Placer County Grand Jury

2001-2002

18 reports

Findings & Recommendations 3 findings
F1: Many of the solid waste management contracts will be coming up for renewal in the near future. Decisions will need to be made as to whether a contract should be extended, renegotiated, or put out for bid.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The Grand Jury believes that whenever possible, contracts should be put out for bid to ensure the County is getting the best possible price and service.
F2: The County is doing a good job with its solid waste management efforts and is commended by this Grand Jury.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: Future Placer County Grand Juries should monitor solid waste management contracts as their expiration dates approach.
F3: To date, a conflict of interest has not arisen from the same individual serving on both the staff of the JPA and as a county employee.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: This situation should continue to be monitored by future Grand Juries. Respondents Director, Facilities Services Board of Supervisors County Executive Officer RESPONSES REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable Judge James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge of the Superior Court County of Placer Historic Court House 101 Maple Street Auburn, California 95603
Findings & Recommendations 4 findings
F1: It was alleged that inappropriate data relative to Native American census data might have been submitted to the United States Department of Education.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: Colfax Elementary School District should continue to investigate the validity of the numbers submitted for its Indian Education Program.
F2: There was a lack of diligence in budget oversight concerning the construction of a new school.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: The Colfax Elementary School Board needs to exercise more oversight in budgetary functions. The District Business Manager should advise the Board in budgetary matters. The Board needs to be apprised of overruns.
F3: Colfax Elementary School Board does not appear to have a full understanding of the provisions of the Brown Act as it relates to the proper workings of boards.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: The attorney for the school district should meet with the School Board and the Superintendent and go over the requirements of the Brown Act.
F4: The Colfax Elementary School Board has consistently failed to provide critical leadership to the district.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: The Colfax Elementary School Board needs to educate itself through a class, on the functions and responsibilities of board membership. It is recommended that Board members attend State and County School Board conferences to further their knowledge of current issues and more closely define the role of school boards. The whole community of Colfax School District residents needs also to take a greater interest in the functioning of their school district. Respondents Colfax Elementary School Board Superintendent, Colfax Elementary School District Placer County Superintendent of Schools RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge of the Superior Court County of Placer Historic Court House 101 Maple Street Auburn, California 95603 22000011--22000022 PPllaacceerr CCoouunnttyy GGrraanndd JJuurryy FFiinnaall RReeppoorrttss 3322
Findings & Recommendations 3 findings
F1: Evening security at branch libraries, particularly those libraries with two or fewer employees, is seriously lacking.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The library staff should provide a more institutionalized method for a security system. The staffs at the libraries we visited have implemented their own, albeit informal, systems for their own security.
F2: The current procedure of relying on the staff to monitor Internet use is inadequate and time consuming for staff.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: A more positive, pro-active system for the monitoring of minors’ use of computers with Internet access should be implemented. Automated systems of monitoring computer time use are feasible to free the staff from these duties. Whenever possible adult computer use should be separate from the areas used by minors.
F3: County librarian salaries are the lowest of any professional classification in its system.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: Placer County should look at the current pay scale of its library personnel to bring the employees in conformance with other professional classifications. Commendation The 2001-2002 Grand Jury was particularly impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the head librarian and her staff. They make good use of current resources. Respondents Placer County Board of Supervisors Placer County Director of Library Services RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge of the Superior Court County of Placer Historic Court House 101 Maple Street Auburn, CA 95603 22000011--22000022 PPllaacceerr CCoouunnttyy GGrraanndd JJuurryy FFiinnaall RReeppoorrttss 1111

Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.

Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.

Findings & Recommendations 4 findings
F1: Though no definite timeline has been established at this time, plans are underway to improve the existing shelter at DeWitt Center by relocating the cat area to another part of the shelter. The cats are now housed in stainless steel cages that can be moved easily.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: Move ahead as quickly as possible to relocate the housing for cats to a less stressful area and provide a quarantine area.
