Lake County Grand Jury
2006-2007
Findings & Recommendations
21 findings
F1:
There are no slow periods for government accountants.
F2:
Much of the workload of the Auditor-Controller’s employees is la- bor intensive and also audit-driven.
F3:
The Auditor-Controller’s office has an adequate computer system that handles basic accounting needs.
F4:
The payroll system is inadequate which causes problems monthly when time sheets are due.
F5:
External directives result in additional unexpected workload.
F6:
The employees in this office have specialized civil accounting skills that are not readily available in other county offices or the current labor pool.
F7:
Classes are currently not available at Lake County high schools or local community colleges to achieve the specialized skills for advancement in this department.
F8:
Training in-house and outside the community is necessary to maintain the current staff skill level.
F9:
On-the-job training programs have been useful and productive in the past.
F10:
The general practices within the department were found not to be effective, economical, or use the latest technologies.
F11:
The Auditor-Controller’s office does not have a dedicated payroll- processing department.
F12:
The employee time reporting system is antiquated and causes problems every month when the time sheets are due.
F13:
There are computer programs available that would provide more accurate and timely employee reporting of their work hours.
F14:
The Homeland Security Grant was reduced significantly from $500,000 to $175,000 in 2007.
F15:
For the current fiscal year, the accounts are reconciled and both the sheriff and his accounting staff are confident that a solution is in place to correct past discrepancies in these accounts.
F16:
The independent auditor will review these accounts in summer 2007. If necessary, they will be reviewed again in fall 2007.
F17:
Deposits are invested with short and mid-range financial goals.
F18:
Interest received on the county deposits is distributed to county departments.
F19:
Banking costs are minimized.
F20:
This department has a very low employee turnover rate.
F21:
Supplemental Tax Notices are issued sporadically creating confu- sion for the taxpayers and causes an excessive burden on the de- partment’s employees.
Additional Recommendations
6
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
Efficient processing of payroll needs to be developed to reduce the monthly stress of county employees and Auditor-Controller staff.
R2:
Department heads, negotiators, and the Board of Supervisors should include or consult the Auditor-Controller on projects that affect staff capability and workload. 4 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Budget and Finance Committee
R3:
Employees in the Auditor-Controller’s office who have unique job qualifications should be reclassified.
R4:
The number of staff accounting positions should be increased to surpass maximum workload and “loaned” to assist other depart- ments during reduced periods and back-fill training vacancies.
R5:
Staff training incentives should be developed to encourage and maintain qualified employees who can be promoted from within.
R6:
Facilitating a work program for high school students or graduates in combination with a government on-the-job training program would be beneficial.
Findings & Recommendations
66 findings
F1:
The county has the most expensive health insurance monthly share-cost for employees of all government employers in the county. The rates are elevated by the high fee schedule at the local hospital.
F2:
Recent improvements in retirement benefits for government em- ployees have not been adopted in Lake County.
F3:
County employees promoted to supervisory positions within their departments do not receive training in management and motiva- tion skills.
F4:
The most recent salary survey, contracted by the county, has not resulted in equivalent wages for county employees.
F5:
If enjoying the rural lifestyle remains the only incentive to attract qualified individuals, our public services will continue to deterio- rate. 14 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Government Services Committee
F6:
The Buildings and Grounds Department has one supervisor (Superintendent), four full-time technicians, and one part-time office person. However, according to The “Operations and Mainte- nance Benchmarks Research Report” for 2005 cited the ratio for maintenance personnel is 1:30,000 square feet.
F7:
There is no after-hours call-out availability of Buildings and Grounds personnel.
F8:
The Buildings and Grounds operation has outgrown its current location.
F9:
The Buildings and Grounds Superintendent spends most of his time working as a technician.
F10:
A qualified technician with Lake County must be adequately trained in plumbing, carpentry, electrical, and heating & air con- ditioning, pneumatics, and computer technologies to fulfill the job requirements.
F11:
Due to staffing levels, a qualified technician with Lake County must be able to work independently with minimal guidance. 16 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Government Services Committee
F12:
Construction projects under $10,000 are usually handled by Buildings and Grounds because contractors customarily do not bid on projects of this size. Some routine maintenance is done by outside contractors for time efficiency.
F13:
Optional construction projects with available monies are some- times left undone due to unavailability of staff.
F14:
Clearlake City Council and the City’s Redevelopment Agency were having a joint meeting the evening the committee attended.
F15:
The prepared agenda was followed in an organized manner.
F16:
The public was treated with respect and was allowed ample time to ask questions and state opinions regarding items voted on by the council.
F17:
The parking lot outside council chambers has insufficient light- ing.
F18:
The newly elected District Attorney did not dispute that a need existed for an increase in staff assigned to elder abuse cases.
F19:
The District Attorney’s Office budget for 2007 includes requests for one full-time Deputy District Attorney, one full-time investiga- tor who would assist the present investigator, and one victim ad- vocate for elder abuse cases.
F20:
The complainant is satisfied with the efforts of the District Attor- ney’s Office to increase staffing to handle elder abuse cases. The complainant contacted the State Attorney General’s Office in ad- dition to the Lake County Grand Jury.
F21:
The Information Technology (IT) Department needs two additional staff positions, a programmer analyst and a senior network engi- neer for high-level design and support.
F22:
Several county departments have old hardware and outdated software to support the specific demands required for their work.
F23:
High turnover and low pay for technical support staff has created a problem maintaining well qualified staff for the IT Department.
F24:
The department has outgrown its current location.
F25:
The city council discussed a variety of items listed on the agenda.
F26:
An addition to the agenda was discussed, voted on and approved.
F27:
The agenda was followed meticulously with the only exception be- ing the public was allowed to speak for more than three minutes regarding an agenda item.
F28:
The brochures are professionally published. They cover a wide range of interest that provide an opportunity for visitors to find and locate activities while exploring many of Lake County's hid- den treasures.
F29:
The Government Services committee is concerned that the poten- tial sale or closure of Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa, a featured destination for tourism, could create a loss of revenue and mar- keting potential for the county.
F30:
The employees in the Personnel Department are dedicated and caring people who want to provide the best opportunities for the employees of Lake County.
F31:
Knowing the major causes for losing employees and not being able to affect change in those areas is frustrating to the Personnel Department.
F32:
The training of first line supervisors throughout the county is in- consistent.
F33:
Other government agencies in the county, such as the school dis- tricts, pay much less for health insurance.
F34:
County employee retirement benefits are historically low and out- dated. 28 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Government Services Committee
F35:
LLDS is continuously seeking new attorneys.
F36:
To the detriment of LLDS inexperienced attorneys occasionally use LLDS for training and experience before moving to private or deputy DA practice.
F37:
LLDS uses the slower pace of Lake County to solicit experienced attorneys who wish to enjoy a more relaxed environment. This approach seems to be working.
F38:
There is no private consultation room for LLDS at the Lakeport courthouse.
F39:
The current system for checking financial eligibility for public de- fender services is being improved.
F40:
There is a pre-entry access security screening measures at the Lake County courthouse in Clearlake, but not in Lakeport .
F41:
Currently, county purchasing operations are handled by each in- dividual department.
F42:
Some departments do not have their staff trained in purchasing procedures.
F43:
Personnel changes sometimes leave departments without staff trained in purchasing.
F44:
Staff unfamiliar with purchasing could result in the loss of sav- ings by failing to: buy in bulk, negotiate service contracts, and identify surpluses. In addition, they could have difficulty manag- ing the budget.
F45:
The Purchasing Agent is seeking to reorganize the processes and bring control over the spending by centralizing the purchasing and service contracts for equipment and supplies.
F46:
The Office of the Registrar of Voters has a dedicated year-round staff of two full-time people and a recent addition of one perma- nent part-time person.
F47:
Prior to each election, there is a paid training class for persons staffing the polling places.
F48:
With the advent of electronic voting machines, additional training and incentive pay were implemented.
F49:
Persons staffing the polling places are paid.
F50:
The campaign to register people to vote is ongoing. High schools in Lake County have elected not to participate.
F51:
Although there were 46,859 people eligible to vote in Lake County prior to the 2006 election, only 31,564 were registered to vote.
F52:
During the November 2006 election, polling place ballots received were 9,445 (14.9% of those registered).
