Madera County Grand Jury
2023-2024
From the annual report
The consolidated year-end volume. The individual investigations it contains are listed separately below.
📑 Year-End Report
The full consolidated volume; individual reports are listed below.
Individual reports (12)
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
TheMCGJ findsthat aclassroominthe EducationDepartment has aroof leak.
F2:
TheMCGJ findsthevocational programs andeducational programsoffered at CCWF assistinmateswithemployment opportunities uponrelease.
F3:
TheMCGJ findsthat thePUPS program hasapositive effectoninmates/trainers,staff, and theadministration.
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Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
TheMCGJfindsthat the daily maintenanceroutineneeds improvementtocleanawaythe cobwebs.
F2:
TheMCGJfindsthat the worn-out linoleumflooring, citedin2021-2022,still needsto be addressed andrepaired.
F3:
TheMCGJfindsthat the Jailprovidesrelevant trainingand certificationprograms for participatinginmates.
F4:
TheMCGJfindsthatthe interactionbetween correctionofficersand inmateswasrespectful.
Additional Recommendations
4
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
TheMCGJ recommendsimproving thedaily maintenanceroutinetocleanaway the cobwebs.
R2:
TheMCGJ recommendsthat the worn-out linoleumflooringcitedin thisreport beaddressed bySeptember30,2024.
R3:
TheMCGJ recommendsthe current vocationalprograms continueandconsider expanding.
R4:
TheMCGJ recommendsthat the correctionofficerscontinuetointeractrespectfully with inmates. Required Responses: Pursuantto PenalCodeSections 933and 933.05,the MaderaCounty Grand Juryrequests responses asfollows: From thefollowing elected officialswithin90days: Board of Supervisors 200WestFourth Street Madera,CA 93637 MaderaCounty Sheriff Headquarters 2725FalconDr. Madera,CA 93637 27 Invited Responses: Pursuantto PenalCodeSections 933and933.05,theMadera County GrandJury requests responses asfollows: From thefollowing governingbodywithin 90days: MaderaCounty Sheriff (Jail) 195TozerSt. Madera,CA 93637 Board of Stateand CommunityCorrections (BSCC) 2590Venture OaksWay, Suite200 Sacramento, CA. 95833 ReportsissuedbytheCivilGrandJurydonotidentifyindividualsinterviewed.PenalCodeSection929requiresthat reportsoftheGrandJurynotcontainthenameofanypersonorfactsleadingtotheidentityofanypersonwho providesinformationtotheCivilGrandJury.TheCaliforniaStateLegislaturehasstatedthatitintendsthe provisionsofPenalCodeSection929prohibitingdisclosureofwitnessidentitiestoencouragefullcandorin testimonyinGrandJuryinvestigationsbyprotectingtheprivacyandconfidentialityofthosewhoparticipateinany CivilGrandJuryinvestigation. 28
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Findings & Recommendations
2 findings
F1:
TheMCGJfindsthatVSP hasoverpopulated thefacilityand isfarexceeding thedesigned capacitylimits.
F2:
TheMCGJfindsthat VSP providesamulti-facetedenvironment withthe goalof rehabilitation andthereductionof recidivism.
Additional Recommendations
2
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
TheMCGJrecommends thatVSP meettheState-authorizedcapacity byOctober1,2024.