F2: The DeWitt kitchen area is not large enough for the preparation of the necessary quantity of animal food. There is also limited storage space for the food and supplies throughout the facility.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: Continue with plans to enlarge the kitchen workspace/storage area for more efficient use.
F3: There are water drainage problems at the rear of the DeWitt Center creating unsafe conditions in the large animal corral. This is partly due to water runoff from cleaning the inside cages area, but there is also runoff from a privately owned project located to the northeast which drains onto the shelter property.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: Continue with plans to divert the indoor water runoff away from the large animal corral and other outdoor areas. In addition, the county should work with the neighboring parties on a solution to the outdoor water runoff problem as quickly as possible in order to avoid disease and injury to animals confined in the corral area.
F4: The facility at DeWitt is outdated, overcrowded and does not provide adequate workspace for staff or proper housing for the animals.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: Continue to improve the existing facility while moving ahead with plans for a new shelter as quickly as possible in order to provide improved working conditions and a humane environment for animals. All of the ongoing improvements will correct some of the more immediate problems, but they should be viewed as only temporary measures until a totally new facility is constructed.
Findings & Recommendations 1 findings
F1: The 2000-2001 financial audits find no major problems in the County’s financial position.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: None No response is required. 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports 46
Findings & Recommendations 3 findings
F1: The Placer County Government web page has improved steadily since its inception, and contains much information about the Placer County Government.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The Public Information Officer and staff should be commended for the web page. Funds should be made available to further its improvement.
F2: The agenda for the Board of Supervisors meetings and its backup materials are not easily accessible to the general public.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: The agenda for each meeting of the Board of Supervisors should be finalized sufficiently early that the agenda and its backup material can be made available to the public at least six days prior to the meeting. The agenda and backup material should be made available to the public at additional locations such as county libraries, various locations at the DeWitt Center, and on the web page.
F3: Citizens need a simple and informative brochure describing the process of how our County Government works.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: The Placer County Office of Public Information should develop a brochure or booklet for the general public, which describes Placer County Government processes and how the public can obtain the information it needs to participate actively in Placer County Government. Respondents Placer County Board of Supervisors County Executive Office Public Information Office RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge of the Superior Court County of Placer Historic Court House 101 Maple Street Auburn, CA 95603
Findings & Recommendations 4 findings
F1: The requests for revenue sharing come from a broad range of groups, many of which may be appropriate, but some requests appear to have questionable value to the majority of County taxpayers.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: Supervisors should consider following the original intent of the Federal grant which was to benefit taxpayers through public projects since the money is from County General Funds.
F2: When the supervisor's name appears as an event sponsor, the general public could be misled into believing that the donation of General Fund money to the event is a personal gift from the supervisor.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: Recognition for the donation of County funds should note that the gift is from the Placer County Board of Supervisors on behalf of the taxpayers of Placer County and should not include the individual supervisor's name.
F3: The availability of Revenue Sharing Funds is not published in County materials.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: The County should publish the availability of the funds through written materials and the web site, describing who is eligible and how to apply for the funds.
F4: There are no written guidelines for distributing the funds. Individual supervisors have developed their own criteria for approving requests, and basically have $20,000 per year to distribute at their discretion.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: Written guidelines should be established to clearly define who is eligible to receive the funds and the standards to be followed by all supervisors in distributing the funds. Respondent Board of Supervisors RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge Superior Court County of Placer Historic Courthouse 101 Maple Street Auburn, CA 95603
Findings & Recommendations 4 findings
F1: County policy is very specific in its wording. It says personal use of equipment is "prohibited". There is no provision in County Policy for exceptions to be made under any circumstance. The memorandum states that this policy, even though not condoned, has been ignored many times.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The department should be guided by the Administrative Rules, as printed, and not ignore violations. The memorandum referred to in this report should be rescinded and reissued verbatim as written in the County Code. The Director of Public Works should sign the memorandum.
