire and Emergency Services position. (F5, F6, F7)
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors initiate a study to see how a countywide comprehensive fire and emergency services unification, covering all county residents, has been accomplished in other California counties. The 5 study should begin as soon as possible and be completed before the five year sunset of Measure Z. (F5, F6, F7)
F6:
Bergeson Law: The legislation governing fire and emergency services in unincorporated territory was written for another era and is now inadequate for Humboldt County.
Related Recommendations (4)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors go beyond the Measure Z temporary funding and move to a permanent funding model for a regional fire and emergency services district. (F4, F6, F7)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors establish a Humboldt County Director of Fire and Emergency Services position. (F5, F6, F7)
R5:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors lobby the Humboldt County state legislators, requesting that the Bergeson Law be amended to better reflect the funding needs of today’s rural counties. (F6)
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors initiate a study to see how a countywide comprehensive fire and emergency services unification, covering all county residents, has been accomplished in other California counties. The 5 study should begin as soon as possible and be completed before the five year sunset of Measure Z. (F5, F6, F7)
F7:
A different paradigm: Other counties in California have set aside the localized fire and emergency services model promoted by the Bergeson Law and have moved to a regional model with a countywide district and board. In some cases, the county supervisors are the board.
Related Recommendations (3)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors go beyond the Measure Z temporary funding and move to a permanent funding model for a regional fire and emergency services district. (F4, F6, F7)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors establish a Humboldt County Director of Fire and Emergency Services position. (F5, F6, F7)
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors initiate a study to see how a countywide comprehensive fire and emergency services unification, covering all county residents, has been accomplished in other California counties. The 5 study should begin as soon as possible and be completed before the five year sunset of Measure Z. (F5, F6, F7)
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
Due to budget restrictions, the Humboldt County Probation Department is unable to fill the necessary positions required to implement the services mandated by AB109 and Proposition 47.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors approve Measure Z funding on an annual basis necessary to hire and retain six new probation officers. (F1, F2) 6
F2:
The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center is not fully staffed by either the Humboldt County Probation Department or the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services. This understaffing is detrimental to the successful functioning of its programs.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors approve Measure Z funding on an annual basis necessary to hire and retain six new probation officers. (F1, F2) 6
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors direct the Humboldt County Department of Human Resources to review its hiring and recruitment procedures with an objective of increasing retention of probation and substance abuse counseling staff. (F2)
F3:
The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center does not have adequate and appropriate space to meet its programmatic needs. Space is needed to accommodate all the services under one roof and to provide confidentiality for group and individual meetings.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors expedite the remodeling project for the Community Corrections Resource Center. (F3)
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that any future grant applications for the expansion of the Humboldt County Correctional Facility include adequate space for the Community Corrections Resource Center. (F3)
F4:
Offenders have not been prosecuted for improperly removing and discarding GPS monitoring devices at an approximate cost of $1,000 each.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County District Attorney prosecute violations of existing laws that prohibit the removal and discarding of GPS monitoring devices. (F4)
F5:
Having the Humboldt County Director of Health and Human as the only member of the Community Corrections Partnership to represent that department creates barriers to effective collaboration among staff from Social Services, Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Programs, and Employment Training.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors appoint the individual heads of Mental Health, Social Services, Alcohol and Other Drug Programs, and Employment Training Program to the Community Corrections Partnership committee as a whole. (F5)
F6:
The Humboldt County Probation Department has provided sound leadership in the implementation of AB109 and Proposition 47 requirements.
F47:
EFFECTS OF ASSEMBLY BILL 109 AND PROPOSITION 47 ON THE PROBATION DEPARTMENT 9-6 F2. The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center is not fully staffed by either the Humboldt County Probation Department or the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services. This understaffing is detrimental to the successful functioning of its programs. F3. The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center does not have adequate and appropriate space to meet its programmatic needs. Space is needed to accommodate all the services under one roof and to provide confidentiality for group and individual meetings. F4. Offenders have not been prosecuted for improperly removing and discarding GPS monitoring devices at an approximate cost of $1,000 each. F5. Having the Humboldt County Director of Health and Human as the only member of the Community Corrections Partnership to represent that department creates barriers to effective collaboration among staff from Social Services, Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drug Programs, and Employment Training. F6. The Humboldt County Probation Department has provided sound leadership in the implementation of AB109 and Proposition 47 requirements.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
Due to budget restrictions, the Humboldt County Probation Department is unable to fill the
F2:
The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center is not fully staffed by either
F3:
The Humboldt County Community Corrections Resource Center does not have adequate and
F4:
Offenders have not been prosecuted for improperly removing and discarding GPS monitoring
F5:
Having the Humboldt County Director of Health and Human as the only member of the
F6:
The Humboldt County Probation Department has provided sound leadership in the
Additional Recommendations
6
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that any future grant applications for the
R5:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County District Attorney
R6:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
All the current plans to deal with homelessness are flawed by the critical lack of affordable
F2:
A housing trust fund structured as a Joint Powers Authority will provide consistent funding
F3:
Humboldt County lacks a countywide approach to homelessness that provides a centralized
F4:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors and the Eureka City Council have not
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
The delay in dredging this year by the Army Corps of Engineers has prevented access to
F2:
Annual lobbying of Congress for increased, maximum funding of the Army Corps of
F3:
As cost share sponsor, the Harbor District borrowed $4 million as its share of the total $17
F4:
The Harbor District has been successful in generating new revenue streams and stabilizing
F5:
The Harbor District is pursuing new and increased revenue opportunities with expanded oyster
Additional Recommendations
4
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Harbor District consider establishing
R3:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors
R4:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends the Harbor District continue to pursue new
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
There is community concern as to the Jacoby Creek Charter School Board’s understanding and
F2:
There is community concern regarding actions taken by the Fortuna Elementary School Board
F3:
The Brown Act training provided by the Humboldt County Office of Education is inadequate
Additional Recommendations
2
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education
R2:
The Humboldt County Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Education