Humboldt County Grand Jury
2022-2023
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Findings & Recommendations
18 findings
F1:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F1: The Child Abuse Services Team provides a needed service to the residents of Humboldt County.
F2:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F2: The members of the Child Abuse Services Team are dedicated to keeping children safe and minimizing further trauma to the child.
F3:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F3: The late provision of services may harm the effective prosecution of alleged child abuse cases and the recovery of the survivor(s).
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
By April 1, 2024 all law enforcement agencies who are members of the Child Abuse • Services Team designate at least a primary and secondary officer to respond to allegations of child abuse and provide those officers with advanced training in handling such cases. (F3, F4, F5, and F6) • R5: By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare Services assign additional Social Workers trained in responding to incidents of child sexual abuse to accompany local law enforcement personnel on the initial contact with a child whenever possible. (F3 and F6) • R6: The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of Understanding between all agencies involved in the Child Abuse Services Team, to be completed no later than January 1, 2024 and to be made available via the public websites of all involved agencies. (F8) • R7: The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST Coordinator, the District Attorney create an annual report on the accomplishments of and challenges to the Child Abuse Services Team in the previous year, and that the report be made publicly available. (F9) o Funding recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services/ Child Welfare Services, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the District Attorney provide funding for R1 and R2, with appropriations for the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the above-named agencies at their earliest convenience pursue additional funding from the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the above recommendation.
F4:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F4: Most if not all of the government agencies that participate in the Child Abuse Services Team are understaffed. This can result in delayed or incomplete responses and delivery of services in critical child abuse situations.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
By April 1, 2024 all law enforcement agencies who are members of the Child Abuse • Services Team designate at least a primary and secondary officer to respond to allegations of child abuse and provide those officers with advanced training in handling such cases. (F3, F4, F5, and F6) • R5: By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare Services assign additional Social Workers trained in responding to incidents of child sexual abuse to accompany local law enforcement personnel on the initial contact with a child whenever possible. (F3 and F6) • R6: The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of Understanding between all agencies involved in the Child Abuse Services Team, to be completed no later than January 1, 2024 and to be made available via the public websites of all involved agencies. (F8) • R7: The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST Coordinator, the District Attorney create an annual report on the accomplishments of and challenges to the Child Abuse Services Team in the previous year, and that the report be made publicly available. (F9) o Funding recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services/ Child Welfare Services, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the District Attorney provide funding for R1 and R2, with appropriations for the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the above-named agencies at their earliest convenience pursue additional funding from the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the above recommendation.
F5:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F5: Law enforcement personnel are typically the first to respond to allegations of child abuse. Some members of law enforcement do not possess the most current training in effective ways to respond to such calls, which can result in missed opportunities for prosecutions and subject children to further unneeded trauma.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
The District Attorney, in collaboration with all local law enforcement agencies,
R2:
All Humboldt County law enforcement agencies receive the training described in R1
R4:
By April 1, 2024 all law enforcement agencies who are members of the Child Abuse • Services Team designate at least a primary and secondary officer to respond to allegations of child abuse and provide those officers with advanced training in handling such cases. (F3, F4, F5, and F6) • R5: By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare Services assign additional Social Workers trained in responding to incidents of child sexual abuse to accompany local law enforcement personnel on the initial contact with a child whenever possible. (F3 and F6) • R6: The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of Understanding between all agencies involved in the Child Abuse Services Team, to be completed no later than January 1, 2024 and to be made available via the public websites of all involved agencies. (F8) • R7: The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST Coordinator, the District Attorney create an annual report on the accomplishments of and challenges to the Child Abuse Services Team in the previous year, and that the report be made publicly available. (F9) o Funding recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services/ Child Welfare Services, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the District Attorney provide funding for R1 and R2, with appropriations for the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the above-named agencies at their earliest convenience pursue additional funding from the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the above recommendation.
F6:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F6: Some law enforcement agencies do not regularly request the services of Child Welfare Services Social Workers for all investigations of suspected child abuse, instead requesting these services for only the most acute situations. Traumatized children in all abuse situations benefit from having these services provided as soon as possible.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
By April 1, 2024 all law enforcement agencies who are members of the Child Abuse • Services Team designate at least a primary and secondary officer to respond to allegations of child abuse and provide those officers with advanced training in handling such cases. (F3, F4, F5, and F6) • R5: By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare Services assign additional Social Workers trained in responding to incidents of child sexual abuse to accompany local law enforcement personnel on the initial contact with a child whenever possible. (F3 and F6) • R6: The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of Understanding between all agencies involved in the Child Abuse Services Team, to be completed no later than January 1, 2024 and to be made available via the public websites of all involved agencies. (F8) • R7: The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST Coordinator, the District Attorney create an annual report on the accomplishments of and challenges to the Child Abuse Services Team in the previous year, and that the report be made publicly available. (F9) o Funding recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services/ Child Welfare Services, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the District Attorney provide funding for R1 and R2, with appropriations for the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the above-named agencies at their earliest convenience pursue additional funding from the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the above recommendation.