F2: The memorandum states that personal use of equipment is a "relatively harmless practice". Interviews with County Officials confirm that it is indeed not a harmless practice and could, in the event of personal injury or damage to real property, place the County in a position of potential financial liability.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: Departmental Supervisory personnel must not attempt to interpret or take exception to The County Code of Rules. Any interpretations needed should be referred to County Executive Office.
F3: The Department Head did not prepare the memorandum in question. It was prepared and issued by a subordinate.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: In matters of County policy, all instructions issued to employees should be approved and signed by the Department Head.
F4: Employees do not receive periodic review of Administrative Rules. Supervisors holding regularly scheduled or impromptu meetings with employees should be trained in the meaning and intent of County Administrative Rules and include discussion of one of them at each meeting. Respondents Placer County Executive Officer Placer County Public Works Director RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge Superior Court County of Placer Historic Court House 101 Maple Street Auburn, California 95603
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: Supervisors holding regularly scheduled or impromptu meetings with employees should be trained in the meaning and intent of County Administrative Rules and include discussion of one of them at each meeting. Respondents Placer County Executive Officer Placer County Public Works Director
Findings & Recommendations 1 findings
F2004: Plans also are underway to have a neighborhood police office in a new fire station to be built at the intersection of Sunset and Sue. There are 37 line officers, including five sergeants and 28 officers available for street duty. A new Police Chief came on board eight months ago and has reorganized the department to free five officers for patrol duty. The department is up-to-date with the latest and best technical equipment available and the new Chief feels city management is very supportive. Auto theft and theft from vehicles top criminal problems. Gang activity is almost non-existent, due in part to the financial stability of residents, whose median income is $60,000. The involvement of parents and educators in creating acceptable outlets for youthful exuberance is a major factor, since much of the life of the youth community centers around school events and activities that use school and community facilities. There is evidence of increased use of Methamphetamine, primarily in low cost housing areas. This is consistent with the statewide picture. A full time Resource Officer is assigned to Rocklin High School, while another divides his time between the two middle schools. An active D.A.R.E. program is sustained in the elementary schools through sixth grade. The Police Department has an active Explorer Scout cadet program, with 10-12 active members. In general, the new Police Chief appears efficient, experienced and capable. He feels the current personnel of the department are “above average in professional application of police duties and sensitive to the rights and respects of the individual.” 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports 62 Finding The Placer County Sheriff’s Department and the law enforcement departments in the cities of Auburn, Roseville, Lincoln and Rocklin are doing an excellent job to protect the residents of their particular areas. This is especially worth commendation in the face of expanding population growth as well as increased problems and tensions within our society. The Grand Jury feels that Placer County is fortunate to have such a high degree of dedication and professionalism in its law enforcement personnel.

Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.

Findings & Recommendations 4 findings
F1: The Probation Department, which supervises the Juvenile Detention Center, has been without a Chief Probation Officer since December 2001.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The County should fill this vacancy as quickly as possible.
F2: Although staffing may meet minimum requirements of California Code of Regulations Crime Prevention and Corrections, staffing is inadequate to ensure complete coverage of the facility's needs at all times and to provide proper supervision to male and female minors in some situations. See attachment (Title 15, Sections 1320 and 1321(c) & (e)).
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: Staffing levels should be re-evaluated for compliance with Title 15.
F3: Training for the use of pepper spray is incomplete.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: Complete pepper spray training for staff as soon as possible.
