Mariposa County 2019-2020 - California Grand Jury Reports

June 25, 2020 — The Honorable Dana Walton, Presiding Judge, Superior Court of California, Mariposa County*

56 pages 9 findings 11 recommendations

Findings & Recommendations 9 findings

F1: min Mariposa Animal Impound Facility ➂ PAC PRIDE 🖫 Colden Chain A. ŝ Figure 1: Proximity of Animal Control to Fairgrounds Animal Control often utilizes fairground sites to provide housing for larger animals; it also plays a critical role in Animal Control Facility operations during countywide emergency situations. Other organizations offer services or support that is helpful to Animal Control as well, including the Central California Animal Shelter and the Fish and Game Department, the latter of which was instrumental when Animal Control encountered a wolf-hybrid here in Mariposa County. Cramer and Vogel said that typically an animal impounded in the County stays at the Facility for five days, and then, if the animal is adoptable, it is generally turned over to the local SPCA which facilitates the adoption process. They also said that an animal which bites is generally quarantined at the Facility for 10 days. Cramer and Vogel talked about the critical services provided by the Facility during disaster situations such as fire and flood, including temporary housing, evacuation help for animal owners, and feeding and watering animals that are forced for whatever reason to shelter in place during such an emergency. The Animal Control Officers that the Grand Jury met during the visit were very professional and well turned out. It was apparent that these men and women take pride in their profession and in the Facility itself. Although the Facility is only available to the public during normal business hours, the operation itself, and the assigned officers, are a round the clock operation. The Facility appeared to be well equipped. FINDINGS The Animal Control Facility appears to be in good shape, though there was one area of concern to the inspection team: r , 1. Although the current building is well situated and well suited to its purpose, the expense of continuing to lease this Facility is of concern. The facility has, over the course of the lease, already cost more than the expenditure of building a custom built Facility entirely owned by the County, and will in the next three years cost nearly $100,000 more. RECOMMENDATIONS 1. It may be in the County's best interest to commission a cost analysis study to determine if the continued lease payment is a good and efficient use of resources, or if it may be more cost effective to begin the process of either moving the Facility to a currently owned county location, or to purchase or build such a facility. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors; Findings 1 and Recommendations 1 INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Sheriff's Office; Findings 1 and Recommendations 1 1 . r Oversight Report on Mariposa County Fire Department SUMMARY On December 3, 2019, the Mariposa County Grand Jury Commissions and Districts Committee and other Grand Jurors met with County Fire Chief (CalFire Deputy Chief) Mike van Loben Sels and Mariposa County Fire Operations Chief (CalFire Division Chief) Bernie Quinn. The purpose of the meeting was to understand the Mariposa County Fire Department organization, and the role CalFire plays in that Department. Chief van Loben Sels explained that Mariposa County had entered into an agreement with Mariposa County in January of 2019 in which CalFire assumed command and control of the Mariposa County Fire Department. The Chief went on to explain that while the Department was his over-all responsibility, Chief Bernie Quinn was the Operations (Battalion) Chief for the Department. In addition, the contract with the County called for a Training Captain. As an addition to that contract, Mariposa County also contracted for a total of three "Amador Agreement" fire stations; Usona, Mariposa, and Coulterville. The Chief explained that "Amador Agreement" (so called, because this type of agreement had its inception in Amador County) stations are CalFire stations that continue to be manned with one engine and two firefighters after the close of fire season in Mariposa County, thus providing CalFire response in addition to County Fire response for all twelve months of the year. He said that this type of station could roll response within a couple of minutes of alarm. The Chief also said that CalFire had made an independent decision to staff the Cathey's Valley station all year this year at no cost to Mariposa County. The Chief said that fire season in Mariposa County would conclude on December 9th this year. Chief Quinn said that the relationship between CalFire and the County's volunteer firefighters had improved a great deal since the inception of the contract, and credited that phenomena to increased mingled training opportunities and a closer working relationship. Quinn said that there were twelve County fire stations, and that some are staffed with more volunteers than others. He noted that currently, the Hunter's Valley station had no volunteers, and that Greeley Hill and Bridgeport had only about three each. He contrasted that with the Fish Camp station, which has eight volunteers, and is able to provide call response seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. Quinn said that nationally there is a decline in volunteer fire fighters, as the training and response schedule make it difficult for volunteers to work full time, and still provide response and attend training. He said that there are currently about 86 volunteers, and that each of them is, or is becoming, well trained in fire and medical response. Quinn pointed out that, since the County helped CalFire to establish a headquarters for County Fire at the old Springhill School, 7 CalFire has been successful in establishing a fully equipped training center there. He said that each volunteer has forty hours of "basic training", and then is allowed to respond to calls with a qualified supervisor while their training to full certification continues. Quinn said that the volunteers are being trained to state and national standards for firefighters. Quinn said that he is satisfied that all County Fire personnel are well equipped for first response duties. Chief van Loben Sels said that CalFire and the County are exploring a program that may, in the future, allow for the Fire Department to conduct controlled burns on private property, and that this program, once established, may make it easier to respond to fire emergencies in all areas of the County. He said that the County Chief Administrative Officer and the Board of Supervisors has been very responsive and accommodating to the reorganization and modernization of the Fire Department. The Chief touched briefly on the PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff program, and said that generally the program was positive, and that he had personally seen it effective in preventing fire. He said that he believed that PG&E would "hone" their skills with this