Santa Cruz County Grand Jury
• 2005-2006
PDF of complete 2005-2006 Grand Jury Final Report
⚠️ Translation Notice: This content has been automatically translated. The original English text is the official version. Translation may contain errors.
⚠️ Este contenido ha sido traducido automáticamente. El texto original en inglés es la versión oficial. La traducción puede contener errores.
Note: Missing finding numbers detected: F4, F6, F7, F11, F14, F16, F17, F19, F20, F25, F29, F46, F57, F60, F74, F78, F82, F85, F103, F114, F131, F132, F133, F134, F135, F136, F137, F138, F139, F140, F141, F142, F143, F144, F145, F146, F147, F148, F149, F150, F151, F152, F153, F154, F155, F156, F157, F158, F159, F160, F161, F162, F163, F164, F165, F166, F167, F168, F169, F170, F171, F172, F173, F174, F175, F176, F177, F178, F179, F180, F181, F182, F183, F184, F185, F186, F187, F188, F189, F190, F191, F192, F193, F194, F195, F196, F197, F198, F199, F200, F201, F202, F203, F204, F205, F206, F207, F208, F209, F210, F211, F212, F213, F214, F215, F216, F217, F218, F219, F220, F221, F222, F223, F224, F225, F226, F227, F228, F229, F230, F231, F232, F233, F234, F235, F236, F237, F238, F239, F240, F241, F242, F243, F244, F245, F246, F247, F248, F249, F250, F251, F252, F253, F254, F255, F256, F257, F258, F259, F260, F261, F262, F263, F264, F265, F266, F267, F268, F269, F270, F271, F272, F273, F274, F275, F276, F277, F278, F279, F280, F281, F282, F283, F284, F285, F286, F287, F288, F289, F290, F291, F292, F293, F294, F295, F296, F297, F298, F299, F300, F301, F302, F303, F304, F305, F306, F307, F308, F309, F310, F311, F312, F313, F314, F315, F316, F317, F318, F319, F320, F321, F322, F323, F324, F325, F326, F327, F328, F329, F330, F331, F332, F333, F334, F335, F336, F337, F338, F339, F340, F341, F342, F343, F344, F345, F346, F347, F348, F349, F350, F351, F352, F353, F354, F355, F356, F357, F358, F359, F360, F361, F362, F363, F364, F365, F366, F367, F368, F369, F370, F371, F372, F373, F374, F375, F376, F377, F378, F379, F380, F381, F382, F383, F384, F385, F386, F387, F388, F389, F390, F391, F392, F393, F394, F395, F396, F397, F398, F399, F400, F401, F402, F403, F404, F405, F406, F407, F408, F409, F410, F411, F412, F413, F414, F415, F416, F417, F418, F419, F420, F421, F422, F423, F424, F425, F426, F427, F428, F429, F430, F431, F432, F433, F434, F435, F436, F437, F438, F439, F440, F441, F442, F443, F444, F445, F446, F447, F448, F449, F450, F451, F452, F453, F454, F455, F456, F457, F458, F459, F460, F461, F462, F463, F464, F465, F466, F467, F468, F469, F470, F471, F472, F473, F474, F475, F476, F477, F478, F479, F480, F481, F482, F483, F484, F485, F486, F487, F488, F489, F490, F491, F492, F493, F494, F495, F496, F497, F498, F499, F500, F501, F502, F503, F504, F505, F506, F507, F508, F509, F510, F511, F512, F513, F514, F515, F516, F517, F518, F519, F520, F521, F522, F523, F524, F525, F526, F527, F528, F529, F530, F531, F532, F533, F534, F535, F536, F537, F538, F539, F540, F541, F542, F543, F544, F545, F546, F547, F548, F549, F550, F551, F552, F553, F554, F555, F556, F557, F558, F559, F560, F561, F562, F563, F564, F565, F566, F567, F568, F569, F570, F571, F572, F573, F574, F575, F576, F577, F578, F579, F580, F581, F582, F583, F584, F585, F586, F587, F588, F589, F590, F591, F592, F593, F594, F595, F596, F597, F598, F599, F600, F601, F602, F603, F604, F605, F606, F607, F608, F609, F610, F611, F612, F613, F614, F615, F616, F617, F618, F619, F620, F621, F622, F623, F624, F625, F626, F627, F628, F629, F630, F631, F632, F633, F634, F635, F636, F637, F638, F639, F640, F641, F642, F643, F644, F645, F646, F647, F648, F649, F650, F651, F652, F653, F654, F655, F656, F657, F658, F659, F660, F661, F662, F663, F664, F665, F666, F667, F668, F669, F670, F671, F672, F673, F674, F675, F676, F677, F678, F679, F680, F681, F682, F683, F684, F685, F686, F687, F688, F689, F690, F691, F692, F693, F694, F695, F696, F697, F698, F699, F700, F701, F702, F703, F704, F705, F706, F707, F708, F709, F710, F711, F712, F713, F714, F715, F716, F717, F718, F719, F720, F721, F722, F723, F724, F725, F726, F727, F728, F729, F730, F731, F732, F733, F734, F735, F736, F737, F738, F739, F740, F741, F742, F743, F744, F745, F746, F747, F748, F749, F750, F751, F752, F753, F754, F755, F756, F757, F758, F759, F760, F761, F762, F763, F764, F765, F766, F767, F768, F769, F770, F771, F772, F773, F774, F775, F776, F777, F778, F779, F780, F781, F782, F783, F784, F785, F786, F787, F788, F789, F790, F791, F792, F793, F794, F795, F796, F797, F798, F799, F800, F801, F802, F803, F804, F805, F806, F807, F808, F809, F810, F811, F812, F813, F814, F815, F816, F817, F818, F819, F820, F821, F822, F823, F824, F825, F826, F827, F828, F829, F830, F831, F832, F833, F834, F835, F836, F837, F838, F839, F840, F841, F842, F843, F844, F845, F846, F847, F848, F849, F850, F851, F852, F853, F854, F855, F856, F857, F858, F859, F860, F861, F862, F863, F864, F865, F866, F867, F868, F869, F870, F871, F872, F873, F874, F875, F876, F877, F878, F879, F880, F881, F882, F883, F884, F885, F886, F887, F888, F889, F890, F891, F892, F893, F894, F895, F896, F897, F898, F899, F900, F901, F902, F903, F904, F905, F906, F907, F908, F909, F910, F911, F912, F913, F914, F915, F916, F917, F918, F919, F920, F921, F922, F923, F924, F925, F926, F927, F928, F929, F930, F931, F932, F933, F934, F935, F936, F937, F938, F939, F940, F941, F942, F943, F944, F945, F946, F947, F948, F949, F950, F951, F952, F953, F954, F955, F956, F957, F958, F959, F960, F961, F962, F963, F964, F965, F966, F967, F968, F969, F970, F971, F972, F973, F974, F975, F976, F977, F978, F979, F980, F981, F982, F983, F984, F985, F986, F987, F988, F989, F990, F991, F992, F993, F994, F995, F996, F997, F998, F999, F1000, F1001, F1002, F1003, F1004, F1005, F1006, F1007, F1008, F1009, F1010, F1011, F1012, F1013, F1014, F1015, F1016, F1017, F1018, F1019, F1020, F1021, F1022, F1023, F1024, F1025, F1026, F1027, F1028, F1029, F1030, F1031, F1032, F1033, F1034, F1035, F1036, F1037, F1038, F1039, F1040, F1041, F1042, F1043, F1044, F1045, F1046, F1047, F1048, F1049, F1050, F1051, F1052, F1053, F1054, F1055, F1056, F1057, F1058, F1059, F1060, F1061, F1062, F1063, F1064, F1065, F1066, F1067, F1068, F1069, F1070, F1071, F1072, F1073, F1074, F1075, F1076, F1077, F1078, F1079, F1080, F1081, F1082, F1083, F1084, F1085, F1086, F1087, F1088, F1089, F1090, F1091, F1092, F1093, F1094, F1095, F1096, F1097, F1098, F1099, F1100, F1101, F1102, F1103, F1104, F1105, F1106, F1107, F1108, F1109, F1110, F1111, F1112, F1113, F1114, F1115, F1116, F1117, F1118, F1119, F1120, F1121, F1122, F1123, F1124, F1125, F1126, F1127, F1128, F1129, F1130, F1131, F1132, F1133, F1134, F1135, F1136, F1137, F1138, F1139, F1140, F1141, F1142, F1143, F1144, F1145, F1146, F1147, F1148, F1149, F1150, F1151, F1152, F1153, F1154, F1155, F1156, F1157, F1158, F1159, F1160, F1161, F1162, F1163, F1164, F1165, F1166, F1167, F1168, F1169, F1170, F1171, F1172, F1173, F1174, F1175, F1176, F1177, F1178, F1179, F1180, F1181, F1182, F1183, F1184, F1185, F1186, F1187, F1188, F1189, F1190, F1191, F1192, F1193, F1194, F1195, F1196, F1197, F1198, F1199, F1200, F1201, F1202, F1203, F1204, F1205, F1206, F1207, F1208, F1209, F1210, F1211, F1212, F1213, F1214, F1215, F1216, F1217, F1218, F1219, F1220, F1221, F1222, F1223, F1224, F1225, F1226, F1227, F1228, F1229, F1230, F1231, F1232, F1233, F1234, F1235, F1236, F1237, F1238, F1239, F1240, F1241, F1242, F1243, F1244, F1245, F1246, F1247, F1248, F1249, F1250, F1251, F1252, F1253, F1254, F1255, F1256, F1257, F1258, F1259, F1260, F1261, F1262, F1263, F1264, F1265, F1266, F1267, F1268, F1269, F1270, F1271, F1272, F1273, F1274, F1275, F1276, F1277, F1278, F1279, F1280, F1