R2:
TheMCGJrecommends thatVSP continuetodevelop themulti-facetedenvironment for the purposeof rehabilitation and thereduction ofrecidivism. Required Responses: PursuanttoPenal Code Sections933and933.05,the MaderaCounty GrandJury requestsresponses fromthe following governingbodywithin90days: ValleyState PrisonWarden 21633Avenue 24 Chowchilla,California 93610 GovernorGavin Newsom 1021O Street,Suite 9000 Sacramento, CA95841 33 Invited Responses: Pursuantto Penal CodeSections933and 933.05,theMadera County GrandJury requestsresponses asfollows: From thefollowing governingbodywithin 60days: Board of Stateand CommunityCorrections (BSCC) 2590Venture OaksWay, Suite200 Sacramento, CA. 95833 ReportsissuedbytheCivilGrandJurydonotidentifyindividualsinterviewed.PenalCodeSection929requiresthat reportsoftheGrandJurynotcontainthenameofanypersonorfactsleadingtotheidentityofanypersonwho providesinformationtotheCivilGrandJury.TheCaliforniaStateLegislaturehasstatedthatitintendsthe provisionsofPenalCodeSection929prohibitingdisclosureofwitnessidentitiestoencouragefullcandorin testimonyinGrandJuryinvestigationsbyprotectingtheprivacyandconfidentialityofthosewhoparticipateinany CivilGrandJuryinvestigation. 34
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Findings & Recommendations
16 findings
F1:
The MCGJ finds that the City has followed the 2009 Lease by establishing the Golf Course Advisory Committee to inspect, discuss, and report monthly to the City with findings and
F2:
The MCGJ finds there is no current Inventory list of City owned personal property and fixtures located at the MMGC.
F3:
The MCGJ finds that after 13 years the City has enforced one section in the Lease by requiring SGM to pay for the 2023 mandatory annual USGA report which was received in August 2023.
F4:
The MCGJ finds that the City's PCS has failed to inspect, inventory, or comment to the 2022 consultant's 96-page ADA report evaluating the conditions at the MMGC.
F5:
The MCGJ finds that the City has failed to understand the Lease and the series of nine amendments that have generated confusion hindering the orderly exercise, reasonable oversight, and enforcement over the MMGC tenants, maintenance, and capital improvement obligations.
F6:
The MCGJ finds that the City business license application processing has no written procedures and thus no safeguards against fraudulent applications.
F7:
The MCGJ finds that the logos and name Madera Municipal Golf Course are often omitted from signage, scorecards, announcements, menus, events, websites, etc.
F8:
The MCGJ finds that the golf course kitchen and bar have not been operated by Sugar Pine Smokehouse.
F9:
The MCGJ finds that the City made the written statement that no applications or City business licenses exist for GROUP.
F10:
The MCGJ finds that the use of CI money has been discussed by the City and SGM as being used for deferred maintenance at the MMGC.
F11:
The MCGJ finds that the City Tax Collector has no system to track businesses within the City to ensure that the City is receiving prompt and continuous tax payments.
F12:
The MCGJ finds that the City of Madera has had discussions about writing one coherent consolidated MMGC Lease with SGM.
F13:
The MCGJ finds that the City has repeatedly failed to ascertain or confirm the true identity of SGM's purported subtenant(s) at the MMGC.
F14:
The MCGJ finds that SGM appears to have two subtenants: Smokehouse for the food service, and the undisclosed bar operator GROUP.
F15:
The MCGJ finds that the Interim Fire Marshal recommended that the MMGC be brought up to both the ADA requirements and the City Building Code due to serious violations.
F16:
The MCGJ finds that the City has failed to ensure that its tenant and subtenants at the MMGC have performed their daily maintenance obligations under the Lease
Additional Recommendations
16
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The MCGJ recommends that this GCAC continue its monthly oversight of MMGC.
R2:
The MCGJ recommends that the City create an Inventory list of property and fixtures it owns at the golf course within 90 days of the publication of this report.
R3:
The MCGJ recommends that SGM continue to provide the mandatory annual USGA advisory reports.
R4:
The MCGJ recommends that the City have the PCS physically inspect and provide a written report to the City Council on each observation noted in the 96-page ADA Consultant's MMGC report within 90 days of receipt of this report.
R5:
The MCGJ recommends that the City assign a person or department responsible for following up on all contracts to determine contractual performance and to enforce violations of required performance within 90 days of receipt of this report.
R6:
The MCGJ recommends that the City enact written procedures for reviewing and processing Business license applications within 30 days of this report.
R7:
The MCGJ recommends that the City correct the omission and take action to either enforce this Lease requirement or delete the requirement within 30 days.
R8:
The MCGJ recommends that the City require proof of the identity of the tenants and /or subtenants operating the kitchen and the bar and obtain a copy of the ABC liquor license within seven days.