R5:
By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare
F7:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F7: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, the largest law enforcement agency in Humboldt County, does not have a specific investigator assigned as a representative to the Child Abuse Services Team, which can result in incomplete case information and negatively affect prosecutions.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office assign an investigator as their primary
F8:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F8: A Memorandum of Understanding between the agencies participating in CAST either does not exist or is not publicly available. This results in a lack of clarity about the relationships and responsibilities of the participating agencies.
Related Recommendations (3)
R4:
By April 1, 2024 all law enforcement agencies who are members of the Child Abuse • Services Team designate at least a primary and secondary officer to respond to allegations of child abuse and provide those officers with advanced training in handling such cases. (F3, F4, F5, and F6) • R5: By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare Services assign additional Social Workers trained in responding to incidents of child sexual abuse to accompany local law enforcement personnel on the initial contact with a child whenever possible. (F3 and F6) • R6: The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of Understanding between all agencies involved in the Child Abuse Services Team, to be completed no later than January 1, 2024 and to be made available via the public websites of all involved agencies. (F8) • R7: The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST Coordinator, the District Attorney create an annual report on the accomplishments of and challenges to the Child Abuse Services Team in the previous year, and that the report be made publicly available. (F9) o Funding recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services/ Child Welfare Services, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the District Attorney provide funding for R1 and R2, with appropriations for the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the above-named agencies at their earliest convenience pursue additional funding from the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the above recommendation.
R6:
The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of
R7:
The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST
F9:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F9: We could find no evidence that regular annual reports to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors about the activities of the Child Abuse Services Team exist, nor that they are required. Having such reports would give the Board of Supervisors and the public information on the depth, breadth, and response to child abuse in our community.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
By April 1, 2024 all law enforcement agencies who are members of the Child Abuse • Services Team designate at least a primary and secondary officer to respond to allegations of child abuse and provide those officers with advanced training in handling such cases. (F3, F4, F5, and F6) • R5: By April 1, 2024, the Department of Health and Human Services/Child Welfare Services assign additional Social Workers trained in responding to incidents of child sexual abuse to accompany local law enforcement personnel on the initial contact with a child whenever possible. (F3 and F6) • R6: The District Attorney lead in the creation of a detailed Memorandum of Understanding between all agencies involved in the Child Abuse Services Team, to be completed no later than January 1, 2024 and to be made available via the public websites of all involved agencies. (F8) • R7: The Memorandum of Understanding described in R5 mandate that, as CAST Coordinator, the District Attorney create an annual report on the accomplishments of and challenges to the Child Abuse Services Team in the previous year, and that the report be made publicly available. (F9) o Funding recommendation: The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Department of Health and Human Services/ Child Welfare Services, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Office of the District Attorney provide funding for R1 and R2, with appropriations for the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the above-named agencies at their earliest convenience pursue additional funding from the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors to fund the above recommendation.
F10:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F1: The Child Abuse Services Team provides a needed service to the residents of Humboldt County.
F11:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F2: The members of the Child Abuse Services Team are dedicated to keeping children safe and minimizing further trauma to the child.
F12:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F3: The late provision of services may harm the effective prosecution of alleged child abuse cases and the recovery of the survivor(s).
F13:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F4: Most if not all of the government agencies that participate in the Child Abuse Services Team are understaffed. This can result in delayed or incomplete responses and delivery of services in critical child abuse situations.
F14:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F5: Law enforcement personnel are typically the first to respond to allegations of child abuse. Some members of law enforcement do not possess the most current training in effective ways to respond to such calls, which can result in missed opportunities for prosecutions and subject children to further unneeded trauma.
F15:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F6: Some law enforcement agencies do not regularly request the services of Child Welfare Services Social Workers for all investigations of suspected child abuse, instead requesting these services for only the most acute situations. Traumatized children in all abuse situations benefit from having these services provided as soon as possible.
F16:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F7: The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, the largest law enforcement agency in Humboldt County, does not have a specific investigator assigned as a representative to the Child Abuse Services Team, which can result in incomplete case information and negatively affect prosecutions.
F17:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F8: A Memorandum of Understanding between the agencies participating in CAST either does not exist or is not publicly available. This results in a lack of clarity about the relationships and responsibilities of the participating agencies.
F18:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F9: We could find no evidence that regular annual reports to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors about the activities of the Child Abuse Services Team exist, nor that they are required. Having such reports would give the Board of Supervisors and the public information on the depth, breadth, and response to child abuse in our community.