program over a year or two, and that eventually it would be more specifically targeted to problem areas. He also said that the program had taught CalFire valuable lessons in how to prepare fire stations to operate in no power conditions. Chief van Loben Sels and Chief Quinn also discussed recruiting volunteers, outlining qualifications for being accepted as a volunteer fire fighter as follows: A volunteer had to be at least 18 years old • Pass a criminal background check ٠ Pass physical exam ٠ Had to be deemed physically able to pass strength requirements • There are no maximum age limitations • In response to a question from the Grand Jury, Chief Quinn confirmed that volunteer firefighters do get a stipend of $10 when attending training or responding to a call. Both Quinn and van Loben Sels invited the Grand Jury to come on site for a visit at their dispatch center, a station or the new headquarters at Springhill school any time they wished. FINDINGS 1. The Mariposa County Fire Department appears to be in very good order under CalFire Command and Control. 2. Training appears to be a key focus for the Department. 3. The use of "Amador Agreement" fire stations is a very good decision, providing guaranteed response to Mariposa County emergency and fire calls year round. RECOMMENDATIONS 1. The County is to be commended in their skillful handling of this Fire Department reorganization. It is the recommendation of the Grand Jury that the County continue to devote the time and resources required by CalFire in this agreement. 2. While Chiefs van Loben Sels and Quinn are happy with the fire training center at Springhill, it is essential that the County devote whatever funds are necessary to maintain this facility. 3. As it is financially feasible, it is recommended that the County continue to strategically add "Amador Agreement" stations to ensure coverage across the sometimes sparsely populated, diverse landscape and challenging terrain in Mariposa County. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors; Recommendations 2, 3 INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Mariposa County Fire Department 1 ' n Oversight Report on Health and Human Services: Child Welfare SUMMARY 2019/2020 Mariposa County Civil Grand Jury (MCCGJ) identified Mariposa County Child Welfare for investigation for the empanelled term. It was selected without malice or receipt of any complaint. It was selected due to the importance and relevant issue of child wellbeing in Mariposa County. Child Welfare Services Responsibilities include: 12 Emergency Response (ER) • Family Maintenance ٠ · Family Reunification Permanency Planning • Independent Living Program (ILP) • THP-Plus (Transitional Housing Program-Plus) 0 Extended Foster Care (EFC) • The Mariposa County Child Welfare Services (CWS) is a political subdivision of the State of California of the Behavioral Health and Recovery Services under the umbrella of Health and Human Services. GLOSSARY CWS – Child Welfare Services Mandated Reporter - A person who is bound by law to report any signs or concerns of abuse. According to the California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training website, mandated reports are: "primarily people who have contact with children through their employment." MCCGJ - See Mariposa County Child Welfare Services webpage for more information, mariposacounty.org/275/Child- Welfare-Services-CWSCPS, accessed 4/1/2020. e · 4 BACKGROUND On February 11, 2020 at 5:00 PM the Mariposa County Grand Jury visited Child Welfare Services at 5362 Lemee Lane, Mariposa, CA 95338. The MCCGJ interviewed Baljit Hundal, the Deputy Director of Human Services. The Deputy Director oversees three divisions under Human Services: 1. Public Assistance (Welfare), 2. Adult Aging, and 3. Child Welfare Services (CWS). Deputy Director Hundal reports directly to Chevon Kothari, Director of the Health and Human Services Agency. She also participates in meetings focused on issues of concern for the three divisions at the local and state level and oversees a staff of 70 employees in the department. Regarding Child Welfare Services, the focus of this report, Deputy Director Hundal explained that the Child Welfare Program "is meeting the needs of our most vulnerable populations in the county - our children and youth." She stated that Child Welfare Services has adequate staffing and necessary resources to meet the demand of the work. Seven (7) staff members respond to both Adult and Child Welfare Services calls. There is one (1) dedicated staff person who receives all incoming calls on the hot line regarding either Adult or Child abuse or neglect complaints. Complaints regarding children may include physical, emotional, sexual abuse or pertain to drug abuse or neglect. Child safety is the top concern for Child Welfare Services and, if needed, the Director can override a lower level decision to ensure child safety. Most child abuse or neglect calls to CWS are made by a "Mandated Reporter," although some calls are made by citizens residing in the local community, who may choose to remain anonymous. A Mandated Reporter is a person who is bound by law to report any signs or concerns of abuse. According to the California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training website, mandated reports are: "primarily people who have contact with children through their employment. Mandated reporters are required by the state of California to report any known or suspected instances of child abuse or neglect to the county child welfare department or to a local law enforcement agency."13 Every call that comes into CWS is taken seriously, regardless of who reports the complaint of abuse or the relationship of the caller to the child in question. A Statewide computerized screening tool is used to determine the seriousness of each call. Calls are either classified as "immediate attention needed" or "10 day response" based upon the answers inputted into the screening tool. The 10 day response provides the time necessary to research the complaint and determine the proper disposition of the complaint. Source: California Child Abuse Mandated Reporter Training website, accessed from Mariposa County Child Welfare Services webpage, 4/6/2020. For a list of professionals who are mandated reporters, please see mandatedreportca.com/about/fag. ć ş. It is not always necessary for the entire 10 days to elapse prior to the disposition being made. If a referral is opened the case is forwarded to a case manager. Case managers may process between 10 to 15 cases at a time. Once a case manager has reached their capacity to process cases, or to take on additional cases would overload their capacity, new referral cases that require attention are forwarded to the next case manager in line. Should all the case managers be at maximum capacity, the case would then be referred to Director Hundal. Case managers will follow up with Mandated Reporters as to the disposition of the complaint. For calls received from citizens (not Mandated Reporters) a follow up response is not provided to maintain