F53:
During the November 2006 election, absentee ballots received were 10,316 (16.2% of those registered absentee). 34 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Government Services Committee
F54:
The following statistics represent the vote in Lake County in November 2006: Total Total Total
F55:
Every vote counts. Based on these results to make a majority, for each 10 people in the county, it only takes 2 votes to determine the outcome of the local election.
F56:
The county paid approximately $600,000 out of contingency funds for the electronic voting machines mandated by law.
F57:
Five voters used electronic machines in Lake County in November 2006.
F58:
The State of California and the federal government are to reim- burse the county for the purchase of the voting machines. This has not occurred to date.
F59:
The electronic voting machines purchased by the Registrar of Voters meets all ADA accessibility standards and were an excep- tional decision in saving the county money, otherwise two ma- chines per polling place would have been required.
F60:
The Registrar of Voters shares office space in the Lakeport court- house with the Auditor-Controller. The office space is grossly in- adequate for the daily staff and storage, and has no room for ex- pansion during elections.
F61:
Absentee ballots are counted at the time they are received and are reported in the initial election returns.
F62:
The department is currently housed in a 1950’s era former resi- dence with few upgrades.
F63:
The Victim Witness Director is diligent in locating available grant money to support operations.
F64:
Some grant money is shared with other law enforcement agen- cies.
F65:
The staff has created a supportive environment for the comfort, consolation, and education of crime victims using their services.
F66:
The caseload has risen considerably in the last few years; how- ever, their ability to staff the office and to obtain grant money has not kept pace with the demand.
Additional Recommendations
6
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Board of Supervisors and Administrative Officer should im- plement a plan starting in the second half of the 2007-2008 fiscal year for all departments in the following order: − Reduce the hardship of health insurance to an acceptable level. Less than $100 per month for family coverage would be acceptable, and this would be comparable to the county’s school district employees. − Implement the preeminent standards for retirement bene- fits for all employee classifications. − Put into practice the use of a professional training program for all first level supervisors and secondary supervisors, with the full support of the department heads and elected officials. − Publish a three-year plan to be executed in January 2008 incrementally increasing wages first for professional and accredited positions, then non certified positions, to within 15% of the top of the average salaries in their classification based on the current wage survey adjusted for inflation. − Create an incentive program to induce prospective quality applicants to come to Lake County using hiring bonuses, relocation expenses, or low-interest loans for down pay- ments on homes.
R2:
The Buildings and Grounds department needs to be relocated to a facility that is sufficient in size to put all operations under one roof with room for expansion.
R3:
The Buildings and Grounds Department needs to be centrally lo- cated in the greater Lakeport area.
R4:
Pursuant to the “Operations and Maintenance Benchmarks Re- search Report” for 2005, the staff level needs to be substantially increased. Guideline levels indicate at least eight technicians for maintenance are needed.
R5:
A separate staff should be maintained and designated for con- struction projects.
R6:
If the staffing cannot be increased for maintenance, then the budget should be increased for maintenance contracts.
Findings & Recommendations
70 findings
F1:
Lake County Board of Supervisors has not completed the long- overdue General Plan Update.
F2:
Lake County is trying to stimulate economic development by en- couraging agritourism.
F3:
The owner of the business that the committee visited described a number of frustrations while establishing his business. These issues were generally related to the retail permit process and to the fact that the business is located in close proximity to an area consisting of intensively farmed commercial orchards and vine- yards.
F4:
The Director of LCAQMD maintains the clean air in the Lake County Air Basin, which is within the boundaries of Lake County.
F5:
Funding of $350,000 a year comes from local fines, and federal and state money. No county general funds are used.
F6:
Lake County continues to enjoy the cleanest air in California. LCAQMD monitors carbon, lead and nitrogen oxides produced from automobile exhaust, agriculture burning and wood fire- places. Hydrogen sulfide is monitored at the Geysers.
F7:
The LCAQMD produces an assortment of brochures for the pub- lic’s education.
F8:
Approximately 1.5 miles from Clear Lake, a rock ledge called Grigsby Riffle crosses Cache Creek. This Riffle is located at the confluence of Cache and Seigler Creeks near Lower Lake and is at a narrow point in the creek. The Grigsby Riffle is a natural limitation of water flow that controls the outflow from Clear Lake. In 1872, Captain Rumsey established the low point of the ledge as “Zero Rumsey” and all subsequent lake measurements are 45 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee based on this elevation – Zero Rumsey is equivalent to 1318.256 feet.
F9:
There are two decrees, or laws, governing how the level of Clear Lake will be handled. − The Gopcevic Decree regulates winter water levels by set- ting a lake stage below which water may not be released and above which water must be released to reduce flood- ing. As actual lake level approaches the level indicated in the schedule for that date, conditions are taken into ac- count so that the dam operation will minimize flooding, while allowing the lake to fill to 7.56 Rumsey. There are two exceptions: When the lake is filling rapidly, water may be released from the dam when the actual lake level is within one-half foot below the level indicated in the sched- ule. When the lake is falling and no rain is anticipated, the dam may be closed when the actual lake level is within one-half foot above the level indicated in the schedule. − The Solano Decree regulates summer water levels by estab- lishing the allowable release based on the spring water level, however, if the lake does not reach a level above 3.22 feet Rumsey on May 1, then no water can be released.
F10:
The Yolo Water District was created in 1951 to serve the needs of the local community by managing water resources for farming while stabilizing groundwater for other uses, and this results in pro-active water planning to everyone’s benefit.
F11:
In 1967, Yolo’s District purchased the privately owned Clear Lake Water Company and the Cache Creek Dam giving them rights to store water in Clear Lake.
F12:
Costs incurred for maintenance and improvements to the Cache Creek Dam and Indian Valley Dam and Reservoir are the respon- sibility of the District.
F13:
Flow tests have been conducted to determine what would happen if there was not a dam on Cache Creek and to determine the opti- mum lake levels and flows at given times of the year so the best use of water is maintained. These testing results clearly demon- strate that the Dam does not cause flooding of Clear Lake. An- other set of flow tests were done to determine the optimal level for the lake to maximize the release of water through the dam and to minimize plugging of the floodgates by floating debris.
F14:
Indian Valley Dam and Reservoir not only manages the floodwa- ters, which reduces some of the flood risk in Lake County and improves Yolo County’s ground water, but also stores and re- leases water for recreational and environmental uses in Lake and Yolo Counties. The District manages the water in the reservoir by releasing as 46 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee
F15:
The District manages the water in the reservoir by releasing—as needed-through the dam.
F16:
The County is notified whenever there are adjustments to the ex- isting arrangement, for instance, whenever the Cache Creek Dam is opened or closed during rains or to maintain the level of Clear Lake for summer recreation.
F17:
Central Garage is funded via the billing of various county depart- ments for rental and maintenance on vehicles and equipment.
F18:
Inspections are done on a rotating basis every 90-days so that all vehicles and equipment meet Department of Transportation (D.O.T.) requirements.
F19:
The Fleet Maintenance Supervisor has devised a “cost per hour” system for equipment and a “cost per mile” system for vehicles. This system is highly efficient in determining when a vehicle needs to be rotated out and replaced.
F20:
The Lake County Board of Supervisors currently suggests re- placement mileage for vehicles is 130,000. However, the Fleet Maintenance Supervisor can replace a vehicle at lower mileage, if it is determined to be cost-effective.
F21:
Currently there are 123 road maintenance vehicles and 350 vehi- cles in the county fleet.
F22:
Although most vehicles are maintained at Central Garage, those that are not cause difficulty in adhering to D.O.T. inspection schedules.
F23:
The current South Main Street location for Central Garage is an area that has seen tremendous growth over the years. The traffic in front of its current location is continually increasing. This not only presents a potential hazard to the community, it also makes maneuvering equipment to and from the garage difficult. 48 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee
F24:
The party constructing the “cabaña” on his property obtained all permits necessary for legal construction.
F25:
The lot line in question is not a property boundary but rather a public access road. Therefore, the lot line boundary code does not apply.
F26:
Four inspectors, two seasonal workers, and one clerical person oversee the county’s 726 fuel pumps (used for motor vehicles, boats, and aircraft), as well as scales at grocery stores, packing sheds, wineries, and vendors of manufactured homes.