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Findings & Recommendations
9 findings
F1:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F1: The clerks assigned to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors are competent, dedicated, and hardworking individuals.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
Air Quality Management District (See North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (NCUAQMD))
F2:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F2: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors share an insufficient number of clerks making it difficult for them to keep up with the intricacies of government, leading to poor direction, poor oversight and missed deadlines.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
Area 1 Agency on Aging (A1AA) Advisory Council
F3:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F3: Some of the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors’ advisory boards, commissions, and committees have met sporadically, if at all, leading to a breakdown in communication.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
Humboldt County Association of Governments (HCAOG) 4 https://www.bia.gov/service/tribal-leaders-directory/federally-recognized-tribes
F4:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F4: Local tribal governments and other underrepresented community members are not represented in many of the 2023 Board of Supervisors committees. This leads to a lack of representation for a sizable community population.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
Audit Committee, Humboldt County
F5:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F5: The relationship and responsibilities of the Audit Committee to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors is uncertain and could lead to budgetary problems.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
Aviation Advisory Committee (Airline Recruitment Subcommittee)
F6:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F6: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors has limited ability to hold various committees accountable for missing mandated reports. Thus, key agenda items may be delayed or missed altogether, with resident services impacted.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
Behavioral Health Board
F7:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F7: Missed mandated committee reports and meetings cause disruption to employees working in a process already understaffed and overworked.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
California Cannabis Authority
F8:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F8: The lack of a permanent, full-time grant writing position leads to Humboldt County missing out on potential funding.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
California State Association of Counties (CSAC) – Board of Directors
F9:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F9: We could find no evidence that the Disaster Council has met since the adoption of the Humboldt County Emergency Operation Plan in 2015, leading to no guidance for updating emergency planning, coordination, or response.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
Cal-Trans North District External Advisory Liaison
Additional Recommendations
28
Not linked to specific findings.
R10:
Convention and Visitors Bureau
R11:
Court/County Facilities Group
R12:
McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee
R13:
Eel Russian River Commission
R14:
Eureka City and County Round Table Committee
R15:
Fire Services Ad Hoc
R16:
First 5 (Children and Families Commission of Humboldt County)
R17:
Great Redwood Trail Authority
R18:
Hazardous Materials Response Authority
R19:
Headwaters Fund Board
R20:
Humboldt Transit Authority (HTA)
R21:
Juvenile Justice Coordinating Council
R22:
Klamath Basin Coordinating Committee
R23:
Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO)
R24:
National Association of Counties
R25:
North Coast Emergency Medical Services Governing Board
R26:
North Coast Resource Partnership
R27:
North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (NCUAQMD)
R28:
Northwest California Resource Conservation and Development Council
R29:
Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA)
R30:
Redwood Coast Regional Center (RCRC)
R31:
Redwood Region Economic Development Commission
R32:
Sempervirens Joint Conference Committee
R33:
St. Joseph Hospital Advocacy Committee
R34:
Transient Occupancy Tax Ad Hoc Working Group
R35:
Trinity River Basin Fish and Wildlife Subcommittee
R36:
Waste Management Authority (Humboldt)
R37:
Workforce Development Board TWENTY-ONE (21) COMMITTEES WITHOUT SUPERVISOR MEMBERSHIP:
Findings & Recommendations
9 findings
F1:
No evidence could be found that the County’s Disaster Council has met since the
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The respondent agrees with the finding
F2:
The Humboldt County Disaster Council does not have a process to identify how
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The respondent disagrees wholly or partially with the finding; in which case the response shall specify the portion of the finding that is disputed and shall include an explanation of the reasons therefor. Responses to Recommendations shall be one of the following:
F3:
Without a selected Chairman or Vice Chairman of the Humboldt County Disaster
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The recommendation has been implemented, with a summary regarding the implemented action
F4:
No evidence could be found that the existing 2015 Humboldt County Emergency
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation
F5:
The Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services is understaffed, which
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The recommendation requires further analysis, with an explanation and the scope and parameters of an analysis or study, and a time frame for the matter to be prepared for
F6:
The existing Humboldt County Emergency Operations Plan has yet to be reviewed
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or is not reasonable, with an explanation therefor. Pursuant to Penal Code section 933.05, the following responses are required:
F8:
There are no easily understood and readily available printed copies of Humboldt
F9:
The contact lists of the Humboldt Operations Area (Humboldt County) are
F10:
Humboldt County officials take Pacific Gas & Electric’s assertions regarding the
Related Recommendations (1)
R10:
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R16:
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, with a time frame for implementation
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Findings & Recommendations
19 findings
F1:
The Humboldt County Correctional Facility staff makes an effort to treat the resident
F2:
Having unfilled allocated positions for Correctional Deputies and Behavioral Health
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
By March 31, 2024, the Humboldt County Sheriff create and implement an incentive
R2:
(F2) • R2: By March 31, 2024, the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services create and implement an incentive plan to retain dedicated current Behavioral Health Clinicians within the Humboldt County Correctional Facility, and recruit and hire new Clinicians to staff the unfilled allocated positions. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #2. (F2) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends the Humboldt County Sheriff provide funding for R1, and the Department of Health and Human Services provide funding for R2, with appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends the Department of Health and Human Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. SHERIFF’S WORK ALTERNATIVE PROGRAM The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program (SWAP) provides an alternative to incarceration for eligible inmates who are 18-80 years of age and have a sentence of 180 days or less. At the time of the 2022-23 Humboldt County Civil Grand jury visit there were 125 inmates in the program. The program is supervised and monitored to provide safety to the participants and the community. Qualified inmates may choose to participate in the wood yard, farm operations, or other SWAP assignments one day a week instead of serving their sentence in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. This allows individuals to keep their jobs, homes, and families together while remaining productive and serving time as sentenced. Each day at SWAP takes one day off an individual’s sentence. The various operations provide community service and job skills that can be valuable upon completion of their sentence. Inmates must qualify for the program. Individuals with sex-related and felony charges are not eligible for SWAP. SHERIFF’S FARM The 2022-23 Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury visited the Sheriff’s Farm located in Fortuna, adjacent to Rohnerville Airport. The Sheriff’s Office refers to the SWAP Farm as the “Crown Jewel of the Sheriff's Department”. The Farm raises livestock and grows a variety of vegetables and fruit that are used in the preparation of meals at the Humboldt County Correctional Facility. When there is a surplus of produce, vegetables, or fruits, the farm donates to other county programs and community food organizations. The Farm is essential and invaluable for what it offers to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and the community. The Farm has several Correctional Deputies assigned whose duties include supervising the inmates and overseeing food production and the care and feeding of the animals. Correctional Deputies are assigned to work at the farm for defined periods of time. When a new Correctional Deputy is assigned to the farm there is no time overlap between the incoming and outgoing staff. This results in the new Correctional Deputy needing to learn the job “from scratch” rather than benefiting from the knowledge already gained by the outgoing person. The fresh food from the Farm for the Humboldt County Correctional Facility reduces food costs and the SWAP program reduces the cost of housing inmates, both of which decrease the financial burden to the County. The Civil Grand Jury compliments the Correctional Deputies and the Sheriff’s Farm inmates for making this Farm work.
F3:
The Sheriff’s Work Alternative Program - (Sheriff’s Farm) provides fresh food for
F4:
Incoming and outgoing Correctional Deputies at the Sheriff’s Work Alternative
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
By March 31, 2024, the Humboldt County Sheriff schedule no less than one month
F5:
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter staff and volunteers are
F6:
Due to the limited space, the Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter works with nonprofit
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Branch
F7:
The Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter has multiple building maintenance issues such as
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The Humboldt County Sheriff schedule maintenance to replace or repair exterior
F8:
Several lamp posts in the parking lot of the Sheriff’s Office Animal Shelter have
F9:
The Sempervirens Psychiatric Health Facility is a building in disrepair. The deferred
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Humboldt County Sheriff review and schedule the repair of deferred
F10:
The Humboldt County Juvenile Detention Center offers programs and rehabilitation
F11:
The Corrections Officers at the Juvenile Detention Center demonstrate professional
F12:
The Corrections Officers at the Juvenile Detention Center are challenged by
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
No later than March 31, 2024, the Humboldt County Probation Department creates
F13:
The Humboldt County Coroner’s autopsy room cabinets and countertops
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
No later than March 31, 2024, the Humboldt County Coroner’s autopsy and cadaver
F14:
The Humboldt County Coroner’s evidence room lacks organized storage cabinets
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The Humboldt County Coroner evidence room be re-organized no later than March
F16:
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Eel River
Related Recommendations (1)
R11:
No later than March 31, 2024, the California Department of Corrections and
F17:
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, Eel River
F18:
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Garberville Station lacks directional signs on
F19:
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Garberville Station lacks directional signs on US101 in both directions making it difficult for the public to find its location. (R12)
Related Recommendations (3)
R12:
The Humboldt County Sheriff request and secure directional signs on Redwood
R13:
The Humboldt County Sheriff request and secure directional signs on US-101 from
R14:
The Humboldt County Sheriff direct the staff at Sheriff’s Garberville Station to
F20:
The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Garberville Station does not display their hours of
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Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
Interest in the topic of incorporating McKinleyville as a city has been demonstrated by the citizens of McKinleyville. No in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of incorporation has ever been conducted, resulting in the citizens not knowing the pros and cons of incorporation.