F4: A policy manual is available to staff defining procedures to be followed.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: Conduct workshops on a regular basis to ensure staff becomes familiar with policies to be followed. Respondents Placer County Board of Supervisors Placer County Executive Officer Placer County Juvenile Detention Center Director Placer County Director of Health and Human Services RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge Superior Court County of Placer Historic Courthouse 101 Maple Street Auburn, CA 95603 California Code of Regulations Title 15. Crime Prevention and Corrections Division 1. Board of Corrections Chapter 1. Board of Corrections Subchapter 5. Minimum Standards for Juvenile Facilities Article 3. Training, Personnel, and Management §1320. Appointment and Qualifications §1321. Staffing §1320. Appointment and Qualifications. (a) Appointment In each juvenile facility there shall be a superintendent, director or facility manager in charge of its program and employees. Such superintendent, director, facility manager and other employees of the facility shall be appointed by the facility administrator pursuant to applicable provisions of law. (b) Qualifications Each facility shall: (1) recruit and hire employees who possess knowledge, skills and abilities appropriate to their job classification and duties in accordance with applicable civil service or merit system rules; (2) require a medical evaluation and physical examination including tuberculosis screening test and evaluation for immunity to contagious illnesses of childhood (i.e., diphtheria, rubeola, rubella, and mumps); (3) conduct a criminal records review on each new employee; and, (4) require a psychological examination, pursuant to Section 1031 of the Government Code. (emphasis added) §1321. Staffing. Each juvenile facility shall: (a) have an adequate number of personnel sufficient to carry out its program; (b) have a sufficient number of supervisory level staff to ensure adequate supervision of all staff members; (c) assign sufficient child supervision staff to provide continuous wide awake supervision of minors, subject to temporary variations in staff assignments to meet special program needs. Staffing shall be in compliance with a minimum child-staff ratio for the following facility types: (1) Juvenile halls and special purpose juvenile halls (A) during the hours that minors are awake, one wide-awake child supervision staff member on duty for each 10 minors in detention; (B) during the hours that minors are asleep, one wide-awake child supervision staff member on duty for each 30 minors in detention; (C) at least two wide-awake child supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of minors in detention, unless an arrangement has been made for backup support services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; and (D) at least one male and one female child supervision staff member on duty whenever both male and female minors are housed in the facility. (emphasis added) (2) Camps (A) during the hours that minors are awake, one wide-awake child supervision staff member on duty for each 15 minors in the camp population; (B) during the hours that minors are asleep, one wide-awake child supervision staff member on duty for each 30 minors present in the facility; (C) at least two wide-awake child supervision staff members on duty at all times, regardless of the number of minors in residence, unless arrangements have been made for backup support services which allow for immediate response to emergencies; (D) at least one male and one female child supervision staff member on duty whenever both male and female minors are housed in the facility; (E) in addition to the minimum staff to child ratio required in (c)(2)(A), consideration shall be given to the size, design, and location of the camp; types of offenders committed to the camp; and the function of the camp in determining the level of supervision necessary to maintain the safety and welfare of minors and staff; (F) personnel with primary responsibility for other duties such as administration, supervision of personnel, academic or trade instruction, clerical, farm, forestry, kitchen or maintenance shall not be classified as child supervision staff positions; and, (d) have sufficient food service personnel relative to the number and security of living units, including staff qualified and available to: plan menus meeting nutritional requirements of the sex and age groups fed; provide kitchen supervision; direct food preparation and servings; conduct related training programs for culinary staff; and maintain necessary records; or, a facility may serve food that meets nutritional standards prepared by an outside source; and, (e) have sufficient administrative, clerical, recreational, medical, dental, mental health, building maintenance and other support staff for the efficient management of the facility, and to ensure that child supervision staff shall not be diverted from supervising minors. (emphasis added)
Findings & Recommendations 1 findings
F1: The Grand Jury noted the main bath and shower room was used for cleaning supply storage.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: Cleaning supplies should be stored in a separate and secured area.
