Mendocino County Grand Jury
2024-2025
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
14 findings
F1:
The BOS action taken by approving the response to the Grand Jury GJ25Report was a contravention to its Mission Statement and the Principles of Office.
F2:
The lack of direction and unclear communication from the BOS to the CEO to manage, supervise, and maintain accountability in the daily operations within PBS has compromised public safety and best business practices.
F3:
The BOS has not issued directives that would compel PBS’ full compliance with all State laws and County ordinances by creating current and comprehensive policies and procedures.
F4:
There remains a critical need for the BOS to provide direction to create, maintain, and enforce policies and procedures ensuring equitable services to the residents of Mendocino County.
F5:
In most divisions in PBS, policies and procedures that exist are not comprehensive and are unclear. of 18
F6:
PBS staff are dedicated, hardworking individuals who desire a positive outcome for the public.
F7:
The Cannabis Division’s clear policies, procedures, and expectations for personnel that have been created for this division are exactly what is needed for the entire department and should be the standard for the other divisions within PBS.
F8:
Lack of policies and procedures has resulted in the PBS adapting to a pattern of practice dependent on individual employees’ institutional knowledge and discretion.
F9:
Procedures that are incomplete, misnumbered, and have no style guidelines or retention logs, compel employees to rely on individual discretion and institutional knowledge.
F10:
The safety of Mendocino County residents and their properties is left to the discretion of PBS employees due to inadequate implementation of PRC section 4290/Title 14.
F11:
Building Division’s documentation reveals incomplete, poorly maintained, and sporadic contradictory directions to its employees.
F12:
PBS continues to misinterpret the term “pre-existing” for illegally constructed residential and commercial structures which, as implemented by the County, circumvents the requirements of PRC section 4290/Title 14.
F13:
The County’s inconsistencies in enforcing PRC section 4290/Title 14 enable an environment for favoritism, opportunity for bias, and continued failure to assure implementation of minimum wildfire protection standards. .
F14:
The BOS has failed to ensure compliance with PRC section 4290/Title 14 and to ensure implementation of comprehensive policies and procedures throughout PBS.
Additional Recommendations
7
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to have, by December 1, 2026, a working draft of Policies and Procedures for all divisions within Planning and Building Services. The guidelines should be comprehensive, standardized, and easily accessible to all staff members to ensure that the processes are consistently followed and comply with regulatory requirements. [F2, F3, F4, F5, F8, F9, F10, F11]
R2:
The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors give directions to the Chief Executive Officer to instruct Planning and Building Services to have a final version of Policy and Procedures for all divisions by March 1, 2027. [F2, F3, F4, F5, F8, F9, F10, F11] of 18
R3:
The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to have a working draft by October 15, 2026, of Policies and Procedures in all aspects of the implementation of PRC section 4290/Title 14. [F10, F12, F13, F14]
R4:
The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to instruct Planning and Building Services to have a final version of Policy and Procedures for the application of PRC section 4290/Title 14 for all divisions by January 1, 2027. [F10, F12, F13, F14]
R5:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to have a working draft of Policies and Procedures for all divisions within Planning and Building Services. The guidelines should be comprehensive, standardized, and easily accessible to all staff members to ensure that the processes are consistently followed and comply with regulatory requirements, by January 1, 2026.
R6:
The Grand Jury recommends that the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to instruct Planning and Building Services to have a final version of Policy and Procedures for all divisions, by April 1, 2026. A spreadsheet (See Exhibit 1) was developed by the Grand Jury that lists all Building Divisions’ policies, procedures, memorandums, and bulletins, showing the document number, title, revision date, description, Class K, PRC section 4290/Title 14, and any duplications. The Grand Jury found the following as of January 1, 2026. of 18 Policies: • No document revision log • Thirty-eight numbered policies (Numbered 1-46) • Based on the numeric system used, there are eight missing/non-existent policies • The last comprehensive revision was in 2015 • Only one policy referenced Class K • Only one policy referenced PRC section 4290/Title 14 • Four duplicate policies • Most of the titled policies are written as procedures (see Glossary) • No style guidelines (see Glossary) Procedures: • No document revision log • Four numbered procedures • Two unnumbered procedures • The last comprehensive revision was in 2023 • No Class K procedures • No PRC section 4290/Title 14 procedures • No style guidelines (see Glossary) Bulletins: • No document revision log • Fourteen numbered bulletins (Numbered 1-17) • Based on the numeric system used, there are three missing/non-existent bulletins • The last comprehensive revision was in 1993 (most recent individual bulletin revision was in 2011) • No Class K bulletins • Only one bulletin referenced PRC section 4290/Title 14 • One bulletin that contradicts two different policies • No style guidelines (see Glossary) Memorandums: • No document revision log • Fourteen numbered memorandums (numbered 1-15) • Based on the numeric system used, there is one missing/non-existent memorandum • The last comprehensive revision was in 2020 (most recent individual memorandum was in 2025) • No Class K memorandum • No PRC section 4290/Title 14 memorandum of 18 • One memorandum that
R7:
Even with approval letters noted elsewhere in this Policy, it may be necessary to remove finishes to expose items for verification. The building inspector conducting the inspection will make determinations in the field as to items that will need to be exposed. This policy is effective as of the date of the signatures below. Policy Approved:__ ______________ Date: __2/6/2026______ Richard Angley, Chief Building Official Policy Approved: _________________________________________ Date: __2/5/2026______ Julia Krog, Director Planning and Building Services COUNTY OF MENDOCINO JULIA KROG, DIRECTOR PHONE: 707-234-6650 DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING AND BUILDING SERVICES FAX: 707-463-5709 FB PHONE: 707-964-5379 860 NORTH BUSH STREET · UKIAH · CALIFORNIA · 95482 FB FAX: 707-961-2427 752 SOUTH FRANKLIN STREET · FT. BRAGG · CALIFORNIA · 95437 pbs@mendocinocounty.gov www.mendocinocounty.gov/pbs BUILDING DIVISION POLICY #19 PROCEDURE FOR Permitting a Non-Residential Structure Built Without a Permit PREVIOUS POLICY Administrative Bulletin #1 PURPOSE The purpose of this policy is to outline a procedure for the legalization of an existing non-residential structure built without a building permit. APPLICABILITY Non-Residential Structures, remodels and additions. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this policy are to: • Standardize the procedure to allow the permitting and legalization of non-residential structures built without a permit and provide a list of the required documentation to be submitted with the permit application. AUTHORITY The authority for this procedure is contained in the Mendocino County Code (“MCC”) Title 18 – Building Regulations Chapter 18.04.025 – California Codes Adopted, and the California Building Code (“CBC”) Section [A] 104. PROCEDURE
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
Additional Recommendations
11
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Board of The Board of Supervisors Supervisors ensures that all works to ensure that all future responses to Grand responses to Grand Jury Met Requirement Jury recommendations Requirements comply with comply with California Penal California Penal Code Code § 933.05. § 933.05.* Homelessness: A County-Wide Issue The 2024-2025 Grand Jury investigated the Care Response Unit (CRU) established in the City of Fort Bragg to address the growing problem of homelessness in Mendocino County. CRU was considered a state-of-the-art program based on the findings of Dr. Robert G. Marbut’s homelessness study commissioned by the BOS in 2019. *Responses are paraphrased and/or abbreviated The CRU program involves the integration of police outreach, mental health services, and temporary housing for unhoused individuals as they are located and identified within the Fort Bragg city limits. The CRU is law-enforcement driven and as such is unique in the county. The Grand Jury’s investigation included interviews with Fort Bragg and County officials, police and sheriff personnel and other advocates for the unhoused people in the area. In addition, the Grand Jury reviewed documentation, news reports, and studies on homelessness. See in greater detail the report and responses. Penal Code Recommendation Response* 933.05 Fort Bragg City Council
R2:
The Mendocino County Civil The Recommendation has been Grand Jury recommends the implemented. The City of Fort Community Outreach Response and Bragg’s Care Response Unit Engagement program developers (CRU) has recently extended its continue to collaborate with the services geographically, and has Met County Behavioral Health, Social initiated further collaboration with Requirement Services, Sheriff’s Office and other County law enforcement, County departments and program behavioral health, and social managers to work with the Care services. * Response Unit. Mendocino County Sheriff
R3:
The Grand Jury recommends This recommendation will not be the Board of Supervisors give implemented as it is not direction to the Chief Executive warranted. As explained in Officer to implement a plan to cease response to Finding 1 herein. * Did not meet issuance of Class K permits that are requirements not solely intended for habitable living space as prescribed by law, by July 1, 2025.