Related Recommendations (6)
R1:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, with the authority to seek other sources of funding to assist in the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R2:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors authorize the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the scope and specifics of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R3:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide additional staff support to assist the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee in accomplishing the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R4:
By no later than January 1, 2024 the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors create a Request for Proposal to solicit bids from qualified contractors to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R5:
By no later than March 1, 2024, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors enter into a contract with the qualified contractor chosen from the bidding process for the Request for Proposal to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R6:
By no later than October 1, 2024, an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city be completed. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4) Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund the expenses listed in R3, R4, R5, and R6 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that BOS, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies.
F2:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
Incorporation as a city poses financial and other impacts on the residents of the proposed new city, adjacent communities, and the county as a whole. Without an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis the citizens of McKinleyville cannot know how these impacts affect them.
Related Recommendations (6)
R1:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, with the authority to seek other sources of funding to assist in the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R2:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors authorize the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the scope and specifics of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R3:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide additional staff support to assist the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee in accomplishing the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R4:
By no later than January 1, 2024 the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors create a Request for Proposal to solicit bids from qualified contractors to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R5:
By no later than March 1, 2024, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors enter into a contract with the qualified contractor chosen from the bidding process for the Request for Proposal to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R6:
By no later than October 1, 2024, an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city be completed. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4) Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund the expenses listed in R3, R4, R5, and R6 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that BOS, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies.
F3:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
The McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee is an appointed body that provides
Related Recommendations (6)
R1:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, with the authority to seek other sources of funding to assist in the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R2:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors authorize the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the scope and specifics of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R3:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide additional staff support to assist the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee in accomplishing the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R4:
By no later than January 1, 2024 the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors create a Request for Proposal to solicit bids from qualified contractors to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R5:
By no later than March 1, 2024, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors enter into a contract with the qualified contractor chosen from the bidding process for the Request for Proposal to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R6:
By no later than October 1, 2024, an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city be completed. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4) Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund the expenses listed in R3, R4, R5, and R6 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that BOS, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies.
F4:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
An independent and neutral qualified company that specializes in such matters is needed to create an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. No funding for such a study exists.
Related Recommendations (6)
R1:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, with the authority to seek other sources of funding to assist in the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R2:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors authorize the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee, and any of its subcommittees, to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors on the scope and specifics of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R3:
By no later than November 1, 2023, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors provide additional staff support to assist the McKinleyville Municipal Advisory Committee in accomplishing the creation of the in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R4:
By no later than January 1, 2024 the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors create a Request for Proposal to solicit bids from qualified contractors to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R5:
By no later than March 1, 2024, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors enter into a contract with the qualified contractor chosen from the bidding process for the Request for Proposal to conduct an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4)
R6:
By no later than October 1, 2024, an in-depth Initial Feasibility Analysis on the effects and impacts of McKinleyville being incorporated as a city be completed. See below regarding suggested funding sources. (F1, F2, F3, and F4) Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund the expenses listed in R3, R4, R5, and R6 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that BOS, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies.
Findings & Recommendations
44 findings
F1:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F1: The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services’ Child Welfare Services Branch is understaffed, with only 64% of positions filled as of January 2023. This causes delays in providing services to children and families.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R11:
The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing
F2:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F2: Using their current methods, Child Welfare Services has been unsuccessful in recruiting new workers, contributing to missed opportunities to attract new employees and understaffing.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F3:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F3: Understaffing at Child Welfare Services leads to high caseloads and low worker morale, contributing to high worker turnover and a lack of experienced workers.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R11:
The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing
F4:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F4: Child Welfare Services employs Social Services Aides, Social Workers, Social Worker Supervisors, and other employees who demonstrate a genuine passion for the work of improving the lives of children but suffer from repeated moral injuries and burnout.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F5:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F5: The stress due to understaffing and overwork has led to a rise in health-related absenteeism for employees of the Child Welfare Services Court Unit.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R6:
The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal
F6:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F6: Child Welfare Services employs recently graduated Social Workers from California Polytechnic State University, Humboldt, using the California Social Worker Education Center Title IX-E program. They do not use this program in cooperation with any other universities. This results in missed opportunities to recruit and sponsor new Social Workers.