Findings & Recommendations 5 findings
F1: The Burton Creek facility lacks a secure passageway between the jail and courtroom, thus exposing staff, the public and prisoners to unnecessary safety risks. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The Board of Supervisors and the County Executive Officer agree with the finding. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director Concur with finding that the Burton Creek facility lacks a secure passageway.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: Build the safety corridor authorized in the County’s 2000-2001 budget, and carried over to fiscal year 2001-2002. If alternative audiovisual or other corrective measures are preferred, implement them within the current fiscal year. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The recommendation has not yet been implemented but it will be in the future. The construction of a safety corridor to move prisoners from holding cells into the courtroom will be completed by October 2002. Funding for this project is contained in the FY 2001-02 County Budget and such funds will be carried forward into FY 2002-03 to complete the project. The County Risk Manager and the Director of Facility Services also concurs with the recommendation. A copy of their response is also attached to this response. It should also be noted that on March 27, 2002 the Senior Management Analyst of the County Executive Office submitted a memorandum to the Director of the Risk Management Division informing him of the decision of the County Executive Officer to complete construction of the safety corridor and this action was communicated to the Grand Jury. A copy of this memorandum is attached to this response. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director Concur with recommendation to proceed with construction of new safety corridor. (cid:190) County Sheriff/Coroner Concur. Forwarded to the Director of County Facility Services.
F2: Employees who work on the second floor of the facility, and visitors to this area, are at significant risk in the event of fire emergency. Interior stairways are narrow, steep and may not be accessible, depending on where within the structure a fire may originate or spread. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The Board of Supervisors and the County Executive Officer disagree partially with the finding. Although there is some risk related to fire exposure within the building due to its age and configuration, the smoke and fire detection system is adequate to allow staff and other occupants to safely exit the building when necessary. It should also be noted that there is no safety or legal requirement to install an exterior escape. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director I am not qualified to determine degree of risk as claimed above.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: Add a second story external fire escape accessible to the Dispatch Center and other second floor occupants and visitors. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The recommendation has not yet been implemented but it will be in the future. An external fire escape from the second story level of the building to ground level will be installed to add an extra margin of safety for staff and other occupants of the building. The installation will be completed not later than October 2003. The estimated cost for the purchase and installation of the external fire escape is $26,000 and this amount will be included in the FY 2002-03 Final Budget as recommended by the County Executive Officer. The responses of the County Risk Manager and the Director of Facility Services are also attached to this response. It should be noted that on March 27, 2002 the Senior Management Analyst of the County Executive Office submitted a memorandum to the Director of the Risk Management Division informing him of the decision of the County Executive Officer to install the external fire escape and this decision was also communicated to the Grand Jury. A copy of this memorandum is attached to this response. As a final note, to ensure the safe operation of the fire escape, the County Risk Manager will be directed to conduct appropriate training for staff. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director Facility Service will construct external fire escape if directed/authorized to do so by either the County Executive or the Board of Supervisors. (cid:190) County Sheriff/Coroner Concur. Forwarded to the Director of County Facility Services.
F3: Defined areas of the facility are particularly susceptible to fire hazard. Among these are: • the Electrical Equipment/Radio Room (electrical fire); • the kitchen area (gas and electrical appliances); and • the Evidence Room (volatile chemical storage). Each area can be protected independently by installing a suitable fire suppression system, further protecting adjacent areas. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The Board of Supervisors and the County Executive Officer agree with the finding. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director I am not qualified to determine level of susceptibility to fire hazard.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: Install suitable fire suppression systems in each of the above designated “at risk” areas. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The recommendation has not yet been implemented but it will be in the future. The construction and installation of an appropriate and effective dry fire suppression system for each of the areas identified as at risk will be completed in FY 2002-03. The estimated cost for the overall system is approximately $50,000 and this amount is included as a recommended expenditure of the FY 2002-03 County Budget. The responses of the County Risk Manager and the Director of Facility Services are also attached to this response. It should be noted that on March 27, 2002 the Senior Management Analyst of the County Executive Office submitted a memorandum to the Director of the Risk Management Division informing him of the decision of the County Executive Officer to construct and install a fire suppression system in FY 2002-03 and this decision was communicated to the Grand Jury. A copy of this memorandum is attached to this response. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director Facility Services will install suitable fire suppression system if directed/authorized by either the County Executive or the Board of Supervisors. (cid:190) County Sheriff/Coroner Concur. Forwarded to the Director of County Facility Services.