confidentiality (and as noted above, citizens can call in complaints and remain anonymous). Citizens are free to provide additional information to a case previously reported, however, no information relating to the case is provided to citizen callers. Limiting access to information regarding a given case to only those directly involved and to the Director ensures that confidentiality is maintained. Additionally, the Director has mandated that cases are not to be discussed on the floor. Confidentiality has been and will continue to be a top priority for CWS. There are four (4) levels of case managers: Level 4 Case Manager requires a Master's Degree in the specific or related field. • Level 3 Case Manager requires a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience in the • specific or related field. Level 1 and 2 Case Manager requires related experience as determined by the Director. • There was a significant increase in cases between October and December of 2019. Director Hundal reiterated that Child Welfare Services has been able to quickly assess and adjust accordingly, to meet additional staffing and resource needs. CWS received approximately 30-35 cases during this three-month period. Twenty-four children associated with these cases were removed from their home; generally due to drugs or violence. If it is necessary for a case manager to remove a child from their home, the case worker is always accompanied by a Law Enforcement Officer. Only Law Enforcement Officers or the court system can remove a child from their home. CWS will first attempt to place the child with a family member, such as a grandparent or an aunt/uncle, or a close family friend. If placement with a family member or close friend is unsuccessful, Mariposa County maintains a residential treatment center where the child can be placed for short term residence. Additional services are available through a tri-county agreement. CWS provides a number of resources and services to facilitate reunification of the child with the family. Towards this end, the case manager in charge of the case -- or a second case manager who was not involved with the removal of the child from the home -- meets with the family to determine what services are needed prior to reunification. 4 ' ( When asked what could be provided to assist the good work that's presently being done, Division Director Hundal explained that more community involvement would be helpful. Director Hundal expressed an appreciation for great community partners in the area who "help us meet the needs of children and families." For example, they work closely with CASA and Safe Families, and these organizations can help with a community development plan, which might include bringing organizations such as "All Dad's Matter" and Big Brothers and Big Sisters to the county. Likewise, faith-based organizations could offer a helping hand to children in need of additional adult supervision, especially those that live in a home with a single, working mom, or families located on the North side of the county. Safe Families might be a good "umbrella agency" to organize and facilitate these additional services. That said, she indicated that CWS continues to explore how to help non-profits and faith-based organizations in the area meet the needs of children and families. Ultimately, Hundal acknowledged that the services provided by the Division (CWS) should be thought of as a last resort. During the writing of this report, the COVID-19 crisis unfolded in the State of California and Mariposa County. In a follow up email, Director Hundal referenced the challenges and opportunities that have resulted from this crisis: Due to COVID-19, [CWS has] been forced to move the majority of our child welfare staff into teleworking schedules and we have found that this has allowed for more contact with our children, youth and families. From this experience, [CWS] will look at how to continue this practice with technology capabilities of laptops and tablets. FINDINGS 1. The director and staff of CWS are professional, courteous, and committed to serving the children and families of the county. 2. CWS has the resources and staffing needed to effectively meet the needs of Mariposa County; however, some types of family structures or County areas require additional support, such as single-parent families or households located in the North side of the County. One area that needs attention is greater community engagement. The services provided by CWS would be strengthened and made more robust if additional partnerships and connections with community organizations, including non-profit and faith-based organizations, were developed. 4. In the context of COVID-19, potential opportunities have been identified that may increase contact with children/families with the use of remote/virtual communication and technology. 1 ' 5 RECOMMENDATIONS 1. CWS is working closely with some non-profit organizations, such as CASA and Safe Families, to partner with and build capacity to help children, youth, and families in Mariposa County. Though they are making strides, the Grand Jury recommends that the County consider offering support or opportunities for CWS staff to engage in discussions with relevant organizations that might help lay the foundation for the development of an integrated county-community response and partnership that can address the needs of all families and all areas of the County. 2. The Grand Jury recommends that the County encourage CWS to explore or investigate further the potential benefits of remote/virtual communication and technology for greater contact with children/families at CWS. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors; Findings 3, 4 and Recommendations 1, 2 INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Child Welfare Services; Findings 3, 4 and Recommendations 1, 2 . Y / Oversight Report on Public Works: Roads Division SUMMARY On February 20, 2020 at 10:00 AM the 2019/2020 Mariposa County Civil Grand Jury (MCCGJ) met at the Mariposa County Roads Department Facility for a presentation and a drive to view road work being done by the Roads Department. Mike Healy, Director Public Works and Transportation, and Cheryl Jay, Roads and Bridges Manager, gave the Grand Jury a tour through the Facility which started at 10:00 AM and ended at approximately 10:55 AM. The current Facility is a building located at 4639 Ben Hur Road. The Facility looks good outside and given the current available resources, the Roads Department appears to be doing a very good job in maintaining and operating the Facility. The lobby area was clean and neat, providing a welcoming area for the public to come to speak with Roads Department staff. At the time of our visit, there were three staff members in the Facility. The Grand Jury was invited into a good size meeting room and joined by Director Healy and Roads and Bridges Manager Jay. Director Healy said that his Roads Division is responsible for 564 miles of road, that about two hundred of that distance is gravel or dirt road and shared that new road construction generally costs about $1M per mile. He also said that natural disasters in the last three years have caused approximately $19M in damage to roads infrastructure. Director Healy then began a power point presentation that was also to be presented to the Board of Supervisors in March. It will also be on the county website. There were 50 before and after pictures of mostly storm damage that have been completed. Roads Division At A Glance Staffing Levels: The Division Consists of: - 1 Roads and Bridges Manager 3 Road Crews working from 3 1 Roads Superintendent Yard Locations - 3 Working Foreman one An IMSA Certified Signs and dedicated to each crew and / Markings Crew or work location A Brushing Crew which is 4 Maintenance Worker I/II/III augmented by CDF Crews and assigned to each Yard (total Area Road Crews 12) Temporary Staff in the - 1 Maintenance Foreman and construction Season Months one M/W I/II assigned to Total FY 19/20 Budget Signs and Brushing Crews $5,409,334.00 (total 4) Supported by Engineering Staff .... 