Modoc County 2018-2019 - California Grand Jury Reports

F1: F2. The Devi's Garden Conservation Camp is operated collaboratively between Cal Fire and the California Department of Corrections.

F2: The Project Manger of the MJUSD Geothermal Project is also the Superintendent of Modoc Joint Unified School District.

F3: The Devil's Garden Conservation Camp has been in operation since 1989.

F4: The Devil's Garden Conservation Camp houses 120 level-one inmates.

Related Recommendations (1)

R5: Investigate options with employee morale companies that can provide trainings, activities, and ideas that can improve employee morale and employee retention. F4 Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that the MCRD administrator provide the Grand Jury with an outline for a plan to fill job vacancies, increase employee morale, determine resource pit availability, and determine what trainings are needed for all staff with a plan to implement these trainings. As part of these plans, the administrator needs to provide an updated equipment list of actively usable items and their condition as well as a list of equipment and items needed for the department. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. . Office of Emergency Services (OES) Report July 5, 2019 Summary: Among the many findings and recommendations listed, funding, agency collaboration/training, and community outreach are the three largest categories. The Modoc County Office of Emergency Services (OES) is entirely funded by grants and is operated, largely, out of the Sheriff's department. Collaboration and training with other agencies and departments is a large part of the duties of the OES and lends to its effectiveness. Community outreach and notifications of events and alerts are a constant strain on resources and time. Fully funding the agency would likely show a greater increase in effectiveness, whether it be through more grants, fund raising activities, or other methods. Frequent public meetings would help better prepare the public for large emergency situations, as well as raise community awareness and fund-raising opportunities. Background: The purpose of a Grand Jury is to hold county departments and agencies accountable to the tax payers of the county. In this case, Modoc County Grand Jury investigates county departments based on which departments have not been investigated recently, which may have complaints that may need to be addressed, or which investigations may be required. A Grand Jury investigation and/or report do not necessarily mean that a particular department had any complaints against it, or that any particular disciplinary actions were the reasons for an investigation. Investigations are required, periodically, by law, without there necessarily being any reason for initiating an investigation. Should the Grand Jury find issues, it is their duty to create a report of findings, recommendations, and possible referrals to other agencies for further actions, if needed. Not all investigations result in negative findings, and that is not the purpose of an investigation. Whenever possible, the Grand Jury includes positive findings, along with other information. The end result of a report, it is expected, that the tax paying public is assured of governmental accountability. Methodology: The Grand Jury met on numerous occasions as an entire group to discuss many items pertaining to the duties of the Grand Jury and governmental departments and agencies under its jurisdiction. Among these departments and agencies is the Office of Emergency Services (OES). The Grand Jury met and created a subcommittee to investigate the OES. This subcommittee was responsible for research, interviews, and other areas pertaining to the OES. Interview questions were created by the Grand Jury, as well as the subcommittee, which were then edited and decided on by the subcommittee for presentation to the interviewees that the subcommittee would then interview. The subcommittee, upon completion of interviews and other research, presented the information to the Grand Jury as a whole, from which procedural issues were addressed and a report request was sent to the report writing subcommittee, which then created the initial report. Once the initial report was completed, it was presented to the Grand Jury for review and comment. Upon completion of the review, a final report was created and presented to the agencies and the general public, pursuant to applicable laws.

F5: The Devil's Garden Conservation Camp provides four 17-man fire crews.

F6: The Devil's Garden Conservation Camp is local community resource that provides sign services.

Related Recommendations (1)

R4: stable, cost-effective resource supply. F6

F7: The primary mission of the Devil's Garden Conservation Camp is to provide inmate fire crews for fire suppression, work force for floods and conservation work force within the surrounding area.

F8: Paved roads to the Devil's Garden Conservation Camp is needed.

Related Recommendations (2)

R1: We recommend that Modoc County consider paving Airport Road off of County Road 73 to the Devil's Garden Conservation Camp. F8

R6: Cal OES shall continue to lead large scale emergency situations, with assistance from the Modoc County OES. F8

F9: Increased onsite housing is needed. Updated onsite housing is needed.

