Merced County Grand Jury
2012-2013
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Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
The new ENS requires individuals to register all cell phones. In almost four months, approximately 1,500 people in Merced County have registered.
F2:
The Everbridge ENS can be upgraded to implement geographically targeted messaging for approximately $2,000 annually. This would make current campaigns for individual registration unnecessary and obsolete.
F3:
Budget cuts have reduced the number of dispatchers and responders. AB109 has put more criminals back on the street. If one commits a minor crime, while they may be charged, they often will not see jail time. Criminals are often released as soon as they are processed.
F4:
In various jurisdictions in Merced County, responders will sometimes find themselves in locations where their radio systems and/or cell phones do not have an adequate signal.
F5:
The County of Merced spent $351,783 on a reverse 9-1-1 system that was never operational. 13 http://www.fbi.gov/stats-services/crimestats 14 http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/news/docs/2011-05-23-three-judge-panel-background.pdf 36
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the VEEP collaborative group includes the Sheriff’s Department.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the County of Merced require all departments in charge of purchasing for the County to have a clause in each contract that will allow the return of the equipment and a full refund if it does not work as advertised or with our systems. Also, enough research should be done prior to purchasing to ensure that the equipment will work with our systems.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
In the last two years only complaint-based inspections are completed in Firebaugh, Los Banos, Volta and part of Santa Nella.
F2:
Those facilities observed by the 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury from December 5, 2012 to March 5, 2013 which received “unsatisfactory” ratings had not been re-inspected within the thirty days as required by law.
F3:
As of July 1, 2012 DEH was down one EHS and as of January 8, 2013 they were down two EHS. There has not been any EHS recruitment since 2008.
F4:
DEH posted a job listing on November 29, 2012 to hire an EHT. An EHT was hired April 8, 2013.
F5:
EHS are required to do other duties beyond inspections, including “volunteering” their work time to do clerical work and aid the DPH as a whole for special events. The inspectors spend an average of 30% of their time on food inspections. Inspectors stated that they were behind on their inspections by an average of 40%.
F6:
Inspectors are overwhelmed by the workload and morale is low.
F7:
Inspectors are required to do front desk duty three or four days per month due to lack of clerical staff.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends placement of door tags. These should be multilingual. This is the cheapest and most effective way. It has been done in other jurisdictions with diverse cultures. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends using public service announcements, town hall meetings, and Municipal Advisory Councils to further disseminate information.
R2:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends an accrual account dedicated to buying heavy equipment when it needs to be replaced.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that MCRWMA participate in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s LMOP, a voluntary assistance program that helps to reduce methane emissions from landfills by encouraging the recovery and beneficial use of landfill gas (LFG) as an energy resource. According to their website: (http://www.epa.gov/lmop/ ) “by joining LMOP, companies, state agencies, organizations, landfills, and communities gain access to a vast network of industry experts and practitioners, as well as to various technical and marketing resources that can 61 help with LFG energy project development.” Grants to fund the start up cost of a methane conversion project should be explored.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends a monthly-designated area for haulers to pick up recyclables.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
The intent of the Community Corrections Partnership’s VEEP program is to conduct educational and employment readiness assessments/training for clients who are either in or out of jail. The Probation Department, Human Services Agency, Workforce Investment and the Merced County Office of Education are the collaborating agencies. The Civil Grand Jury notes that the Sheriff’s Department is not a collaborating agency. AB109 inmates are serving multi-year sentences. This time would be better spent pursuing educational, vocational and life skills.
F2:
Prior to AB109 offenders could serve no longer than a year in a local jail.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the VEEP collaborative group includes the Sheriff’s Department.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
This correctional center was designed and built during the late 1980s as a minimum security prison to house low risk offenders for no more than 365 days. Almost twenty- five years later, the county criminal population has risen dramatically, resulting in overcrowding. The recent passage of AB109 has contributed greatly to the increase of inmates at the correctional center. More importantly, AB109 has caused the retention of medium to high risk inmates at the center, which it is not designed to accommodate.
F2:
Video conferencing has not been implemented. Visitation is limited to a single sixty minute visitation. The lack of at least two visiting sessions is non-compliant with Title 15 Section 1062 as found in the BSCC report dated October 31, 2012.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
It is recommended by the 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury that the County conduct a study to determine the adequacy of the current center. If the current center is determined to be inadequate, the Civil Grand Jury recommends that the County conduct a feasibility study to determine if a new center should be built.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury found that all deficiencies had been corrected at the time of our site visit.
F2:
Prior to AB109 offenders could serve no longer than a year in a local jail.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2013-2014 Merced County Civil Grand Jury should meet with the Los Banos Chief of Police to ensure that the facility remains in compliance. COMMENDATION: The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury commends the Los Banos Police Department for ensuring the overall operation of the facility is in full compliance with all Federal, State and local mandates.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
The intent of the Community Corrections Partnership’s VEEP program is to conduct educational and employment readiness assessments/training for clients who are either in or out of jail. The Probation Department, Human Services Agency, Workforce Investment and the Merced County Office of Education are the collaborating agencies. The Civil Grand Jury notes that the Sheriff’s Department is not a collaborating agency. AB109 inmates are serving multi-year sentences. This time would be better spent pursuing educational, vocational and life skills.
F2:
Prior to AB109 offenders could serve no longer than a year in a local jail.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the VEEP collaborative group includes the Sheriff’s Department.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
Radio system is poor and at times there are areas of non-reception.
F2:
Prior to AB109 offenders could serve no longer than a year in a local jail.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the equipment and communication system be upgraded. 81
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
The intent of the Community Corrections Partnership’s VEEP program is to conduct educational and employment readiness assessments/training for clients who are either in or out of jail. The Probation Department, Human Services Agency, Workforce Investment and the Merced County Office of Education are the collaborating agencies. The Civil Grand Jury notes that the Sheriff’s Department is not a collaborating agency. AB109 inmates are serving multi-year sentences. This time would be better spent pursuing educational, vocational and life skills.
F2:
Prior to AB109 offenders could serve no longer than a year in a local jail.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the VEEP collaborative group includes the Sheriff’s Department.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
The intent of the Community Corrections Partnership’s VEEP program is to conduct educational and employment readiness assessments/training for clients who are either in or out of jail. The Probation Department, Human Services Agency, Workforce Investment and the Merced County Office of Education are the collaborating agencies. The Civil Grand Jury notes that the Sheriff’s Department is not a collaborating agency. AB109 inmates are serving multi-year sentences. This time would be better spent pursuing educational, vocational and life skills.
F2:
Prior to AB109 offenders could serve no longer than a year in a local jail.
F3:
The Sheriff stated that limited educational opportunities have been provided by a prison ministry program.
F4:
AB109 mandates that non-violent, non-serious, and non-sexual offenders serve their sentences in county jails instead of state prisons.
F5:
Statistics on success and completion of programs implemented to facilitate AB109 re- entry programs were not available. The Civil Grand Jury realizes that this program is in its infancy. A statistical analyst was included in the 2012-2013 CCP budget.
F6:
The Civil Grand Jury found that Los Banos Probation Department does not have a day reporting facility, drug court, mental health court, BI, or a PACT.
F7:
There is limited public transportation from Los Banos to Merced which makes it difficult for clients to attend the programs offered in Merced.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
12
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the VEEP collaborative group includes the Sheriff’s Department.
R2:
It is recommended that the video-visitation system be put in place to comply with the regulatory minimums. COMMENDATION The Sheriff’s Department should be commended for their efforts to enhance and upgrade the booking system for increased efficiency.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department’s AB109 statistical analyst develop a report that includes rates of recidivism, program successes and cost.
R6:
and R7. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Probation Department establish a Probation and Community Team (PACT) in Los 12 Banos with local non-profits. It is further recommended that the Probation Department contract with BI for a Los Banos center. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes that both the drug and mental health courts are positive interventions. Frequent monitoring, multiple agency reports, and acknowledgement of successes should increase a client’s likelihood to transition back into the community. The Civil Grand Jury commends the Supervising Probation Officer of the AB 109 DRC for developing a full calendar coordinating office hours for county departments and community non- profits to meet the needs of the clients. Senior management encourages group effort throughout the department. The Chief holds a monthly meeting with different line level personnel and has an open door policy. Morale appears to be high despite having to do with less. All levels of the Department take great pride in functioning at a high level.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
15 findings
F1:
In the last two years only complaint-based inspections are completed in Firebaugh, Los Banos, Volta and part of Santa Nella.
F2:
Those facilities observed by the 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury from December 5, 2012 to March 5, 2013 which received “unsatisfactory” ratings had not been re-inspected within the thirty days as required by law.
F3:
As of July 1, 2012 DEH was down one EHS and as of January 8, 2013 they were down two EHS. There has not been any EHS recruitment since 2008.
F4:
DEH posted a job listing on November 29, 2012 to hire an EHT. An EHT was hired April 8, 2013.
F5:
EHS are required to do other duties beyond inspections, including “volunteering” their work time to do clerical work and aid the DPH as a whole for special events. The inspectors spend an average of 30% of their time on food inspections. Inspectors stated that they were behind on their inspections by an average of 40%.
F6:
Inspectors are overwhelmed by the workload and morale is low.
F7:
Inspectors are required to do front desk duty three or four days per month due to lack of clerical staff.
F8:
The hospital the Civil Grand Jury observed on March 5, 2013 had an unsatisfactory rating and was last inspected June 13, 2011. As of April 27, 2013 DEH had not re- inspected the facility. 50
F9:
The facilities the Civil Grand Jury visited (with the exception of one) had current operating health permits, but the majority didn’t have a current inspection report. Therefore, they are not receiving the services that are tied to the annual permit fee.
F10:
Laptops are available to all EHS. Not all inspectors use the assigned laptop to write reports in the field. This results in duplication of work to get it from hand-written form to laptop when they return to the office. Training on the laptop is available online but is not required by the SEHS.
F11:
DEH does not use an on-site posted rating system to inform consumers of business inspection status.
F12:
The 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury17 observed three restaurant inspections in their county with no negative impact on the county or the restaurants they observed.
F13:
The Envision Connect System by Decade Software Company doesn’t interface well with the County system. The script for the reports used to trigger upload of food inspection report data to the internet is ineffective.
F14:
One EHS III spends 50% of the work day addressing computer problems.
F15:
If a facility hasn’t been inspected within two years it falls off the website.
Additional Recommendations
10
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends placement of door tags. These should be multilingual. This is the cheapest and most effective way. It has been done in other jurisdictions with diverse cultures. The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends using public service announcements, town hall meetings, and Municipal Advisory Councils to further disseminate information.
R2:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends an accrual account dedicated to buying heavy equipment when it needs to be replaced.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that MCRWMA participate in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s LMOP, a voluntary assistance program that helps to reduce methane emissions from landfills by encouraging the recovery and beneficial use of landfill gas (LFG) as an energy resource. According to their website: (http://www.epa.gov/lmop/ ) “by joining LMOP, companies, state agencies, organizations, landfills, and communities gain access to a vast network of industry experts and practitioners, as well as to various technical and marketing resources that can 61 help with LFG energy project development.” Grants to fund the start up cost of a methane conversion project should be explored.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends a monthly-designated area for haulers to pick up recyclables.
R8:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends hospitals should be given priority for inspections.
R9:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the yearly permit list should be cross-referenced with the inspection database quarterly to determine the most recent date of inspection. Those facilities that have lapsed should take priority. This would act as a check and balance so the facilities would receive yearly inspections and remain on the website.
R10:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends inspectors be required to complete training and use the laptop for all inspections.
R11:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends DEH implement an on-site posted placard rating system. The inspector could carry the appropriate rating placard for placement at time of inspection. This would allow the public to have immediate access to the facility’s inspection status and be readily visible. In the future the DEH should look into a Quick Response (QR) code reader to allow consumers the ability to use modern technology to access this information.
R12:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the DPH consider a more transparent approach to any future Merced County Civil Grand Jury’s request to observe a food inspector conducting a food facility inspection. 17 2010-2011 San Luis Obispo County Civil Grand Jury Report 51
R15:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends reprograming the software so reports remain on the website beyond two years. COMMENDATION The Merced County online food inspection reports are more user friendly than five of the surrounding counties that offer online reports. Merced County is the only one that lists a rating program based on points for violations at food facilities.
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F1:
Office space is inadequate for staff and the storage of medical records.
F2:
The purchase of an X-Ray machine would be cost effective in the long run, but there is currently no adequate space available.
F3:
Budget cuts have reduced the number of dispatchers and responders. AB109 has put more criminals back on the street. If one commits a minor crime, while they may be charged, they often will not see jail time. Criminals are often released as soon as they are processed.
F4:
In various jurisdictions in Merced County, responders will sometimes find themselves in locations where their radio systems and/or cell phones do not have an adequate signal.
F5:
The County of Merced spent $351,783 on a reverse 9-1-1 system that was never operational. 13 http://www.fbi.gov/stats-services/crimestats 14 http://www.cdcr.ca.gov/news/docs/2011-05-23-three-judge-panel-background.pdf 36
Additional Recommendations
5
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends a larger facility to adequately house services currently being outsourced, increase staff work space and provide necessary space for storage of medical records.
R2:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the purchase of an X- Ray machine as budget allows. COMMENDATION The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recognizes the ongoing efforts of this agency to enhance and upgrade systems for increased efficiency. The Sheriff’s Department and the Coroner's Office should be commended for a job well done.
R3:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County jurisdictions should increase the number of dispatchers and law enforcement responders as soon as budget allows.
R4:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends that Merced County ensure that all emergency responder radio “dead zones” are located and the necessary actions are taken to ensure adequate radio signal strength.
R5:
The 2012-2013 Merced County Civil Grand Jury recommends the County of Merced require all departments in charge of purchasing for the County to have a clause in each contract that will allow the return of the equipment and a full refund if it does not work as advertised or with our systems. Also, enough research should be done prior to purchasing to ensure that the equipment will work with our systems.
Additional documents
Documents found alongside this year's reports — not grand jury reports or responses.