F27:
The majority of errors encountered on weighing/measuring de- vices that are certified by the Sealer arise out of honest operator mistakes.
F28:
Occasionally devices can malfunction due to mechanical prob- lems that arise from wear and tear from normal use. These are infrequent and are usually caught by the Sealer during normal certification appointments.
F29:
All weighing/measuring devices are required to be inspected an- nually, at a minimum.
F30:
As the nutrient levels in Clear Lake have reduced over the past decade, the algae have also diminished. This process has encour- aged the growth of aquatic weeds.
F31:
Lakebed Management maintains an ongoing program to control aquatic weeds. These weeds choke-off boating and swimming ac- cess to the lake.
F32:
The California Department of Pesticide Regulation regulates all herbicides used in this program.
F33:
Permits for private use of pesticides may be obtained from the Lake County Agriculture Commissioner.
F34:
The project has secured authorization in both the House- Committee passed Water Resource and Development Act (WRDA) H.R. 2864 and the Senate- committee passed WRDA legislation, S.B. 728. Missing from these authorizations is a crucial mitiga- tion factor.
F35:
Several parcels in the project area are held by the United States in trust status for the Robinson Rancheria band of Pomo Indians. A county led effort has identified a plan to allow the trust title to be transferred to another similarly sized parcel owned by the tribe. This is a mutually agreeable plan for all parties and the county most strongly seeks language in the WRDA to allow for this exchange. Without congressional approval for equivalent re- placement lands, the project simply cannot move forward as planned. If allowances are not made for the Indian Land Trust in the final WRDA, the project can continue, but at a much greater cost to Lake County. As of this writing, the sitting House & Sen- ate have sent legislation to a congressional conference commit- tee. Prospect for passage appears positive, but three issues re- main to be resolved. They are: − the previously discussed Indian Trust Land Exchange − responsibility for the costs of Highway 20 relocation within the project area − responsibility for the costs of the power-poles relocation within the project area
F36:
There are needs in this county that are more complex than small communities can resolve. Solutions could come from larger group participation of several entities working together.
F37:
The MATH governing board itself makes no decisions. All deci- sions and recommendations are made by a vote of the entire group attending the meetings. Board members run the meetings, keep the records, obtain information required for agenda items, and handle other administrative issues.
F38:
The precise boundaries of MATH are set within the South Lake County Fire Protection District, and the number of Board mem- bers are as follows: − “Middletown Proper” is described as that area located south of Grange Road, north of Rancheria Road, west of Loconomi Road, and east of Anderson Springs Road – 3 members − South (Twin Pines Casino) is south of Rancheria Road to the county line – 1 member − West (Cobb Region) is west of Anderson Springs Road – 1 member − East (Butts Canyon) is east of Loconomi Road to the county line – 1 member − North (Coyote Valley) is north of Grange Road – 1 member
F39:
The District 1 Supervisor has supported the formation of such a body from the beginning.
F40:
Distance from the county seat and the daytime meetings of the 59 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee
F41:
Distance from the county seat and the daytime meetings of the Board of Supervisors and the Planning Commission inhibit citi- zen participation in county decisions that affect Middletown.
F42:
The Middletown area’s recent growth is creating unique concerns that are not within county jurisdiction, such as a heavily traveled state highway through the downtown area.
F43:
The MATH meeting format is very loose and open. The beginning of each meeting has public input.
F44:
MATH is currently focusing on: − Traffic − Youth activity − Design and placement of new street lighting − Downtown parking − A museum − Visitor center − Downtown park − Economic development − Affordable housing − Growth impact
F45:
Unincorporated communities are encouraged to visit MATH to de- termine if this concept might be useful in other areas of Lake County.
F46:
The ordinance placed into effect in September was amended to remain in effect for a year. At the end of 2006, the Board of Su- pervisors could continue it for another year.
F47:
After two years, the moratorium could be extended indefinitely by the California Department of Health Services, Drinking Water Branch. Two previous moratoriums in the mid-1980’s and 1990’s were imposed by the state and removed when necessary repairs were made.
F48:
The current moratorium is based primarily on the many ques- tions related to the systems delivery system. The Yolo County Flood Control District is the agency contractually responsible for delivery of the North Fork of Cache Creek water. The Special 62 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee District’s Administration stated that the delivery system is anti- quated and leaking badly. The Lake County Special Districts De- partment, the agency representing the Spring Valley Water Board, commissioned a water engineer to determine what the problems were and possible resolutions. This was completed in September 2006. His report indicated that water loss did exist, but that the existing antiquated meters were providing erroneous information. Until agreement and resolution are forthcoming the moratorium will in all likelihood remain.
F49:
Approximately 400 building sites remain and once the morato- rium is removed, house construction may continue. Because the rate of growth in Spring Valley is substantially greater than most county areas, another problem arises. At the current rate of growth and allowing for the moratorium, the current water allot- ment from the Yolo County Flood Control District will be ex- ceeded by demand between 2018 and 2020. At that point the Board of Supervisors, sitting as the Board of Directors of CSA No.2, will have to seek an additional water allotment from the above named Yolo County agency. The added cost will be solely the responsibility of the Spring Valley water users.
F50:
The current filtration system is aged and simple, but effective with minimal maintenance costs.
F51:
The current system has reached its capacity in both on-demand water availability and filtration.
F52:
Upgrades to the facility are necessary to allow any new service connections.
F53:
Two plans are proposed for upgrading the facility: − The first plan includes additional sand-filtration units and a continual upgrade of the current system. This plan is sched- uled to be done in three phases with completion being 2026 at an estimated total cost of $2,958,000. The first phase would be completed in 2008 at an initial cost of just over $1,500,000. − The second plan is for expansion using a more advanced mi- cro-filtration technology. This plan would also be completed in three phases. The cost projections are estimated to total $4,700,000 with completion of phase three in 2026. The ini- tial phase cost would be just over $2,700,000 and would be scheduled for completion in 2008.
F54:
The more advanced micro-filtration plan’s initial cost is more ex- pensive; however, the continuing maintenance costs are subse- quently lower.
F55:
Financing for the upgrades is currently the major issue. The Special Districts Administrator has made proposals to the prop- erty owners in the area. 63 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee
F56:
When the water facility responsibility in Spring Valley was as- signed to Special Districts, the maintenance for the roads and bridges was also included.
F57:
Given the potential for further growth in this area of the county, upgrades to the CSA No.2 water facility will be fiscally beneficial in the long term for both the area and the county.
F58:
In addition to upgrades to the water system mentioned in the committee’s site visit report, new meters are being installed at every unit in Spring Valley. The District’s consulting engineer, The California Rural Water Association and the Rural Community Assistance Corporation, recommended the meters. The new me- ters will be read by the use of an electronic “wand” that will transfer the information into a portable computer box. At the end of the day the information from the portable computer is trans- ferred to the Special District’s computer for billing. The upgrade process is over 60% complete.
F59:
The meters listed in the complaint have not yet been upgraded and are manual-read meters. The meter reader erroneously typed meter readings into the “handheld” unit. This resulted in inaccurate bills. Immediately after being made aware of the er- rors by the customers, the Administrative Manager of Special Dis- tricts extended apologies to the customers involved. New read- ings were taken and the bills were corrected. The customers in- volved in this complaint are satisfied with the corrective actions of the Special Districts office. After installation of the new meters, human error will be minimized. 66 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Planning and Public Works Committee
F60:
The Taylor Observatory is unfortunately a well-kept secret that pro- vides valuable service and information to the county.
F61:
The goal of the observatory is to encourage and promote awareness and interest in astronomy.
F62:
The observatory has a 16-inch computerized telescope housed un- der a dome capable of viewing 140,000 celestial objects. In addi- tion they have an 8-inch portable computerized telescope, an 8- inch portable solar telescope, and a 2-inch portable solar telescope.
F63:
Science and math scores among high school students in the United States are lower than several other countries. The observatory pro- vides an excellent opportunity to interest children in science through astronomy.
F64:
In 2005, the observatory was awarded a grant to develop curricu- lum for high school level classrooms. The grant has been renewed for next year.
F65:
Starting in the 2007/2008 school year, astronomy classes will be offered at local high schools courtesy of the observatory. The classes will be presented throughout the county’s high schools us- ing videoconferencing.