R9:
The MCGJ recommends that the City seek the maximum fines and penalties against GROUP within seven days of publication of this report. R 10. The MCGJ recommends that the City enforce the maintenance provisions in Lease Section 16 to require SGM to pay for all deferred maintenance. R 11. The MCGJ recommends that the City enact adequate tracking systems to ensure that businesses are paying taxes to the City within 30 days from the publication of this report. R 12. The MCGJ recommends that the City complete negotiations and memorialize the product of the negotiations into one modern consolidated Lease within 90 days from the publication of this report. R 13. The MCGJ recommends that the City recognize that SGM has represented its subtenant as Smokehouse and commence all appropriate actions to determine and correct the subtenant's true identity of the kitchen/dining and bar operator(s) within 30 days of the publication of this report. R 14. The MCGJ recommends that the City investigate this subtenant discrepancy and take appropriate action within 7 days of the publication of this report. R 15. The MCGJ recommends that the City and SGM take action to correct these violations and complete the required work to avoid serious potential liability within 30 days of the publication of this report. R 16. The MCGJ recommends that the City enforce timely maintenance at the MMGC immediately. Report Respondents Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests that the statutory required responses be delivered within the deadlines in both written form and PDF to the following: Superior Court of Madera County 200 South G Street Madera, CA 93637 Required Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the MCGJ requests responses as follows; From the following elected county officials within 90 days: Madera City Council Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 Mayor of the City of Madera Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 Madera County District Attorney 300 South G Street Madera, CA 93637 Invited Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury invites responses from the following within 60 days: California Attorney General 1300 I Street Ste 1142 Sacramento, CA 95814 Alcoholic Beverage Control 1330 E. Shaw Avenue Ste or Building B Fresno. CA 93710 City of Madera City Manager Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Director of Parks and Community Services John W. Wells Youth Center 701 East 5th Street Madera, CA 93638 City of Madera Finance Department Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Police Chief 330 C Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Planning Department Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, Ca 93637 City of Madera Code Enforcement 330 C Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera ADA Advisory Council Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Golf Course Advisory Committee Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 Note: This report was prepared using current information available on the websites listed. Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code Section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. The California State Legislature has stated that it intends the provisions of Penal Code Section 929 prohibiting disclosure of witness identities to encourage full candor in testimony in Grand Jury investigations by protecting the privacy and confidentiality of those who participate in any Civil Grand Jury investigation.
R10:
The MCGJ recommends that the City enforce the maintenance provisions in Lease Section 16 to require SGM to pay for all deferred maintenance.
R11:
The MCGJ recommends that the City enact adequate tracking systems to ensure that businesses are paying taxes to the City within 30 days from the publication of this report.
R12:
The MCGJ recommends that the City complete negotiations and memorialize the product of the negotiations into one modern consolidated Lease within 90 days from the publication of this report.
R13:
The MCGJ recommends that the City recognize that SGM has represented its subtenant as Smokehouse and commence all appropriate actions to determine and correct the subtenant's true identity of the kitchen/dining and bar operator(s) within 30 days of the publication of this report.
R14:
The MCGJ recommends that the City investigate this subtenant discrepancy and take appropriate action within 7 days of the publication of this report.
R15:
The MCGJ recommends that the City and SGM take action to correct these violations and complete the required work to avoid serious potential liability within 30 days of the publication of this report.
R16:
The MCGJ recommends that the City enforce timely maintenance at the MMGC immediately. Report Respondents Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests that the statutory required responses be delivered within the deadlines in both written form and PDF to the following: Superior Court of Madera County 200 South G Street Madera, CA 93637 Required Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the MCGJ requests responses as follows; From the following elected county officials within 90 days: Madera City Council Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 Mayor of the City of Madera Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 Madera County District Attorney 300 South G Street Madera, CA 93637 Invited Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury invites responses from the following within 60 days: California Attorney General 1300 I Street Ste 1142 Sacramento, CA 95814 Alcoholic Beverage Control 1330 E. Shaw Avenue Ste or Building B Fresno. CA 93710 City of Madera City Manager Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Director of Parks and Community Services John W. Wells Youth Center 701 East 5th Street Madera, CA 93638 City of Madera Finance Department Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Police Chief 330 C Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Planning Department Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, Ca 93637 City of Madera Code Enforcement 330 C Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera ADA Advisory Council Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Madera Golf Course Advisory Committee Madera City Hall 205 West 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 Note: This report was prepared using current information available on the websites listed. Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code Section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. The California State Legislature has stated that it intends the provisions of Penal Code Section 929 prohibiting disclosure of witness identities to encourage full candor in testimony in Grand Jury investigations by protecting the privacy and confidentiality of those who participate in any Civil Grand Jury investigation.