R4:
The Grand Jury recommends The recommendation will not be the Board of Supervisors give implemented as it is not direction to the Chief Executive warranted. PBS complies with Officer to create an oversight its responsibilities.* committee by January 1, 2026, to Did not meet ensure that Planning and Building requirements Services adheres to requirements outlined specifically in: • California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 8 *Responses are paraphrased and/or abbreviated Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Penal Code Recommendation Response* 933.05 • California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 8 • Health and Safety Code 17958.2 • Health and Safety Code 17958.2 • Mendocino County Code Chapter 18.23 • Mendocino County Code Chapter 18.23 • Public Resource Code 4290.
R5:
The Grand Jury recommends These recommendations will not the Board of Supervisors give be implemented as they are not direction to the Chief Executive warranted. As noted in the Officer to have a working draft of response to Finding 5, PBS has Policies and Procedures for all clear policies and procedures divisions within Planning and that relate to the handling of Did not meet Building Services. The guidelines permits, inspections, and fees. * requirements should be comprehensive, standardized, and easily accessible to all staff members to ensure that the processes are consistently followed and comply with regulatory requirements, by January 1, 2026.
R6:
The Grand Jury recommends These recommendations will not the Board of Supervisors give be implemented as they are not direction to the Chief Executive warranted. As noted in the Did not meet Officer to instruct Planning and response to Finding 5, PBS has requirements Building Services to have a final clear policies and procedures version of Policy and Procedures for that relate to the handling of all divisions, by April 1, 2026. permits, inspections, and fees. *
R7:
The Grand Jury recommends “This recommendation has not the Board of Supervisors instruct yet been implemented but will the Chief Executive Officer to be implemented in the future.” implement new software “However, implementation may applications for tracking all take up until November 1, Met processes in Planning and Building 2027.” * requirements Services, including but not limited to permits, inspections, fees, and Code Enforcement complaints, by April 1, 2026.
R8:
The Grand Jury recommends This recommendation will not be Did not meet the Board of Supervisors direct the implemented as it is not requirements Chief Executive Officer to warranted because it duplicates *Responses are paraphrased and/or abbreviated Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Penal Code Recommendation Response* 933.05 implement a monitoring process for a prior and ongoing Board of Planning and Building Services that Supervisors-approved Executive includes supervisory checks and Office initiative from 2023.* audits to ensure adherence to the established policies and procedures, and to identify areas for improvement, by April 1, 2026.
R9:
The Grand Jury recommends The recommendation will not be the Board of Supervisors give implemented as it is not direction to the Chief Executive warranted because it is already Officer to develop a structured sufficiently addressed through training program within Planning the current thorough PBS and Building Services based on all training program.* Did not meet laws, codes, ordinances and any requirements new policies and procedures. This program should include both initial training for new hires and ongoing refresher courses for existing staff, by April 1, 2026.
R10:
The Grand Jury recommends “This recommendation will not the Board of Supervisors give be implemented as it is not direction to the Chief Executive warranted because it duplicates Officer to establish and document a prior and ongoing Board of Did not meet clear roles and responsibilities for Supervisors-approved Executive requirements all Planning and Building Services Office initiative from 2023.” * staff involved in the permitting, inspection, and fee collection processes, by April 1, 2026.
R11:
The Grand Jury recommends The recommendation will not be the Board of Supervisors give implemented because it is direction to the Chief Executive already sufficiently addressed by Officer to create a communication the Department in their framework that establishes regular operations. * Did not meet meetings, addresses challenges, requirements and shares best practices to ensure all staff are aligned with the policies and procedures within Planning and Building Services, by July 1, 2025. Healing the Toxic Culture in the City of Willits Workplace The 2024-2025 Civil Grand Jury received a complaint detailing multiple irregularities including an intimidation and toxic workplace culture for the employees of the City of Willits. See the entire 2024-2025 Grand Jury report. *Responses are paraphrased and/or abbreviated The Grand Jury interviewed the parties in question as well as other witnesses. They also reviewed countless documents, including the written City of Willits’ Policy and Procedures Manual and the Willits City Council Manual of Procedures and Protocols currently in use. The Grand Jury made four recommendations to the City Council to improve the work environment for the employees and thus improve efficacy of the work they are empowered to perform. The Willits City Council met the response requirements of all four recommendations of the 2024-2025 Grand Jury. The response from the Willits City Council is summarized in the following table: Compliance with Recommendation Response* Penal Code 933.05
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
The Grand Jury found the existence of a toxic and intimidating workplace culture at the City of Willits office (excluding the Police Department). This has prompted highly qualified, dedicated workers to leave City employment.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Grand Jury recommends the Willits City Council direct its City Manager to demonstrate compliance with the existing written Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual for the City of Willits, by July 31, 2025.
F2:
The Grand Jury found the Willits City Council failed to provide oversight of top management for compliance with personnel policies and procedures. 2024-25 Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Grand Jury recommends the Willits City Council create a mechanism for compliance and oversight to ensure all personnel policies are being followed, by January 1, 2026.
F3:
The Grand Jury found the City of Willits employees do not have an effective avenue for bringing complaints to the attention of top management. This is due to the failure to follow the Willits Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Grand Jury recommends the Willits City Council direct the Willits City Manager to restore and fill the position of Human Resources Director by January 1, 2026.
F4:
The Grand Jury found the City of Willits presently does not have a Director of Human Resources. Portions of the Willits Personnel Policies and Procedures Manual expressly contemplate such a position as employees are instructed to seek help from the Director of Human Resources.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Grand Jury recommends the Willits City Council conduct annual performance reviews of the Willits City Manager by April 30 of each year.
F5:
The Grand Jury found that the Willits City Council had not conducted annual performance reviews of the Willits City Manager by April 30 of each year.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
DEBATE AND DECORUM A. Getting the Floor 6 B. Questions to Staff 6 C. Interruptions 6 D. Points of Order 6 E. Point of Personal Privilege 6 F. Decorum and Order, Council and City Staff 7 G. Decorum and Order, Audience 7 H. Enforcement of Decorum 7 I. Failure to Observe Rules of Order 7 J. Serial Meetings 7 K. Use of Technology 8 Subject Page
Additional Recommendations
16
Not linked to specific findings.
R6:
MOTIONS A. Presentation of Motions 8 B. Second Required 8 C. Precedence of Motions 8 D. Particular Motions, Purpose and Criteria 8
R7:
VOTING A. Voting Procedure 10 B. Change of Vote 10 C. Failure to Vote 11 D. Conflict of Interest 11 E. Reconsideration and Rescission of Prior Action 11 F. Lost Motions 11
R8:
MINUTES A. Preparation of Minutes 11 B. Minutes of Hearings 12 C. Reading of Minutes 12
R9:
ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS, AND CONTRACTS A. Preparation of Ordinances, Resolutions, and Contracts 12 B. Prior Approval by Administrative Staff 12 C. Enactment of Ordinances 12 D. Adoption of Resolutions 13
R10:
PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Application and Definition 13 B. Rights of Interested Persons 13 C. General Procedure 13 D. Presentation of Evidence 14 E. Continuances 14 F. Decision 15 G. Record of Hearing 15
R11:
The Council deliberates and takes action.
R12:
MAYOR AND VICE MAYOR: 15 ELECTION/RESPONSIBILITY
R13:
COUNCIL GOALS A. Council Goals are set every two years by the City Council and reviewed annually. B. Staff will prepare an update on City issues, trends, and demographics to assist the City Council with preparations for their goal setting process. C. In December, the Mayor shall determine the process and facilitator he/she wishes to use for the annual review for the goal setting. The goal setting session shall be held as early in the year as possible to allow for development of work plans and allocation of resources through the budget process. Goals shall be established for two fiscal years starting on July 1 and ending on June 30. D. In December, the Mayor shall determine the process and facilitator he/she wishes to use for the annual review for the goal setting. The goal setting session shall be held as early in the year as possible to allow for development of work plans and allocation of resources through the budget process. Goals shall be established for two fiscal years starting on July 1 and ending on June 30. E. The purpose of the goal setting process is to establish a limited number of high priority consensus goals that the City will focus on for the next year. F. Staff will develop draft work plans for each goal for approval by the City Council. G. The City Manager and City Attorney are active participants in the goal setting process. Other staff may also participate in goal setting at the direction of the City Council. H. Staff will take steps to distribute Council goals to staff and the public. I. The City Council will review progress on the goals quarterly.