5 ( In House Road Staff Project Activity by FY · The following is a snapshot of Roads Division Activity over the past three Fiscal Years. FY 17/18 FY 18/19 FY 19/20 (7 MOS DATA) Site 5,622 5,584 3,390 Visits* 28,374 29,701 20,210 Hours Cost $1,834,838 $2,231,834 $1,443,841 * Site visit equals a task completion of ½ hour or more. Total Division annual hours equal 32,640 est. Director Healy also discussed the funding for major road and bridge projects on the horizon. All of the changes due to the Pandemic will make this funding crucial and a new challenge that this report can't begin to address. The Caltrans project through Mariposa will have a major impact on the public. The committee saw nothing on this visit to indicate that Director Healy and Manager Jay were not up to the task. Bridge Project After the office presentation Manager Jay drove us in a county SUV out to a bridge project on Darrah road. The road crew was able to communicate well with Jay as we drove thru the work area. The traffic was controlled in a safe manner throughout the work area. Public safety was first priority. The various invasive plants (wild peach and feather weed) on the county roads and their control as well as the normal weeds were discussed. Most of the invasive weeds are coming in on hay trucks from the valley. The County is spraying them with the herbicides made by Garlan. The sprays are Garlan 3a and 4. Both are Triclopyr based. We again discussed Caltrans' commitment to upgrade and improve State Route 140 through town by adding much needed drainage, improved crosswalks and, possibly, "roundabouts" to control traffic. The Grand Jury had questions regarding traffic flow and access to merchants along 140 during the construction phase. It will be critical for many businesses that have been devastated by the Pandemic to minimize disruptions for public access for shopping. 7 4 0 FINDINGS The Roads and Bridges Facility appears to be in great shape. There was not an area of concern to the inspection team. 2. The Roads Department is well run; the current building is well situated and well suited to its purpose. The Department and Public Works have daily interaction on social media and well publicized, active daily phone interaction with their customers. The Director and Staff attend many public meetings in the neighborhoods with the Board of Supervisors. RECOMMENDATIONS It is recommended that the County make an effort to educate the public, actively push communication out via direct mail, advertisement and other means to welcome input, in addition to instructing the public on how to use existing systems to communicate road information and other information useful to Public Works Roads Division. 2. It is recommended that the Mariposa County Technical Services (IT) Division do an audit on the systems currently in use for work orders, work order records and data handling for the Roads Division. The County IT should take steps to work with Roads to modernize this function. It was noted that the Mariposa Transportation Plan link does not work on the Public Works Admin page at the time of this report. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors; Recommendations 1, 2 INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Mariposa County Technical Services Information Technology Recommendations 2 0 3. SOLICITED RESPONSES Reference Required/ Response Entity Issue Summary Respondent(s) Received Page Invited Board of Supervisors Received Required Board of Supervisors BOS policy and procedures 10 Administrative Officer Invited Board of Supervisors Received Required Sheriff's Office Benefits and Compensation 15-16 Sheriff's Office Invited Received Medical Services Board of Supervisors Required Received Adult Detention 20-21 Facility Maintenance Sheriff's Office Invited Received Board of Supervisors Required Received Juvenile Holding 26-27 Maintenance Facility Probation Office Invited Voter Information Board of Supervisors Required Received 31 Elections Department Registrar of Voters Equipment Invited County Clerk's Office Invited State of California Board of Supervisors Required Received Compliance John C. Fremont 36-37 JCF Board of Directors Financial/Budget Concerns Invited Received Healthcare District Community Awareness Required Board of Supervisors 8/18-8/18 Animal Control 40 Facility's Lease DOVO Invited Sheriff's Office Board of Supervisors Required 43 Fire Department Training Support prine Fire Department Invited Community Needs Board of Supervisors Required B. Hankel Community Engagement Child Welfare 44-45 Child Welfare Services Invited and Outreach Remote/Virtual Technology Required Community Outreach Board of Supervisors AMiss Roads Division · 5. CITIZEN COMPLAINT LOG Complaint Disposition No. Date Complaintant Subject Action Taken Correspondence Abuse of Power/Authority by a No abuse of power/authority Individual 1(a) Referred Supervisor Investigation Acknowledgement found County investigation (by HR) Alleged stalking by a MCSO 8/1/2019 Individual already in progress 1 Investigation Acknowledgement Deputy A Supervisor getting surplus Acknowledgement/No 2 8/5/2019 Individual vegetables from Pioneer market Lack of jurisdiction None action Complaintant stopped 3 8/27/2019 Individual Unprofessionalism by Bldg Dept. Investigation Acknowledgement,RFD responding 9/4/2019 Unjustified 4 Individual Unqualified teachers Investigation Acknowledgement Unhappy over civil judgement in 5 10/30/2019 Individual Contra Costa County None No Jurisdiction No Jurisdiction 6 12/22/2019 Individual Wrongful incarceration(s) Referred to DA Unwarranted concern Unwarranted 7 4/7/2020 Individual Wrongful incarceration No Jurisdiction Lack of jurisdiction None Referred to Code er tru y SIGNATURE PAGE Signature Date Signature Date DON SMITH, FOREPERSON PAMELA SHORT Signature Signature Date Date CODIE HART, SECRETARY AUBREY SIMPSON Signature Signature Date Date DEBORAH SUTHERLAND DAVE ANGELINI Signature Signature Date Date ZULEMA VALDEZ EILEEN COLLINS Signature Date Signature Date BARBARA HAURI AMBER WANNER Signature Date ARTHUR LEHR . .