F66:
Currently, the observatory information is available at the Visitor’s Center but not included in the press package sent out by the mar- keting department of Lake County. 68 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report
F67:
Public events are held one Saturday a month including a class- room presentation, planetarium show and telescope viewing. Pri- vate events are held by appointment.
F68:
The number of events has more than doubled in the last two years along with the number of people served. As the number of patrons continues to grow, more equipment will be needed.
F69:
Recruitment of people to work at the observatory is an ongoing process.
F70:
The Friends of the Observatory was created to work primarily in fundraising efforts.
Additional Recommendations
3
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The county needs to complete the General Plan Update (GPU).
R2:
Planning Department staff has a well-defined set of guidelines with which to evaluate projects in the agritourism sector.
R3:
Critical among the issues that the GPU should address is the need for physical buffers between commercial agricultural uses and non-agricultural uses such as, residential areas, retail busi- nesses (including agritourism businesses), casinos, and other en- terprises which cater to the general public.
Findings & Recommendations
66 findings
F1:
Grand Juries in other counties have been given access to CPS files while investigating complaints or performing oversight. The Solano County Grand Jury filed a petition and gained access to all files for a 6-month period just 2 years ago. There are similar situations throughout California in the past several years relative to Grand Jury access.
F2:
California DSS investigated Lake County CPS at the request of the Federal Department of Health and Human Services. The fol- lowing are some of the operational procedures jointly developed by the California DSS and Lake County DSS: − Implement plan for better documentation to support decision- making process. − Establish a uniform process for ongoing provider feedback. − Work with Regional Training Academy to identify staff training needs for Emergency Response and Family Maintenance, develop a training plan, and provide training. − Plan and implement Structured Decision Making software. (This creates a link for decision-making based on a standardized safety assessment model). − Provide administrative oversight to assure uniform standard of practice in Emergency Response. − Reinforce the policy and procedures for Child Welfare Services authority to place children into protective custody for physical and sexual abuse. − Clarify, with staff, agency role in responding to physical and sex- ual abuse referrals.
F3:
Since this Committee is still unable to access confidential files, the committee only has the “word” of the California DSS that these operational procedures have been corrected. 75 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F4:
Even after Lake County CPS/DSS received a review and com- pleted a Corrective Action Plan from California DSS, this Grand Jury continues to receive complaints about Lake County CPS into May 2007.
F5:
Lake County CPS appears to be self-governing with minimal over- sight from the State but ultimately, the Director of DSS answers to the Board of Supervisors.
F6:
Staffing is an ongoing problem. Management and supervisory positions consume much of the manpower and budget leaving critical staff vacancies chronically empty. As of the writing of this report, the Children’s Services Program was budgeted for 21 so- cial workers, but there were currently 8 vacancies. However, there was a Director, a Deputy Director of Adult and Children’s Services, a Program Manager of Children’s Services, and two su- pervisors in this division. The department staffing appears dis- proportionate.
F7:
The Chief of the California Children’s Services Operations and Evaluation Branch thought there was a huge pay gap between Lake County social workers and its administration. In fact, the Chief stated Lake County is “at the top of the worst” for social workers as far as compensation is concerned. A Social Worker I requires a bachelor’s degree and receives compensation from $2,192.00 to $2,664.00 per month. A Social Worker IV requires a master’s degree and receives compensation from $2,937.60 to $3,571.20. The Director of DSS, on the other hand, receives compensation from $7,120.31 to $8,654.78 per month (figures from the 2006-2007 Lake County Final Budget).
F8:
Lake County CPS recently implemented “Structured Decision Making,” software designed to improve risk assessment.
F9:
Earlier this year, it was proposed to the Board of Supervisors that Lake County work to re-establish the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Program. Approval was granted to proceed with the first phase of the process, applying for a Planning and Development grant for $10,000. At the writing of this report, the application was on track to be filed by the July 6, 2007 deadline (Additional information about CASA is available at www.nationalcasa.org).
F10:
Revised petitions have been submitted to the District Attorney for refilling using the suggestions of the Juvenile Judge.
F11:
Many California counties employ a paid ombudsman for DSS. The ombudsman can be contacted by individuals or agencies who are having difficulty reaching CPS or require assistance with un- derstanding CPS policies and procedures. Many complainants / witnesses this committee met with may have initially had their complaint resolved had there been such a mediator. 76 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F12:
This committee was constantly advised by individuals and agen- cies that calls to CPS were not returned in a timely manner.
F13:
The Department of Social Services’ decision in this grievance was mailed to the complainant on January 30, 2006.
F14:
The “Reasons for Decision” of the Department were accurately made in accordance with the Welfare and Institutions code 306.5.
F15:
There is no reason to indicate why this decision, a matter of pub- lic record, could not have been made available by the Department of Social Services to the Grand Jury in a more timely manner. 80 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F16:
ICWA Monthly Round Tables - monthly meetings that are hosted on a rotating basis by the seven Lake County tribes at the various tribal headquarters around the county. In addition to tribal repre- sentation, other social and legal service agencies (AODS, LCOE, Easter Seals, CILS, LCJC attorneys etc.) also attend. Ideas are shared and issues are addressed in a non-confrontational man- ner. Although it appears Lake County CPS attended in the past, there was a period when Lake County CPS was not represented, or that information disseminated at these meetings was not shared with all the social workers. This Committee is gratified to see that Lake County CPS Administrative Staff is now attending these Round Table meetings and bilateral conversations are oc- curring. However, it would be beneficial if the employees/ supervisors who are responsible for the implementation of these mandated duties also be allowed to attend the Round Tables.
F17:
The California DSS has established two ICWA specialist positions. These positions are the point of contact for ICWA issues. As a major resource for county child welfare, Indian tribes and tribal organizations, they provide technical assistance and clarification regarding the importance of compliance with ICWA. They also fa- cilitate the ICWA Quarterly Work Groups.
F18:
ICWA Quarterly Work Groups - meetings facilitated by the Cali- fornia DSS ICWA Administration and held at the California DSS headquarters in Sacramento. Counties and tribes throughout the state are invited to attend. ICWA issues are discussed and infor- mation is shared regarding new procedures and upcoming train- ing. This Committee was advised that Lake County DSS does not attend.
F19:
State ICWA Training – formal, comprehensive training is available to social workers at the UC Davis Regional Training Academy. Ongoing formal training can be developed to meet individual county needs. Technical assistance is always available, but must be requested. The California DSS training unit will come to coun- ties to provide training at no cost to the county, if requested. For- mal or individualized training is provided. A Handbook on ICWA, which includes sources of information and support to aid in the implementation of ICWA, was developed as a resource guide that is provided to all training participants. 84 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F20:
Casey Family Programs Peer TA - a technical assistance ap- proach that rapidly disseminates information about successful practices, policies, and tools related to a defined issue, con- cern, or challenge. Peer TA is solution-focused and occurs through a process of joint problem-solving between a team of individuals who is requesting assistance and a team of peer consultants who has first-hand experience related to the tar- geted issue. Peer TA teams are brought to the program re- questing assistance at no cost (see Appendix B). Lake County tribes have indicated to this Committee that they are enthusi- astic about participating in this program with the county.
F21:
Directors’ Meetings - information regarding these and other available resources is distributed at monthly CWDA meetings. County Welfare Directors and other administrative personnel are encouraged to attend these meetings. The California DSS ICWA Administrator, who spoke with the Grand Jury Commit- tee, does not recall Lake County DSS attending these meetings on a regular basis. By not taking advantage of these meet- ings, the state administrator felt that it leaves Lake County so- cial workers at a disadvantage and results in Lake County’s isolation and uninformed disinterest in the ICWA mandate.
F22:
Currently, Lake County DSS has a working procedural document when handling ICWA cases. We found this document to be in- adequate, and it does not provide the necessary services to com- ply with ICWA.
F23:
Although ICWA is the federal and state law and must be complied with, the Committee learned this is not the case in numerous In- dian child custody cases in Lake County and in California.
F24:
According to the interviews with the Tribal ICWA Representatives, the required 10-day notice for Indian child custody proceedings is routinely ignored by Lake County DSS. Tribal ICWA workers generally receive last minute telephone notification, not the ten- day written notice as stipulated in the law, and in the Lake County DSS Operations Manual.