R14:
COMMUNICATIONS 17 Subject Page
R15:
COUNCIL/STAFF RELATIONS 18
R16:
COUNCIL COMMITTEES 18
R17:
CITY BOARDS, COMMISSIONS AND COMMITTEES 19
R18:
CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION 19
R19:
STATIONERY USE AND RELATED GUIDELINES 19
R20:
GENERAL A. Councilmembers will inform the City Clerk as early as possible when they will be out of town or absent from a meeting by completing an Absence from City form. B. Travel arrangements for City related business is coordinated with the City Clerk. C. For eligible expenses (i.e., any events outside of Mendocino County), receipts and travel expense reports are to be submitted no later than 30 days after the date of the expenditure.
R21:
CONDUCT BY COUNCILMEMBERS 20
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
Mendocino County Planning and Building Services is misusing the intent of the Limited Density Rural Dwelling Permit/Class K resulting in inconsistent processing of applications.
F2:
Class K permits are currently being issued for uninhabitable structures that do not meet the established criteria in MCC Chapter 18.23, threatening the life, welfare and property of our County residents.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to implement a plan to cease issuance of Class K permits that are not solely intended for habitable living space as prescribed by law, by July 1, 2025.
R4:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to create an oversight committee by January 1, 2026, to ensure that Planning and Building Services adheres to requirements outlined specifically in: • California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 8 • Health and Safety Code 17958.2 • Mendocino County Code Chapter 18.23 • Public Resource Code 4290.
F3:
Mendocino County Planning and Building Services has failed to enforce PRC 4290 in the State Responsibility Area on pre-existing habitable, commercial and industrial buildings, creating a significant life safety hazard.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Mendocino County Chief Executive Officer to instruct Planning and Building Services to immediately enforce Public Resource Code 4290 for all new permits pertaining to pre- existing and habitable structures, commercial and industrial buildings, by July 1, 2025.
R2:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to create an oversight committee to ensure that Planning and Building Services adhere to requirements outlined in Public Resource Code 4290 in the State Response Area, by January 1, 2026.
R4:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to create an oversight committee by January 1, 2026, to ensure that Planning and Building Services adheres to requirements outlined specifically in: • California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 8 • Health and Safety Code 17958.2 • Mendocino County Code Chapter 18.23 • Public Resource Code 4290.
F4:
The current inspection practice by PBS for pre-existing unpermitted homes is a deviation from the required inspection process outlined in MCC Title 18, Chapter 18.23.160. This deviation from the County Code threatens the life safety of any person inhabiting the structure.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to create an oversight committee by January 1, 2026, to ensure that Planning and Building Services adheres to requirements outlined specifically in: • California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 8 • Health and Safety Code 17958.2 • Mendocino County Code Chapter 18.23 • Public Resource Code 4290.
F5:
There is a lack of comprehensive formalized policies and procedures within all divisions in PBS. This lack of clearly written guidelines leads to inconsistent practices, an increased risk of non-compliance and inefficiencies, including but not limited to the handling of permits, inspections and fees.
Related Recommendations (5)
R5:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to have a working draft of Policies and Procedures for all divisions within Planning and Building Services. The guidelines should be comprehensive, standardized and easily accessible to all staff members to ensure that the processes are consistently followed and comply with regulatory requirements, by January 1, 2026.
R6:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to instruct Planning and Building Services to have a final version of Policy and Procedures for all divisions, by April 1, 2026.
R7:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors instruct the Chief Executive Officer to implement new software applications for tracking all processes in Planning and Building Services, including but not limited to permits, inspections, fees and Code Enforcement complaints, by April 1, 2026. 2024-25 Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury County Government Committee –
R10:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to e stablish and document clear roles and responsibilities for all Planning and Building Services staff involved in the permitting, inspection and fee collection processes, by April 1, 2026.
R11:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to create a communication framework that establishes regular meetings, addresses challenges and shares best practices to ensure all staff are aligned with the policies and procedures within Planning and Building Services, by July 1, 2025.
F6:
The lack of formalized policies and procedures has resulted in the absence of a clear framework for assessing staff performance in the timely processing of permits, inspections and fees. Without mechanisms for employees or managers to evaluate performance, there are no checks and balances in place to ensure compliance with best practices or established expectations, leaving room for inefficiencies and inconsistent results.
Related Recommendations (3)
R7:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors instruct the Chief Executive Officer to implement new software applications for tracking all processes in Planning and Building Services, including but not limited to permits, inspections, fees and Code Enforcement complaints, by April 1, 2026. 2024-25 Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury County Government Committee –
R8:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors direct the Chief Executive Officer to implement a monitoring process for Planning and Building Services that includes supervisory checks and audits to ensure adherence to the established policies and procedures, and to identify areas for improvement, by April 1, 2026.
R10:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to e stablish and document clear roles and responsibilities for all Planning and Building Services staff involved in the permitting, inspection and fee collection processes, by April 1, 2026.
F7:
The lack of a comprehensive structured training process leaves employees struggling to understand their roles, responsibilities and expectations, leading to errors in the office and in the field. 2024-25 Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury County Government Committee –
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to develop a structured training program within Planning and Building Services based on all laws, codes, ordinances and any new policies and procedures. This program should include both initial training for new hires and ongoing refresher courses for existing staff, by April 1, 2026.
F8:
The lack of enforcement of the PRC 4290 by PBS has created an environment that allows hundreds, possibly thousands, of homes to be built that cannot be accessed by emergency personnel and their vehicles.
F9:
The absence of established training programs and policies and procedures creates life safety hazards that threaten all residents in Mendocino County and places all first responder personnel at risk.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The Grand Jury recommends the Board of Supervisors give direction to the Chief Executive Officer to develop a structured training program within Planning and Building Services based on all laws, codes, ordinances and any new policies and procedures. This program should include both initial training for new hires and ongoing refresher courses for existing staff, by April 1, 2026.
F10:
The Board of Supervisors has not provided adequate leadership, which allows PBS to remain mired in a cycle of ineffective past practices. Change and accountability are critical.
F11:
Without the foundation of solid policies and procedures, the current practice of allowing discretion by staff creates an environment for potential litigation for the County.
F12:
The Limited Density Rural Dwelling/Class K Ordinance, originally justified as a tool to address Mendocino County's housing shortage, has not served this purpose. Instead of facilitating the construction of needed housing, the ordinance has primarily allowed builders to circumvent standard building codes and regulations.
F13:
The Class K Compliance Waiver may not relieve the County’s potential liability when PBS Building Inspectors finalize a new or pre-existing Class K structure without conducting all required inspections. The failure to conduct these inspections exposes the County to potential legal and financial risks, as well as undermines public safety.
F14:
The Class K Compliance Waiver does not waive the requirements outlined in PRC 4290 for pre-existing habitable structures. Although the waiver provides certain exceptions, it does not exempt Class K structures from compliance with fire safety standards. Failure to adhere to these requirements jeopardizes public safety, allowing non-compliant structures to remain in use.