Related Recommendations (1)

R2: We recommend a committee of local stakeholders be established to explore the possibility of securing grants to update and build new housing at the camp. F9, F10. Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that Cal Fire and the California Department of Corrections outline a plan for additional funding to support the infrastructure needs at the Devil's Garden Conservation Camp. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. Modoc Joint Unified School District Geothermal Project Report July 5, 2019 Summary: Among the many findings and recommendations listed, local labor and expertise has been the largest opportunity with the Modoc Joint Unified School District (MJUSD) Geothermal Project. The Project Manager of the MJUSD Geothermal Project is also the Superintendent of Modoc Joint Unified School District and took this project on as collateral duty within that role. As such, there was an initial learning curve. The Project Manager has successfully implemented the project and collaborated with other stakeholders and entities to plan for expansion. The MJUSD Geothermal Project is fully operational and is saving MJUSD up to $7000 per month in diesel fuel costs associated with heating. Background: The purpose of a Grand Jury is to hold county departments and agencies accountable to the tax payers of the county. In this case, Modoc County Grand Jury investigates county departments based on which departments have not been investigated recently, which may have complaints that may need to be addressed, or which investigations may be required. A Grand Jury investigation and/or report do not necessarily mean that a particular department had any complaints against it, or that any particular disciplinary actions were the reasons for an investigation. Investigations are required, periodically, by law, without there necessarily being any reason for initiating an investigation. Should the Grand Jury find issues, it is their duty to create a report of findings, recommendations, and possible referrals to other agencies for further actions, if needed. Not all investigations result in negative findings, and that is not the purpose of an investigation. Whenever possible, the Grand Jury includes positive findings, along with other information. The end result of a report, it is expected, that the tax paying public is assured of governmental accountability. Methodology: The Grand Jury met on numerous occasions as an entire group to discuss many items pertaining to the duties of the Grand Jury and governmental departments and agencies under its jurisdiction. Among these departments and agencies is the Modoc Joint Unified School District (MJUSD) Geothermal Project. The Grand Jury met and created a subcommittee to investigate the MJUSD Geothermal Project. This subcommittee was responsible for research, interviews, and other areas pertaining to the project. Interview questions were created by the Grand Jury, as well as the subcommittee, which were then edited and decided on by the subcommittee for presentation to the interviewees that the subcommittee would then interview. The subcommittee, upon completion of interviews and other research, presented the information to the Grand Jury as a whole, from which procedural issues were addressed and a report request was sent to the report writing subcommittee, which then created the initial report. Once the initial report was completed, it was presented to the Grand Jury for review and comment. Upon completion of the review, a final report was created and presented to the agencies and the general public, pursuant to applicable laws.

F10: Project Manager, upon inspection, found that the old closed loop system was not completed (lines were not capped off).

Related Recommendations (1)

R7: The Modoc County OES has 20 generators and outsources HAZMAT and SCHMRT, but it cannot be determined if this is sufficient at this time, as each emergency situation determines what is needed, how many, where, and to what extent. As this is the purview the OES administrator, it is recommended that resources be readily available, as needed, as determined by the situation. F10, F11, F12, F13, F14 More extensive training on various systems, such as "IPAWS" and "Code Red," as well as

F11: Original contractors had since gone out of business. Project Manager did all sourcing and vetting of work.

Related Recommendations (1)

R7: The Modoc County OES has 20 generators and outsources HAZMAT and SCHMRT, but it cannot be determined if this is sufficient at this time, as each emergency situation determines what is needed, how many, where, and to what extent. As this is the purview the OES administrator, it is recommended that resources be readily available, as needed, as determined by the situation. F10, F11, F12, F13, F14 More extensive training on various systems, such as "IPAWS" and "Code Red," as well as

F12: F13. MJUSD saves $7,000 a month in diesel by utilizing geothermal heat. Savings as a result of geothermal heat go back into the MJUSD general fund.

Related Recommendations (1)

R7: The Modoc County OES has 20 generators and outsources HAZMAT and SCHMRT, but it cannot be determined if this is sufficient at this time, as each emergency situation determines what is needed, how many, where, and to what extent. As this is the purview the OES administrator, it is recommended that resources be readily available, as needed, as determined by the situation. F10, F11, F12, F13, F14 More extensive training on various systems, such as "IPAWS" and "Code Red," as well as

F13: HAZMAT and SCHMRT expenses are charged to land owners.