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
The MCGJ finds Fairmead is in dire need of assistance to mitigate the water challenges.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The MCGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors create a work group with the HSRA and FCF to establish timelines, monitor the progress, and report to the Board of Supervisor annually regarding the water system conditions by October 1, 2024.
F2:
The MCGJ finds Fairmead is in dire need of assistance to mitigate the sewer challenges.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The MCGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors create a work group with the City of Chowchilla, FCF, and HSRA to establish timelines, monitor progress, and report to the Board of Supervisors annually regarding the implementation of the sewer system by October 1, 2024.
F3:
The MCGJ finds Fairmead is in dire need of assistance to mitigate the road challenges.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The MCGJ recommends that the Board of Supervisors direct the County of Madera Road Department to submit a plan to the Board of Supervisors addressing the road repairs, including a timeline for completion, by October 1, 2024.
F4:
The MCGJ finds that the HSRA has entered into a MOU agreement with the FCF that fails to include any timelines or deadlines for performance.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The MCGJ recommends that the Madera County Board of Supervisors, the HSRA, and FCF establish timelines and deadlines for each provision included in the MOU agreement by October 1, 2024.
F5:
The MCGJ finds that it is uncertain how the HSRA route will impact Fairmead.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The MCGJ recommends that Madera County, FCF, and HSRA determine the exact Fairmead HSRA route and determine the affected properties by October 1, 2024. Required Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the MCGJ requests responses as follows; From the following elected county officials within 90 days: Madera County Board of Supervisors 400 W. 4th Street Madera, CA 93637 City of Chowchilla City Council 130 S. Second St. Chowchilla, CA 93610 Invited Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the MCGJ requests responses as follows; From the following elected county officials within 60 days: Fairmead Community & Friends P.O. Box 517 Chowchilla, CA 93610 City of Chowchilla Public Works 360 N 1st St. Chowchilla, CA 93610 Madera County Public Works 200 W. 4th St. Madera, CA 93637 High-Speed Rail Authority Central California Regional Office 1111 H Street Fresno, CA 93721 Note: This report was prepared using current information available on the websites listed. Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code Section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. The California State Legislature has stated that it intends the provisions of Penal Code Section 929 prohibiting disclosure of witness identities to encourage full candor in testimony in Grand Jury investigations by protecting the privacy and confidentiality of those who participate in any Civil Grand Jury investigation.
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
TheMCGJfindsthat thetax-sharing contractbetween Madera Countyand thecities of Maderaand Chowchillashould bemoreequitable basedonthe number ofanimal intakesper jurisdiction.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
TheMCGJrecommendsthat theBoard ofSupervisors renegotiatethe tax-sharingcontract between theCountyof Maderaandthe citiesof Maderaand Chowchillaregarding theMCAS funding within 90daysofthe MCGJ reportposting.
F2:
The2023-2024 MCGJ finds,andagreeswith previousfindings,that theMCAS facilityis inadequateto meetMaderaCounty's currentneeds andfuture growth.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
TheMCGJrecommendsthat theBoard ofSupervisors proposeanewplan tocompletethe renovationof thecurrent MCAS facilityorthe constructionofanewfacilitywithin 90daysof theMCGJ report posting.