F25:
This Committee has been attending the monthly ICWA Round Ta- bles for the past six months. The same issues, particularly where “notice” is concerned, are brought to the attention of all parties. The tribal ICWA Representatives repeatedly have advised the Lake County CPS administrators that the law is not being fol- lowed.
F26:
CPS was attending the Round Tables at the beginning of this year after a lengthy absence; however, they have missed the last sev- eral meetings. 85 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F27:
Attending each Round Table has been the Deputy Director for Adult and Children’s Services and the Program Manager for Chil- dren’s Services. At each meeting both indicate they will return to their agency and “kick-around” these issues. At the February 2007 Round Table, these individuals indicated they were unsure of the notice process themselves, but thought the Lake County CPS supervisors who manage the employees who perform this function, were aware of it. These procedures are definitively out- lined in the California DSS CWS Manual/ICWA Special Require- ments.
F28:
According to both ICWA Representatives and the legal counsel from CILS, the use of “expert witnesses” does not appear to be taken seriously by the Lake County DSS. In some cases, a Lake County DSS social worker acted as the expert witness, rather than the Indian agent for the tribe, as the law requires.
F29:
It was discovered that most Lake County DSS social workers were not familiar with ICWA requirements. When questioned, the Lake County DSS Deputy Director and Program Manager were not aware if ICWA training was included in the core training that all social workers attend.
F30:
While interviewing both ICWA Representatives and the clients in- volved, this Committee learned that social workers did not always follow a particular case to the end; instead, there could be a number of Lake County DSS social workers assigned to the same ICWA case—some understood, but some did not, the nature of the law. This not only created inconsistencies, but also resulted in workers having to “catch up” or learn about the ICWA law, so they could proceed with the case.
F31:
At the time of intake, inmates receive a handbook that explains medical services available to them and how to obtain them.
F32:
Seven nurses provide 24-hrs/day, 7-days/week coverage on a ro- tating basis. Although CFMG provides a licensed vocational nurse based program, three of the nurses are registered nurses.
F33:
A physician is available 3 times a week for routine non- emergency visits.
F34:
A nurse practitioner is available Monday through Friday during normal business hours. The examining room has three examin- ing tables—one in need of repair.
F35:
There is no “sick bay-infirmary.” Inmates are transferred to Sut- ter Lakeside Hospital if hospitalization is required. 94 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F36:
A dentist and dental assistant provide services on Fridays for four hours.
F37:
Psychiatric services are available through video-conferencing with personnel located in Carmel.
F38:
A Mental Health Worker—psychiatric nurse—is available 20-30 hours a week. Many inmates have mental health issues. Cus- tody staff can request the Mental Health Worker to visit with in- mates, especially those on suicide watch.
F39:
An x-ray technician is available one day-a-week, who uses a portable unit. Otherwise, the inmate is transported to Sutter Lakeside Hospital.
F40:
CFMG utilizes a pharmacy in Southern California, buying in bulk. Medications and supplies are sent overnight from Moor- park. Over-the-counter medications (such as antacids and ibu- profen) may be purchased by the inmate at the commissary.
F41:
There is a $3 charge/co-pay to see the nurse practitioner, how- ever, the inmate is seen regardless of their ability to pay. The fee goes into the county general fund and not to CFMG.
F42:
Services provided are not as comprehensive as those provided in the California State prisons.
F43:
For routine sick calls, sick call slips are available in each inmate section, are completed by the inmate and put into a “sick call” box. This box can only be opened by the nurse. A nurse reviews the slips, pulls the inmates’ charts, and schedules them to see the nurse practitioner.
F44:
In emergency situations, the nurse assesses the situation and contacts the physician immediately, or has the inmate immedi- ately transported by jail van or patrol car to Sutter Lakeside Hos- pital, which is less than a mile away. Depending on the emer- gency, paramedics are sometimes called to handle the situation.
F45:
At the inmate’s intake, a medical questionnaire is completed and a basic “triage” evaluation is conducted. If the situation war- rants, the inmate is transported directly to Sutter Lakeside Hos- pital.
F46:
If an inmate is dissatisfied with the medical services provided, or lack of services, he or she can complete a Grievance Form which is available in all inmate sections. The completed grievance is forwarded from the custody officer to the sergeant, who routes it to the Lake County Medical Program Manager, who has three days to respond.
F47:
In 2006, 76 grievances were filed relating to jail medical services. The majority were related to the $3 per visit charge. Others in- cluded requests for stronger medication, requests for sleeping medication, requests for a different diet, requests for an inhaler on the inmate’s person (not allowed unless the inmate is asth- matic), or requests to see personal physicians. Grievances are 95 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee allowed in some cases—the inmate can see his or her own physi- cian, etc.
F48:
CFMG’s medical staff will communicate with the inmates’ per- sonal physicians, if necessary. CFMG will contract with special- ized physicians, i.e. cardiologists, orthopedic surgeons, obstetri- cians and gynecologists, if necessary.
F49:
Family members of inmates are not advised regarding routine sick calls. In emergency situations, the individual the inmate has indicated as his “contact” person will be notified.
F50:
Family members or visitors who believe an inmate needs some medical care may contact the Chief Custody Officer. A fellow in- mate may also report an illness.
F51:
There has been a significant increase in maternity cases.
F52:
Quarterly quality assurance meetings are conducted with all the appropriate parties—CFMG, Jail personnel, Juvenile Hall person- nel, Public Health, Mental Health, Sutter emergency room physi- cians etc. are all invited. Sutter Lakeside Hospital personnel do not regularly attend. These meetings are not open to the public; however they take comments and suggestions.
F53:
The relationship between the Public Health Department and the correctional facilities is satisfactory, per both parties.
F54:
The relationship between the Mental Health Department and the correctional facilities is not satisfactory, per the Chief Custody Officer. The Chief Custody Officer has requested membership on the Mental Health Advisory Board to share concerns, but was ad- vised there was not a position.
F55:
The jail population averages 276 inmates per month. In 2006, 6408 inmates were seen at “sick call,” of those, 65 (1%) were seen by a physician. 1546 inmates saw the mental health worker and 143,633 medications were dispensed.
F56:
There is not a comprehensive plan in place regarding the dis- charge of inmates with mental health issues, especially those on medications.
F57:
A monthly District Board Meeting, held every fourth Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., is open to the public.
F58:
An independent audit of the District is conducted each year and the outcome is available to the county.
F59:
In the fiscal year ending June 2006, the District received $687,363 from county property taxes and $35,000 from invest- ment income.
F60:
In the fiscal year ending June 2006, the District awarded grants totaling $585,339.
F61:
In the fiscal year ending June 2006, the District administrative expenses were $52,920, or approximately 8% of their budget. This includes a grand total of $7,500 that was paid to the Direc- tors in this fiscal year.
F62:
Organizations must submit a Request for Assistance (RFA) before being considered for a grant. This includes proof of their non- profit status if they are other than a public agency.
F63:
Unless otherwise approved by the District, the basic structure of the award is a one-time, non-renewable grant. 99 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee
F64:
Once a grant is awarded, the District requires follow-up reporting on the progress and financial performance of the programs funded, as well as compliance with the conditions of the grant.
F65:
During the period studied by the committee, the grants awarded by the District Board met the criteria of the “Health Care Dis- tricts’” directives.
F66:
Property owner’s taxes would not be reduced by the dissolution of the District. Proposition 13 taxes will continue to be collected at the same rate, but would simply not be distributed to the District.
Additional Recommendations
10
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
Responses to Grand Jury requests for public record information must be provided in a timely fashion to avoid unnecessary delays in time and resources. Agency/Department Required Respond Lake County Department of Social Services (within 60-days) 81 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee It was designed to promote the stability and security of Indian tribes and families, and provide assistance to tribes in the operation of children and family services programs (see Appendix A). The pas- sage of ICWA is the result of over a decade of national effort. This effort was by those concerned with the large number of Indian chil- dren that were removed by county welfare officials from their family homes and placed into non-Indian settings. This was done without consultation with either tribal officials or the Indian community re- sulting in emotional injury and cultural loss to the child, and dam- age to the integrity of tribal survival. AODS - CDSS - CILS - CPS - CWDA - GAO - ICWA - LCDSS - LCJC - LCOE - Peer TA -
R2:
This Committee recommends creating a paid ombudsman posi- tion for Lake County CPS. This person should be objective, unbi- ased and not and employee of the Lake County DSS. The om- budsman’s contact information should be on all documents and notices to families, or other involved agencies.