F15:
The failure of PBS to respond to code enforcement complaints in a timely manner has created significant financial hardship for residents, who have been forced to seek legal representation to resolve disputes with PBS. This prolonged inaction has left many residents with unresolved issues, leading to financial burdens from legal fees and ongoing frustration. 2024-25 Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury County Government Committee –
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R13-14:
will allow for certain building permits to be issued online. Renewed emphasis on regular activity reporting has allowed staff to identify reports that don't import necessary data, and inconsistencies in currently available data. We are working to address these issues, and best practices will be implemented moving forward. o The Department created and released a 2012 Activity Report, which provides an overview of activities encompassing the three primary divisions of this department (Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement). A revised report will be released once the data has been standardized and is fully accessible. o A capacity assessment of the Department's Planning Division has been submitted to the Executive Office in the form of an Action Plan. This document compares the division's current ability to provide service against a comprehensive list of mandates and responsibilities. (A list of implementation items contained within the General Plan, Housing Element, and Ukiah Valley Area Plan has been attached to this report as supplemental information) The Action Plan recommends organizational changes to enhance PBS' ability to implement these mandates and responsibilities, which will reduce outstanding liability to the County. The Executive Office has approved recruitments that do not push the Department's FY 13-14 budget beyond net County cost assignments; full implementation of this plan will require Board approval of the Department's submitted budget. o Staff has begun standardizing the naming protocols used in PBS' fee schedule, and reorganizing the structure to facilitate further review and analysis. It is expected that a related item will come before the Board in FY 13-14. 1 o Initial PBS stakeholder meetings were held in Ukiah and Fort Bragg at the end of 2012; followup stakeholder meetings will be held in both locations in early July. These meetings are intended as an open forum for our stakeholders to communicate with department leadership. o In addition to many meetings with individual members of the community, the Director was invited as a speaker to a recent meeting of the Ukiah Rotary Club. In response to questions and concerns regarding the County's authority to regulate grading activities, information has been posted on the website which provides general information and specific sources of authority. The page remains a work in progress. Code Enforcement Officers, Building Inspectors, and Planners are in the field every day with a very limited ability to communicate in the event of an emergency. With support from the Sheriff, the Department is procuring public safety band radios for all vehicles. We are additionally pursuing new cell phone service and equipment that should provide more opportunities for staff to remain connected while working in rural areas of Mendocino County. The County's Fish & Game Commission is poised to resume operations with additional funding available for administration and reduced overhead costs made possible through changes in State legislation and County allocation of charges. Dr. Jeanine Pfeiffer has been engaged to provide the Commission with administrative support; the Department facilitated processing of the related contract. In January, the Director issued a Determination of Vested Rights for surface gravel mining activities which have historically occurred at the Rowland Gravel Bar, located at the confluence of the Main Eel and Middle Fork Eel Rivers. While archiving ten years of planning files within the Ukiah office, staff recognized many old records eligible for destruction in accordance with County policy. PBS has begun compiling these records, and will work collaboratively to ensure necessary approvals are in place for any action pursued. To enhance the public's ability to track positions and recommendations of the Department on matters which come before the Planning Commission, a new section titled "Recommended Action" has been added to Planning Commission agendas. To provide the public with a more timely record of actions taken during meetings of the Planning Commission, a "Notice of Decision" similar to "action minutes" is now posted after meetings. The Notice of Determination does not replace or modify the form of official meeting minutes. Preliminary information indicates the California Department of Fish & Wildlife will be releasing a technical memo on recommended setbacks from waterways. More information will be provided to the Board as it becomes available. Personnel On January 28, Andy Gustavson began work as the County's Chief Planner. The skills and abilities Mr. Gustavson brings to this role greatly complement existing resources within the Department. In addition to working as a planning consultant, he has served as a planner for the Counties of San Mateo, Sonoma, and the City of Healdsburg. Supervising Code Enforcement Officer, Ray Madrigal, resigned from County employment effective February 14, in order to move closer to extended family. Supervision of the Code Enforcement Division has been assumed by the Director. Effective Monday, May 14, Mark Kendra is serving as a Staff Assistant for the Department, providing support and re-establishing capacity within the Fort Bragg office of PBS. To enhance the consistency of practices between PBS' two locations, Mr. Kendra was trained in Ukiah for two weeks. Effective Monday, June 24, Jim Kerr will begin working for the County as a Code Enforcement Officer l. Adrienne Thompson, the Commission Services Supervisor, is out on leave for approximately three months. The Department has trained an extra help employee to fill this role on a temporary basis; critical duties include clerking for meetings of the Planning Commission, creation of agendas, and legal noticing. A recruitment is underway to bring a Staff Assistant Ill back into the Ukiah office of PBS. In addition to other duties, the selected employee will provide back-up for some of the missioncritical tasks of the Department that currently can be performed solely by the Commission Services Supervisor. As partial implementation of the Planning Division's Action Plan, a recruitment is underway to bring an experienced Senior Planner back in to the Department's Fort Bragg office. This position will re- establish onsite leadership and support for planning staff in that satellite office. Additionally, one opportunity in Fort Bragg and two opportunities in Ukiah have been created to allow qualified Planning staff to promote into positions with greater responsibility. Community Development Staff is working to bring the Mendocino County Lodging Association (MCLA) and Mendocino County Promotional Alliance (MCPA) contracts before the Board for consideration on June 18. Mendocino County's Economic & Demographic Profile is a report that was generated on an annual basis until FY 2010-2011. Funds have been requested in the FY 2013-2014 budget to resume creation of this document, which is useful for both the private and public sector. In 2006, the County received a HOME grant award of approximately $570,000, for investment in the affordable, self-help Lakewood Homes subdivision located on Lake Mendocino Drive. The subsequent economic downturn made it impossible for the developer, Rural Communities Housing Development Corporation (RCHDC) to finish the required number of units according to the established timeline. These project delays forced the County out of compliance with the grant agreement. Recognizing the unusual circumstances, Housing & Community Development agreed this month to amend their agreement with the County as necessary to allow the County back into compliance with the program. On behalf of the County, the Community Development Commission of Mendocino County (CDC) operates a Downpayment Assistance Program in the form of deferred payment subordinate loans for income-qualified individuals. This program is typically funded with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) or HOME grant awards. In March, the County received its first ever request to approve a "short sale". A participant in this program was selling their home, and the market price would not generate enough revenue to fully repay the County's loan. CDBG staff indicated the approval of this short sale was a local decision; it was approved by the Director. Efforts are underway to establish capacity within the Health & Human Services Agency Workforce Investment Act (WIA) unit to oversee the CDBG program. To assist in meeting the immediate demands of that Program, this Department is hiring a contractor. Essential tasks in the contract will include assisting the County in clearing a program audit, requesting an extension of time for completion of studies in the Noyo Harbor, meeting special conditions of a new grant, and procuring a contractor for the County's Microenterprise Technical Assistance Program. The Director was designated as the County's WIA Conflict Resolution Officer, and a request for a hearing has been received from the Mendocino Private Industry Council. This will be scheduled and held in the near future. Building Division Every year, a number of permits are issued for projects that never received necessary inspections. PBS does not currently have a mechanism to determine whether these projects were canceled prior to construction, or if they were completed without benefit of inspections (and therefore completed without benefit of permit). While it is clearly the responsibility of the public to ensure their projects are compliant with regulations and have received all necessary inspections, the Department will be considering options to implement a methodical approach in contacting property owners with permits indicated by our records as expired/inactive, and reminding them of outstanding responsibilities. The California Building Code is updated every three years. It is expected the newest edition of the Code will be released June, 2013, with implementation of the new Code to begin January l , 2014. The Department will be bringing the Code to the Board for consideration and adoption after its release. The California Building Code requires permitting for both buildings and structures (such as private bridges). In recognition of expertise the County's Department of Transportation has with bridges, PBS has re-established a partnership with that Department to review plans and engineering as necessary for permitting of these structures. On May 14, 2012, the Board authorized a Fee Waiver program for building projects which result in the creation of either permanent new jobs or temporary construction jobs for non-residential projects. The program ran from June l, 2012 until November 30, 2012, and resulted in approximately $40,000 in waived fees for a total of four projects. It is expected that these projects will directly create 28 permanent new jobs in the county upon completion, with additional jobs created over time. Over the years, many policies have been created and implemented by the Department with primary goals that include clarification of Building Code and standardization of service delivery. Based on input from stakeholders, we are working to update these policies and will post them online. Code Enforcement To facilitate the sale of two unrelated coastal properties harboring long-standing public nuisance cases, the Department entered into agreements to reduce fees and penalties assessed by PBS. In return for this cooperation, the new owners of these parcels signed agreements to substantially abate the documented violations within one year. We are working to create and implement a Policy & Procedure Manual for the Code Enforcement Division to provide for the uniform enforcement of all applicable county and state building and zoning regulations by staff, and establish minimum standards of professionalism. A first draft was released to staff for review in early 2013. The final version will be used as the regulatory guideline in the day-to-day operations for staff, and for use in the training of new personnel. It can also be used as a tool to educate citizens in the methods used by code enforcement, as well as the limits of code enforcement responsibilities and procedures. The purpose of the Manual is to document guidelines for the following: 1. Departmental requirements for employees in the Code Enforcement Unit. 2. Prioritization of code enforcement cases. 