Related Recommendations (3)
R2:
Starting the academic year 2024/25, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social
R3:
Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F7:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F7: Applications for new county employees within Child Welfare Services takes longer to process than necessary, resulting in some interested and capable workers choosing to abandon the process and seek employment elsewhere.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R5:
Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of
F8:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F8: Applications for employment in Child Welfare Services are accepted for short periods of time and only two or three times per year. This results in potential workers who might be interested in employment not applying for these jobs.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R7:
There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people
F9:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F9: Child Welfare Services web pages do not include any mentions of or links to open jobs, leading potential new employees to believe these positions are not available.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
Starting no later than January 1, 2024, Child Welfare Services actively recruit new
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R8:
Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This
F10:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F10: Open positions for Social Workers in Child Welfare Services can only be applied for through a State of California portal that is not referenced in any County of Humboldt web pages. This leads potential new employees to believe that positions are not available even when applications are being accepted.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F11:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit regularly receives newer employees in the Social Worker I and II classifications. Upon achieving the status of Social Worker III, after two years of experience, these employees are rotated to new assignments, creating a perpetual training cycle and inefficiencies in worker output.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R9:
The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years
F12:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F12: Child Welfare Services regularly fails to meet the legally mandated timelines for court filings. This results in court proceedings being extended, to the detriment of children, families, and the court.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F13:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F13: When a worker in the Court Unit is absent on leave, on vacation, or the position is unfilled, there is no regular provision to fill the open position. This contributes to a backlog of cases being filed with the court.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R10:
When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another
F14:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F14: When Child Welfare Services fails to meet legally mandated timelines for court filings they are not providing the children and families with due process. This could create a federal civil rights violation liability for the County of Humboldt.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F15:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F15: Court cases initiated by Child Welfare Services involve families in crisis who require interventions and supervision, and sometimes foster homes and adoption, all of which contribute to Adverse Childhood Experiences. Subjecting children to delays in court proceedings can make that trauma more severe.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
F16:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F16: In recognition of the lack of timeliness in court filings Child Welfare Services has started a Quality Improvement Plan without the inclusion of other stakeholders aside from the court and County Counsel. Excluding major participants in the court process leads to an incomplete evaluation of the problems and potential solutions.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R12:
Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the
F17:
F17: Monthly Improvement Meetings, involving the court, private attorneys, and CWS have happened regularly in the past but as of April of 2023 are happening sporadically, if at all. This misses an opportunity to have regular discussions on specific issues that can help to streamline the entire court process.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R13:
Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings
F18:
F18: Attorneys who represent children and families in Child Welfare Services cases are effectively prevented from speaking directly with the Social Workers involved in particular cases. This results in delayed or nonexistent communication.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R14:
Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the
F19:
F19: There are three attorney positions allocated to the County Counsel’s office for specialists in Child Welfare cases, one of which was unfilled as of April 2023. Even when fully staffed there are not enough attorneys in the County Counsel’s office to represent Child Welfare Services in a timely and effective manner.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
(F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R3: Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social Worker I, II, and III employees who show interest and meet minimum requirements through the California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, Masters of Social Work program. This will be for those unable to use the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5) • R4: By the academic year 2024/25 Child Welfare Services take full advantage of the California Social Work Education Center Title IX-E program by working with universities throughout the state of California.. For funding recommendations see the wording below. (F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6) o Funding Recommendation: The Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services fund the educational expenses listed in R1, R2, R3, R4, R16 and R17 with existing appropriations in the current fiscal year. If current appropriations are not sufficient, the Grand Jury recommends that Child Welfare Services, at its next earliest opportunity, pursue additional funding from an appropriate agency, including state or federal agencies, or submit to the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors, a request for additional funding, sufficient to fund the above recommendations. • R5: Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services to streamline the hiring process so that it takes no more than two months between a candidate’s application and a decision by the county. This streamlining process to be in effect no later than April 1, 2024. (F7) • R6: The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal contact with potential employees upon receipt of their application and at regular intervals during the hiring process, keeping them up to date on their status. This practice will be operable no later than November 1, 2024. (F7) • R7: There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people for all CWS Social Services Aide, Social Worker, and Social Worker Supervisor positions. This to be in effect no later than January 1, 2024. (F8) • R8: Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This recommendation to be implemented by November 1, 2023. (F9, F10) • R9: The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years cease. Employees should not start their careers in the Court Unit. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12) • R10: When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another unit be temporarily assigned until the position can be filled full-time. This practice to be operable no later than October 1, 2023. (F12, F13) • R11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing now and into the future. This procedural change to take place no later than October 1, 2023. (F11, F12, F13, F14, F15) • R12: Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the Dependency Court process to address quality improvement. These meetings are distinct from those described in R13 in that they will focus on internal Child Welfare Services Quality Improvement Plans. This working group to be convened no later than January 1, 2024. (F16) • R13: Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings involving the court, private attorneys, and Child Welfare Services be reinstated. This advocacy to begin no later than October 1, 2023. (F17) • R14: Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the procedure of Social Workers being required to have County Counsel present whenever they speak with an attorney representing a child or parent. This recommendation to be in place no later than October 1, 2023. (F18) • R15: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned to work with Child Welfare Services. For funding recommendations see the wording below recommendation #4. The process of hiring new attorneys to begin no later than December 1, 2023. (F19) • R16: The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to Humboldt County Government or Agencies to provide a comprehensive evaluation of and recommendations for Child Welfare Services. This independent consultant to be retained no later than January 1, 2024. For funding recommendations see wording below
R15:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned
F20:
F20: The Child Welfare Services Office of the Ombudsperson is vacant, providing no dedicated independent investigator and advocate for complaints from those involved in the Child Welfare System. This creates doubt that complaints are adequately investigated and addressed.