Related Recommendations (1)

R1: The Grand Jury recommends Mariposa County Board of Supervisors and all persons in County elected positions receive additional ethics training beyond that which is required to ensure greater self-awareness of public perception of elected officials' communication style and behavior.

F2: There is a lack of accessible information and resources for citizens to understand the process by which agenda items are placed on the BOS agenda.

Related Recommendations (1)

R2: The Grand Jury recommends that the County Administrative Officer or relevant party provide additional information or education, perhaps in the style of a pamphlet or poster in the Board Room, that details how the Board agenda is created and works for greater transparency.

F3: There is a lack of accessible information and resources for citizens to understand the BOS process by which advisory board members and commission members are selected and appointed to serve by Supervisors.

Related Recommendations (1)

R3: The Grand Jury recommends that the County Administrative Officer or relevant party provide additional information or education, perhaps in the style of a pamphlet or , poster in the Board Room, which details how Advisory Board and Commission Members are appointed for greater transparency.

F4: The required two hours of training every two years in Expense and Ethics Policy by elected officials of Mariposa County is insufficient to ensure the public trust.

Related Recommendations (1)

R4: This Grand Jury has no further comment on this element. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: . Mariposa County Board of Supervisors;

F5: If the hospital is unable to secure the necessary funding, the state will not allow the hospital to continue operations in its present form. Therefore, it is feasible that the Mariposa County community, and its aging populations, may find itself without a medical hospital facility, including emergency facilities. The John C. Fremont Healthcare District is a vital asset for Mariposa County and it is imperative that the District remain a viable operation in the community.

F6: There appears to be no comprehensive process for creating a strategic plan. As of this review, construction of one does not appear to be a priority.

F7: Management appears to be totally committed to educating the general county population of the dilemma the hospital faces in making the hospital compliant with state bill AB1953.

F8: Management has done a good job of improving the image and reputation of the hospital within the general public.

F9: There were no complaints received from the public. . .

Additional Recommendations 7

Not linked to specific findings.

R12: Temporary Staff in the - 1 Maintenance Foreman and construction Season Months one M/W I/II assigned to Total FY 19/20 Budget Signs and Brushing Crews $5,409,334.00 (total 4)

R15-16: Sheriff's Office Invited Received Medical Services Board of Supervisors Required Received Adult Detention

R20-21: Facility Maintenance Sheriff's Office Invited Received Board of Supervisors Required Received Juvenile Holding

R26-27: Maintenance Facility Probation Office Invited Voter Information Board of Supervisors Required Received 31 Elections Department Registrar of Voters Equipment Invited County Clerk's Office Invited State of California Board of Supervisors Required Received Compliance John C. Fremont