F4: There is no fire barrier door at the stairwell intersection between the first and second floors. The absence of a suitable barrier could result in a fire spreading more rapidly and more widely throughout the facility. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The Board of Supervisors and the County Executive Officer disagree partially with the finding. Although there is no fire barrier door at the location indicated the installation of such a door may also create an unintended safety risk in the event of a fire in the building. As indicated in the attached response from the County Risk Manager, without a landing in conjunction with the fire barrier door bottlenecks may be created as individuals attempt to exit the building in an emergency. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director This statement is correct that there is no fire barrier door as indicated. It should be noted that there is no code requirement for such door.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: Install an “automatic release” fire door at the top of the stairwell in front of the Dispatch Center, in accordance with the District Fire Chief’s recommendation. (See Attachment 1.) Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The recommendation will not be implemented because it is not necessary given the existing fire prevention safety measures including a sophisticated fire and smoke detection system and a reliable evacuation plan. In addition, according to the County Risk Manager the installation of such a fire barrier door could create unintended safety risks in the way of bottlenecks as individuals attempt to exit the building in an emergency. A copy of the response of the County Risk Manager and the Director of Facility Services is also attached to this response. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director Facility Services will install such a door if directed/authorized by the County Executive or the Board of Supervisors. (cid:190) County Sheriff/Coroner Concur. Forwarded to the Director of County Facility Services.
F5: The North Tahoe Fire Department has no keys and cannot enter the Burton Creek facility when it is unoccupied. Should a fire occur during one of these periods, the Fire Department would have to breech security doors or windows to gain access, thus delaying fire fighting action. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The Board of Supervisors and the County Executive Officer agree with the finding. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director It is Facility Services understanding that there is always staff at the facility, either dispatch or deputies.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5: Provide 24-hour facility access to the Fire Department by installing key lock boxes in strategic locations, or develop some other suitably secure arrangement agreeable to the Sheriff’s Department and the District Fire Chief. Responses (cid:190) County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The recommendation has been implemented. As indicated in the attached memorandum from the County Risk Manager a lock box containing a key to enter the building to respond to emergencies including fire has been installed. This installation will provide access to the building at any hour and day for emergency personnel. (cid:190) County Facility Services Director Given the primary use of this building for Sheriff Operations, Facility Services recommends that a suitable secure arrangement be made between the Sheriff’s Department and the Fire Chief. (cid:190) County Sheriff/Coroner Concur. North Tahoe Substation commander is working with the fire department on procedures to implement the Grand Jury recommendation. Commendation The Grand Jury would like to take special note of the support and encouragement of diverse County agencies in its gathering of facts and background information to determine findings and recommendations. Based upon the presumption that adequate funding required for the recommended improvements (estimated at less than $150,000) will be made available by the County Executive Office, the Grand Jury received encouragement and supportive comments from the following organizations and individuals: • Burton Creek Station Commander • County Sheriff/Coroner • North Tahoe Fire District Division Chief • County Safety Director • County Director of Risk Management • Placer County Supervisor, District 5 In addition to endorsing the Grand Jury’s recommendations for an external fire escape and an interior fire suppression system in high-risk areas, the North Tahoe Fire District Division Chief suggested the addition of a fire resistant door at the stairwell entrance and provision of 24-hour key access to the facility. The Grand Jury supports those suggestions and has incorporated them in its list of recommended safety improvement priorities. Respondents County Board of Supervisors County Executive Office County Facility Services Director County Sheriff/Coroner North Tahoe Fire District Division Chief County Risk Management Division RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO: The Honorable James D. Garbolino Presiding Judge Superior Court County of Placer Historic Court House 101 Maple Street Auburn, California 95603 ATTACHMENT 1, ATTACHMENT 1, ATTACHMENT 2 ATTACHMENT 3 ATTACHMENTS TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RESPONSE ATTACHMENTS TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RESPONSE ATTACHMENTS TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RESPONSE ATTACHMENTS TO THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS RESPONSE
Findings & Recommendations 5 findings
F1: Evening security at branch libraries, particularly those libraries with two or fewer employees, is seriously lacking. > The Board of Supervisors disagrees with the finding. Although the level of security may be improved within the Library system, current measures and safeguards implemented by the County Librarian are sufficient to ensure a reasonable level of safety.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The library staff should provide a more institutionalized method for a security system. The staffs at the libraries we visited have implemented their own, albeit informal, systems for their own security. > The recommendation has been implemented. As indicated in the attached response from the County Librarian, employees attend personal safety training classes, and protocols have been developed to deal with situations and individuals who may pose a safety threat. For example, evening work shifts include two or more employees and, on occasion, patrons may assist staff by observing individuals and maintaining their presence within the library as needed. The County Librarian is also in the process of reviewing other measures that may increase the level of safety for employees. These measures will be reviewed by the Risk Management Division and the County Executive Officer for comment and direction.