3. Complaint procedure and initiation of cases. 4. Investigation and enforcement of county codes. 5. Prosecutions and legal aspects of code enforcement. 6. Basic duties and procedures of code enforcement staff. Efforts are underway to ensure our limited resources are spent resolving "high priority" complaints/cases. A formal procedure is being tested that prioritizes and ranks complaints received by code enforcement officers. This system is intended to provide a fair and consistent means to rank complaints and/or open cases after a preliminary review is undertaken in accordance with the manual. Any complaint which does not meet the minimum required ranking is assigned a number and placed in a complaint file. The number is assigned sequentially based upon the month and year it is received. The complaint information is kept on a log page that is maintained at the front of the complaint file. In the event multiple complaints are received with regard to the violation, its numerical ranking may rise and cause a response from staff. Through proper management of current cases, our Code Enforcement Officers are regularly achieving voluntary compliance from violators. They have also begun a focused effort to reduce a case backlog that spans decades, and recently exceeded 2,200 open cases. The Officers have been reviewing old cases, starting frÖm the most -longstanding violations and moving towards present day. We have found some of these cases are duplicates, some were incorrectly closed, and others can be reviewed and closed with little investigative effort due to changes in ownership, etc. The focus and effort of our staff in this regard has allowed the Division to close almost 400 active cases, and reduce the total number of open cases down to approximately 1,840. Year Cases Closed (From Jan 1- May 8) 2013: 292 2012: 43 2011: 10 2010: 32 The Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) Program is in the process of being restarted. The City of Willits recently adopted its resolution adopting the service authority. We are circulating paperwork between the Cities for signatures, and will be submitting a completed packet to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) which will include a Joint Powers Agreement signed by the County, Ukiah, Willits, and Fort Bragg. Assuming the CHP approves the submittal, it will then be forwarded to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) where a program will be created to extract the one dollar tax from vehicles registered within the County. After the program is created, we will then be able to re- launch the program. Recognizing that abandoned, low value, trailers and recreational vehicles (RV's) 4 are an attractive nuisance that can create a "dumping ground" if left for too long, a temporary process has been setup to address these vehicles by abating pursuant to Chapter 15.28 of the Mendocino County Code. Code Enforcement staff organized a two-day regional training opportunity at the County Administration Center. Holding this training event in Ukiah brought staff to the area from the Cities of Sonoma, Cotati, Rohnert Park, and it lowered (or eliminated) travel expenses for staff participating from the City of Willits and County of Mendocino. Water Agency. and Stormwater Compliance Mendocino County was inspected for compliance with its Stom Water Management Program in May of 2012 by the North Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board (Regional Board) and Environmental Protection Agency. Three of the six "minimum control measures" outlined in the County's Stormwater Management Plan (SWMP) were reviewed during the audit inspection, with comments provided on two additional minimum control measures reviewed post-inspection. The compliance inspection resulted in the notification of programs in need of improvement or attention. The County subsequently received a Notice of Violation letter, dated November 7, 2012, and Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Compliance Inspection Report, dated August 27, 2012. PBS staff has reconvened the stormwater working group, which includes staff from DOT, GSA, and Environmental Health. The Department has also contracted with LACO & Associates, for technical support in meeting initial deadlines established in the County's response to the stormwater audit. The budgets submitted for PBS and the Water Agency allocate resources to continue bringing the County into compliance with the current permit and requirements of the new permit. A stormwater update is scheduled before the Board on June 18, which will request a decision as to whether the County should remain a Phase Il Permit holder, or switch to a Phase I Permit. Additional information will be available for that discussion, along with a recommendation from the Department. Planning & Building has identified an opportunity to better leverage the staffing and financial resources of the County and the Water Agency in meeting the needs of both entities. To this end, time from a Planner has been specifically allocated in FY 13-14 to continue leading the Stormwater Program, and we will be working to better integrate the County's Hydrologist position into the PBS staffing structure. Integration of the Hydrologist position is currently envisioned through a Planning Division Technical Services Unit which would include the Department's Cartographer, with both positions reporting to the Chief Planner. As outlined in a February 22, 2008 memo from Roland Sanford to the Board of Supervisors, the 2004 sediment release incident at the Mill Creek Dams resulted in specific tasks for completion by the County. On April 24, the Mendocino County Resource Conservation District agreed to conduct investigation on PBS' behalf to determine the current status of these tasks, and identify any outstanding issues. Numbering of items below is consistent with numbering used in the 2008 memo. 1. Obtain Streambed Alteration Agreement to allow for refilling of Upper reservoir. Status: completed. 2. Prepare and implement Stream Restoration Plan. Status: completed. On June 12, 2008, a "Feasibility Assessment of Restoration Options for Mill Creek" was completed by Entrix Environmental Associates. The Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) subsequently issued Order IB05127WNME for the repair/replacement of a failed gate valve at the base of the upper dam on Mill Creek, east of the City of Ukiah. At the time, the RWQCB indicated minor restoration work at the site would satisfy part of the compensatory mitigation and major compensatory mitigation was deferred and to be determined at a later date. On February l, 2012, Mendocino County DOT filed the application for water quality certification for the removal of the Feliz Creek dam. Condition #5 of WDID No. 1B 12012WNME indicates that the dam removal satisfies the compensatory mitigation requirements for the Mill Creek Dams' previous Order (IB05127WNVE). 3. Obtain Streambed Alteration Agreement for Long-Term Operations and 5 Maintenance of Mill Creek Dams. Status: in process. The County's Hydrologist has been tasked with completion of this item. 4. Select and Begin Implementation of Off-Site Fish Passage Improvement Projects. Status: substantially complete; waiting for written verification from CDFW. The Feliz Creek Dam was removed in September, 2012. Staff from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) indicate that upon completion of a five- year monitoring plan, all required mitigation per CDFW will be satisfied. This position was expressed by CDFW in 2011, and a letter to the County, memorializing the position, has been in process since March of this year. On the County's behalf, the MCRCD followed up with CDFW on March 6, and again on May 30. At this time, there is no firm commitment from CDFW as to when the letter will be sent. 5. Items 5, 6, and 7 from the 2008 memo are related to the long-term maintenance and management of the Mill Creek Dams. These items are addressed in the Department of Transportation Director's Report dated June 10. Planning Division The Department received and provided comment on the City of Ukiah's Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) for the potential Costco development. The Department received and provided comment on the City of Ukiah's request to amend their Sphere of Inflüence (SOI) The Mendocino Town Plan Update (MTPU) was initiated by PBS in 2011. The update process included a series of community meetings to gather input, and the current draft was considered by the Planning Commission at meetings in the Town of Mendocino in February and May of this year. The public has been very engaged in providing comment, and discussion on the more controversial elements of the MTPU did occur among Commissioners. The MTPU is scheduled to be brought back to the Planning Commission July 1 Ith for further deliberation. After receiving Planning Commission recommendations on the MTPU, the Board of Supervisors will consider the Town Plan Update and take action on the revised Town Plan and Zoning Code amendments. The resulting Local Coastal Program Amendment will be submitted for certification to the Califomia Coastal Commission. Staff is meeting weekly to develop criteria for two new zoning districts; Mixed Use General (MU2) and Mixed Use North State Street (MUNS). Successful adoption of these zoning districts will represent partial implementation of Ukiah Valley Area Plan (UVAP) direction and also facilitate compliance with the Housing Settlement Agreement. As specified in the UVAP, this effort will include development of Design Review Guidelines, established through Development Standards. Staff anticipates bringing this to the property owners in July, with an anticipated review by the Planning Commission in August. Compliance with both the County's Housing Element and the Housing Settlement Agreement requires 24 acres of land, preferably within the Ukiah Valley area, be rezoned to allow for higher density housing opportunities (specifically, R-3 or "Mixed Use"). To this end, the Board has completed the rezoning of 8 acres of land next to the Brush St. Triangle, and decided against rezoning land along Lovers Lane. PBS staff met with the community on February 20 to discuss opportunities for rezoning some portion of the remaining 16 acres of land along S. State St. to R3. This meeting was primarily attended by neighbors who were concerned about the increased development density this rezoning would allow. PBS staff is subsequently working to continue compliance by bringing a recommendation forward that would rezone to R-3 three acres of land on Laws Avenue