R30-35: cases during this three-month period. Twenty-four children associated with these cases were removed from their home; generally due to drugs or violence. If it is necessary for a case manager to remove a child from their home, the case worker is always accompanied by a Law Enforcement Officer. Only Law Enforcement Officers or the court system can remove a child from their home. CWS will first attempt to place the child with a family member, such as a grandparent or an aunt/uncle, or a close family friend. If placement with a family member or close friend is unsuccessful, Mariposa County maintains a residential treatment center where the child can be placed for short term residence. Additional services are available through a tri-county agreement. CWS provides a number of resources and services to facilitate reunification of the child with the family. Towards this end, the case manager in charge of the case -- or a second case manager who was not involved with the removal of the child from the home -- meets with the family to determine what services are needed prior to reunification. 4 ' ( When asked what could be provided to assist the good work that's presently being done, Division Director Hundal explained that more community involvement would be helpful. Director Hundal expressed an appreciation for great community partners in the area who "help us meet the needs of children and families." For example, they work closely with CASA and Safe Families, and these organizations can help with a community development plan, which might include bringing organizations such as "All Dad's Matter" and Big Brothers and Big Sisters to the county. Likewise, faith-based organizations could offer a helping hand to children in need of additional adult supervision, especially those that live in a home with a single, working mom, or families located on the North side of the county. Safe Families might be a good "umbrella agency" to organize and facilitate these additional services. That said, she indicated that CWS continues to explore how to help non-profits and faith-based organizations in the area meet the needs of children and families. Ultimately, Hundal acknowledged that the services provided by the Division (CWS) should be thought of as a last resort. During the writing of this report, the COVID-19 crisis unfolded in the State of California and Mariposa County. In a follow up email, Director Hundal referenced the challenges and opportunities that have resulted from this crisis: Due to COVID-19, [CWS has] been forced to move the majority of our child welfare staff into teleworking schedules and we have found that this has allowed for more contact with our children, youth and families. From this experience, [CWS] will look at how to continue this practice with technology capabilities of laptops and tablets. FINDINGS 1. The director and staff of CWS are professional, courteous, and committed to serving the children and families of the county. 2. CWS has the resources and staffing needed to effectively meet the needs of Mariposa County; however, some types of family structures or County areas require additional support, such as single-parent families or households located in the North side of the County. One area that needs attention is greater community engagement. The services provided by CWS would be strengthened and made more robust if additional partnerships and connections with community organizations, including non-profit and faith-based organizations, were developed. 4. In the context of COVID-19, potential opportunities have been identified that may increase contact with children/families with the use of remote/virtual communication and technology. 1 ' 5 RECOMMENDATIONS 1. CWS is working closely with some non-profit organizations, such as CASA and Safe Families, to partner with and build capacity to help children, youth, and families in Mariposa County. Though they are making strides, the Grand Jury recommends that the County consider offering support or opportunities for CWS staff to engage in discussions with relevant organizations that might help lay the foundation for the development of an integrated county-community response and partnership that can address the needs of all families and all areas of the County. 2. The Grand Jury recommends that the County encourage CWS to explore or investigate further the potential benefits of remote/virtual communication and technology for greater contact with children/families at CWS. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors; Findings 3, 4 and Recommendations 1, 2 INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Child Welfare Services; Findings 3, 4 and Recommendations 1, 2 . Y / Oversight Report on Public Works: Roads Division SUMMARY On February 20, 2020 at 10:00 AM the 2019/2020 Mariposa County Civil Grand Jury (MCCGJ) met at the Mariposa County Roads Department Facility for a presentation and a drive to view road work being done by the Roads Department. Mike Healy, Director Public Works and Transportation, and Cheryl Jay, Roads and Bridges Manager, gave the Grand Jury a tour through the Facility which started at 10:00 AM and ended at approximately 10:55 AM. The current Facility is a building located at 4639 Ben Hur Road. The Facility looks good outside and given the current available resources, the Roads Department appears to be doing a very good job in maintaining and operating the Facility. The lobby area was clean and neat, providing a welcoming area for the public to come to speak with Roads Department staff. At the time of our visit, there were three staff members in the Facility. The Grand Jury was invited into a good size meeting room and joined by Director Healy and Roads and Bridges Manager Jay. Director Healy said that his Roads Division is responsible for 564 miles of road, that about two hundred of that distance is gravel or dirt road and shared that new road construction generally costs about $1M per mile. He also said that natural disasters in the last three years have caused approximately $19M in damage to roads infrastructure. Director Healy then began a power point presentation that was also to be presented to the Board of Supervisors in March. It will also be on the county website. There were 50 before and after pictures of mostly storm damage that have been completed. Roads Division At A Glance

R36-37: JCF Board of Directors Financial/Budget Concerns Invited Received Healthcare District Community Awareness Required Board of Supervisors 8/18-8/18 Animal Control 40 Facility's Lease DOVO Invited Sheriff's Office Board of Supervisors Required 43 Fire Department Training Support prine Fire Department Invited Community Needs Board of Supervisors Required B. Hankel Community Engagement Child Welfare

R44-45: Child Welfare Services Invited and Outreach Remote/Virtual Technology Required Community Outreach Board of Supervisors AMiss Roads Division · 5. CITIZEN COMPLAINT LOG Complaint Disposition No. Date Complaintant Subject Action Taken Correspondence Abuse of Power/Authority by a No abuse of power/authority Individual 1(a) Referred Supervisor Investigation Acknowledgement found County investigation (by HR) Alleged stalking by a MCSO 8/1/2019 Individual already in progress 1 Investigation Acknowledgement Deputy A Supervisor getting surplus Acknowledgement/No 2 8/5/2019 Individual vegetables from Pioneer market Lack of jurisdiction None action Complaintant stopped 3 8/27/2019 Individual Unprofessionalism by Bldg Dept. Investigation Acknowledgement,RFD

June 25, 2020 — The Honorable Dana Walton, Presiding Judge, Superior Court of California, Mariposa County*

56 pages 9 findings 11 recommendations

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Findings & Recommendations 9 findings

Related Recommendations (1)

F2: There is a lack of accessible information and resources for citizens to understand the process by which agenda items are placed on the BOS agenda.

Related Recommendations (1)

F4: The required two hours of training every two years in Expense and Ethics Policy by elected officials of Mariposa County is insufficient to ensure the public trust.

Related Recommendations (1)

F6: There appears to be no comprehensive process for creating a strategic plan. As of this review, construction of one does not appear to be a priority.

F7: Management appears to be totally committed to educating the general county population of the dilemma the hospital faces in making the hospital compliant with state bill AB1953.

F8: Management has done a good job of improving the image and reputation of the hospital within the general public.

F9: There were no complaints received from the public. . .

Additional Recommendations 7

Not linked to specific findings.

R12: Temporary Staff in the - 1 Maintenance Foreman and construction Season Months one M/W I/II assigned to Total FY 19/20 Budget Signs and Brushing Crews $5,409,334.00 (total 4)

R15-16: Sheriff's Office Invited Received Medical Services Board of Supervisors Required Received Adult Detention

R20-21: Facility Maintenance Sheriff's Office Invited Received Board of Supervisors Required Received Juvenile Holding

February 03, 2020 — Mariposa County 2019-2020 Grand Jury Interim Report

9 pages 4 findings

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Findings & Recommendations 4 findings

F1: The Mariposa County elections system does not utilize electronic systems or communications that may lead to security issues as related in the advisory from SMCCGJ.