F2: The current procedure of relying on the staff to monitor Internet use is inadequate and time consuming for staff. > The Board of Supervisors disagrees with the finding. Although it is possible to increase the level of efficiency in one or more functions of the library operation, it is also necessary to consider available resources and apply those resources to achieve the overall goals and 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports mission of the Library in serving all its patrons. The Board of Supervisors agrees with the conclusion of the County Librarian that, given the size of the library system, its available resources, the level of use of the internet within each of the branches of the system, and the changing level of technology and the cost of this technology, the current system is adequate at the present time.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: A more positive, pro-active system for the monitoring of minors' use of computers with Internet access should be implemented. Automated systems of monitoring computer time use are feasible to free the staff from these duties. Whenever possible adult computer use should be separate from the areas used by minors. > The recommendation has been implemented. As indicated in the attached response from the County Librarian, the current system to monitor the use of the internet at the branches, including monitoring appropriate internet site visits, is adequate, pro-active, fair and effective for all users. Use of library computers for each patron is dependent upon the number of computers within each facility and the number of patrons requesting use at any given time. As a general policy, each patron is given at least 30 minutes of computer time each day. However, the actual time may vary (increase or decrease) from branch to branch. The staff monitors both the time allotment for each patron and appropriate internet site visits for both adults and minors. The County Librarian reports that the system, although manual, works well and is also accepted by patrons. She will also continue to research and investigate the possible use of automated systems that may be a feasible substitute for the current manual system. In the larger branches, the computer monitors are separated by location for adults and minors. However, the purpose of the separation is to ensure a fair balance of computer use, and is not just for the purpose of monitoring appropriate internet site visits.
F3: County librarian salaries are the lowest of any professional classification in its system. > The Board of Supervisors disagrees with the finding. Although a study was conducted by the staff of the Library, the results and conclusions of this study have not yet been verified by the County Personnel Department. 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports
Related Recommendations (1)
R3: Placer County should look at the current pay scale of its library personnel to bring the employees in conformance with other professional classifications. > The recommendation has been implemented. The County Personnel Department is in the process of reviewing the level of compensation for the job classifications used for the professional staff of the County This matter is also subject to the provisions of labor Library. negotiation and agreement, and that process is also underway. The results and actions of the review by the Personnel Department will be completed by the end of December 2002. Commendation The 2001-2002 Grand Jury was particularly impressed by the professionalism and dedication of the head librarian and her staff. They make good use of current resources. Respondents Placer County Board of Supervisors Placer County Director of Library Services
F4: There appears to be little understanding or awareness of this type of financing on the part of the public. 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports
Related Recommendations (1)
R4: The Colfax Elementary School Board needs to educate itself through a class, on the functions and responsibilities of board membership. It is recommended that Board members attend State and County School Board conferences to further their knowledge of current issues and more closely define the role of school boards. The whole community of Colfax School District residents needs also to take a greater interest in the functioning of their school district. 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports Respondents Colfax Elementary School Board Superintendent, Colfax Elementary School District Placer County Superintendent of Schools