which is zoned Rl, but developed with apartment complexes. The proposed rezone will be brought to the Planning Commission for consideration on July 1 8th. PBS staff has identified land along S. and N. State Streets which will allow the County to complete the outstanding requirement for rezoning through the Mixed Use zoning designation. These parcels will be brought forward for rezoning upon adoption of the Mixed Use ordinance. Staff has completed a draft update to the Planning Commission's "Guidelines for the Development of Wireless Facilities". On a separate but related project, and at the direction of the Planning Commission, staff has drafted language to be inserted into the zoning code, identifying a new permitting process for certain types of wireless facilities (i.e. collocation applications, adding antennas to existing structures.) At the June meeting of the Planning Commission, staff will request 6 establishment of an ad-hoc working group of Commissioners to review both the Guidelines and Zoning Code update, and to work with staffin moving these items forward. Depending on changes to be made, staff would either schedule another stakeholder meeting or take the items to the full Commission. The Director issued an unclassified use determination in January establishing that a small indoor green material composting facility is a type of General Industrial use, as defined by the Zoning Ordinance. This determination was made in response to a new composting facility that C&S Waste Solutions proposes to establish in a pear packing plant building in south Ukiah. The determination was appealed to the Planning Commission, with a claim that all composting facilities should be classified as "Significant Impact Services and Uilities" uses. The Planning Commission upheld the Planning Director's determination. Two appeals of this determination were then made to the Board of Supervisors; a hearing is scheduled for June 10. Two coastal development permits involving State Agencies are scheduled for Coastal Permit Administrator (CPA) hearings in June. The first is a Ten Mile Dune Restoration project in MacKerricher State Park. States Parks will remove the deteriorated northern portion of the old haul road, which runs along the coast north of Fort Bragg and through the park, to help reestablish the dune ecology. The Coastal Commission and community are concerned this project may reduce public coastal access. The second project is a Caltrans Highway 1 repair project, north of Fort Bragg that will realign a short segment of the roadway. The Coastal Commission is concerned the repair may impact coastal wetland resources and agricultural land, and may appeal. Regulation of County mining operations in general required by both SMARA and the County Surface Mining and Reclamation Ordinance (County Code Chapter 22.16) is ongoing with annual inspection reports currently being prepared for the 2012 mining season. These will be submitted to OMR within the coming weeks. Annual inspections typically take place in the late Fall/early Winter months, and will be scheduled for later in the calendar year. In addition, cost estimates and updated financial assurance mechanisms, which are also required annually but submitted at different times throughout the year by individual operators, continue to be monitored by PBS staff for adequacy. In 2011 , the California Department of Conservation Office of Mine Reclamation (OMR) conducted an audit of the County's administration of the State Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) program. A report was prepared by OMR's Lead Agency Review Team (LART), and submitted to the State Mining and Geology Board (SMGB) in July 2012. Subsequent to a review of the LART report by SMGB, the County received a 45-Day Notice to Correct Deficiencies (Notice) (dated December 21, 2012). The types of issues raised in the Notice involved mines that had been classified as "idle" under SMARA without a required Interim Management Plan (IN(P) or operations that have gone more than one year without updating annual cost estimates and financial assurances. A response to the 45 Day Notice was prepared by Planning and Building staff in February 2013 addressing the issues raised in the notice, which is scheduled to be discussed before the SMGB at its regular monthly hearing on June 13, in Sacramento. The Director and a staff planner will attend the SMGB's June meeting. Temporary events with more than 1,000 attendees require a minor use permit. On May 17, the Zoning Administrator approved the Northern Nights Music Festival which is scheduled to occur July 19, 20, and 21 in Cooks Valley. This approval has been appealed to the Board, and will be heard on June 18. On May 29, the Zoning Administrator approved the Enchanted Forest Festival, which is scheduled to occur June 28 — July I in Navarro. The County General Plan Housing Element is scheduled for an update in 2014; this project will need to be prioritized for timely completion. The 2013 Regional House Needs Allocation data, released by the California Department of Housing and Community Development earlier this year, establishes the total number of housing units needed to accommodate projected household growth. These numbers are then used to calculate affordable housing targets for the County and the cities within the county for the 2014 Housing Element Update. The 2013 RHNA allocation for the entire county dropped dramatically since the 2008, reflecting the recession and the related slow-down in housing growth. As a result the County's total fair share of countywide housing fell from 2,552 in 2008 to 168 in 2014. Staff worked with the Mendocino County Council of Governments (MCOG) on the 2013 allocation process, and recommends that the allocation reflect the capacity ofjurisdictions within the County to provide services needed to support housing, and not simply be based on proportionate population.
Findings & Recommendations
1 findings
F1:
The response from the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors to
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Board of Supervisors ensures that all future responses to Grand Jury recommendations comply with California Penal Code § 933.05.
Findings & Recommendations
3 findings
F1:
At the time of this report, the Grand Jury has not received outcome results from the Care Response Unit that would verify the success of the program.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury recommends that verified results from the Care Response Unit program, both positive and negative, be reported to the City Council of Fort Bragg by December 2025. (F1)
F2:
The Care Response Unit is an exemplary, well-established program that addresses the critical needs of the visible homeless population in the City of Fort Bragg.
F3:
Mendocino County’s Community Outreach Response and Engagement program has the potential to become a broad, countywide program that will work well with the e stablished Care Response Unit.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Mendocino County Civil Grand Jury recommends the Community Outreach Response and Engagement program developers continue to collaborate with the County Behavioral Health, Social Services, Sheriff’s Office and other County departments and program managers to work with the Care Response Unit. (F3)
Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
The Mendocino County COC website is outdated and there is no single point of contact, such as an 800 number, for those in need of homeless services.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
the COC update its website, expand information dissemination, and develop a toll-free number to address homeless questions and issues by January 3, 2022. (F1)
F2:
The COC is limited to coordinating funds to locally available services which can result in service gaps for the homeless.
Related Recommendations (2)
R4:
the COC, through local partnerships, place a high priority on addressing the hygiene needs of the homeless within 90 days of the release of this report. (F2)
R5:
the COC work with local elected officials to identify and develop a Homeless Housing element by July 1, 2022. (F2, F7)
F3:
The breadth of locally available services does not have or require written policies and procedures to monitor the level of service being provided for the homeless which results in service outcomes for the homeless not being measured.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
the COC develop clarity of responsibility for the issuance of funds and a process to evaluate the qualitative merits of a grant application by January 3, 2022. (F3)
F4:
Gaps in the Homeless Services System of Care, such as coordinated, collaborative response teams of service providers and law enforcement, are filled by law enforcement agencies that are resource-limited and have unfilled liaison positions for effective Community Policing.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
City of Ukiah's City Council and the COC evaluate standards for partnership with HHSA and Law Enforcement within 180 days of the release of this report. (F4, F6)
F5:
The COC has a quantitative rating system to grade service provider applicants. The rating tool does not evaluate prior objectives of an applicant to determine a history of successful outcomes. There is no rating system for similar services funded separately through County Health and Human Services.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
the COC develop clarity of responsibility for the grant applicants that require the agencies to identify specific goals and objectives for the grant funding period by November 30, 2021. These submittals will provide a baseline rating system for the COC to determine if the applicant can provide the identified goals and objectives prior to the issuance of funds in the next grant cycle. (F5)
F6:
Law Enforcement agencies are represented on the COC by the UPD. With the absence of Federal guidance on how to coordinate police with program services, there is a collaboration gap between providers and government agencies that requires creative local solutions to establish protocols, and define clear roles for service providers and agencies, to foster working relationships.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
City of Ukiah's City Council and the COC evaluate standards for partnership with HHSA and Law Enforcement within 180 days of the release of this report. (F4, F6)
F7:
The majority of members on the COC are employees of other agencies and struggle to address the level of service needed locally without policy guidance from the Board of Supervisors, City elected officials, or other assigned staff.
Related Recommendations (2)
R5:
the COC work with local elected officials to identify and develop a Homeless Housing element by July 1, 2022. (F2, F7)
R7:
County and local elected officials prioritize the development of specific objectives that meet the homeless issues identified in the Strategic Plan within 180 days of the release of this report. (F7)
Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
Students who failed to master core academic subjects or benefit from electives will require remedial classes to bring them up to their class level because of the year lost from the effects of DL.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
MCOE guide all schools in the County to develop and implement action plans to assess and remediate failed academic subjects. (F1)
F2:
Maltreatment of children has been underreported during COVID. Data supplied by HHSA- CPS revealed a sharp decrease in reported cases of abuse due to educators having reduced visibility of the subtle signs of abuse or neglect, restrictions on home visits and interaction with students.