Related Recommendations (1)

R7: The Modoc County OES has 20 generators and outsources HAZMAT and SCHMRT, but it cannot be determined if this is sufficient at this time, as each emergency situation determines what is needed, how many, where, and to what extent. As this is the purview the OES administrator, it is recommended that resources be readily available, as needed, as determined by the situation. F10, F11, F12, F13, F14 More extensive training on various systems, such as "IPAWS" and "Code Red," as well as

F14: Savings has helped to fund two new positions in the district; Mental Health Specialist

Related Recommendations (2)

R7: The Modoc County OES has 20 generators and outsources HAZMAT and SCHMRT, but it cannot be determined if this is sufficient at this time, as each emergency situation determines what is needed, how many, where, and to what extent. As this is the purview the OES administrator, it is recommended that resources be readily available, as needed, as determined by the situation. F10, F11, F12, F13, F14 More extensive training on various systems, such as "IPAWS" and "Code Red," as well as

R8: having the Modoc County OES lead on trainings, for consistency and completeness, is needed. There are grants that can be pursued for funding of these, as well as fund raising from the community. Other areas of concern extend to a lack of ability to handle mental health issues and other areas where training, knowledge, or resources are lacking. It is recommended that the hospital be approached for trainings on these issues as well as other appropriate departments. F14, F15, F16, F17 Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that the OES department administrator provide the Grand Jury with an outline for a plan to increase grant funding, increase public meetings, and determine what trainings are needed for all OES staff with a plan to implement these trainings. As part of these plans, the administrator needs to provide an updated equipment list of actively usable items and their condition as well as a list of equipment and items needed for emergency situation preparation with related costs. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. Become a Grand Juror The law states grand jury applicants must have the following qualifications: · Citizen of the United States 18 years of age or older • Resident of state and county or city and county for one year prior to being selected. In possession of natural faculties, ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, fair character. • Possess sufficient knowledge of the English language. • Beyond the legal requirements, there are more specific qualifications which are desirable for a grand juror: · A general knowledge of the functions, authorities and responsibilities of the county and city governments and other civil entities. • Research abilities, including complex reading capabilities, background in accessing/analyzing facts and report writing. · Substantial background in group/committee work. · Respect and objectivity concerning the positions and views of others. Contact the Modoc County Superior Court at 205 S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 or call 530- 233-6516 ext. 1223 to learn more. S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 Phone: 233-6516 x 1223 CITIZENS COMPLAINT FORM 1. PERSON(S), OFFICIAL, DEPARTMENT, OR AGENCY ABOUT WHOM (WHICH) YOU ARE MAKING THE COMPLAINT: Name: Address: Zip: Telephone #:_____ Director of Agency, if applicable: 2. BRIEF SUMMARY OF PROBLEM (including dates of events and names of persons, officials, department, and agencies involved. Attach additional sheets, if necessary.) 3. PLEASE LIST THE PERSONS, OFFICIALS, DEPARTMENTS, AGENCIES, OTHER GRAND JURIES OR MEDIA WHOM YOU HAVE CONTACTED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM: APPROXIMATE DATE ENTITY ADDRESS OF CONTACT 4. WHO DO YOU THINK THE GRAND JURY SHOULD CONTACT ABOUT THIS PROBLEM? ADDRESS TELEPHONE #: NAME N. TOTALLE CONTRACTOR OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE P ____ 5. REASON TO CONTACT THE ABOVE: . 6. WHAT RESULT DO YOU WANT FROM THE GRAND JURY INVESTIGATION? PLEASE ATTACH ANY CORRESPONDENCE OR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION THAT WOULD BE PERTINENT TO THIS COMPLAINT. Among the many powers and responsibilities of the Grand Jury is the investigation of citizen complaints to assure that all branches of County government are being administered efficiently, honestly and in the best interests of its citizens. All Complaints submitted to the grand jury will be treated in the strictest of confidence. .

F15: and Family Engagement Specialist.