F5: The North Tahoe Fire Department has no keys and cannot enter the Burton Creek facility when it is unoccupied. Should a fire occur during one of these periods, the Fire Department would have to breech security doors or windows to gain access, thus delaying fire fighting action. Responses County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The Board of Supervisors and the County Executive Officer agree with the finding. County Facility Services Director It is Facility Services understanding that there is always staff at the facility, either dispatch or deputies.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5: Provide 24-hour facility access to the Fire Department by installing key lock boxes in strategic locations, or develop some other suitably secure arrangement agreeable to the Sheriff's Department and the District Fire Chief. Responses County Board of Supervisors and County Executive Officer The recommendation has been implemented. As indicated in the attached memorandum from the County Risk Manager a lock box containing a key to enter the building to respond to emergencies including fire has been installed. This installation will provide access to the building at any hour and day for emergency personnel. 2001-2002 Placer County Grand Jury Final Reports County Facility Services Director Given the primary use of this building for Sheriff Operations, Facility Services recommends that a suitable secure arrangement be made between the Sheriff's Department and the Fire Chief. County Sheriff/Coroner North Tahoe Substation commander is working with the fire Concur. department on procedures to implement the Grand Jury recommendation. Commendation The Grand Jury would like to take special note of the support and encouragement of diverse County agencies in its gathering of facts and background information to determine findings and recommendations. Based upon the presumption that adequate funding required for the recommended improvements (estimated at less than $150,000) will be made available by the County Executive Office, the Grand Jury received encouragement and supportive comments from the following organizations and individuals:
Findings & Recommendations 4 findings
F1: The following table represents the principal balance due on COP/Enterprise Funds as of June 30, 2001. Interest that will be paid over the term of the lease has not been computed as the figure can change through re-financing the COPs or converting them into Revenue Bonds. Schools: District Remaining Principal Auburn Union $27,443,580 Eureka 502,000 Placer County Office of Education 3,200,000 Loomis Union 7,000,000 Placer Union High 3,534,208 Placer Hills Union 680,000 Roseville Joint Union High 2,320,000 Roseville City Schools 22,500,000 Tahoe-Truckee Union 15,631,000 Western Placer Unified 8,035,000 Sierra Community College 5,200,000 Total $92,845,788 Cities: Remaining Principal Auburn $2,325,000 Rocklin 3,019,610 Roseville 87,140,000 Total $92,484,610 Placer County: Total $29,961,000 Special Districts: North Tahoe Public Utility District $7,310,000 Placer County Water Agency 54,150,000 Total $61,460,000 COP Totals: School Districts $92,845,788 Cities 92,484,610 Placer County 29,961,000 Special Districts 61,460,000 Total outstanding obligation in Placer County as of June 30,2001 $276,751,398 As a point of reference, if $276,751,400 at 5.5% matured in 15 years, the total cost would be $407,032,182. If the same $276,751,400 at 5.5% matured in 25 years, the total cost would be $509,848,719. This is assuming all COPs matured at the same time at the same rate of interest.
F2: All COPs issued were legally initiated and implemented.
F3: There is no central repository that has on file COP information for all agencies within the County.
F4: There appears to be little understanding or awareness of this type of financing on the part of the public.
Findings & Recommendations 2 findings
F1: The Post Retirement Medical Fund was created through collective bargaining agreements and is not to be invaded for any reason other than in conformance with the original provisions or as may be modified by future negotiations between the parties.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1: The 2002-2003 Grand Jury should continue monitoring the Post Retirement Medical Fund.
F2: The Grand Jury attended Sierra College Community Board meetings. During these meetings it seemed the Board did not put adequate effort into answering questions from the public. Occasionally the public was not treated with courtesy.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2: In order to provide a more positive image with the public, the Board needs to be aware of providing time in answering questions and concerns from the public. Commendation The Sierra College Board should be commended for its focus on providing a valuable resource to a large and growing community. The curriculum is vast, innovative and varied, serving people of all ages and interests. No response is required.

Additional documents

Documents found alongside this year's reports — not grand jury reports or responses.