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F2: The election system as presented by the Registrar of Voters appears to be secure.

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F3: It is necessary to ensure that the expensive equipment used in this vital county function is properly stored between election usages.

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F4: It is recommended that the County allocate appropriate funds and work with the Elections Division to find and procure clean, safe, temperature-controlled, and secure storage for the elections equipment. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Keith M. Williams, Registrar of Voters Elections Department, Division of the County Clerk's Office

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February 03, 2020 — Mariposa County 2019-2020 Grand Jury Interim Report

9 pages 4 findings

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Findings & Recommendations 4 findings

F1: The Mariposa County elections system does not utilize electronic systems or communications that may lead to security issues as related in the advisory from SMCCGJ.

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F2: The election system as presented by the Registrar of Voters appears to be secure.

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F3: It is necessary to ensure that the expensive equipment used in this vital county function is properly stored between election usages.

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February 03, 2020 — Mariposa County 2019-2020 Grand Jury Interim Report

12 pages 9 findings 4 recommendations

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Findings & Recommendations 9 findings

F1: Overall, JCF appeared to be clean, well kept, and suited to administer its mission. The employees we encountered appeared to be professional, knowledgeable, and forthcoming with answers to questions from Grand Jurors. Senior management has done an outstanding job in bringing the hospital to a stable financial position.

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F2: JCF is 68 years old and will be required to undergo construction and retrofit in order to meet minimum standards set down by The State of California. Senior management will be required to plan, execute, and complete the project by 1/1/2030 in order to be deemed compliant.

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Related Recommendations (1)

R1: The John C. Fremont Healthcare District should immediately and aggressively pursue planning for the necessary and required construction, retrofit, and repairs to the hospital in order to obtain compliance with AB1953 by year 2030.

F3: There were currently no identified or verified sources for the necessary funding to complete the required work on the hospital to achieve compliance. Although JCF's senior management has done a very good job in improving its profitability, it is unlikely that the hospital will be able to fund this construction project unilaterally. It is noteworthy to state that JCF senior management has consulted with an architectural company, an experienced hospital construction company, a political strategist, and an experienced bond consultant.

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Related Recommendations (2)

R2: JCF must aggressively pursue all avenues of funding, including grants, large donor contributions and other financial forms of finance.

F4: In addition to the required seismic upgrade work there are construction and other necessities the hospital must undertake in order to keep pace with needed services to the public, including parking lots and administrative support.

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F6: There appears to be no comprehensive process for creating a strategic plan. As of this review, construction of one does not appear to be a priority.

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Related Recommendations (1)

R3: JCF must construct a detailed written multi-faceted strategic plan identifying goals, objectives, and realistic strategies designed to obtain the facilities, equipment, and personnel needed to maintain its mission and vision.

F7: Management appears to be totally committed to educating the general county population of the dilemma the hospital faces in making the hospital compliant with state bill AB1953.

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F8: Management has done a good job of improving the image and reputation of the hospital within the general public.

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Related Recommendations (1)

R4: Senior management and members of the Board of Directors must continue to promote the hospital as a quality healthcare center which utilizes state of the art equipment, a highly trained professional medical staff, a quality customer service philosophy.

F9: There were no complaints received from the public.

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December 26, 2019 — 2019-2020 Law Enforcement Interim Report*

18 pages 4 findings

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Findings & Recommendations 4 findings

F1: The size and scope of the Sheriffs' Office mission is daunting. The Office is required to patrol and secure an area of almost 1,450 square miles seven days a week and twenty four hours a day. With distance of 30 to 40 miles between communities, and only 50 patrol deputies, safe coverage of the County can be difficult to maintain.

F2: Providing competitive salary and compensation packages is of paramount importance in order to prevent Mariposa County Law Enforcement Professionals from seeking employment in nearby counties which are able to offer better packages.

F3: The current jail HVAC system is problematic and does not appear to serve its function well. The Adult Detention Facility is almost twenty five years old. As near as the Grand Jury can tell, research shows that there has never been a physical systems (plumbing, electrical and HVAC venting) audit or inspection done at the Facility. Given the high mineral content of Mariposa County water, and the age of the systems involved, it is past time for such a comprehensive inspection. However, that said, the inspection and repairs or retrofits likely to occur are well outside the jail's (and even the Sheriff's Office's) currently budgeted dollars. An audit (and the associated repairs) of a set of systems a quarter of a century old that have been the entire time in CONTINUOUS USE will require the County's help in order to mitigate what is a (we think) legitimate concern of a catastrophic infrastructure system failure at the jail - a Facility that, again, is in operation seven days a week, twenty four hours a day.