Related Recommendations (1)

R8: having the Modoc County OES lead on trainings, for consistency and completeness, is needed. There are grants that can be pursued for funding of these, as well as fund raising from the community. Other areas of concern extend to a lack of ability to handle mental health issues and other areas where training, knowledge, or resources are lacking. It is recommended that the hospital be approached for trainings on these issues as well as other appropriate departments. F14, F15, F16, F17 Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that the OES department administrator provide the Grand Jury with an outline for a plan to increase grant funding, increase public meetings, and determine what trainings are needed for all OES staff with a plan to implement these trainings. As part of these plans, the administrator needs to provide an updated equipment list of actively usable items and their condition as well as a list of equipment and items needed for emergency situation preparation with related costs. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. Become a Grand Juror The law states grand jury applicants must have the following qualifications: · Citizen of the United States 18 years of age or older • Resident of state and county or city and county for one year prior to being selected. In possession of natural faculties, ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, fair character. • Possess sufficient knowledge of the English language. • Beyond the legal requirements, there are more specific qualifications which are desirable for a grand juror: · A general knowledge of the functions, authorities and responsibilities of the county and city governments and other civil entities. • Research abilities, including complex reading capabilities, background in accessing/analyzing facts and report writing. · Substantial background in group/committee work. · Respect and objectivity concerning the positions and views of others. Contact the Modoc County Superior Court at 205 S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 or call 530- 233-6516 ext. 1223 to learn more. S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 Phone: 233-6516 x 1223 CITIZENS COMPLAINT FORM 1. PERSON(S), OFFICIAL, DEPARTMENT, OR AGENCY ABOUT WHOM (WHICH) YOU ARE MAKING THE COMPLAINT: Name: Address: Zip: Telephone #:_____ Director of Agency, if applicable: 2. BRIEF SUMMARY OF PROBLEM (including dates of events and names of persons, officials, department, and agencies involved. Attach additional sheets, if necessary.) 3. PLEASE LIST THE PERSONS, OFFICIALS, DEPARTMENTS, AGENCIES, OTHER GRAND JURIES OR MEDIA WHOM YOU HAVE CONTACTED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM: APPROXIMATE DATE ENTITY ADDRESS OF CONTACT 4. WHO DO YOU THINK THE GRAND JURY SHOULD CONTACT ABOUT THIS PROBLEM? ADDRESS TELEPHONE #: NAME N. TOTALLE CONTRACTOR OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE P ____ 5. REASON TO CONTACT THE ABOVE: . 6. WHAT RESULT DO YOU WANT FROM THE GRAND JURY INVESTIGATION? PLEASE ATTACH ANY CORRESPONDENCE OR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION THAT WOULD BE PERTINENT TO THIS COMPLAINT. Among the many powers and responsibilities of the Grand Jury is the investigation of citizen complaints to assure that all branches of County government are being administered efficiently, honestly and in the best interests of its citizens. All Complaints submitted to the grand jury will be treated in the strictest of confidence. .

F16: MJUSD Geothermal Project is 80% grant funded and 20% school funded.

Related Recommendations (1)