R3:
This Committee recommends creating an independent Advisory Board to oversee Lake County CPS. This Advisory Board can de- termine if Lake County’s CPS is providing for the children in the system, receive complaints and provide a place for fair hearings. This Advisory Board should include a County Supervisor, the county ombudsman, representation from the Children’s Council, licensed day care providers, child care associations (Easter Seals, etc.), and other consumers of the agency.
R4:
This Committee recommends that the Board of Supervisors face head-on the staffing and management problems at Lake County CPS. It is ultimately the Board of Supervisors’ responsibility to ensure that the Lake County CPS is performing efficiently, and that children at risk in this county are receiving the help they de- serve. This Committee encourages the Board of Supervisors to take this responsibility seriously and not assume that everything is being done from within the department or that the state is ef- fectively overseeing Lake County CPS.
R5:
This Committee recommends that Lake County CPS management monitor and assure that implementation of Structured Decision Making software is successful without resulting in the loss of the human element, which is critical when helping at risk children.
R6:
This Committee fully supports the development of a CASA Pro- gram in Lake County. It is a community based volunteer organi- zation that will provide a voice for the best interest of the chil- dren in our court system.
R7:
Lake County must fill the vacant social worker positions. A real- istic pay scale is required to attract qualified individuals.
R8:
Lake County DSS needs to engage in “active recruitment” for va- cant positions. Some suggestions are: • Lake County DSS could contact local high schools and commu- nity colleges encouraging students to consider social work. • Lake County DSS could pursue cooperative relationships with the community colleges and the Lake County Office of Education to ensure the appropriate college classes are offered locally. These classes could assist current Lake County DSS employees in career advancement. 77 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Health and Social Services Committee • Assist current employees with tuition and/or time off to take the appropriate classes for social worker eligibility. • Provide a “signing bonus” for hard to fill positions. • Be open to creative hiring practices, such as part-time or job sharing as approved by the State.
R9:
This Committee recommends social workers personally answer their telephones. If an answering machine is used, the worker should have time set aside each day for a callback period.
R10:
Lake County CPS has an after hours “hotline” for emergencies. The call is not answered by an individual but uses the “answering tree” system. The answering machine advises the caller to select from a number of choices. The Committee be- lieves that most people who call that number in an emergency would hang up given the current message. The message should be rearranged to inform of the emergency access imme- diately instead of taking several minutes to get to that part of the message.
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Findings & Recommendations
136 findings
F1:
The Clearlake Police Department has a staff of 27 sworn officers, and one interim administrator.
F2:
Adults arrested are pre-booked, fingerprinted, and transported during the day to the County Jail in Lakeport. Juveniles arrested are transported immediately to the Juvenile Hall.
F3:
The Police Department currently uses hard copy fingerprinting which delays quick identification in many cases. Electronic Lifes- can capability provides much faster results.
F4:
For the year 2006 there were 3962 written reports and over 23,000 incidents.
F5:
Delays are created by not having 911 calls coming directly to Clearlake. 911 calls are re-routed from the Sheriff’s Department.
F6:
Department procedures are currently being restructured.
F7:
A permanent Chief of Police has been hired by the Clearlake City Council.
F8:
All the areas of the department visited were clean and secure. 104 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F9:
The discussions with personnel at the sites were mainly concern- ing the difficulty in recruitment and retention of officers. At the holding facilities there is adequate staffing.
F10:
There are five courtrooms in session on Mondays and Fridays when holding cells are utilized.
F11:
The holding cells are clean and painting is done regularly to cover graffiti and other damage done by the inmates.
F12:
The security is strict with one officer to six inmates.
F13:
Only one out of the six surveillance cameras was working in the observation room. The committee was told that there was a cur- rent camera repair work order in progress.
F14:
Morale was found to be high and the personnel seemed to be dedicated and enjoy their work.
F15:
The grounds were very well maintained.
F16:
The buildings were structurally sound, clean, and well main- tained.
F17:
The cells were clean, properly stocked with towels and bedding, and the plumbing was functional. The temperature within the cell areas was comfortable.
F18:
The kitchen dining area was clean and all appliances appeared to be safe and in good working order.
F19:
The pots, pans, and utensils appeared to be clean and stocked properly. The sink was clear of any dirty dishes.
F20:
The inmates all appeared to be in good health and dressed in clean clothing.
F21:
Inmates are classified based on criminal sophistication. They are segregated into different units based on their classification. The three classifications are minimum, medium, and maximum secu- rity. Each classification is issued a different style and color cloth- ing so they are easily recognizable.
F22:
Inmates are allowed an amount of time out of their cell based upon their classification. Minimum-security inmates can be out of their cells up to fourteen hours a day, medium-security in- mates two hours per day, and maximum-security inmates three hours per week. 108 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F23:
Inmates no longer have access to weight lifting equipment. The recreation now available is handball and general exercise.
F24:
Nine cells are maximum-security cells that house one inmate each; the remainder of the cells are double occupancy.
F25:
Inmates can be reclassified for misconduct. Rule violations are handled internally and inmates are entitled to a hearing. An Op- erations Sergeant answers all grievances.
F26:
Grievance forms are available in the main room of the cellblocks.
F27:
The maximum capacity at the facility is 286. There were 283 in- mates at the time of the Grand Jury visit.
F28:
Inmates are furnished clothing, bedding, food, and personal hy- giene items. They can purchase other items through the facility commissary if they have the funds to do so.
F29:
State Board of Corrections, fire and health inspections are per- formed at the facility annually. The Correctional Medical Author- ity (CMA) accreditation was current.
F30:
Suicide and escape attempts were both minimal in year-to-date counts, two and four respectively. There have been no successful suicides or escapes thus far for the calendar year 2006.
F31:
If an inmate is convicted of an escape, they are sentenced to state prison.
F32:
The current staff to inmate ratio is 65:1. The maximum allowed is 100:1.
F33:
The staff diversity is 29 males and 14 females. There are eight ad- ditional aides, two males and six females. Five of the additional staff is multilingual.
F34:
Guards are equipped with tasers, pepper spray, and radios.
F35:
The county pays postal expenses for two letters per week for indi- gent inmates.
F36:
Incoming and outgoing mail is searched for contraband. Privi- leged mail from courts and attorneys is opened in front of the in- mate.
F37:
Inmates are entitled to 2 thirty-minute visits each week. Visits can be scheduled to accommodate working family members when required.
F38:
Educational programs are offered to inmates including a typing class. The County Office of Education provides instructors. Maxi- mum-security inmates are not permitted to attend classes.
F39:
The laundry facility is operated 24-hours a day, 7-days a week.
F40:
Cooking is done by inmate workers and overseen by a food ser- vice coordinator.
F41:
Currently, the facility is looking into the use of solar panels.
F42:
Jury trial and release clothing are provided as needed to inmates via donation and thrift store shopping. 109 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F43:
The facility holds 40 juveniles. During this visit, there were 35 in custody.
F44:
The traditional classrooms were clean and well equipped. The lab had 18 computers and appeared to be a comfortable place in which learning is the focus. Juvenile Hall works with the Office of Education in an effort to provide the juveniles with an opportu- nity to become productive citizens.
F45:
In general, all areas were clean and in good repair.
F46:
It appeared discipline was not a problem. There seemed to be a lot of positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
F47:
The committee received complaints about late food delivery, sub- stitutions, missing food, and inappropriate temperatures. The Lake County Jail furnishes the food to Juvenile Hall. At a subse- quent meeting with the Lake County Jail Commander the com- mittee relayed the complaints and the committee was assured im- provements are a definite priority and quickly forthcoming.
F48:
The holding cell and safety cell had been vandalized. A work or- der is in place to make the repairs. 112 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F49:
Staff recruiting and retention are a problem.
F50:
The original building loan was for two million dollars. Cost over- runs amounting to $200,000 were added to the original loan.
F51:
There is a reserve amount in the bank that will cover two annual payments.
F52:
There are no appreciable changes in equipment and personnel from the findings of last year’s Grand Jury oversight visit. Calls, transfers, and medical requests for transportation remain rela- tively the same as well.