Related Recommendations (2)
R2:
MCOE develop or obtain interactive online training available 24/7 to mandated reporters of child maltreatment and expand training to include depression, cyberbullying, suicidal warning signs and sex trafficking. (F2, F3)
R3:
MCOE allow mandated reporters to train on their own schedules which would provide flexibility of scheduling and cost savings. Interactive training would track attendance and comprehension as verified by online testing and provide certification upon successful completion. (F2, F3)
F3:
During DL travel time and transportation costs were reduced for meetings among colleagues from distant school districts improving cross communication and sharing of ideas and approaches. Additionally. parents could more readily attend conferences with teachers using teleconferencing.
Related Recommendations (4)
R2:
MCOE develop or obtain interactive online training available 24/7 to mandated reporters of child maltreatment and expand training to include depression, cyberbullying, suicidal warning signs and sex trafficking. (F2, F3)
R3:
MCOE allow mandated reporters to train on their own schedules which would provide flexibility of scheduling and cost savings. Interactive training would track attendance and comprehension as verified by online testing and provide certification upon successful completion. (F2, F3)
R5:
MCOE encourage all Districts to continue use of video conferencing among peer educators to collaborate and develop best practices and provide needed funding. (F3)
R6:
MCOE encourage all school districts provide technologies to permit remote instruction of students due to illness or other conditions. (F3, F5)
F4:
Some students accessed inappropriate content due to deficient filters monitoring internet searches and websites on computers used by students at home.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
MCOE prepare recommendations for schools to implement internet search filters to identify and block searches of inappropriate content. This may include guidance for parents in how to filter online searches by students during remote learning. (F4)
F5:
DL enables students who might otherwise be unable to attend school the ability to continue studies with their teacher and classmates.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
MCOE encourage all school districts provide technologies to permit remote instruction of students due to illness or other conditions. (F3, F5)
F6:
Asynchronous DL enables students who are self-motivated and can study independently to advance at their own pace. For example, using tools like Khan Academy to provide professional instruction of subjects.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
MCOE develop a catalogue with funding and accreditation mechanisms of third party or internally developed learning materials for specialized or core subjects. This would facilitate students who can study and advance at their own pace. (F6)
F7:
California's E-rate and CTF grant programs provide discounted broadband services for students which otherwise might not have been available.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
MCOE work with all school districts to explore if they are eligible for E-Rate or CTF grants to provide broadband and telecommunications services to their underserved students. (F7)
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
11 findings
F1:
The areas around cities have the best developed sewer and water systems for new housing in Mendocino County. Rural areas of the County do not have adequate public infrastructure and amenities to meet HCD projections. (R1, R3) 5 https://www.hcd.ca.gov/grants-funding/active-funding/homekey.shtml 6 August 5, 2020 | Ukiah Daily Journal
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
by January 1, 2022, County Administration provide direction to PBS to establish periodic meetings to work cooperatively with cities, infrastructure oriented special districts, and Tribal governments on meeting the needs established in the Housing Element. (F1, F7)
R3:
by FY 2022-23 County Administrators organize a coalition with cities to establish a framework for annexations through tax-sharing agreements. (F1, F9)
F2:
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, PBS has developed more efficient digital options for routine matters which has created a more streamlined process to free PBS to pursue new opportunities for solving departmental issues and verifying State regulations and statistics.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
PBS continue the development of digital systems to deal with routine applications so there is more time for researching innovative ways to plan for economic and housing development. (F2)
F3:
MCOG is designated by the State of California Department of Housing and Community Development to coordinate the housing need allocation process for Mendocino County. By default, this has become the regional planning agency.
F4:
Lack of housing forces the price of existing housing to be unaffordable for working families as well as preventing new potential employees to choose to work in Mendocino County.
F5:
The Median income of county residents and the higher cost of goods and services does not keep pace with the cost of new single-family homes, which discourages contractors from building here when they can profit from building in other areas.
F6:
The current shortage of affordable housing will continue without Mendocino County hiring qualified housing and community development planners. Such assets would assist in locating funding sources for infrastructure improvements, attracting appropriate developers, and informing the BOS what effect proposed regulations may have on the development of new housing. (R6)
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
by December 1, 2021, the BOS direct PBS to set-up the Mendocino County Building In- Lieu Fund as a Building Trust Fund and report back to the BOS before the end of fiscal year 21-22. (F6, F9)
F7:
There is no formal or consistent communication between PBS and its counterparts in the cities of Fort Bragg, Point Arena, Ukiah and Willits which is indicative of the lack of planning on a regional basis in this County.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
by January 1, 2022, County Administration provide direction to PBS to establish periodic meetings to work cooperatively with cities, infrastructure oriented special districts, and Tribal governments on meeting the needs established in the Housing Element. (F1, F7)
R2:
by January 1, 2022, PBS host bi-monthly meetings with all housing development entities including the four incorporated cities to monitor progress of goals in the Housing Element. (F7)
F8:
The prohibitive cost of new construction and limited income of most area residents makes new market-rate projects risky for builders.
F9:
The activation of a Mendocino County Building Trust Fund (In-Lieu fund) would give Mendocino County leverage in encouraging proactive development to meet the county’s needs for infrastructure and housing projects.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
by FY 2022-23 County Administrators organize a coalition with cities to establish a framework for annexations through tax-sharing agreements. (F1, F9)
R6:
by December 1, 2021, the BOS direct PBS to set-up the Mendocino County Building In- Lieu Fund as a Building Trust Fund and report back to the BOS before the end of fiscal year 21-22. (F6, F9)
F10:
Federal and State funding is targeted to urban areas and the BOS does not direct PBS to actively seek mitigations on these restrictions to acquire funding for housing projects when State & Federal funds become available.
F11:
As a result of restrictions on the use of local budget monies, Mendocino County’s Native American Tribes may only be invited to the table when discretionary funds for housing are available through Federal sources.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
by FY 2022-23 the BOS establish a framework to enact Policy 4.3b of USC, which encourages the development of additional housing for Native Americans. This will help the County to meet their obligation under State law to provide housing, including for special communities by 2027. (F11)
Findings & Recommendations
10 findings
F1:
The extension of Orchard Avenue to Brush Street relieved the traffic and made it possible to close the Orr St bridge for repairs which provided an opportunity for the WNA to seek a change in the use of the bridge.
F2:
City Council decisions on October 6, 2010 and again on February 21, 2018 supported the WNA goals for bridge use but did not include formal assignments of Lead and Responsible Agencies which has resulted in long-term delays and increases in project scope and costs.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
the City utilize public surveys funded by the Community Development Block Grant and in the final decision on the alterations to the bridge. (F2, F3)
R2:
in future disagreements between Staff and Community Groups, the city investigate alternatives, document a decision and make quarterly progress reports. (F2, F3, F6,
F3:
Since the closure of the bridge in 2009, development of housing and a new roadway on County land to the north ending abruptly at the bridge. This has accelerated the need for repairing the bridge for traffic and introduced new potential stakeholders to the project.
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
the City utilize public surveys funded by the Community Development Block Grant and in the final decision on the alterations to the bridge. (F2, F3)
R2:
in future disagreements between Staff and Community Groups, the city investigate alternatives, document a decision and make quarterly progress reports. (F2, F3, F6,
F4:
Project delays caused by the change in project scope have resulted in increased costs for either repairs or alterations to the Orr Street Bridge. Bridge repair estimates in 2009 were $125,000, and in 2017 were between $300,000-$400,000. It is unknown what the costs for 2022 will be.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
if plans for projects change based on need or finance, the City shall inform interested parties of delays or fundamental changes. (F4)
R6:
the Planning Department should be the agency that does research and seeks public input on projects that have ramifications beyond engineering and construction. (F4, F10, F11)
F5:
The Regional Redwood trail crossing, one block West of Orr Street, with a pedestrian bridge over Orr Creek limits the justification for a pedestrian/bike only bridge on Orr Street.
F6:
The bridge repairs have been included in the 2019 grant application for the entire Wagenseller Neighborhood which may cause delays in construction for two to four more years.
Related Recommendations (2)
R2:
in future disagreements between Staff and Community Groups, the city investigate alternatives, document a decision and make quarterly progress reports. (F2, F3, F6,
R5:
the city prevent any use of the bridge until reconstruction or refurbishment is complete and the bridge deemed safe for access from either side. (F6)
F7:
Refurbishment of the Orr Street Bridge for vehicle, pedestrian and bicycle traffic would have met all the needs of the neighborhood residents and qualified for project exemptions under CEQA in 2009.