R8: having the Modoc County OES lead on trainings, for consistency and completeness, is needed. There are grants that can be pursued for funding of these, as well as fund raising from the community. Other areas of concern extend to a lack of ability to handle mental health issues and other areas where training, knowledge, or resources are lacking. It is recommended that the hospital be approached for trainings on these issues as well as other appropriate departments. F14, F15, F16, F17 Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that the OES department administrator provide the Grand Jury with an outline for a plan to increase grant funding, increase public meetings, and determine what trainings are needed for all OES staff with a plan to implement these trainings. As part of these plans, the administrator needs to provide an updated equipment list of actively usable items and their condition as well as a list of equipment and items needed for emergency situation preparation with related costs. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. Become a Grand Juror The law states grand jury applicants must have the following qualifications: · Citizen of the United States 18 years of age or older • Resident of state and county or city and county for one year prior to being selected. In possession of natural faculties, ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, fair character. • Possess sufficient knowledge of the English language. • Beyond the legal requirements, there are more specific qualifications which are desirable for a grand juror: · A general knowledge of the functions, authorities and responsibilities of the county and city governments and other civil entities. • Research abilities, including complex reading capabilities, background in accessing/analyzing facts and report writing. · Substantial background in group/committee work. · Respect and objectivity concerning the positions and views of others. Contact the Modoc County Superior Court at 205 S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 or call 530- 233-6516 ext. 1223 to learn more. S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 Phone: 233-6516 x 1223 CITIZENS COMPLAINT FORM 1. PERSON(S), OFFICIAL, DEPARTMENT, OR AGENCY ABOUT WHOM (WHICH) YOU ARE MAKING THE COMPLAINT: Name: Address: Zip: Telephone #:_____ Director of Agency, if applicable: 2. BRIEF SUMMARY OF PROBLEM (including dates of events and names of persons, officials, department, and agencies involved. Attach additional sheets, if necessary.) 3. PLEASE LIST THE PERSONS, OFFICIALS, DEPARTMENTS, AGENCIES, OTHER GRAND JURIES OR MEDIA WHOM YOU HAVE CONTACTED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM: APPROXIMATE DATE ENTITY ADDRESS OF CONTACT 4. WHO DO YOU THINK THE GRAND JURY SHOULD CONTACT ABOUT THIS PROBLEM? ADDRESS TELEPHONE #: NAME N. TOTALLE CONTRACTOR OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE P ____ 5. REASON TO CONTACT THE ABOVE: . 6. WHAT RESULT DO YOU WANT FROM THE GRAND JURY INVESTIGATION? PLEASE ATTACH ANY CORRESPONDENCE OR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION THAT WOULD BE PERTINENT TO THIS COMPLAINT. Among the many powers and responsibilities of the Grand Jury is the investigation of citizen complaints to assure that all branches of County government are being administered efficiently, honestly and in the best interests of its citizens. All Complaints submitted to the grand jury will be treated in the strictest of confidence. .

F17: Eventual tie in with the hospital will allow for more cost sharing.

Related Recommendations (1)

R8: having the Modoc County OES lead on trainings, for consistency and completeness, is needed. There are grants that can be pursued for funding of these, as well as fund raising from the community. Other areas of concern extend to a lack of ability to handle mental health issues and other areas where training, knowledge, or resources are lacking. It is recommended that the hospital be approached for trainings on these issues as well as other appropriate departments. F14, F15, F16, F17 Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that the OES department administrator provide the Grand Jury with an outline for a plan to increase grant funding, increase public meetings, and determine what trainings are needed for all OES staff with a plan to implement these trainings. As part of these plans, the administrator needs to provide an updated equipment list of actively usable items and their condition as well as a list of equipment and items needed for emergency situation preparation with related costs. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. Become a Grand Juror The law states grand jury applicants must have the following qualifications: · Citizen of the United States 18 years of age or older • Resident of state and county or city and county for one year prior to being selected. In possession of natural faculties, ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, fair character. • Possess sufficient knowledge of the English language. • Beyond the legal requirements, there are more specific qualifications which are desirable for a grand juror: · A general knowledge of the functions, authorities and responsibilities of the county and city governments and other civil entities. • Research abilities, including complex reading capabilities, background in accessing/analyzing facts and report writing. · Substantial background in group/committee work. · Respect and objectivity concerning the positions and views of others. Contact the Modoc County Superior Court at 205 S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 or call 530- 233-6516 ext. 1223 to learn more. S. East Street, Alturas, CA 96101 Phone: 233-6516 x 1223 CITIZENS COMPLAINT FORM 1. PERSON(S), OFFICIAL, DEPARTMENT, OR AGENCY ABOUT WHOM (WHICH) YOU ARE MAKING THE COMPLAINT: Name: Address: Zip: Telephone #:_____ Director of Agency, if applicable: 2. BRIEF SUMMARY OF PROBLEM (including dates of events and names of persons, officials, department, and agencies involved. Attach additional sheets, if necessary.) 3. PLEASE LIST THE PERSONS, OFFICIALS, DEPARTMENTS, AGENCIES, OTHER GRAND JURIES OR MEDIA WHOM YOU HAVE CONTACTED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM: APPROXIMATE DATE ENTITY ADDRESS OF CONTACT 4. WHO DO YOU THINK THE GRAND JURY SHOULD CONTACT ABOUT THIS PROBLEM? ADDRESS TELEPHONE #: NAME N. TOTALLE CONTRACTOR OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE PROPERTY OF THE P ____ 5. REASON TO CONTACT THE ABOVE: . 6. WHAT RESULT DO YOU WANT FROM THE GRAND JURY INVESTIGATION? PLEASE ATTACH ANY CORRESPONDENCE OR SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION THAT WOULD BE PERTINENT TO THIS COMPLAINT. Among the many powers and responsibilities of the Grand Jury is the investigation of citizen complaints to assure that all branches of County government are being administered efficiently, honestly and in the best interests of its citizens. All Complaints submitted to the grand jury will be treated in the strictest of confidence. .