F4: This Grand Jury recommends that funds be found from outside the Sheriff's budget, perhaps from a contingency fund, to conduct an inspection of the a physical systems (plumbing, electrical and HVAC venting) and the associated repairs and/or retrofits. REQUESTED RESPONSE Pursuant to Penal Code sections 933 and 933.05, the Grand Jury requests a response from the following governing body within 90 days: Mariposa County Board of Supervisors; Findings 1, 2, 3 and 4, and Recommendations 1, 2, 3 and 4 INVITED RESPONSE From the following within 90 days: Sheriff's Office; Findings 1, 2, 3 and 4, and Recommendations 1, 2, 3 and 4 Oversight: Mt. Bullion Conservation Camp #39 (State Facility): The Grand Jury is required by law to "inquire into the condition and management of the public jail, prison and detention facilities in the county", and is allowed access to do so by Section 921 of the California Penal Code. Public Jail, Detention and Prison Facilities in Mariposa County include the Mariposa County Adult Detention Facility, the county Juvenile Detention Facility, and the California State Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation Mt. Bullion Fire Camp. On November 5, 2019 at 9:45 am /20 Law Enforcement Committee and other Grand Jurors met at the Mt. Bullion Conservation Camp #39, located at 5730 Mount Bullion Access Road, Mariposa, CA for an inspection tour. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) Lieutenant C. Aaron Dean and Cal Fire Captain David Irion gave the Grand Jury a tour through the Facility which started at 9:45 am and ended at approximately 12:38 pm. The Fire Camp was completed 1957, and was originally a California Youth Authority Facility. The Camp became an Adult Conservation Camp in about 2002/2003. Although the Facility is certainly not new, it appears to be in very good condition and well maintained, given its age. The Camp covers 18 to 20 acres, and is maintained by Cal Fire, though inmate services (i.e. food, medical, clothing, etc.) are provided by CDCR. Serious medical issues are dealt with at Sierra Conservation Center State Prison at Jamestown. The Facility has a capacity of just over 100 inmates as rated by the California Board of State and Community Corrections (CBSCC). There are sufficient beds, toilets, showers and eating facilities for that number. The Facility does have facilities to accommodate overflow and has done so in times of fire emergencies in the County. On November 5, 2019 there were about 75 inmates in custody. The facility requires some 25 inmates to operate the Camp (clerical, mechanical, cooking and other administrative staff). This left, on the date of our visit, 50 or so assigned to four separate firefighting crews. When at capacity, the Camp can field five crews, although recently the Camp has fielded only four crews. Dean and Irion explained that recent State legislation like Proposition 57 and Assembly Bill 109 have reduced the number of inmates that qualify for Camp service due to early inmate releases. Dean explained that when inmates enter the prison system at intake prisons like Deuel Vocational Institution or Wasco State Prison, inmates are screened for suitability for the Fire Camp Program. If they are suitable for the Program, then they are sent to prison training facilities like Sierra Conservation Center at Jamestown. Assuming the inmate succeeds in the rigorous training program and maintains a non-violent status, they are then sent to a Camp like Mt. Bullion. Irion explained that, while Cal Fire maintains the Mt. Bullion Camp, some Camps in the state are maintained by CDCR as well. There are two dormitory blocks for the inmates, one to accommodate inmate administrative staff, and one to accommodate the inmate fire crews. Care is taken to insure that inmates are getting along within their group setting. When problems arise officers are quick to resolve the issue in a number of ways, including, sometimes, by relocating offending individuals back to a state prison. There are a total of 9 CDCR Officers assigned to the Camp. This number includes one Lieutenant, one Sergeant, and 7 officers. The Camp also has Cal Fire personnel. Dean and Irion said that at one time, there were many trade savvy inmates rotating through the Camp, though they said that seems less often now. They said that the Fire Camp Program can and has produced fully trained firefighters who leave their incarceration and are hired by Cal Fire and other agencies. Dean said that inmates are happy to come to the Camp Program because they no longer have to deal with inmate politics, they receive payment for their work, and they eat better, have more freedom of movement and activity, and can learn marketable skills. Irion said that there are many Fire Camp Facilities in California, including two female camps and two youth (CYA) camps. He said that all of the Camps work all over the state as needed, and even some very limited service in Nevada. Dean and Irion said that a Strike Team travels in a two transport vehicles and is comprised of two crews, each of 10 to 15 inmates. Dean says though there have been a few escapes, or "walkaways" over the years (only two since 2011), the vast majority of escapees are recaptured quickly. An attempted escape results in the involved inmate(s) being immediately returned to prison without possibility of returning to a Camp. Dean said that although most shifts only have two officers on duty, and some only one, there is very little inmate on inmate violence, and what there is, is generally minor. He said the average length of stay is a little over a year. Dean mentioned that there is a hierarchy of sorts on the inmate fire crews; the most trusted inmate occupying a position called "Swamper", which serves as an aide to the crew's Cal Fire Captain, the "Drag" is the senior inmate in the transport portion of the truck, and has overall responsibility there. There are also specialty tasks, such as those that work on the saws or other equipment. When the crews are on a fire, they work 24 hours on, and 24 hours off. Irion said that when there are no fires to fight, the crews work on projects provided by the state (usually timber breaks) or on projects for the County or some non-profits such as churches. During the tour of the Camp, the Grand Jury saw the administrative area, the hobby shop, the three television rooms, a recreation room, both dormitories, and the dining facility, as well as much of the Camp grounds. The Grand Jury also learned of an additional educational program that can provide an inmate with a Drinking Water Operator Certificate. The inmates the Grand Jury encountered were polite and respectful, and appeared to be fully occupied. The Mt. Bullion Conservation Camp #39 appears to be well maintained in general, and well run and relatively secure. The officers encountered by the inspection team were extremely professional, and appeared to be well trained and well turned out. The MCCGJ would like to offer our thanks to Lieutenant Dean and Captain Irion for their kind consideration, and for a very detailed and informative tour. Findings:

December 26, 2019 — Mariposa County 2019-2020 Grand Jury Interim Report*

18 pages 4 findings

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Findings & Recommendations 4 findings

* 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.