Related Recommendations (1)
R17:
By January 1, 2024, the position of Child Welfare Services Office of the
F21:
F21: When there is an Ombudsperson they report to the Deputy Director who supervises them, who also may supervise areas that are the subject of complaints. This creates the potential for a conflict of interest.
Related Recommendations (1)
R18:
By April 1, 2024, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors remove the
F22:
F22: The Department of Health and Human Services and Child Welfare Services are ultimately overseen by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors. The Board has no way of receiving independent information on the status of the situation within the dependency court process. Having this information would be critical for the Board of Supervisors to make informed decisions regarding Child Welfare Services.
Related Recommendations (2)
R16:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to
R19:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors create a committee whose sole mission
F23:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F1: The Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services’ Child Welfare Services Branch is understaffed, with only 64% of positions filled as of January 2023. This causes delays in providing services to children and families.
Related Recommendations (1)
R11:
The Child Welfare Services Court Unit should be the top priority for full staffing
F24:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F2: Using their current methods, Child Welfare Services has been unsuccessful in recruiting new workers, contributing to missed opportunities to attract new employees and understaffing.
F25:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F3: Understaffing at Child Welfare Services leads to high caseloads and low worker morale, contributing to high worker turnover and a lack of experienced workers.
F26:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F4: Child Welfare Services employs Social Services Aides, Social Workers, Social Worker Supervisors, and other employees who demonstrate a genuine passion for the work of improving the lives of children but suffer from repeated moral injuries and burnout.
F27:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F5: The stress due to understaffing and overwork has led to a rise in health-related absenteeism for employees of the Child Welfare Services Court Unit.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Department of Health and Human Services Employee Services make personal
F28:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F6: Child Welfare Services employs recently graduated Social Workers from California Polytechnic State University, Humboldt, using the California Social Worker Education Center Title IX-E program. They do not use this program in cooperation with any other universities. This results in missed opportunities to recruit and sponsor new Social Workers.
Related Recommendations (2)
R2:
Starting the academic year 2024/25, Child Welfare Services sponsor all Social
R3:
Starting in time for the 2024/25 academic year, Child Welfare Services sponsor all
F29:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F7: Applications for new county employees within Child Welfare Services takes longer to process than necessary, resulting in some interested and capable workers choosing to abandon the process and seek employment elsewhere.
F30:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F8: Applications for employment in Child Welfare Services are accepted for short periods of time and only two or three times per year. This results in potential workers who might be interested in employment not applying for these jobs.
Related Recommendations (2)
R5:
Child Welfare Services work with County Human Resources and the Department of
R7:
There be a permanent open application process to create a pool of qualified people
F31:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F9: Child Welfare Services web pages do not include any mentions of or links to open jobs, leading potential new employees to believe these positions are not available.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
Starting no later than January 1, 2024, Child Welfare Services actively recruit new
R8:
Child Welfare Services increase their internet presence for all job openings. This
F32:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F10: Open positions for Social Workers in Child Welfare Services can only be applied for through a State of California portal that is not referenced in any County of Humboldt web pages. This leads potential new employees to believe that positions are not available even when applications are being accepted.
F33:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F11: The Child Welfare Services Court Unit regularly receives newer employees in the Social Worker I and II classifications. Upon achieving the status of Social Worker III, after two years of experience, these employees are rotated to new assignments, creating a perpetual training cycle and inefficiencies in worker output.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The practice of moving Social Workers out of the Court Unit after just a few years
F34:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F12: Child Welfare Services regularly fails to meet the legally mandated timelines for court filings. This results in court proceedings being extended, to the detriment of children, families, and the court.
F35:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F13: When a worker in the Court Unit is absent on leave, on vacation, or the position is unfilled, there is no regular provision to fill the open position. This contributes to a backlog of cases being filed with the court.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10:
When an opening is created within the Court Unit a Social Worker from another
F36:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F14: When Child Welfare Services fails to meet legally mandated timelines for court filings they are not providing the children and families with due process. This could create a federal civil rights violation liability for the County of Humboldt.
F37:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F15: Court cases initiated by Child Welfare Services involve families in crisis who require interventions and supervision, and sometimes foster homes and adoption, all of which contribute to Adverse Childhood Experiences. Subjecting children to delays in court proceedings can make that trauma more severe.
F38:
The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury finds that:
F16: In recognition of the lack of timeliness in court filings Child Welfare Services has started a Quality Improvement Plan without the inclusion of other stakeholders aside from the court and County Counsel. Excluding major participants in the court process leads to an incomplete evaluation of the problems and potential solutions.
Related Recommendations (1)
R12:
Child Welfare Services convene a diverse working group of stakeholders in the
F39:
F17: Monthly Improvement Meetings, involving the court, private attorneys, and CWS have happened regularly in the past but as of April of 2023 are happening sporadically, if at all. This misses an opportunity to have regular discussions on specific issues that can help to streamline the entire court process.
Related Recommendations (1)
R13:
Child Welfare Services should advocate that Monthly Improvement Meetings
F40:
F18: Attorneys who represent children and families in Child Welfare Services cases are effectively prevented from speaking directly with the Social Workers involved in particular cases. This results in delayed or nonexistent communication.
Related Recommendations (1)
R14:
Child Welfare Services and County Counsel enact a blanket exemption to the
F41:
F19: There are three attorney positions allocated to the County Counsel’s office for specialists in Child Welfare cases, one of which was unfilled as of April 2023. Even when fully staffed there are not enough attorneys in the County Counsel’s office to represent Child Welfare Services in a timely and effective manner.
Related Recommendations (1)
R15:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors fund two additional attorneys assigned
F42:
F20: The Child Welfare Services Office of the Ombudsperson is vacant, providing no dedicated independent investigator and advocate for complaints from those involved in the Child Welfare System. This creates doubt that complaints are adequately investigated and addressed.
Related Recommendations (1)
R17:
By January 1, 2024, the position of Child Welfare Services Office of the
F43:
F21: When there is an Ombudsperson they report to the Deputy Director who supervises them, who also may supervise areas that are the subject of complaints. This creates the potential for a conflict of interest.
Related Recommendations (1)
R18:
By April 1, 2024, the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors remove the
F44:
F22: The Department of Health and Human Services and Child Welfare Services are ultimately overseen by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors. The Board has no way of receiving independent information on the status of the situation within the dependency court process. Having this information would be critical for the Board of Supervisors to make informed decisions regarding Child Welfare Services.
Related Recommendations (2)
R16:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors retain a consultant unrelated to
R19:
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors create a committee whose sole mission
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Findings & Recommendations
9 findings
F1:
The elections procedure was secure and had many double and triple checks to make sure the election was safe and secure.
F2:
There is no internal manual describing the various election duties unique to Humboldt County. This could lead to specific job duties and tasks being overlooked.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Humboldt County Elections Office prepares policy and procedural manuals that can be amended and kept up-to-date annually or after each election. We recommend that this be completed before the next local, primary or general election. (F2)
R2:
The Humboldt County Elections Office prepares a written matrix detailing specific duties and tasks to be performed and the persons responsible for those duties. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F2, F5) 12
F3:
Some ballot drop boxes are not adequately secured in their designated locations, making their removal possible.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Humboldt County Elections Office replaces and upgrades ballot drop boxes for additional security. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F3)
F4:
The Candidate Guide does not explain listing order on the ballot for local government candidates, creating unnecessary confusion.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Humboldt County Elections Office updates the Candidate Guide adding a section explaining candidate ballot listing order. This section shall be pursuant to the State of California Election Code § 13111. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F4)
F5:
Some managers did not receive the Poll Managers Training Manual but were taught from the Poll Workers Training Manual. This caused some unnecessary confusion with the successful completion of their duties.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Humboldt County Elections Office prepares a written matrix detailing specific duties and tasks to be performed and the persons responsible for those duties. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F2, F5) 12
F6:
Some Poll Workers did not participate in mandatory training, which contributed to process errors.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The Humboldt County Elections Office provides all Poll Workers with mandatory training prior to working on any election. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F6)
F7:
Having an outside nonprofit watchdog group is a useful check of ballot counting and tallying, providing validation to Humboldt County Elections.
F8:
A Humboldt County Elections employee was serving on the Board of the nonprofit watchdog group validating that election. This results in the perception of a conflict of interest.
Related Recommendations (2)
R6:
The Humboldt County Elections Office creates either a Contract or Memorandum of Understanding between the Humboldt County Elections Office and any volunteer nonprofit watchdog group. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F8, F9)
R7:
The Humboldt County Elections Office assures the public that no County Elections Office employees serve on the board of directors of any election watchdog group. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F8, F9)
F9:
There is no evidence of a Contract or Memorandum of Understanding between the Elections Office and the nonprofit watchdog volunteer group, known as the Elections Transparency Project, making the responsibilities of each entity unclear.
Related Recommendations (2)
R6:
The Humboldt County Elections Office creates either a Contract or Memorandum of Understanding between the Humboldt County Elections Office and any volunteer nonprofit watchdog group. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F8, F9)
R7:
The Humboldt County Elections Office assures the public that no County Elections Office employees serve on the board of directors of any election watchdog group. We recommend that this be accomplished before the next local, primary or general election. (F8, F9)