F53:
The committee was told of problems and delays caused by the fact that 60% of the Central Dispatch personnel are in training.
F54:
The committee was impressed with the furnishings. The depart- ment acquired all furnishings from surplus facilities and at auc- tion sales in an effort to save money.
F55:
Inmates seem to be in good spirits and from all appearances en- joy their work. 116 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F56:
The camp is designed to house 110 minimum-security males.
F57:
The camp’s budget provides three meals a day to inmates at $2.75 per person.
F58:
In a 10-month period the camp provided 23,896 hours of service to local communities.
F59:
The crews have also provided 96,760 hours of work projects to state agencies.
F60:
The inmate fire crews have provided 114,672 hours in emergency responses to fire and floods.
F61:
According to the brochure provided by the Camp Commander, the taxpayers have saved approximately $1,146,720 to date.
F62:
On a scale of 1 to 10, the committee would rate the camp’s opera- tion as a full 10.
F63:
The complainant’s allegations were based on hearsay and the com- plainant was not able to pinpoint witnesses.
F64:
Further pursuit was not warranted.
F65:
The records indicate the Deputy’s termination was handled properly and the Deputy was not rehired.
F66:
After numerous unsuccessful attempts to contact all the parties in- volved and considerable amounts of time spent in this investigation the committee was unable to resolve the allegations.
F67:
Per the Sheriff, current applications for the Deputy Sheriff posi- tions are not forthcoming from the African-American population.
F68:
The applicant cited by the complainant was not hired by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office because the applicant was not qualified.
F69:
The committee concluded there was no bias shown in this par- ticular incident.
F70:
According to the Sheriff, all deputies receive training at county expense.
F71:
The county is attempting to establish a youth crime task force. None exists as of the writing of this report.
F72:
A youth crime task force would attempt to establish an under- standing of the youth gang phenomena, mitigate youth gang criminal activity, and apprehend those who violate the law.
F73:
The task force would include representation from the LCSO, local police, the District Attorney’s Office, county schools, churches, and parents. 122 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F74:
Recruitment and retention of officers is a serious problem for the LCSO.
F75:
The LCSO does not have a “white-collar” crime division.
F76:
As of December 2006, the LCSO is short eight officers.
F77:
The LCSO does not have an Internal Affairs Division.
F78:
Recruitment and retention problems appear to be financial. The LCSO believes greater pay and better benefits would mitigate these problems.
F79:
There is no holding cell or place for fingerprinting or booking. This is done at the Hill Road Jail by the Lake County Sheriff’s Of- fice (LCSO).
F80:
The buildings are well kept, organized and very secure.
F81:
The officers work four 10-hour days; they have four days on and three days off.
F82:
The department is in the process of changing the present com- puter program to a more workable and user-friendly system. This program will be more comprehensive and allow the sharing of some information with the LCSO. This should be implemented by the time this report is published.
F83:
This year 1,287 calls for service were received. Most of the calls are: − Alcohol related (DUI, Public Intoxication) − Assaults (assault, battery, spousal abuse) − Theft (robbery, burglary, shoplifting)
F84:
There are documented gang members in the City of Lakeport.
F85:
There are three criminal categories that require registration. In the City of Lakeport there are: Sex Offenders (8 Registered) Narcotics Offenders (9 Registered) Arsonists (0 Registered)
F86:
The internal investigation was detailed, thorough and profession- ally conducted.
F87:
The committee found that the complainant, although very con- cerned, was misled in most of the information furnished by the parties mentioned in the complaint. Most of the alleged instances were based on hearsay, misinformation and incorrect observa- tions.
F88:
In the two years since the matter was brought to the attention of the departments of law enforcement, no charges had been filed as of March 2007.
F89:
The timetable of events: July 2005 - the Center Director of the Board recalled in an interview with the committee, that his telephone call to the LCSO requesting an investigation was denied, citing lack of funds and qualified per- sonnel to investigate. July 2005 - request to the District Attorney’s Office resulted in an independent investigation in which 9000 pages of bank records were recorded as evidence. The LCSO was alerted to pick-up the results and begin interviewing witnesses. There is no record denot- ing witnesses were interviewed. 128 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee November 2005 - LCSO records show that this was the first date to receive the request for an investigation. August 2006-a citizen’s complaint was received by the Grand Jury requesting an investigation of elder abuse, with only a mention tying it to the alleged unauthorized actions of the senior center. October 2006 - a citizen’s complaint was received by the Grand Jury concerning the lack of action taken by law enforcement agencies in the previous two years. The complaint stated that the approximate amount of the misappropriation of funds to be $150,000. The first scan of the center’s records by the committee found that figure to be in excess of $168,000. January 2007- the Grand Jury’s findings were turned over to the District Attorney’s Office. Subsequent papers and records received by the Grand Jury revealed other possible charges.
F90:
The LCSO cited no funds and no qualified personnel to analyze the alleged embezzlement were available.
F91:
It was learned by the committee that funds were available, but nothing was initiated.
F92:
The alleged unauthorized actions involved a large amount of cash and included money funded by the county.
F93:
Lack of attention to this matter continued for two years.
F94:
The committee determined that inaction to this matter was perva- sive and inexcusable.
F95:
The complainant defied above advice, brought marijuana into the jail and was charged and convicted of a felony. This extended his incarceration to a one year sentence rather than a thirty day in- carceration for a driving infraction.
F96:
The complainant refused to abide by the Rules of Conduct during custody. The rule violations (from Custody Information Booklet) numbering 202, 220, 233, 237, 302, 310 and 311 resulted in the Jail Hearing Board finding complainant guilty on all above rule violations. Each time, the complainant’s jail time was extended by ten days.
F97:
The complainant refused a lawful order of the Jail Staff.
F98:
The complainant’s refusal to be evaluated by the Jail Medical Staff resulted in denial of a wheel chair.
F99:
The complainant’s repeated use of at least 18 grievance reports has constituted a wasteful time of the Jail Staff since most were of similar grievances.
F100:
The Fire District will now cover 350 square miles.
F101:
Staffing consists of 17 full-time and 2 part-time employees and 78 volunteers.
F102:
Volunteers, when accepted, are given 240 hours of state required training. They are issued $1200 worth of gear. The cost of a physical examination is paid and their Workers’ Compensation Insurance of $1060 per volunteer is paid.
F103:
A notable improvement in operations was the result of the stan- dardized training. 132 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F104:
Various required refresher courses for firefighters are given twice a week by an in-house training staff.
F105:
Currently during low priority calls, if a patient asks to go to a hos- pital, paramedics must transport them. Perhaps, Lake County should consider Paramedic Initiated Refusal (PIR) as practiced in San Francisco.
F106:
The shortage of water in Spring Valley (covered by the NSFPA) is deemed critical in light of proper fire protection. It was explained that the filtration system at Spring Valley can handle more water; however, water storage is lacking. The need for an additional 300,000 gallon water tank and more pumps is critical.
F107:
Recently, the water level in the existing storage tank showed a very low level. This amount would have easily been exhausted had a major fire occurred. Spring Valley is the NSFPA’s fastest growing region.
F108:
The 2005/2006 Grand Jury recommended funds for a wildland en- gine. Funds from the Indian Gaming Compact fulfilled this recom- mendation. Two smaller wildland vehicles were purchased and placed into service. Two more are on order. Each truck cost $72,000 as opposed to a larger truck costing approximately $237,000.
F109:
By pooling their resources, the NSFPA can afford early vehicle pay- offs, saving on the interest. This also provides the area with funds to repair and modernize antiquated equipment.
F110:
The staff consists of 23 officers, 6 clerks and 17 part-time help. Fourteen officers work at Juvenile Hall including a superinten- dent and an aide. Currently 6 vacancies exist.
F111:
On the average, 26 juvenile and 90 adult reports are filed monthly.
F112:
There is a great need for well-trained staff to supervise adults on probation.
F113:
The recidivism rate of repeat adults on probation is 70 percent.
F114:
The chief indicated morale was good.
F115:
The chief indicated that the current juvenile hall is nearing ca- pacity.
F116:
The Lake County Search and Rescue Office operates with 3 offi- cers, 21 volunteers, and 25 junior officers who are county teenag- ers.
F117:
As of December 2006, there have been 13 call outs. Normally there are 6 to 15 call outs annually.
F118:
Due to lack of funding, the office is not staffed full-time.
F119:
People who join the Search and Rescue Team must undergo many hours of intense training.
F120:
The Office of Emergency Services has a mutual-aid program in which additional help can be obtained by the Rescue Teams.
F121:
There is a nonprofit association that Rescue Teams can draw on for equipment and training. In addition, there is $480,000 trust fund that the Search and Rescue Office uses to help fund the program. 136 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
F122:
An assistant is needed to manage the trust fund at the Sheriff’s Department finance office.
F123:
The Lake County Search and Rescue Office developed the stan- dard training guide for new teams for the State of California.
F124:
Lake County has the largest contingent of volunteers when called out to other counties.
F125:
Lake County has been complimented by other counties for having the best, well-trained volunteers in service.
F126:
Volunteers applications for Search and Rescue can be obtained at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and also at the annual Lake County Fair.
F127:
The Sheriff’s Department has 12 vacancies, including 8 Deputy Sheriffs and 4 Dispatchers.
F128:
As of the date of the visit, records indicate results of the marijuana eradication program are: 248,437 plants destroyed, 154 pounds of processed marijuana confiscated, and 9 firearms confiscated. In addition there were 6 search warrants and 4 arrests.
F129:
Lake County has 240 registered sex offenders who must be checked-on regularly.
F130:
The Sheriff reports the department receives 15 to 30 monthly refer- rals for child molestation investigations.
F131:
All Deputy Sheriffs are Deputy Coroners.
F132:
Annually, there are 230 to 280 death investigations in the county.
F133:
Death investigations average 6 hours per investigation.
F134:
A certified pathologist is on contract and performs autopsies as necessary.
F135:
Some deaths do not require an autopsy. An autopsy is required if the decedent had not been seen by their doctor in the preceding twenty days, or if death is due to trauma or a violent act.
F136:
Autopsy rates vary from $855 in Lakeport to $930 in Lower Lake. The cost of an autopsy in a homicide case starts at $1500. 138 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Safety Committee
Additional Recommendations
4
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
With the City of Clearlake having the largest population in the county, the Clearlake Police department should have its own 911-dispatch center. The recommendation is to initiate a study on how this can be accomplished. The committee is aware of the substantial cost involved.
R2:
Funding should be secured for a Lifescan fingerprinting system to alleviate information delays.
R3:
Elder abuse cases in which financial fraud over $1000 is con- cerned, should be separated from the abuse cases, and should be turned over to the white-collar crime unit. This should ease the caseload of the elder abuse investigator in the District Attorney’s Office. In 2006, there were 500 cases of elder abuse registered in the county with investigation done by one part-time investigator.
R4:
Future Grand Juries should closely follow progress regarding im- plementation of a white-collar crime unit.
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Findings & Recommendations
51 findings
F1:
Only five Animal Control officers handle 300 to 400 calls per month.
F2:
Calls are prioritized with public safety the top priority, followed by animal safety and neglect of an animal.
F3:
All calls are either responded to, or referred to the appropriate agency.
F4:
Animal Control receives strong cooperation from federal, state, county and city agencies.
F5:
All Animal Control officers in Lake County attend the Humane Academy before starting their work in the field.
F6:
Some of the training received includes − how to spot animal neglect − how to be safe when handling animals − how and when to enforce the laws and ordinances
F7:
Animal Control officers attend euthanasia courses.
F8:
Performing euthanasia is extremely emotional for the staff.
F9:
Since July 2006 euthanasia rates have dropped from 63% to 30% and animal redemption has doubled. This improvement is in part due to outreach and online and community education by Animal Control.
F10:
In April 2007, groundbreaking began on Phase I of a new shelter. The committee is pleased that a much needed new shelter will be replacing the current shelter, which is crowded and outdated. 142 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Services Committee
F11:
As the investigation proceeded, connections were made among school personnel, law enforcement agencies, and community members.
F12:
As a result of these contacts the entities are now holding regular meetings to address actual and potential problems.
F13:
School officials are developing consistent, across-the-board pre- ventative measures, including ruling out the wearing of gang col- ors in schools, and elimination of other gang related symbols.
F14:
Law enforcement is committed to aggressive pursuit of gang re- lated crime, and the District Attorney is committed to the aggres- sive prosecution of it.
F15:
The committee found that this Emergency Preparedness training exercise was very well coordinated.
F16:
HAM operators backed up the conventional systems in case of a failure of any or part of the communications network.
F17:
Security was strong.
F18:
Over forty state, federal, county, and local entities worked to- gether, and the committee was impressed with how well this ef- fort was coordinated.
F19:
However, the committee noted that there was clearly a need to expand the ability to treat a large number of victims in a shorter period of time, should an event of this magnitude actually occur.
F20:
To address the above need, a new program called Medical Reserve Corps, has been approved for implementation in May 2007. The program will use volunteers, specially trained in basic inoculation techniques, to administer life-saving treatments in times-of-need. 148 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Services Committee
F21:
The County Personnel Department thoroughly investigated this matter, including a review of the complainant’s performance evaluation.
F22:
A Lake County Personnel Department report was generated from their investigation.
F23:
The report indicated a need for additional management and com- munication skills training for all parties involved.
F24:
A mutual resolution has been reached that addresses the needs of all parties.
F25:
Staffing adequately meets the needs of the current hours-of- operation.
F26:
Special literacy programs are available to children and adults at all locations.
F27:
Maintenance is needed at all four of the branches and at the time of this report some repairs are complete and others are funded.
F28:
Security is not a major issue.
F29:
Staff meetings are conducted at the branch level only.
F30:
Volunteers contribute approximately 2000-hours annually.
F31:
The current hours of operation were established based on a sur- vey taken 10-years ago.
F32:
In addition to the county budget, the libraries are funded through grants and private donations.
F33:
The cemetery staff consists of a full-time Sexton and two mainte- nance employees, one full-time and one part-time.
F34:
Among the Sexton’s duties is the operation of burial equipment.
F35:
The cemetery grounds are very well maintained as are the head- stones.
F36:
The cemetery averages 110 interments annually.
F37:
Although many people volunteer to assist in maintaining the grounds, very few actually show up.
F38:
A previous Grand Jury committee recommended an employee manual. The cemetery has implemented this policy and provided a copy to the current committee.
F39:
The finances and budget preparation for the cemetery is done with high efficiency. All checks are approved by the board and all members of the board provide input for the district’s annual budget.
F40:
An outside contractor currently performs the repair of head- stones. The Sexton indicated that he is interested in attending classes for headstone repair.
F41:
Vandalism is minimal. The cemetery staff maintains a positive relationship with students from a nearby school, allowing them to cross the property on their way to school.
F42:
Any person residing within the Lower Lake Cemetery District at the time of death is eligible to be interred in this cemetery. 154 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Services Committee
F43:
The cemetery’s only staff member is the manager. He lives nearby and is on-call.
F44:
The cemetery grounds are very well maintained; as are the head- stones.
F45:
The cemetery averages 12 to 18 interments annually.
F46:
At the time of the committee’s visit, Konocti Conservation Camp workers had just cleaned the grounds. They cleared brush, raked leaves and cleaned the headstones.
F47:
The cemetery district’s financial status is impressive. They have fixed assets including an 800-square foot conference building. In addition, $150 per grave is placed into an Endowment Care Pro- gram for the cemetery once it is full. They are only required to be audited bi-annually, however; they have annual audits conducted.
F48:
An outside contractor currently performs the repair of headstones.
F49:
Vandalism is minimal.
F50:
The cemetery faces a water crisis. The current well produces three gallons per hour and the tanks are small.
F51:
Any person residing within the Middletown Cemetery District at the time of death is eligible to be interred in this cemetery.
Additional Recommendations
4
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The committee recommends that Lake County research the possi- bility of additional funding for this agency.
R2:
The committee recommends a new patron survey be conducted to establish whether changes to the current hours of operation would better service the public.
R3:
While the existing volunteer, literacy and special programs con- tribute greatly to the library, a plan to expand existing programs and develop new ones is recommended. 152 2006-2007 Lake County Grand Jury Final Report Public Services Committee
R4:
Create a long-term plan to accommodate the future growth of the county’s and the changing needs of the patrons.