F18: City of Alturas is a partner in the project and helped acquire the initial grant.

F19: Modoc Medical Center is a partner and will share in the costs and management once tied in.

F20: Numerous public records requests regarding the project has incurred $11,000 in legal fees from the MJUSD general fund.

F21: Geothermal system is inspected by the district maintenance team, daily and weekly.

F22: System of alarms in the event of a malfunction

F23: Reports of findings are submitted to the State of California yearly.

F24: Emergencies related to the project fall under the district's general emergency plan and is provided for therein.

F25: Planned expansion to City Pool.

F26: City of Alturas has not committed to City Pool expansion or location.

Related Recommendations (1)

R3: existing city pool, or to the proposed city pool location as this has a direct benefit to those who reside in Alturas. F26 Invited/Required Responses: The Modoc County Grand Jury requests that the City of Alturas provide the Grand Jury with an outline for a plan to fund an additional city employee who's sole purpose is to increase grant funding and facilitate the expansion of the geothermal project to Modoc Medical Center, the City Pool and to other business and residential properties through out the City of Alturas. This report shall be supplied to the Grand Jury no later than ninety (90) days after official publication of this Grand Jury report to the general public. Reports issued by the Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Grand Jury not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Grand Jury. Modoc County Road Department (MCRD) Report July 5, 2019 Summary: Among the findings and recommendations listed, funding, training, job vacancies are the three largest categories. The Modoc County Road Department (MCRD) is funded by propositions and gas taxes. Job vacancies and scheduling issues are a large part of the issues the MCRD is facing and lends to difficulties in effectiveness. Employee morale seems to be another issue proving to be an issue and possibly part of the cause of job vacancies. Filling vacancies would likely show the largest increase in effectiveness, along with trainings and proper scheduling of road repairs. Background: The purpose of a Grand Jury is to hold county departments and agencies accountable to the tax payers of the county. In this case, Modoc County Grand Jury investigates county departments based on which departments have not been investigated recently, which may have complaints that may need to be addressed, or which investigations may be required. A Grand Jury investigation and/or report do not necessarily mean that a particular department had any complaints against it, or that any particular disciplinary actions were the reasons for an investigation. Investigations are required, periodically, by law, without there necessarily being any reason for initiating an investigation. Should the Grand Jury find issues, it is their duty to create a report of findings, recommendations, and possible referrals to other agencies for further actions, if needed. Not all investigations result in negative findings, and that is not the purpose of an investigation. Whenever possible, the Grand Jury includes positive findings, along with other information. The end result of a report, it is expected, that the tax paying public is assured of governmental accountability. Methodology: The Grand Jury met on numerous occasions as an entire group to discuss many items pertaining to the duties of the Grand Jury and governmental departments and agencies under its jurisdiction. Among these departments and agencies is the Modoc County Road Department (MCRD). The Grand Jury met and created a subcommittee to investigate the MCRD. This subcommittee was responsible for research, interviews, and other areas pertaining to the MCRD. Interview questions were created by the Grand Jury, as well as the subcommittee, which were then edited and decided on by the subcommittee for presentation to the interviewees that the subcommittee would then interview. The subcommittee, upon completion of interviews and other research, presented the information to the Grand Jury as a whole, from which procedural issues were addressed and a report request was sent to the report writing subcommittee, which then created the initial report. Once the initial report was completed, it was presented to the Grand Jury for review and comment. Upon completion of the review, a final report was created and presented to the agencies and the general public, pursuant to applicable laws.

F27: Expansion is possible into business and residential properties, but at a considerable expense.