El Dorado County Grand Jury • 2010-2011

El Dorado County Grand Jury 2010-2011 Pioneer Fire Protection District Case Number Gj010-014 Reason for Report The El

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Findings and Recommendations 5 findings

F1
All witnesses interviewed confirm that during 2010 the conduct of business by the PFPD BOD was dysfunctional, plagued by disharmony, conflict, and tension. One member of the Board characterized the conduct of business as a “convoluted mess”.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
The actions of the BOD resulted in a lawsuit by the Chief of PFPD against the BOD. This lawsuit was settled and ultimately cost the District $122,500. The lawsuit and settlement may have been contributing factors in the resignation of three of five BOD members resigning in August 2010, including the individual involved in the multiple complaints.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
The Fire Chief is seen by all parties interviewed to be competent in managing the day-to-day operations of PFPD.
No recommendations for this finding
F4
A grievance procedure is not readily available for use by employees. There is no grievance form. A grievance procedure exists, but is referenced only in the BOD’s Policy Manual Section 4.2 (Personnel - Grievance & Appeal).
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
A grievance procedure and grievance form should be developed without delay and be made available to all employees. RESPONSES Responses to both numbered findings and recommendations in this report are required in accordance with California Penal Code §933 and §933.05. Address responses to: The Honorable Suzanne N. Kingsbury, Presiding Judge of the El Dorado County Superior Court, 1354 Johnson Blvd., South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150. Report provided to PFPD BOD Chairperson for response. Elected officials under statute are given 60 days to respond, and non-elected officials are provided a 90-day response period from the release date of this report.
F5
There are no written bylaws to govern the District. There are several policy manuals which overlap, and are not directed to the proper areas of authority and responsibility. The BOD is using policies and procedures in lieu of bylaws.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
The urgent need for bylaws demands the immediate attention of the District. LAFCO should be consulted for assistance. The bylaws should include a process for the removal of a Board Member from office.

Agency Responses 1

Government agencies' official responses to this report's findings and recommendations. Click on a response to see the structured breakdown.