F8:
The root cause for inaction on the bridge is that the focused outcome pursued by the WNA requires more planning and a CEQA review which can take years to complete under normal circumstances. FF910. . TPhreo jCecitty d eCloauyns chila vceo uleldd htoav teh efo crumrarellnyt abslsiigghnteedd tchoisn dpirtoiojenc to tfo t hthee O Prrla Sntnrienegt DBreipdagretm. ent and not Public Works after accepting recommendations from a community group.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
in areas like the Wagenseller/Brush neighborhood which straddle the City and County jurisdiction, it is essential for agencies to coordinate plans for the area. (F8, F9)
F10:
The City Council could have formally assigned this project to the Planning Department
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
the Planning Department should be the agency that does research and seeks public input on projects that have ramifications beyond engineering and construction. (F4, F10, F11)
F11:
The Planning Department was not informed of the line-item fund available for bridge repair/refurbishment in the City budget while managing the application for CDBG funds.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
the Planning Department should be the agency that does research and seeks public input on projects that have ramifications beyond engineering and construction. (F4, F10, F11)
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
7 findings
F1:
In addition to ADA violations, uneven and dangerous sidewalks on the jail campus expose the County to potential liabilities.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
the BOS ensure that jail maintenance work orders with liability issues for the County be given priority. (F1-F4)
R2:
the BOS protect County assets by maintaining a fully staffed FFD maintenance crew, which will allow a dedicated worker for the jail. (F1-F3)
R4:
the BOS, as a priority, develop strategies and financial incentives to facilitate hiring and retention of COs for the jail. (F5, F6) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Mendocino County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6) and (All Recommendations) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 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 Grand Jury
F2:
Unfilled positions of maintenance employees within FFD directly contribute to the deferred maintenance on the jail campus.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
the BOS ensure that jail maintenance work orders with liability issues for the County be given priority. (F1-F4)
R2:
the BOS protect County assets by maintaining a fully staffed FFD maintenance crew, which will allow a dedicated worker for the jail. (F1-F3)
R4:
the BOS, as a priority, develop strategies and financial incentives to facilitate hiring and retention of COs for the jail. (F5, F6) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Mendocino County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6) and (All Recommendations) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 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 Grand Jury
F3:
A fully staffed maintenance crew would allow a dedicated worker to focus on the jail.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
the BOS ensure that jail maintenance work orders with liability issues for the County be given priority. (F1-F4)
R2:
the BOS protect County assets by maintaining a fully staffed FFD maintenance crew, which will allow a dedicated worker for the jail. (F1-F3)
R4:
the BOS, as a priority, develop strategies and financial incentives to facilitate hiring and retention of COs for the jail. (F5, F6) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Mendocino County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6) and (All Recommendations) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 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 Grand Jury
F4:
The vacant, dilapidated prefabricated structure on the jail campus continues to deteriorate and is unsafe. Delaying the removal will increase the cost over time.
Related Recommendations (3)
R1:
the BOS ensure that jail maintenance work orders with liability issues for the County be given priority. (F1-F4)
R3:
the BOS authorize and fund immediate removal of the dilapidated prefabricated structure on the jail campus. (F4)
R4:
the BOS, as a priority, develop strategies and financial incentives to facilitate hiring and retention of COs for the jail. (F5, F6) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Mendocino County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6) and (All Recommendations) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 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 Grand Jury
F5:
Due to staff shortages, COs are currently scheduled to work a 60-hour week. This practice questions safety and efficiency which contribute to officer burnout.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
the BOS, as a priority, develop strategies and financial incentives to facilitate hiring and retention of COs for the jail. (F5, F6) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Mendocino County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6) and (All Recommendations) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 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 Grand Jury
F6:
Establishing recruitment and retention incentives would aid in hiring and retaining COs.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
the BOS, as a priority, develop strategies and financial incentives to facilitate hiring and retention of COs for the jail. (F5, F6) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Mendocino County Board of Supervisors (F1-F6) and (All Recommendations) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 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 Grand Jury
F7:
The GJ commends the Mendocino County Jail leadership, COs and support staff for their dedication to duty especially during the pandemic.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
8 findings
F1:
The wording of the Measure B ordinance was very precise on the collection of the taxes. The ordinance was imprecise about the execution of the programs. There is insufficient organizational direction in the Measure B Ordinance. This has resulted in a lack of ground rules for discussions and making recommendations to the BOS.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
in future ordinances prepared for ballot measures, the function and responsibility of County Departments, Advisory Boards and Committees be spelled out in greater detail. (F1, F2)
F2:
In the Measure B Ordinance, the responsibilities of the B Committee were unclear, resulting in members assuming authority which belonged to the BOS.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
in future ordinances prepared for ballot measures, the function and responsibility of County Departments, Advisory Boards and Committees be spelled out in greater detail. (F1, F2)
F3:
There has been no direct funding for SUDT as recommended in the Measure B Ordinance and the Kemper Report. The GJ determined this to be a serious oversight.
Related Recommendations (2)
R2:
the BOS fund SUDT programs as required by Measure B Ordinance No. 4387. (F3, F7)
R4:
the BOS give direction to staff to identify and pursue additional funding to supplement the Measure B one-eighth cent sales tax by applying for grants and State funding. (F4, F8) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Board of Supervisors (All Findings) and (R1, R2, R4) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following individual: Auditor-Controller (F4, F5) and (R3) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are requested from the following individual: Director of the Behavioral Health Department (F3, F7, F8) and (R2, R4) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 929 requires reports of the Grand Jury not containing the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.
F4:
A required function of the B Committee is to review annual audits and to ensure transparent use of funds. Annual independent audits of taxpayers’ money were not performed resulting in no definitive answer to what funds are available or have been expended.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
the County Auditor ensures annual independent audits be conducted of Measure B funds as required, commencing with the initial funding of the measure and to include election and consultant costs. (F4, F5)
R4:
the BOS give direction to staff to identify and pursue additional funding to supplement the Measure B one-eighth cent sales tax by applying for grants and State funding. (F4, F8) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Board of Supervisors (All Findings) and (R1, R2, R4) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following individual: Auditor-Controller (F4, F5) and (R3) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are requested from the following individual: Director of the Behavioral Health Department (F3, F7, F8) and (R2, R4) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 929 requires reports of the Grand Jury not containing the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.
F5:
The first 15 months of operations are excluded from the commissioned audits. Not starting from day one does not give a complete financial picture.
Related Recommendations (2)
R3:
the County Auditor ensures annual independent audits be conducted of Measure B funds as required, commencing with the initial funding of the measure and to include election and consultant costs. (F4, F5)
R4:
the BOS give direction to staff to identify and pursue additional funding to supplement the Measure B one-eighth cent sales tax by applying for grants and State funding. (F4, F8) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Board of Supervisors (All Findings) and (R1, R2, R4) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following individual: Auditor-Controller (F4, F5) and (R3) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are requested from the following individual: Director of the Behavioral Health Department (F3, F7, F8) and (R2, R4) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 929 requires reports of the Grand Jury not containing the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.
F6:
The high vacancy rate of County employees, particularly for social service workers and nursing staff, has raised concern. Contractors for staffing the new programs and facilities may have difficulty employing sufficient local staff. This problem plagued the previous PHF facility which led to its closure.
F7:
The GJ and service providers are concerned that SUDT programs will not receive adequate attention and funding under Measure B.
Related Recommendations (2)
R2:
the BOS fund SUDT programs as required by Measure B Ordinance No. 4387. (F3, F7)
R4:
the BOS give direction to staff to identify and pursue additional funding to supplement the Measure B one-eighth cent sales tax by applying for grants and State funding. (F4, F8) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Board of Supervisors (All Findings) and (R1, R2, R4) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following individual: Auditor-Controller (F4, F5) and (R3) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are requested from the following individual: Director of the Behavioral Health Department (F3, F7, F8) and (R2, R4) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 929 requires reports of the Grand Jury not containing the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.
F8:
The GJ is concerned that the high costs to construct the PFH facility may reduce funds available for other proposed services and programs.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
the BOS give direction to staff to identify and pursue additional funding to supplement the Measure B one-eighth cent sales tax by applying for grants and State funding. (F4, F8) RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following board: Board of Supervisors (All Findings) and (R1, R2, R4) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are required from the following individual: Auditor-Controller (F4, F5) and (R3) Pursuant to Penal Code § 933.05, responses are requested from the following individual: Director of the Behavioral Health Department (F3, F7, F8) and (R2, R4) Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code § 929 requires reports of the Grand Jury not containing the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury.