Merced County Grand Jury
2022-2023
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
Incorrect ballots sent to voters caused anxiety and confusion for candidates and voters in districts within the County.
F2:
Accuracy of the mapping of district and precinct boundaries was hindered by the lack of a detailed work plan to guide the efforts of staff.
F3:
The Elections Office did not take full advantage of advanced software to assist with the mapping process.
F4:
The County of Merced responded in a swift and effective manner to correct the mapping errors, to issue corrected ballots and to communicate with affected voters and candidates.
F5:
County personnel demonstrated a commitment to ensuring the integrity of Merced County elections.
F6:
All cities are responsive to complaints from citizens about needed road repairs.
Additional Recommendations
6
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Registrar of Voters to implement single point addressing before the next General Election. 13
R2:
The Registrar of Voters to create a comprehensive Work Plan for the mapping process that follows the 10-year redistricting. Review and update annually.
R3:
The Registrar of Voters to create a training model for each position in the Elections Office and use that model for current employees and new hires to identify training needs. REQUEST FOR RESPONSES(S) Pursuant to Penal Code Section 933.05, the following responses are required: • Assistant CEO of the County of Merced respond to R1, R2 and R3 within 90 days.
R4:
Conduct an extensive internal audit of the amount of time it takes to complete transfers when crisis calls require the assistance of an interpreter for LEP individuals.
R5:
Streamline interpretation services: The seven-step process to reach an interpreter for LEP individuals during a crisis may be too lengthy. BHRS should work to streamline the interpretation service to ensure that LEP individuals can access immediate interpretation services during a crisis.
R6:
Ensure staff members are trained in Section 1557 compliance: BHRS staff members should receive training on how to comply with Section 1557 and provide language assistance services to LEP individuals. This will help ensure that individuals with Limited English Proficiency can access the resources they need to address their mental health needs. REQUEST FOR RESPONSES(S) Pursuant to Penal Code Section 933.05, the following responses are required: • Director of Behavioral Health and Recovery Services to R1-R5 within 90 days.