F3:
The2023-2024 MCGJ finds,andagreeswith previousMCGJ findings,that staffing shortages persistdue tothe significantgapbetween thebudgeted numberof full-timeequivalent employeesand theactualnumber ofpositionsfilled.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
TheMCGJrecommendsthat theBoard ofSupervisors removethe hiring freezeaffecting MCAS within 90daysof theposting of theMCGJ report.
F4:
The2023-2024 MCGJ finds,andagreeswith previousMCGJ findings,that theMCASdoes not haveanestablishedwrittenPolicy andProcedure Manual.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
TheMCGJrecommendsthat MCASdevelop andadopt awrittenPolicy andProcedure Manualwithin 180daysof theMCGJ reportposting. Required Responses: Pursuantto PenalCodesections933and933.05,the MCGJ requestsresponses as follows; From thefollowing elected countyofficialswithin 90days: MaderaCounty Boardof Supervisors 200W. 4thStreet Madera,CA 93637 MaderaCityCouncil 205W. 4thStreet Madera,CA 93637 ChowchillaCityCouncil 130S. 2ndStreet Chowchilla,CA 93610 Invited Responses: Pursuantto PenalCodesections933and933.05,the MCGJ requestsresponses as follows; From thefollowing elected countyofficialswithin 60days: MaderaCounty AnimalShelter 14269Road 28 Madera,CA 93637 MaderaCounty Public Health Director 1604SunriseAvenue Madera,CA 983638 MaderaCounty AnimalControl Director 14269Road 28 Madera,CA 93636 MaderaCounty ChiefAdministrativeOfficer 200W. 4thStreet Madera,CA 93637 Note: Thisreportwaspreparedusingcurrentinformationavailableonthewebsiteslisted. ReportsissuedbytheCivilGrandJurydonotidentifyindividualsinterviewed.PenalCodeSection929requires thatreportsoftheGrandJurynotcontainthenameofanypersonorfactsleadingtotheidentityofanypersonwho providesinformationtotheCivilGrandJury.TheCaliforniaStateLegislaturehasstatedthatitintendsthe provisionsofPenalCodeSection929prohibitingdisclosureofwitnessidentitiestoencouragefullcandorin testimonyinGrandJuryinvestigationsbyprotectingtheprivacyandconfidentialityofthosewhoparticipateinany CivilGrandJuryinvestigation.
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Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
The elected officials, department heads, and governing bodies of the Madera County BOS and the Cities of Madera and Chowchilla are inconsistent with compliance with the statutory requirements for responses to the MCGJ Findings and Recommendations within 60/90 days.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
Budget The issue was approved at the 6/21/23 City Council meeting. Χ CLOSED. IMPLEMENTED Clarity
F2:
The elected officials, department heads, and governing bodies of the Madera County BOS and the Cities of Madera and Chowchilla frequently fail to comply with the statutory requirements for designating timeframes for intended implementation and providing details for further analysis.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
Contract X City stated, "City and SGM have discussed updating the Revision contract. OPEN. NOT IMPLEMENTED; No explanation.
F3:
The lack of compliance by elected officials, department heads, and governing bodies of the County of Madera, Cities of Madera, and Chowchilla and the lack of follow-up by previous grand juries have caused many unresolved issues.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
Detailed X X Partial Agreement: The records exist but will only be made public on request as per the Public Records Act. records OPEN. NOT IMPLEMENTED; partial explanation;
F4:
The failure of previous Madera County Grand Juries to follow up on Open responses to report recommendations has allowed the government agencies to ignore the Grand Jury.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
Oversight X X Partial: Response makes reference to the 9th Amendment and a Golf Course Advisory Committee. CLOSED X X Partial: The issue was partially addressed in response to R4.
Additional Recommendations
6
Not linked to specific findings.
R5:
Has been implemented.
R6:
Has not yet been Director of Behavioral Implemented R7. Has not Health Services R1. yet been implemented. R8. Agreed. R2. Has been Workers and Program Managers with social work education and experience, effective immediately, R9, DSS administration annually review Has not yet been implemented, R3, Patially
R7:
Word X The word "Catering" was removed. "Catering" CLOSED
R8:
COVID X CLOSED The contract has a five-year extension; still negotiating the
R9:
Contract X agreement; the current status and timeline are not provided. OPEN
R10:
USGA X For the first time, a USGA Report was completed; however, no indication of future USGA Reports planned. Report CLOSED. Need to revisit. The role of California civil grand juries is unique. Its role in the judicial branch is to examine and investigate local government functions and make recommendations to improve systems, procedures, and methods of operations, promoting honest, efficient government in the best interest of the community. While a grand jury has legislative powers to conduct investigations, including the power to subpoena witnesses, it lacks authority to enforce the implementation of report recommendations. The grand jury can only ensure that the reports and affected agencies' responses are published for public scrutiny. The lasting value of a grand jury investigation is diminished when the affected agencies do not appropriately address findings and recommendations3. Often, a respondent will reply that it intends to implement a recommendation later or that it requires further study, leaving the report Open. Regardless of these difficulties, there are statutory requirements by the responsible agencies investigated to provide substantial responses in compliance with Government Code requirements. Tracking and follow-up of Open responses is made challenging as reports are typically published at or near the end of the MCGJ's one-year term of service. Diligent follow-up by local agencies and succeeding grand juries is needed in order to ensure that all Open responses have met the statutory requirements and are appropriately closed with published responses. Without the oversight of continuity, the recommendations fall off the radar of the public and governing agencies. See for example, MCGJ Final Report: Madera County Animal Services: It's a Dog's Life, 2324-03. Recommendations and Response Tracking System (RRTS) Tracking responses to previous grand jury reports is an internal function of the sitting MCGJ. The 2023-2024 Grand Jury developed a Recommendation and Response Tracking System (RRTS) for the purpose of investigating the met or unmet statutory requirements of all respondents identified in each Final Report. This RRTS will be passed on to future MCGJs. The implementation of RRTS to track and report on all responses, diligently maintained, will give further credence toward preserving the positive impact of MCGJ reports. Responses to reports of prior grand juries are followed up by the succeeding panel. However, problems arise when responses are incomplete or extend beyond the term of the succeeding grand jury. Failure to respond in the appropriate time frame results in a referral to the presiding judge for the grand jury. Due to the passage of time between response and completion of responses to reports, the action to which the city and/or county agency has committed, drops from view of all responsible agencies, including the grand jury. The RRTS ensures that all agencies are accountable for the recommendations and responses to published reports. Accountability is key to the betterment of the County and community. The Madera BOS and the Cities of Madera Continuity Responsibilities The MCGJ annually completes its term of service in a flurry of published reports on completed civil investigations. These reports generate scores of findings and recommendations, in turn often necessitating hundreds of required responses. The current MCGJ continuity investigation revealed that a significant number of required agency responses remain evasive or incomplete. More consistent follow-up by the MCGJ of the investigated agencies with Open responses is needed. It is anticipated that the implementation of the RRTS will encourage greater agency compliance. Reporting publicly on the completion of previously committed actions goes a long way toward enhancing the positive impact of the MCGJ in its role as a bridge between the community and government. In addition to implementing the RRTS, the MCGJ is initiating a response review policy with the County BOS, City Councils of Madera and Chowchilla. This policy will provide a joint effort to ensure the continuity of current and past reports. The MCGJ believes an annual review with appropriate parties will lead to positive reflection and provide contextual insights into grand jury recommendations.
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Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
TheMCGJ findsthatMBHS’long-term staffing shortage hashada detrimentaleffect on theengagementand retentionrateof those utilizingthe services,aswell asemployeemorale.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
TheMCGJ recommends that MBHSsubmitarecruitment andretention planthat includes salaryincreases andincentives tothe BoardofSupervisors within 120daysof theMCGJ report posting, addressingthe long-standingstaffing shortage.
F2:
TheMCGJ findsthatMBHS hasinsufficient professionaldevelopment trainingfor their employees,not justfor thebenefit ofthe staff,butalso supportingtheir owngoal ofbeing able to growtheirownprofessionals inresponseto theworkforce crisis.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
TheMCGJ recommends that MBHSupdate itsWorkforce Training Policytoexpand the numberof professionaldevelopment trainingsessions andcertificationsavailable to employees,with costsincurred byMBHSwithin120days ofthe MCGJ reportposting.
F3:
TheMCGJ findsthattheoutreach efforts areinadequatetothe Hispanic/Latino population.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
TheMCGJ recommends that MBHSaddSpanish-languagemediaoutletsto theiroutreach efforts to theHispanic/Latino communitywithin120days ofthe MCGJ reportposting.
F4:
TheMCGJ findsthatthesterilenatureof thefacilities where servicesareconducteddonot supportthetherapeutic environment essentialfor connection.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
TheMCGJ recommends that MBHSconsultwithaprofessional within120days ofthe MCGJ report postingto improve theinterior of thetreatmentareas andcreate amore therapeutic environment.
F5:
TheMCGJ findsthatthenewC.A.R.E.Smobilecrisis teamis avery valuableresourcefor thecounty,howeverit lackssufficientpublic exposureto developawareness andtrust inthe community.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
TheMCGJ recommends that MBHScoordinate pressreleases,localnewscoverage, and social mediacampaignstohighlight the C.A.R.E.S.teamandtheirserviceswithin 120daysof theMCGJ report posting.
F6:
TheMCGJfindsthat MBHSis notproviding supporttotheiremployees regarding their own well-beingandmental health.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
TheMCGJrecommendsthat MBHSimplement aninternal programto support thewell-beingand mentalhealth ofits employeeswithin 120daysof theMCGJ report posting. Required Responses: Pursuantto PenalCodesections933and933.05,the MCGJ requestsresponses as follows; From thefollowing elected countyofficialswithin 90days: MaderaCounty Boardof Supervisors 200W. 4thSt. #4 Madera,CA 93637 Invited Responses: Pursuantto PenalCodesections933and933.05,the MCGJ requestsresponses as follows; From thefollowing governingbodies within60days: Director of MaderaCounty Departmentof BehavioralHealth 209E. 7thSt., Madera,CA 93638 Note: Thisreportwaspreparedusingcurrentinformationavailableonthewebsiteslisted. ReportsissuedbytheCivilGrandJurydonotidentifyindividualsinterviewed.PenalCodeSection929requires thatreportsoftheGrandJurynotcontainthenameofanypersonorfactsleadingtotheidentityofanypersonwho providesinformationtotheCivilGrandJury.TheCaliforniaStateLegislaturehasstatedthatitintendsthe provisionsofPenalCodeSection929prohibitingdisclosureofwitnessidentitiestoencouragefullcandorin testimonyinGrandJuryinvestigationsbyprotectingtheprivacyandconfidentialityofthosewhoparticipateinany CivilGrandJuryinvestigation.
F7:
TheMCGJ wantstocommend thestaff ofMBHSfor their dedicationandcommitmentto improving thewellnessof thecommunity.
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
The current Strategic Plan - Mission 2023 has expired.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
In order to permit time until a new Strategic Plan is developed and published, at the next regularly scheduled BOS meeting after receipt of this Report the Madera County BOS document and publish a statement indicating that the Strategic Plan - Mission 2023 stands as its statement of Creating a countywide Culture of Excellence until that time when a new Plan is in place.
F2:
The Madera County BOS did not have a plan for moving forward once the Strategic Plan expired.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
Prior to and included in the process of developing a new Strategic Plan, the BOS will determine policies and procedure for having a new Plan in place prior to the previous Plan's expiration date.
F3:
Individual Focus Areas identified on BOS Agenda Packet Agenda Item Submittal forms are often grouped together or completely omitted with no explanation or rationale provided.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
After receipt of this Report and at the next regularly scheduled BOS meeting all Departments take into consideration how and why Focus Areas are grouped and/or omitted from Agenda Items Submittal forms and provide explanation in the space provided.
F4:
In reviewing Agenda Packets, no agenda item was found that made reference to an annual Report Card, which would provide an update on the status of the Plan and, provide the public with information, and increase transparency.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
Prior to the publishing of the version of the Strategic Plan, the Madera County BOS work with the City of Madera City Council to develop a plan for improved working relations so that process can be identified and published in the new Plan.
F5:
Madera County and the City of Madera officials are in conflict regarding Government relations.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
To improve public information and transparency, the Madera County BOS develop a specific plan for the presentation of an annual update at BOS meetings of current status of the Plan. For the next version of the Strategic Plan, the Madera County BOS identify specific goals
F6:
The current Strategic Plan - Mission 2023 did not take into consideration goals for the future.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
for a growing, aging, and technologically advanced population. Required Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code Sections 933 and 933.5, the Madera County Grand Jury requests responses as follows from the elected County elected officials within 90 days: Madera County Board of Supervisors 200 W. 4th Street, 4th Floor Madera, CA 93637 Invited Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 993 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests responses as follows from the elected county officials within 60 days: Madera County CAO 200 W. 4th Street #2 Madera CA 93637 Not This report was prepared using current information available on the websites listed.e: Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code Section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. The California State Legislature has stated that it intends the provisions of Penal Code Section 929 prohibiting disclosure of witness identities to encourage full candor in testimony in Grand Jury investigations by protecting the privacy and confidentiality of those who participate in any Civil Grand Jury investigation.
Findings & Recommendations
2 findings
F1:
The MCGJ finds that VSP has overpopulated the facility and is far exceeding the designed capacity limits.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The MCGJ recommends that VSP meet the State-authorized capacity by October 1, 2024.
F2:
The MCGJ finds that VSP provides a multi-faceted environment with the goal of rehabilitation and the reduction of recidivism.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The MCGJ recommends that VSP continue to develop the multi-faceted environment for the purpose of rehabilitation and the reduction of recidivism. Required Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code Sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests responses from the following governing body within 90 days: Valley State Prison Warden 21633 Avenue 24 Chowchilla, California 93610 Governor Gavin Newsom 1021 O Street, Suite 9000 Sacramento, CA 95841 Invited Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code Sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests responses as follows: From the following governing body within 60 days: Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) 2590 Venture Oaks Way, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA. 95833 Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code Section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. The California State Legislature has stated that it intends the provisions of Penal Code Section 929 prohibiting disclosure of witness identities to encourage full candor in testimony in Grand Jury investigations by protecting the privacy and confidentiality of those who participate in any Civil Grand Jury investigation.
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Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
The MCGJ finds that the daily maintenance routine needs improvement to clean away the cobwebs.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The MCGJ recommends improving the daily maintenance routine to clean away the cobwebs.
F2:
The MCGJ finds that the worn-out linoleum flooring, cited in 2021-2022, still needs to be addressed and repaired.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The MCGJ recommends that the worn-out linoleum flooring cited in this report be addressed by September 30, 2024.
F3:
The MCGJ finds that the Jail provides relevant training and certification programs for participating inmates.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The MCGJ recommends the current vocational programs continue and consider expanding.
F4:
The MCGJ finds that the interaction between correction officers and inmates was respectful.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The MCGJ recommends that the correction officers continue to interact respectfully with inmates. Required Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code Sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests responses as follows: From the following elected officials within 90 days: Board of Supervisors 200 West Fourth Street Madera, CA 93637 Madera County Sheriff Headquarters 2725 Falcon Dr. Madera, CA 93637 Invited Responses: Pursuant to Penal Code Sections 933 and 933.05, the Madera County Grand Jury requests responses as follows: From the following governing body within 90 days: Madera County Sheriff (Jail) 195 Tozer St. Madera, CA 93637 Board of State and Community Corrections (BSCC) 2590 Venture Oaks Way, Suite 200 Sacramento, CA. 95833 Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code Section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. The California State Legislature has stated that it intends the provisions of Penal Code Section 929 prohibiting disclosure of witness identities to encourage full candor in testimony in Grand Jury investigations by protecting the privacy and confidentiality of those who participate in any Civil Grand Jury investigation.
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
* This report's PDF did not contain easily extractable text and required Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for analysis. There may be minor errors in the extracted findings and recommendations due to OCR limitations with scanned documents.