281, F1282, F1283, F1284, F1285, F1286, F1287, F1288, F1289, F1290, F1291, F1292, F1293, F1294, F1295, F1296, F1297, F1298, F1299, F1300, F1301, F1302, F1303, F1304, F1305, F1306, F1307, F1308, F1309, F1310, F1311, F1312, F1313, F1314, F1315, F1316, F1317, F1318, F1319, F1320, F1321, F1322, F1323, F1324, F1325, F1326, F1327, F1328, F1329, F1330, F1331, F1332, F1333, F1334, F1335, F1336, F1337, F1338, F1339, F1340, F1341, F1342, F1343, F1344, F1345, F1346, F1347, F1348, F1349, F1350, F1351, F1352, F1353, F1354, F1355, F1356, F1357, F1358, F1359, F1360, F1361, F1362, F1363, F1364, F1365, F1366, F1367, F1368, F1369, F1370, F1371, F1372, F1373, F1374, F1375, F1376, F1377, F1378, F1379, F1380, F1381, F1382, F1383, F1384, F1385, F1386, F1387, F1388, F1389, F1390, F1391, F1392, F1393, F1394, F1395, F1396, F1397, F1398, F1399, F1400, F1401, F1402, F1403, F1404, F1405, F1406, F1407, F1408, F1409, F1410, F1411, F1412, F1413, F1414, F1415, F1416, F1417, F1418, F1419, F1420, F1421, F1422, F1423, F1424, F1425, F1426, F1427, F1428, F1429, F1430, F1431, F1432, F1433, F1434, F1435, F1436, F1437, F1438, F1439, F1440, F1441, F1442, F1443, F1444, F1445, F1446, F1447, F1448, F1449, F1450, F1451, F1452, F1453, F1454, F1455, F1456, F1457, F1458, F1459, F1460, F1461, F1462, F1463, F1464, F1465, F1466, F1467, F1468, F1469, F1470, F1471, F1472, F1473, F1474, F1475, F1476, F1477, F1478, F1479, F1480, F1481, F1482, F1483, F1484, F1485, F1486, F1487, F1488, F1489, F1490, F1491, F1492, F1493, F1494, F1495, F1496, F1497, F1498, F1499, F1500, F1501, F1502, F1503, F1504, F1505, F1506, F1507, F1508, F1509, F1510, F1511, F1512, F1513, F1514, F1515, F1516, F1517, F1518, F1519, F1520, F1521, F1522, F1523, F1524, F1525, F1526, F1527, F1528, F1529, F1530, F1531, F1532, F1533, F1534, F1535, F1536, F1537, F1538, F1539, F1540, F1541, F1542, F1543, F1544, F1545, F1546, F1547, F1548, F1549, F1550, F1551, F1552, F1553, F1554, F1555, F1556, F1557, F1558, F1559, F1560, F1561, F1562, F1563, F1564, F1565, F1566, F1567, F1568, F1569, F1570, F1571, F1572, F1573, F1574, F1575, F1576, F1577, F1578, F1579, F1580, F1581, F1582, F1583, F1584, F1585, F1586, F1587, F1588, F1589, F1590, F1591, F1592, F1593, F1594, F1595, F1596, F1597, F1598, F1599, F1600, F1601, F1602, F1603, F1604, F1605, F1606, F1607, F1608, F1609, F1610, F1611, F1612, F1613, F1614, F1615, F1616, F1617, F1618, F1619, F1620, F1621, F1622, F1623, F1624, F1625, F1626, F1627, F1628, F1629, F1630, F1631, F1632, F1633, F1634, F1635, F1636, F1637, F1638, F1639, F1640, F1641, F1642, F1643, F1644, F1645, F1646, F1647, F1648, F1649, F1650, F1651, F1652, F1653, F1654, F1655, F1656, F1657, F1658, F1659, F1660, F1661, F1662, F1663, F1664, F1665, F1666, F1667, F1668, F1669, F1670, F1671, F1672, F1673, F1674, F1675, F1676, F1677, F1678, F1679, F1680, F1681, F1682, F1683, F1684, F1685, F1686, F1687, F1688, F1689, F1690, F1691, F1692, F1693, F1694, F1695, F1696, F1697, F1698, F1699, F1700, F1701, F1702, F1703, F1704, F1705, F1706, F1707, F1708, F1709, F1710, F1711, F1712, F1713, F1714, F1715, F1716, F1717, F1718, F1719, F1720, F1721, F1722, F1723, F1724, F1725, F1726, F1727, F1728, F1729, F1730, F1731, F1732, F1733, F1734, F1735, F1736, F1737, F1738, F1739, F1740, F1741, F1742, F1743, F1744, F1745, F1746, F1747, F1748, F1749, F1750, F1751, F1752, F1753, F1754, F1755, F1756, F1757, F1758, F1759, F1760, F1761, F1762, F1763, F1764, F1765, F1766, F1767, F1768, F1769, F1770, F1771, F1772, F1773, F1774, F1775, F1776, F1777, F1778, F1779, F1780, F1781, F1782, F1783, F1784, F1785, F1786, F1787, F1788, F1789, F1790, F1791, F1792, F1793, F1794, F1795, F1796, F1797, F1798, F1799, F1800, F1801, F1802, F1803, F1804, F1805, F1806, F1807, F1808, F1809, F1810, F1811, F1812, F1813, F1814, F1815, F1816, F1817, F1818, F1819, F1820, F1821, F1822, F1823, F1824, F1825, F1826, F1827, F1828, F1829, F1830, F1831, F1832, F1833, F1834, F1835, F1836, F1837, F1838, F1839, F1840, F1841, F1842, F1843, F1844, F1845, F1846, F1847, F1848, F1849, F1850, F1851, F1852, F1853, F1854, F1855, F1856, F1857, F1858, F1859, F1860, F1861, F1862, F1863, F1864, F1865, F1866, F1867, F1868, F1869, F1870, F1871, F1872, F1873, F1874, F1875, F1876, F1877, F1878, F1879, F1880, F1881, F1882, F1883, F1884, F1885, F1886, F1887, F1888, F1889, F1890, F1891, F1892, F1893, F1894, F1895, F1896, F1897, F1898, F1899, F1900, F1901, F1902, F1903, F1904, F1905, F1906, F1907, F1908, F1909, F1910, F1911, F1912, F1913, F1914, F1915, F1916, F1917, F1918, F1919, F1920, F1921, F1922, F1923, F1924, F1925, F1926, F1927, F1928, F1929, F1930, F1931, F1932, F1933, F1934, F1935, F1936, F1937, F1938, F1939, F1940, F1941, F1942, F1943, F1944, F1945, F1946, F1947, F1948, F1949, F1950, F1951, F1952, F1953, F1954, F1955, F1956, F1957, F1958, F1959, F1960, F1961, F1962, F1963, F1964, F1965, F1966, F1967, F1968, F1969, F1970, F1971, F1972, F1973, F1974, F1975, F1976, F1977, F1978, F1979, F1980, F1981, F1982, F1983, F1984, F1985, F1986, F1987, F1988, F1989, F1990, F1991, F1992, F1993, F1994, F1995, F1996, F1997, F1998, F1999, F2000, F2001
Findings and Recommendations 111 findings
F1
Page 33
The Grand Jury recommends that the Santa Cruz County Auditor initiate an outside, independent audit to scrutinize the bond sales and refinancing, and expenditure of bond funds. If there was surplus cash gained from the refinancing, it should be accounted for and used to reduce the bond debt.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
Page 20
Total Elementary bond sales, Series A, B, and C exceeded the $28 million dollar cap established in Bond Measure E.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
Page 20
When asked about exceeding the $28 million cap on the Elementary bonds, district administrative staff referred the Grand Jury’s questions to the district’s bond financial advisor, Northcross, Hill and Ach. The Grand Jury was told, “Unintentionally, $98,115.65 was issued in bonds over the 28 million dollar amount approved by the voters. The district has made provision to repay the $98,115.65 and all interest that has accrued.” The amount of the interest earned is unknown to the Grand Jury. Official Statements, Santa Cruz City Elementary School District, General Obligation Bonds, Election of 1998, Series A, B, and C; Official Statements, Santa Cruz City High School District, General Obligation Bonds, Election of 1998, Series A, B, C; Official Statement, Santa Cruz City Elementary School District, 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds; Official Statement, Santa Cruz City High School District, 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds. - 10 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 4. The last of the original Elementary bonds was sold in 2001, but repayment of the $98,115.65 overage has not yet been made as of June 10, 2006.
No recommendations for this finding
F5
Page 21
When Elementary and High School Bonds, Series A and B were refinanced in April 2005, the total amount of the refunding bonds was $4,280,000 higher than the remaining principal of the original Series A and B bonds. The Elementary Series A and B Bonds were refinanced for $22,785,000 (the outstanding principal was $21,030,000); the High School Series A and B Bonds were refinanced for $45,500,000 (the outstanding principal was $42,975,000).8 6. SCCS District’s bond financial advisor stated that “the amount of the refunding bonds is determined by the amount needed to establish an escrow to pay off the old bonds, which includes interest and principal due . . . and pay the costs of issuance.” 7. Elementary bonds, Series C and Elementary 2005 Refunding Bonds total $28,383,115.65, again exceeding the $28 million cap established by the bond measure.
No recommendations for this finding
F8
Page 21
The April 2005 refinancing of the Elementary and High School Bonds, Series A and B is not detailed on the SCCS Bond Projects Budget, Report from July 1, 1998 to April 30, 2006.
No recommendations for this finding
F9
Page 21
According to the Official Statements for the bond sales, property owners residing in the Santa Cruz City Schools District will be repaying bonds E and H until 2029.
No recommendations for this finding
F10
Page 21
The Voter Information Pamphlet for Bond Measures E and H contained an “impartial analysis by County Counsel” stating that “under current California law, the term of the bonds cannot exceed twenty-five years.”9 This term is also stated in the California Education Code, Section 15144: “The number of years the whole or any part of the bonds are to run shall not exceed 25 years, from the date of the bonds or the date of any series thereof.”10 11. On April 13, 2005, the SCCS Board of Education passed resolutions authorizing the refinancing (refunding) of the general obligation Bond Measures E and H, Series A and B to take advantage of decreased interest rates.
No recommendations for this finding
F12
Page 21
SCCS District’s bond financial advisor stated that the refunding of the bonds will result in lower debt service payments, with the majority of savings in 2006-2010, and that the refinancing will lower taxes.
No recommendations for this finding
F13
Page 21
For tax year 2004-2005, property owners residing in the Santa Cruz City Schools District within the City of Santa Cruz were paying property taxes at a rate of .068% toward bonds E and H. In tax year 2005-2006, the rate increased to .081%. Official Statement, Santa Cruz City Elementary School District, 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds; Official Statement, Santa Cruz City High School District, 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds. County of Santa Cruz Sample Ballot and Voter Information Pamphlet for Special School District Election, Tuesday, April 14, 1998. California Education Code, Section 15144, http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cacodes/edc.html. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 11 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 14. Interest earned on bond sale proceeds has been used for the bond projects and has not been used to repay the bond.11 15. As property tax is collected to repay bonds E and H, the money is deposited in the pooled investment fund of the county until the district draws it out. These deposits earn interest. Budget Expense Summary 16. Following is a summary of the SCCS Bond Projects Budget expenses from July 1, 1998 to April 30, 2006:12 ITEM EXPENSE PERCENTAGE OF EXPENSES Construction Contracts $82,431,328 74% Architects/Engineers $11,212,596 10% Construction Management $6,928,864 6% Miscellaneous Construction Costs $4,178,084 4% Reserves $3,901,483 4% Staff Salaries and Other Support $2,225,522 2% TOTAL EXPENSES $110,877,877 100% Table 3. Summary of SCCS Bond Projects Budget Expenses, July 1, 1998 to April 30, 2006. Project Management 17. In January 2001, the Bond Projects staff requested authority from the school board and the BOC to use their discretion before bidding projects in the future, and to decide whether to bid projects with one general contractor or use multiple-prime contractors.
No recommendations for this finding
F15
Page 74
There have been no escapes in the past year.
No recommendations for this finding
F18
Page 22
Results of the first four major bond projects undertaken at one high school, one junior high school and two elementary were described as follows: “All four projects were completed late, two of the four projects are over budget, the quality of some of the work was sub-standard on two projects, and sub-standard work was allowed to stand when first done, assuming it would be rectified as part of the punch list at the end of the projects, but after many spaces had been reoccupied. Some work that was planned to be included in some projects was left out of the initial plans and specs and had to be added with change orders, adding time and cost to the project.”13 19. At the October 24, 2001, SCCS Board of Education meeting, district administrative staff dissatisfaction with the ability of the construction managers to monitor and 11 Santa Cruz City Schools, Bond Projects Budget, Report from July 11, 1998 to April 30, 2006. Santa Cruz City Schools, Bond Projects Budget, Report from July 11, 1998 to April 30, 2006. Santa Cruz City Schools, Request for Proposals, Management Services for Construction Projects, 2001. - 12 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools control the work on multiple prime projects was reported. District staff recommended: • bidding future construction projects using general contractors • terminating the two elementary and secondary Construction Managers’ contracts • increasing Inspector of Record time on projects to better monitor quality of work • increasing architect involvement in construction administration • reorganizing district support and oversight of projects • pre-qualifying bidders for future projects 20. District administrative staff stated that using general contractors had the advantages of less contract administration, total coverage of work, and direct lines of accountability. Disadvantages were that the general contractor might not select the lowest subcontractor bid and could charge up to a fifteen percent markup on subcontractor change orders.14 District administrative staff stated that using general contractors could cost more, but there would be clear lines of responsibility and “headaches would be reduced.” 21. On November 15, 2001, district administrative staff reported to the BOC that the SCCS Board had approved a plan to hire a consultant to provide general oversight and management of the construction program. The board’s preference was to hire professionals in the construction management field to manage future projects, instead of having district employees in the project management role. The board stated that it did not have confidence that district employees could provide management, in light of the problems that had been reported by school staff at Branciforte Junior High on that school’s projects.15 22. Seven firms responded to the district’s Request for Proposal (RFP) for a construction program manager. Three finalists were interviewed, and Strategic Construction Management was chosen by the SCCS Board as the Construction Program Manager to be effective February 1, 2002. District administrative staff and volunteers stated the board liked the fact that Strategic Construction Management was local and had ties to the community.
No recommendations for this finding
F21
Page 56
Runway 8-26 increases airport availability from ninety-four (94%) to ninety-nine percent (99%). Crosswind Runway 8-26 is particularly important during adverse wind and fog conditions14 prevalent in the summer. Summer weekends tend to be the busiest time at the airport.
No recommendations for this finding
F22
Page 56
Runway 8-26 can keep the airport open during maintenance of Runway 2-20 or if an accident closes 2-20 again.
No recommendations for this finding
F23
Page 23
The district has not been able to produce the fixed-price bids and requested supporting documentation for this selection process. This documentation is public record.
No recommendations for this finding
F24
Page 23
The Grand Jury could find no documentation that the bids for the Construction Program Manager were opened publicly as required by the Public Contract Code.16 14 “Advantages/Disadvantages of Using Multiple Prime v. Single General Contractor, agenda packet, Bond Oversight Committee meeting, January 27, 2000. Santa Cruz City School Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes, November 15, 2001. California Public Contract Code, Section 10180, http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/code/contents.html?sec=pcc The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 13 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 25. “Previously, the district used its staff to oversee multiple contractors at individual schools. Officials expect the new system, which includes hiring a general contractor for each project, will simplify the process and attract more bids, particularly from area contractors. The district will pay Strategic $1.2 million. District officials expect to finish all projects by December 2004.”17 26. Construction Management budgets were reduced by $2,128,663 due to termination of the two previous Construction Management contracts. Architect Fee budgets were then increased $1,288,160 for increased services for construction administration due to reorganization of management for the projects. These adjustments, when combined with the new Strategic Construction Management contract for $1.2 million, produced an immediate overall increase for the bond projects of over $360,000.
No recommendations for this finding
F26
Page 77
The Grand Jury observed that the four visiting stations were clean and generally well maintained. Appointments for visiting are scheduled in advance and are usually for one hour, two times per week. Visitors cannot be on parole or have been in custody within the past sixty days.
No recommendations for this finding
F27
Page 24
Since February 1, 2002, there have been numerous contract extensions and additional payments approved for Strategic Construction Management, summarized as follows: Original Moving Contract Contract Moving Contract Contract18 Services19 Renewal20 Extension21 Contract22 Extension23 TOTAL Term 2/2/02 – 8/23/02 – 3/1/04 – 10/1/05 – 5/05 – 7/1/06 – 2/28/04 2/28/04 8/31/05 6/30/06 9/05 12/31/06 Amount $1,205,104 $99,825 $958,058 $374,325 $27,254 $224,500 $2,889,066 Table 4. Approved Contracts for Strategic Construction Management Paid by Bond Funds.
No recommendations for this finding
F28
Page 24
In addition to bond funds, payments totaling $68,273 to Strategic Construction Management have been approved by the SCCS Board: $48,221 from the General Fund to “plan and coordinate moving of furniture, equipment and supplies (March 24, 2004); and $20,052 from the Capital Facilities Fund to “plan and coordinate the relocation of 21 portable classrooms” (April 21, 2004). Santa Cruz Sentinel, “Firm will oversee school construction projects,” February 15, 2002. Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, February 27, 2002. Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, August 14, 2002. Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, December 10, 2003. Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, June 8, 2005 22 Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, June 8, 2005. Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, April 26, 2006. - 14 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 29. In the RFP for Management Services for Construction Projects that was part of the Strategic Construction Management Agreement with the district, one requirement is to “plan and coordinate the moving of staff, furniture, material and equipment related to the construction projects.” Strategic Construction Management submitted a fixed fee proposal to secure this contract.
No recommendations for this finding
F30
Page 25
In March 2002, the board approved a district Construction Projects Coordinator position to serve as a liaison between Strategic Construction Management and the district sites. The position is funded through the elementary and secondary bonds. The head of the district Maintenance Department was appointed to the position. Bidding 31. The SCCS Board of Education approved a resolution to no longer require a public re-bidding of work once change orders exceeded the cost of the original bid by over ten percent (10%), as had been previously required. It was stated that the re-bid process can cause a six- to eight-week delay, and since the district had a general contractor in charge of bond-funded projects, the chances of exceeding a ten percent overrun were considerably less.
No recommendations for this finding
F31
Page 77
The SAFE Program (an in-house drug program) has forty allocated beds. The annual budget for the program is $200,000. There were twenty-seven inmates in the program in October and twenty-four in the program in February.
No recommendations for this finding
F32
Page 25
The SCCS Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006, revealed that out of sixty-nine projects, thirty-seven (or 54%) exceeded a ten percent cost overrun due to change orders.
No recommendations for this finding
F33
Page 25
In October 2005, the SCCS Board voted to become subject to the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Procedures and to provide for informal bidding procedures under the Uniform Public Construction Cost Accounting Act Procedures. This allowed projects from $35,000 to $125,000 to be bid using a pre-approved list of satisfactory contractors, while projects over $125,000 were subject to formal bidding procedures. The rationale was that this would allow more flexibility in the execution of work; speed up bidding procedures; improve timeliness of project completion; reduce paperwork and expenses related to advertising; and simplify administration.
No recommendations for this finding
F34
Page 25
The SCCS District was advised by legal counsel to set a consistent policy for the acceptance of bids. Subsequently, it was decided to award contracts based on the lowest total bid on each project. Projects often contain several alternates, which may or may not be actually included in the final project. The contract, however, is still awarded on the total bid.
No recommendations for this finding
F35
Page 25
When projects contain alternates, contractors can bid low or even zero (0) on some alternates, thereby lowering their overall total bid.
No recommendations for this finding
F36
Page 25
In March 2006, the district awarded a bond project contract to a bidder whose past projects for the district included a project that had change orders totaling 34.1% of the original contact amount, a Stop Notice, and had gone to court. That same bidder had previously completed district bond projects with change orders of 32.3%, 36.9%, and 118.8% of the original contract amounts. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 15 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 37. Contracts were not always awarded to the lowest bidder as evidenced by Bid # 2006- 09. The contract was awarded for $1,204,700 when the lowest bid was actually $1,151,399. Change Orders 38. The SCCS Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006, document does not include all bond projects, notably those undertaken in 1998-1999. Approximately $4 million worth of projects are not detailed, nor are their change orders.
No recommendations for this finding
F37
Page 59
The maximum densities recommended by the ALUP Handbook in Safety Zones as shown in the following table:31 Safety Zone Maximum Density (dwelling units per acre) 1: Runway Protection Zone 0 2: Inner Approach/Departure Zone .05 to .10 3: Inner Turning Zone .20 to .50 4: Outer Approach/Departure Zone .20 to .50 If the proposed 2,250 homes are built on the 458 acres in the Buena Vista areas, the resulting average housing density (approximately 5 dwelling units per acre) will exceed the maximum density in Safety Zone 3 by a factor of 10 to 25. Any of the planned “medium” (10-17 dwelling units per acre) density occurring within Safety Zone 3 will exceed by 20 to 80 times the maximum density permitted.
No recommendations for this finding
F38
Page 59
CalTrans has recommended that an independent ALUC be formed.32 Conclusions 1. While the City of Watsonville has a mandated housing goal, it does not have a mandated location for the housing.
No recommendations for this finding
F39
Page 26
The SCCS, Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006, showed twenty projects with change orders exceeding twenty percent (20%) of the original project contract. These percentages range from 21.7% to 118.8%, resulting in additional costs of $5,479,544 above the original contract amount of $17,779,162 for those twenty projects. This reflected a 30.8% increase over the original contract amounts.
No recommendations for this finding
F40
Page 26
Sixty-nine completed or nearly-completed projects detailed on the SCCS, Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006, had change orders totaling $9,621,580, or fourteen and one-half percent (14.5%) of their original contract total of $66,457,279.
No recommendations for this finding
F41
Page 26
District officials stated that general contractors typically make a fifteen-percent markup on change orders. Division of the State Architect Oversight 42. According to the Santa Cruz City Schools, Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, dated May 10, 2006, sixty-four projects have had Notices of Completion filed. Of those sixty-four projects, only one is listed in the “DSA Closeout Complete” column, and only two are listed in the “Closeout Sent to DSA” column. The Architect of Record is responsible for submitting the required closeout documents for final certification.24 43. The Grand Jury found at least one instance of a project being started without prior DSA notification by the IOR (DSA Project Code 01-106000). This appears to be a violation of the Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Section 4-331.
No recommendations for this finding
F42
Page 78
Inmate dental work is performed at the Main Jail Facility one day a month. Only basic services are rendered such as pulling teeth; fillings and crown work are not considered basic. Transportation costs are incurred.
No recommendations for this finding
F43
Page 78
Testing for HIV, hepatitis C, tuberculosis, and sexually transmitted diseases is optional.
No recommendations for this finding
F44
Page 26
Inspector of Record assignment date records obtained from the SCCS District and the DSA do not match. 45. “The school board must provide for and require competent, adequate and continuous inspection by an inspector . . .” and; “The project inspector . . . must be approved by the DSA for each individual project.”25 24 2001 California Building Standards Administrative Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Sections 4-339 and 4-341, http://www.bsc.ca.gov/title_24/documents/Part1/2001_part1.pdf. 25 2001 California Building Standards Administrative Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 124, Part 1, Section 4-333(b). - 16 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 46. In reviewing the IOR field reports for Santa Cruz High Modernization, project number 01-103363, there is a gap of eighteen days with no IOR reports or notations. One inspector had been terminated on May 2, 2002, and the next IOR report was dated May 20, 2002.
No recommendations for this finding
F45
Page 78
Depending on the severity of the violation, discipline problems may be handled with a verbal warning, revocation of privileges, or a return to the Main Jail. Medium Security Conclusions 12. The physical appearance of the facility, including the kitchen and visiting areas, is exemplary.
No recommendations for this finding
F47
Page 27
DSA Field Notes from the supervising field engineer from July 10, 2002, stated the first item requiring resolution on project 01-103363 was that the IOR had been replaced by two subsequent IORs, the last of which had not submitted DSA Form-5. The DSA Form-5, which must be signed by the district, architect, and engineer, must be filed ten days prior to an IOR beginning a project.26 School Closures/Leasing 48. In January 2001, the BOC questioned the prudence of using bond funds to modernize schools that might be closed in the future due to declining enrollment.
No recommendations for this finding
F48
Page 81
Educational programs are provided through a contract with the Pajaro Valley Unified School District.
No recommendations for this finding
F49
Page 27
In June 2004, Natural Bridges and Branciforte Elementary schools closed. Branciforte became a campus for small district alternative schools. Natural Bridges is leased by Pacific Collegiate, a charter school that is funded by the state. This site is not being used as part of Santa Cruz City Schools. Proposition 39 obligates the district to provide a certain amount of space rent free since sixty percent of the students come from within SCCS boundaries. Pacific Collegiate leases space for the forty percent of the students from outside the district. The district also leases space to another school, Carden El Encanto, at the former Loma Prieta High School site. Lease funds go into the general fund. Following is a summary of the current and projected lease income for these two sites:27 LEASE REVENUES 04-05 05-06 06-07 07-08 08-09 Natural Bridges $68,000 $83,232 $84,897 $86,595 $88,326 Loma Prieta $140,000 $165,000 $200,000 $228,400 $275,500 $208,000 $248,232 $284,897 $314,995 $363,826 Table 5. Santa Cruz City Schools Lease Revenues, 2004-2009.
No recommendations for this finding
F50
Page 27
In August 2004, a citizen who attended two BOC meetings expressed concern about bond funds that had been used on schools that were later closed. The citizen felt that the lease money from those schools should be used to reduce the bond debt.
No recommendations for this finding
F51
Page 27
District administrative staff reported to the BOC committee that legal counsel said it was not illegal to lease out the renovated schools and not use the revenues to defray 26 California Department of General Services, Division of the State Architect, Project Inspector Qualification Record, DSA-5, revised, March 27, 2003. Agenda Packet, Santa Cruz City Schools, Bond Oversight Committee Meeting, November 18, 2004. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 17 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools the debt. The BOC approved a motion to not recommend using lease revenues to retire bond debt. District Office Relocation/Renovation 52. Even after Natural Bridges and Branciforte elementary schools had been closed, and the four alternative schools on three sites were moved to the former Branciforte Elementary campus, the district still needed to reduce overhead and save operating expenses due to declining enrollment. The district offices on Mission Street were sold, and ten classrooms at Soquel High School were chosen to serve as administrative offices (Soquel High School’s enrollment dropped from 1693 students in 1998 to 1234 students in 2005-06). The Adult Education Office, the Purchasing Department, and District Warehouse were moved to Palm Street. The Workability Program and Food Services Office were moved to DeLaveaga Elementary School.
No recommendations for this finding
F52
Page 81
Certificates earned by an inmate may be a consideration when an inmate requests a modification of sentence.
No recommendations for this finding
F53
Page 28
Classrooms identified to house the district offices at Soquel High had already been remodeled using bond funds. At least an additional $460,537 in bond money was spent for the district office remodel.
No recommendations for this finding
F54
Page 28
At its April 9, 2003 meeting, the SCCS Board approved the use of up to $1 million in bond funds for district office relocation and improvements. In its advisory capacity, the BOC did not recommend this action.
No recommendations for this finding
F55
Page 28
To date, at least $1,285,486 of bond project money has been spent on district office and adult education relocation. This total includes $274,424 for change orders, or twenty-seven (27%) of the original contract amount of $1,011,062.
No recommendations for this finding
F56
Page 28
A BOC member called the use of bond money for offices “not ethical,” and stated that the district could use anticipated redevelopment revenue to pay for the classroom conversions and other relocation projects. “There was a promise (the bond money) would never be used for administrative costs. It was to improve the student environment, not the district office environment.”28 Oversight/Public Communication 57. The BOC has been meeting bi-monthly since 1998. These meetings are open to the public. Minutes and any reports released are public information. Meetings are held at Soquel High School, Room 312. Oversight committee members stated that meeting notices are posted at school sites and the district office.
No recommendations for this finding
F58
Page 28
In 1998, a bond web page was developed with links to each school site providing regular updates on bond-related issues.
No recommendations for this finding
F59
Page 28
In June 1999, the communications sub-committee of the BOC worked on placing bond-related information on the SCCS web page. Signs relating to bond projects were designed for placement at the school sites. Santa Cruz Sentinel, “Moving costs stir school-bond debate,” May 29, 2003. - 18 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 60. On August 26, 1999, the BOC stated that the Board of Education, Bond Oversight Committee, and district administration should work jointly to create a public relations program and method of presentation for each school site, the press, and the public in general.
No recommendations for this finding
F61
Page 29
District staff and BOC members were interviewed for “Community Express,” a Community Television of Santa Cruz show. The show aired four times in Fall 1999 and outlined the school bond issues and future project plans.
No recommendations for this finding
F62
Page 29
A brochure “The Road to Renovation” detailed the status of Measure E and H projects and was distributed to parents from the school sites and mailed to households within the district in May 2000. This brochure indicated there would be ongoing communication to keep the public aware of progress and improvements.
No recommendations for this finding
F63
Page 29
In July 2000, a Board of Education member noted that the district’s web site was in need of updating.
No recommendations for this finding
F64
Page 29
The Grand Jury observed that as late as October 17, 2005, there was a “Bond Projects” section on the Santa Cruz City Schools web site. Information was out of date; the last update had been posted in 2001. By February of 2006, that section of the web site was no longer accessible, and posts “Forbidden: You don’t have permission to access … (this site) on this server.” 65. When asked about the inaccessibility of the web site, district staff responded that the webmaster worked one half-day per week and that there were no resources in the district to put more effort into the web site.
No recommendations for this finding
F65
Page 83
The Grand Jury observed that staff and inmates show mutual respect to each other while at the facility. - 14 Jails Review 66. The Grand Jury observed that the grounds and facility are well maintained.
No recommendations for this finding
F66
Page 29
Strategic Construction Management publishes SCCS site construction newsletters on its web site. Newsletters for completed bond projects include construction budget summaries, schedules, and architect, inspector, and contractor information. Web site summaries of current projects have none of this information.29 67. The construction budget summaries for “Completed Projects” on the Strategic Construction Management web site do not match the figures printed on the Santa Cruz City Schools Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May10, 2006. The Strategic Construction Management web site is the only one displaying information on the SCCS bond construction projects.
No recommendations for this finding
F67
Page 84
The Grand Jury observed that kitchen facilities were clean and appeared adequate despite their non-institutional design. Meals are prepared by inmate kitchen staff.
No recommendations for this finding
F68
Page 29
According to district administrative staff, by the end of summer 2006, ninety-eight percent (98%) of bond funds will be spent. The BOC’s final meeting is scheduled for November 2006. If there is any money left over, district staff will oversee expenditures. Construction projects could extend into Spring 2007.
No recommendations for this finding
F69
Page 29
Strategic Construction Management will be paid $34,500 to produce a Bond Projects Report. This fee is included in their July 1, 2006 to December 31, 2006 contract extension. Strategic Construction Management, http://strategic-cm.com/main/santacruzcityschools.htm. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 19 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 70. At its May 18, 2006 meeting, the BOC reviewed options for its final committee report which may be in the form of newspaper ads or inserts, postcards, a newsletter, a twenty-four page report, or a video. Conclusions Bonds E and H 1. Measure E, Series A, B, and C bond sales exceeded the voter-approved amount of $28 million by $98,115.65. The $28 million cap was exceeded a second time when the Measure E, Series A and B bonds were refinanced, this time by $383,115.65.
No recommendations for this finding
F70
Page 84
Inmates attending GED classes must be transported to the Adult Education campus in Santa Cruz as there are not sufficient numbers of students to qualify for on-site teaching.
No recommendations for this finding
F71
Page 84
Inmates and staff are not permitted to smoke at this facility.
No recommendations for this finding
F72
Page 84
Drugs and other prohibited items can be easily introduced into the facility by throwing them over the fence from the public sidewalk.
No recommendations for this finding
F73
Page 84
On-site programs available to inmates include: • Alcoholics Anonymous • Narcotics Anonymous • computer skills class • parenting skills class • literacy skills • yoga instruction 74. Job skills training is minimal. The only training available is in the areas of computer skills and kitchen skills.
No recommendations for this finding
F75
Page 84
The recidivism rate is high for inmates at this facility, as many do not have a residence to return to or do not have useful job skills.
No recommendations for this finding
F76
Page 84
The facility passed inspection by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
No recommendations for this finding
F77
Page 84
Inmates are housed in two-person bedrooms that were observed to be clean and well organized. Blaine Street Conclusions 29. The facility is operated by a professional staff.
No recommendations for this finding
F79
Page 85
The facility consists of five large concrete rooms for holding inmates.
No recommendations for this finding
F80
Page 85
Between forty and fifty inmates per day pass through the facility.
No recommendations for this finding
F81
Page 85
Inmates may change into personal clothing before appearance at a jury trial. - 16 Jails Review 82. Holding rooms are monitored by video surveillance.
No recommendations for this finding
F83
Page 86
There is no video surveillance covering the outside entrance to the facility or the stairwell leading to the courts.
No recommendations for this finding
F84
Page 86
The facility was found to be clean and well maintained. Court Holding Facility Conclusions 34. The facility is well organized and operated in an efficient manner.
No recommendations for this finding
F86
Page 87
Approximately seventy-nine percent of the population is juvenile boys and twelve percent is juvenile girls.
No recommendations for this finding
F87
Page 87
Sixty percent of staff are bilingual.
No recommendations for this finding
F88
Page 87
The average stay is five days. This figure is down from 10.6 days in 2002.
No recommendations for this finding
F89
Page 87
Juvenile Hall has passed inspections by the California Department of Corrections, County of Santa Cruz Environmental Health Services, Scotts Valley Fire Protection District, Superior Court of California, and the Santa Cruz County Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission.
No recommendations for this finding
F90
Page 87
The County of Santa Cruz was found to be delinquent in conducting the mandated medical/mental health inspections.
No recommendations for this finding
F91
Page 87
Wards are housed in two units, one of which houses more criminally sophisticated wards. The units are connected by a common hallway.
No recommendations for this finding
F92
Page 87
Wards are housed in private rooms that are small but contain necessary personal features. Wards spend most of their day outside their rooms.
No recommendations for this finding
F93
Page 87
Upon intake, wards are given an orientation on the rules of the facility and the consequences of a violation. Rules are also posted on bulletin boards.
No recommendations for this finding
F94
Page 87
Grievances can be filed and placed in a grievance box that is checked daily.
No recommendations for this finding
F95
Page 87
Parents are charged a daily fee of $24 while their child is housed at Juvenile Hall.
No recommendations for this finding
F96
Page 87
Local law enforcement agencies are not charged a booking fee. There is a local protocol for booking criteria.
No recommendations for this finding
F97
Page 87
A Grand Jury inspection showed the grounds and facility to be clean and well maintained.
No recommendations for this finding
F98
Page 87
The outside exercise area is considered too small by current state standards, and the facility does not have a gymnasium or covered (shaded) courtyard. The facility is exempted from conforming due to its age.
No recommendations for this finding
F99
Page 87
Staff and wards continue to complain of poor heating and air conditioning within the facility.
No recommendations for this finding
F100
Page 87
According to staff, the video monitoring system is old and inadequate.
No recommendations for this finding
F101
Page 87
Most doors are secured by key-locking systems that can cause a delay during an emergency response.
No recommendations for this finding
F102
Page 87
The food facilities were clean and appeared adequate. Food Services passed the Nutritional Health Evaluation. - 18 Jails Review 103. Nursing services are available seven days a week. There is one mental health therapist to every four wards. Medications are administered in the morning and evening. A physician assistant is present one time per week as is a physician.
No recommendations for this finding
F104
Page 88
The County Office of Education provides educational services at Juvenile Hall. The school is named Robert A. Hartman School, and was one of only a few detention facility schools that received a six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).
No recommendations for this finding
F105
Page 88
The Probation Department continues to operate the Oasis Program that offers home supervision and encourages pro-social activities. The program reports a ninety percent success rate.
No recommendations for this finding
F106
Page 88
National studies have shown it is more beneficial to return offending juveniles back to their community than detaining them in secure detention facilities such as Juvenile Hall.
No recommendations for this finding
F107
Page 88
Santa Cruz County Juvenile Hall was selected as the model site in the nation for small counties in the elimination of unnecessary use of secure detention of juveniles. Model sites for larger counties were in Chicago, Oregon, and New Mexico.
No recommendations for this finding
F108
Page 88
Santa Cruz County is prominently featured in a DVD produced by the Annie E. Casey Foundation documenting the power and effectiveness of juvenile detention alternatives to better protect public safety, help kids in trouble, and save taxpayer dollars.
No recommendations for this finding
F109
Page 88
Juvenile Hall provides many programs to enrich the wards such as Barrios Unidos, yoga, substance abuse counseling, writing, and poetry instruction.
No recommendations for this finding
F110
Page 88
The poetry program is immensely popular among the wards and offers them instruction in the writing arts. It gives participants the opportunity to have their writing published in a weekly newsletter published by Pacific News Service. This program provides a therapeutic opportunity and builds self-esteem.
No recommendations for this finding
F111
Page 88
There have been no escapes from Juvenile Hall during the last year.
No recommendations for this finding
F112
Page 88
The Board of Supervisors appoints qualified members of the community to the Santa Cruz County Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Commission, which is charged with monitoring the practices and performance of staff at Juvenile Hall and recommend changes.
No recommendations for this finding
F113
Page 88
This commission’s report reflects that Santa Cruz County has one of the most highly regarded juvenile justice systems in the country. Juvenile Hall Conclusions 36. Juvenile Hall is well managed and operated by a professional and caring staff.
No recommendations for this finding
F115
Page 90
The average daily population was 102 for the first quarter and 107 for the second quarter.
No recommendations for this finding
F116
Page 90
As of December 13, 2005, there had been only one escape (walk-away).
No recommendations for this finding
F117
Page 90
Most inmates have less than one year remaining on their sentence. For every day working in a program or on a fire crew, an inmate receives credit for two days served.
No recommendations for this finding
F118
Page 90
Inmates convicted of a crime of violence and verified prison gang members are not permitted to serve time at a camp.
No recommendations for this finding
F119
Page 90
No inmates from Santa Cruz County are permitted to serve time at this camp.
No recommendations for this finding
F120
Page 90
Probable cause and random drug testing is performed one to four times a month.
No recommendations for this finding
F121
Page 90
After an inmate is assigned to the camp, he must participate in a one-week physical fitness training program and then attend a fire fighting school. Upon Jails Review - 21 successful completion of these two programs, he is assigned to a fire crew led by a CDF captain.
No recommendations for this finding
F122
Page 91
In preparation for opening the facility, staff met with local residents and agreed to notify local homeowners’ associations and schools of any escapes.
No recommendations for this finding
F123
Page 91
Only non-prescription products are available unless specific medication is prescribed by a physician. Inmates with more serious medical problems are either taken to a local medical facility or returned to their original institution for treatment.
No recommendations for this finding
F124
Page 91
During the off season, fire crews are sent out to schools, parks, and other facilities to perform vegetation removal.
No recommendations for this finding
F125
Page 91
There is a pre-release class to help inmates prepare for their return to society.
No recommendations for this finding
F126
Page 91
In the first five months of operation, four staff members transferred from the camp due to the high cost of living in the area and lack of family living quarters. To maintain minimum staffing, correctional officers often work overtime or must be brought in temporarily from other institutions.
No recommendations for this finding
F127
Page 91
Staff reported the recidivism rate is lower from camps than standard institutions.
No recommendations for this finding
F128
Page 91
There were no reported assaults on correctional officers. Inmate violation of rules can result in loss of privileges or immediate return to their original institution, depending on severity.
No recommendations for this finding
F129
Page 91
Due to the newness of the facility, there were few books and educational materials in the library for inmates to read.
No recommendations for this finding
F130
Page 91
A Grand Jury inspection showed that the grounds and facilities were very clean and well maintained. Camp 45 Conclusions 46. The facility is operated by a conscientious and professional staff.
No recommendations for this finding
F2002
Page 17
The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 7 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools Reviewed: Memoranda/Reports/Minutes/Agendas: Advantages/Disadvantages of Using Multiple Prime v. Single General Contractor, agenda packet, Bond Oversight Committee meeting, January 27, 2000. California Department of General Services, Division of the State Architect, Project Inspector Qualification Record, DSA-5, revised March 27, 2003. Communications Matrix for Bond Projects Participants, November 29, 2001. IOR Bi-Monthly Progress Reports, Santa Cruz High, May 2002. Memo from Northcross, Hill and Ach, June 8, 2006. Official Statements, Santa Cruz City Elementary School District, General Obligation Bonds, Election of 1998, Series A, B, and C. Official Statements, Santa Cruz City High School District, General Obligation Bonds, Election of 1998, Series A, B, and C. Official Statement, Santa Cruz City Elementary School District, 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds. Official Statement, Santa Cruz City High School District, 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds. Santa Cruz City Schools, Agreement for Consultant Services, Construction Program Management Services, Strategic Construction Management, February 1, 2002. Santa Cruz City Schools, Board of Education for the Elementary and Secondary Districts Minutes, May 12, 1999 to May 10, 2006. [Please see Appendix for specific dates.] Santa Cruz City School Bond Oversight Committee Meeting Minutes, May 16, 1998 to May 18, 2006. [Please see Appendix for specific dates.] Santa Cruz City Schools “Bond Oversight Committee Roles and Responsibilities,” revised April 17, 2002. Santa Cruz City Schools Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006. Santa Cruz City Schools, Bond Projects Budget, Report from July 1, 1998 to April 30, 2006. Santa Cruz City Schools District Bond Projects Status Reports, November 17, 1999 to January 25, 2006. [Please see Appendix for specific dates.] Santa Cruz City Schools, Request for Proposals, Management Services for Construction Projects, undated. Soquel High School Bond II Modernization Project IIIA, Bid #2004-21, Opened June 3, 2004. Soquel High School Bond 2 Phase II Rebid, Bid #2006-09, Opened December 22, 2005. Newspaper Articles/Pamphlets: Contra Costa Times, “Schools’ refinancing questioned,” April 30, 2006. County of Santa Cruz Sample Ballot and Voter Information Pamphlet for Special School District Election, Tuesday, April 14, 1998. “Road to Renovation: Keeping You Informed,” Santa Cruz City Schools, undated. - 8 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools Santa Cruz Sentinel: “Bond-funded school repairs set to start in Santa Cruz,” May 13, 1999. “Bonds making a difference,” March 22, 2001. “Branciforte remodeling project disappoints staff,” October 14, 2001. “Error could cost schools thousands,” April 8, 2005. “Firm will oversee school construction projects,” February 15, 2002. “Moving costs stir school-bond debate,” May 29, 2003. “Santa Cruz City Schools finds surplus in general fund,” April 20, 2006. “Students say last goodbye to Natural Bridges, Branciforte schools,” June 12, 2004. Web sites: Building Standards Commission, http://www.bsc.ca.gov. California Code of Regulations, http://www.bsc.ca.gov/title_24/documents/part1/2001_part1.pdf. California Education Code, http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cacodes/edc/15200- 15205.html. California State Constitution, http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/const.html. California Public Contract Code, http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/code/contents.html?sec=pcc. “Choosing the Best Delivery Method for Your Facility Projects,” http://www.mbpce.com/news_pubs_delivery.html. Division of the State Architect, http://www.dsa.dgs.ca.gov. Division of the State Architect On-Line Project Tracking System, http://www.applications.dgs.ca.gov/dsa/etrackerweb/DistrictProject.asp?client id=44-h2 and http://www.applications.dgs.ca.gov/dsa/etrackerweb/DistrictProject.asp?client id=44-42. General Obligation Bonds, http://www.calschools.com/static/GOBond.htm. Santa Cruz City Schools, http://www.sccs.santacruz.k12.ca.us. Santa Cruz City Schools, Bond Projects, http://www.sccs.santacruz.k12.ca.us/bizservices/BondProject/bondproject.htm (this web site is no longer accessible). Santa Cruz County Office of Education, http://www.santacruz.k12.ca.us/board/index.html. Santa Cruz Sentinel, http://www.santacruzsentinel.com. State Education Oversight Commissions, http://www.ecs.org/clearinghouse/57/86/5786.htm. Strategic Construction Management, http://strategic- cm.com/main/santacruzcityschools.htm. TBW&B, Public Finance Strategies, LLC, http://www.tbwb.com/clients.htm. 2001 California Building Standards Administrative Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, http://www.bsc.ca.gov/title_24/documents/Part1/2001_part1.pdf. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: - 9 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools Visited: Ten Santa Cruz City School sites. Findings Bonds E and H 1. The E and H bonds were originally each sold in three series: A, B, and C:7 Bond Sold Date Bond Amount Bond Term Ends Series A, Elementary July 1, 1998 $7,000,000.00 August 1, 2027 Series B, Elementary March 1, 2000 $15,500,000.00 August 1, 2029 Series C, Elementary October 2001 $5,598,115.65 February 1, 2026 TOTAL ELEM. $28,098,115.65 Series A, High School July 1, 1998 $15,000,000.00 August 1, 2027 Series B, High School March 1, 2000 $31,000,000.00 August 1, 2029 Series C, High School October 2001 $11,997,433.50 February 1, 2026 TOTAL HIGH SCH. $57,997,433.50 In April 2005, Series A and B Elementary and High School bonds were refinanced: Refinance, Series A and B, Elementary April 2005 $22,785,000 August 1, 2029 Refinance, Series A and B, High School April 2005 $45,500,000 August 1, 2029 Table 2. Santa Cruz City Schools Bond Sales, Measures E and H.
No recommendations for this finding
Conclusions 113
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CL1 Page 31When projects were bid with alternates, this allowed contractors to manipulate the system by giving a low bid or zero on alternates, thereby allowing a contractor to submit the lowest bid. The bid would not necessarily be awarded to a responsible bidder. Change Orders 18. The SCCS Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006 is incomplete; therefore, a true assessment of costs and overruns cannot easily be made.
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CL2 Page 30Contrary to the language of the Voter Information Pamphlet, the bond terms of both the Elementary and High School bonds are greater than twenty-five years.
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CL3 Page 30Over the next twenty-three years, property tax deposits will earn interest that could be used to reduce bond debt.
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CL4 Page 30The SCCS District has exceeded its fiscal authority granted in Measures E and H by selling bonds for more than the voter-approved limit. By so doing, it could make it more difficult for voters to approve future bond projects. Project Management 8. As of April 30, 2006, expenses for architects/engineers, and construction management total sixteen percent (16%) of the total bond project expenditures, or over $18 million.
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CL5 Page 31Originally, the Strategic Construction Management contract was for $1.2 million and all projects were to be completed by December 2004. By the end of 2006, payments to Strategic Construction Management will reach nearly $3 million, and projects are still continuing.
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CL6 Page 31The bidding process for the Construction Program Manager was not conducted according to Public Contract Code Procedures. Bid documentation is not available from the district to determine whether the lowest bidder was accepted; and documentation that the bids were opened in public as mandated by the Public Contract Code has not been made available by the district. Bidding 15. When the board voted to no longer require re-bidding projects that surpassed the ten percent change order threshold, it removed the cap on change orders.
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CL7 Page 31A contractor should not have been considered “responsible” if that contractor’s previous jobs had excessive change orders and if court action was necessary.
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CL8 Page 31The amount of change orders appears excessive. This could be due, in part, to the removal of the ten percent (10%) cap requiring project re-bidding.
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CL9 Page 31There was no financial incentive for contractors and architects to keep change orders to a minimum. Division of the State Architect Oversight 21. The Architects of Record have not fulfilled their responsibilities to secure project closeout and certification by the DSA. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Page 1 - 21 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools 22. District administrative staff has not seen the projects through to closeout by insisting that the Architects of Record submit all closeout documentation.
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CL10 Page 32Since district and DSA documentation of IOR assignments and dates do not match, the Grand Jury was unable to determine whether projects progressed without an assigned IOR, or without a DSA-approved IOR. School Closures/Leasing 26. Although bond funds were used to renovate the Natural Bridges and Loma Prieta sites, lease revenues have not been used to repay bond debt. District Office Relocation/Renovation 27. Despite the fact that the Voter Information Pamphlet arguments in favor of the bond measures clearly stated that bond funds were not to be used for administrative offices, the SCCS Board used bond funds for this purpose.
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CL11 Page 32Lack of planning resulted in wasted money at Soquel High when ten classrooms that had already undergone renovation and modernization were remodeled for district offices.
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CL12 Page 30Measure E, Series A, B, and C bond sales exceeded the voter-approved amount of $28 million by $98,115.65. The $28 million cap was exceeded a second time when the Measure E, Series A and B bonds were refinanced, this time by $383,115.65.
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CL13 Page 30A savings of over $3 million in interest is projected due to the refinancing of the Elementary and High School Bonds, Series A and B that were sold for $4,280,000 million more than the principal remaining. Although interest was decreased, the total debt was increased. The purpose of the refinancing appears to be to extract more funds and not to lower property taxes.
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CL14 Page 30The 2005 refinancing of the Elementary and High School Bonds is not shown on the SCCS Bond Projects Budget, Report from July 1, 1998 to April 30, 2006. Voters are entitled to full disclosure regarding all bond details.
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CL15 Page 30Property owners in the Santa Cruz City Schools District are paying a higher percentage of their property taxes to repay bonds E and H in the 2005-2006 tax year than they paid in the 2004-2005 tax year. To date, the decreased bond interest rates have not reduced property taxes.
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CL16 Page 30As of April 30, 2006, expenses for architects/engineers, and construction management total sixteen percent (16%) of the total bond project expenditures, or over $18 million.
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CL17 Page 30The district did not have personnel on staff with adequate construction knowledge to manage large construction projects.
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CL18 Page 30The district could not find an efficient and cost-effective method of construction program management. There were many layers of construction supervision and Page 1 - 20 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools
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CL19 Page 31Additional payments were made to Strategic Construction Management for moving services that were part of their original contract with SCCS for which a fixed-price bid had been submitted.
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CL20 Page 31Total bond project construction management fees from 1998 to present appear excessive, and will top $7 million before the end of 2006.
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CL21 Page 31When the board voted to no longer require re-bidding projects that surpassed the ten percent change order threshold, it removed the cap on change orders.
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CL22 Page 25The SCCS Bond Project, Status of Project Closeout, May 10, 2006 is incomplete; therefore, a true assessment of costs and overruns cannot easily be made.
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CL23 Page 31The Architects of Record have not fulfilled their responsibilities to secure project closeout and certification by the DSA. The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Page 1 - 21 Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools
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CL24 Page 32District administrative staff has not seen the projects through to closeout by insisting that the Architects of Record submit all closeout documentation.
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CL25 Page 32The district, architect, and engineer failed to file DSA Form-5 before IORs started project 01-103363 as required by the California Code of Regulations.
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CL26 Page 32IOR documentation for project 01-103363 is incomplete and shows a gap of eighteen days with no IOR site notations or reports. It is a violation of the California Code of Regulations for a project to proceed without an IOR.
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CL27 Page 32Although bond funds were used to renovate the Natural Bridges and Loma Prieta sites, lease revenues have not been used to repay bond debt. District Office Relocation/Renovation
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CL28 Page 32Despite the fact that the Voter Information Pamphlet arguments in favor of the bond measures clearly stated that bond funds were not to be used for administrative offices, the SCCS Board used bond funds for this purpose.
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CL29 Page 32The SCCS Board ignored BOC recommendations not to use bond funds for district office renovations and relocation.
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CL30 Page 32The SCCS District spent more than $1.2 million on district office renovations and relocations. The district inappropriately approved $1 million for this purpose; no bond money should have been used. Oversight/Public Communication
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CL31 Page 32The BOC is scheduled to disband in November 2006. Projects may continue until at least Spring 2007, and there will be no BOC oversight. Bonds were passed under the assumption that an oversight committee would be in place for the duration of the projects.
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CL32 Page 32The district has not maintained the bond project information on its web site. This could have been a valuable means of providing ongoing, up-to-date public information on the bond projects.
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CL33 Page 32Over the last eight years, there has been no ongoing form of public communication with district residents regarding the bond projects. Efforts made, such as starting a Page 1 - 22 The Dollars and Sense Don’t Add Up: Bond Measures E and H, Santa Cruz City Schools web page, being interviewed for Santa Cruz Community Television, and producing a brochure, all took place between 1998-2000.
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CL34 Page 33As of this late date, the BOC has not yet determined the format and scope of its final report. The Grand Jury questions whether this will give the BOC time to prepare a comprehensive report.
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CL35 Page 33Paying Strategic Construction Management $34,500 to help prepare a final report detailing the bond projects could result in a loss of objectivity and detail in evaluating the projects’ successes and failures.
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CL36 Page 59While the City of Watsonville has a mandated housing goal, it does not have a mandated location for the housing.
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CL37 Page 59Watsonville Municipal Airport is not sufficiently valued as an economic asset to the City of Watsonville and to Santa Cruz County.
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CL38 Page 59Watsonville Airport is an essential regional asset in future disaster relief operations in Santa Cruz County.
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CL39 Page 59Crosswind Runway 8-26 is critical to the vitality and efficacy of Watsonville Municipal Airport.
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CL40 Page 59If development proceeds according to WatsonvilleVISTA 2030, noise pollution may become a serious issue in the Buena Vista areas.
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CL41 Page 59If development proceeds according to WatsonvilleVISTA 2030, the risk that an engine failure will have life threatening consequences to those on the ground is unacceptably increased. 31ALUP Handbook, Table 9-C p 9-47. 32Frederick - CalTrans letter to Watsonville, April 21, 2006. Watsonville Municipal Airport: Page 2 - 11 Headed for a Crash?
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CL42 Page 60In the event of an off-airport accident in the Buena Vista areas, there will likely be a significant demand for closure of Crosswind Runway 8-26 or even the airport itself.
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CL43 Page 60The Watsonville City Council’s failure to enforce the maximum population densities in airport safety zones may increase Watsonville’s exposure to legal liability in the event of an off-airport accident in these areas. The fact that there are high populations within the safety zones of other runways at the airport does not justify continuing the practice of violating airport safety zone building densities northwest of Runway 8.
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CL44 Page 60WatsonvilleVISTA 2030 threatens the viability of the Crosswind Runway 8-26.
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CL45 Page 60The Watsonville City Council has chosen to fulfill its housing planning needs at the expense of airport safety and noise pollution.
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CL46 Page 60Failure to enforce ALUP Handbook regulations to achieve the planning goals of Measure U demonstrates an inherent conflict of interest in the City of Watsonville’s ability to serve in the role of an ALUC.
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CL47 Page 60The Watsonville City Council has not given appropriate weight to either the airport’s or Santa Cruz County’s interests while serving as Watsonville Airport’s ALUC.
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CL48 Page 99Local law enforcement agencies have policies that regulate Taser use that meet or exceed the “Best Practices Taser Policy” recommended by the ACLU-NC.
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CL49 Page 99Departmental administrators and Taser training officers are knowledgeable in the use of the Taser and its possible risks.
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CL50 Page 99Local law enforcement agencies are using the most current Taser training material.
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CL51 Page 99Law enforcement agencies must have less-lethal weapons at their disposal to better protect themselves and the public.
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CL52 Page 99POST does not provide independent training in the use of the Taser.
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CL53 Page 99Less-lethal weapons, such as the Taser, decrease the need for traditional defensive tactics by law enforcement officers, and are reported to be responsible for a reduction in costly Workers Compensation claims.
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CL54 Page 99A person in a state of excited delirium poses a serious threat to law enforcement personnel, as well as the general public.
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CL55 Page 99Community outreach and the sharing of published reports showing the circumstances and use of less-lethal weapons, including the Taser, would help to educate the public and improve law enforcement relationships with the community. The Taser: Don’t Be Shocked Page 3 - 29
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CL56 Page 130Leadership in both organizations is stable.
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CL57 Page 130Both organizations are well entrenched within the community, are efficiently run, and provide valuable services to the community.
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CL58 Page 130Both organizations maintain a degree of transparency with information readily available through current web site access, printed materials, and media exposure.
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CL59 Page 130Many grass roots service agencies in the county rely on yearly funding from United Way. However, it is difficult for a new organization to become one of the thirty-three organizations selected for annual funding.
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CL60 Page 130Since funding by United Way is for a three-year cycle, it is important that evaluations yield accurate information. Scheduled one-hour site evaluations may not provide an accurate assessment.
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CL61 Page 130The Community Foundation provides an important source of financial assistance to local, stable, 501(c) 3 nonprofits seeking funds for specific projects. It is difficult for young organizations or established non-501 (c) 3 agencies that have no funding source, such as Battered Women’s Task Force, to receive small grant consideration.
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CL62 Page 130The United Way produces the annual Community Assessment Project (CAP) that provides a broad range of trended and comparative data for the community. In relation to this Grand Jury report, the areas of crime and domestic violence are of import. It is a valuable resource for county organizations and residents.
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CL63 Page 130The 2005 Santa Cruz County Nonprofit Landscape study underwritten by the Community Foundation is a valuable point-in-time resource that serves the community.
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CL64 Page 130The broad variety of programs and projects offered by the Community Foundation reflects its philanthropic goal of outreach to the community.
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CL65 Page 130An overall picture of domestic violence-related funding in a single-source funding document would be useful to the DVC in meeting its goals. Domestic Violence in Santa Cruz County: Page 4 - 25 Have We Kept the Promise? Funding
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CL66 Page 131In an environment of continuing countywide budget constraints, and the continuing growth in the numbers of nonprofits, a study of duplicated services and administrative costs by nonprofit agencies within the county has not occurred. Representatives from the United Way and the Community Foundation would be likely leaders to initiate and/or participate in such a study.
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CL67 Page 141Women’s Crisis Support-Defensa de Mujeres is a well established, well organized agency that provides a broad array of domestic violence-related services to the community. The public can readily obtain information about WCS-DdM through their outreach materials.
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CL68 Page 141The state-mandated training programs conducted by WCS-DdM for volunteers and potential domestic violence-related employees support employment in the field.
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CL69 Page 141Programs conducted by WCS-DdM to train Victim Advocates provide knowledgeable participants in the S.A.R.T. process and ensure an adequate supply of advocates.
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CL70 Page 141The emergency shelter and safe houses located within the county serve their intended purpose.
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CL71 Page 141Sensitivity to demographics through employment of bilingual personnel, and the availability of agency materials in English and Spanish, demonstrate an inclusive outreach to members of the community seeking domestic violence-related services.
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CL72 Page 141Individual and group counseling and support services offered by WCS-DdM, WAWC, and BWTF are well attended and valued by participants. Page 4 - 36 Domestic Violence in Santa Cruz County: Have We Kept the Promise? Direct Services to Survivors
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CL73 Page 142The provision of supervised childcare at service centers promotes attendance at support groups.
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CL74 Page 142WAWC is an established, organized agency that has provided services for seventy years. Currently, it serves as a family resource center offering services to children, parents, teens, and victims of domestic violence.
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CL75 Page 142Court advocacy provided by WAWC helps to decrease confusion and stress within victims and contributes to time efficiency within the court system.
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CL76 Page 142A great deal of time is spent at each organization securing funds, writing grants, tracking expenditures, writing reports, and preparing for audits and site visits. The efforts are duplicated at each entity and for each funding source.
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CL77 Page 142The BWTF has a fifteen-year history of providing confidential support in a peer setting that is valued by its participants.
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CL78 Page 142With no funding source, BWTF is limited in its production of materials.
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CL79 Page 142Survivors are currently dependent on counselors and/or facilitators to express their concerns, frustrations, and needs. Counselors and/or facilitators may or may not be able to advocate for or have access to other appropriate agencies.
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CL80 Page 142Representatives of WCS-DdM, WAWC, and BWTF are approved commissioners on the DVC. As providers of direct services to those experiencing domestic violence, their attendance and participation is vital in assisting other DVC commissioners to meet the mandated goals.
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CL81 Page 142Familia Center is an established, well organized agency that provides a broad array of services for low-income families.
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CL82 Page 142As an agency trusted by its clients, Familia Center could serve as a referring agency to those needing domestic violence-related services. With no employee training or intake screening tool, an opportunity to screen applicants for domestic violence concerns is missing. Without such a tool, employees may not readily recognize the need for a domestic violence-related referral.
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CL83 Page 142Parenting classes and childcare centers, provided by Familia Center, are well attended and are strategically located to appeal to clients considering or receiving other domestic violence-related services.
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CL84 Page 142Offering related services (such as parenting classes) within other established agencies promotes utilization of services, efficient use of space, and is cost-effective by reducing overhead costs.
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CL85 Page 142The organizations providing direct services to victims of domestic violence rely on volunteers to assist with accomplishing their goals. Domestic Violence in Santa Cruz County: Page 4 - 37 Have We Kept the Promise? Direct Services to Survivors
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CL86 Page 143WCS-DdM, WAWC, BWTF, and Familia Center have a history of collaborating with other community agencies to accomplish their goals and may partner with a specific agency for focused projects.
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CL87 Page 143It would serve the community if WCS-DdM, WAWC, BWTF, and Familia Center met several times each year to share program offerings, assess programs, discuss potential collaborations, and determine duplicative efforts and costs.
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CL88 Page 148Tracking sexual assault and domestic violence incidents should be an on-going process of the county advisory body, the Domestic Violence Commission.
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CL89 Page 148Some expenses incurred by the law enforcement-initiated model could be reduced by adopting a victim-initiated model.
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CL90 Page 148The Sheriff’s Office includes other community agencies in its meetings and discussions related to sexual assault.
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CL91 Page 148Data that accurately reflects sexual assault by location should be made accessible to the public.
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CL92 Page 155Valuable volunteer and paid staff time is taken up by tracking cases when those statistics could be provided by the District Attorney’s Office. Knowing case dispositions assists state-certified Batterers’ Intervention Programs evaluating and improving the success of their programs.
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CL93 Page 155It is unclear whether every segment of society in Santa Cruz County needing treatment is adequately served by Batterers’ Intervention Programs.
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CL94 Page 155Batterers’ Intervention Program staff would benefit from sharing information, experience, and referrals.
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CL95 Page 155Batterers’ Intervention Program staff spend a lot of time processing paperwork associated with funding, often undergoing similar audits from different agencies. Page 4 - 50 Domestic Violence in Santa Cruz County: Have We Kept the Promise? Batterers’ Intervention Programs
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CL96 Page 156Domestic violence is an ongoing problem that lasts longer than fifty-two weeks. Outreach and follow-up for graduates of domestic violence intervention programs might help prevent relapses.
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CL97 Page 156A participant’s problems with alcohol and substance abuse complicate treatment in a domestic violence intervention program.
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CL98 Page 156ALTO is a long-standing and successful program in Santa Cruz County. ALTO is a valuable resource for Spanish-speaking batterers. ALTO participants who do not follow program guidelines experience consequences that help emphasize batterer accountability.
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CL99 Page 156Fenix provides a valuable service to the Spanish-speaking community. Fenix participants who do not follow the program guidelines experience consequences that help emphasize batterer accountability.
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CL100 Page 156MOAB facilitators are a dedicated group of volunteers who have been serving Santa Cruz County for over ten years with few resources. They provide support groups for batterers who wish to change their behavior. Participants attend these support groups voluntarily.
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CL101 Page 156PTA is a well-established program with trained staff. Its curriculum is well designed. Experiencing consequences for not following program guidelines helps to make batterers accountable for their actions.
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CL102 Page 156SYB staff is certified and trained to facilitate and lead classes in anger management and domestic violence intervention. They have both academic credentials and experience. SYB holds its participants accountable for attendance, homework, and fees.
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CL103 Page 168Although all local law enforcement agencies state that they follow the Domestic Violence Protocol for Law Enforcement as well as their own department’s protocols, some exceptions have been reported.
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CL104 Page 168The VINE card is a valuable resource that gives victims information that can help ensure their safety.
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CL105 Page 168Not tape recording an interview during a domestic violence call is contrary to the protocol. Gathering as much evidence as possible, including tape recording, is necessary to successfully prosecute cases. If a victim recants, the tape recording is invaluable.
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CL106 Page 168The use of an in-house advocate by the City of Santa Cruz Police Department has provided valuable assistance in handling domestic violence cases from the time of Domestic Violence in Santa Cruz County: Page 4 - 63 Have We Kept the Promise? The Legal System
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CL107 Page 169The confusion in the aftermath of a domestic violence incident will be lessened if a victim has current copies of all restraining orders easily accessible.
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CL108 Page 169Law enforcement agencies would benefit from a training session on the various Domestic Violence Forms.
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CL109 Page 169Domestic violence advisory bodies would benefit from knowing more about the “No Mas” grant and any other domestic violence-related funding in the county and how it is being used.
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CL110 Page 169Due to the high volume of cases handled by the Family Protection Unit, adequate staffing is essential.
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CL111 Page 169The constant presence of an advocate in domestic violence court proceedings as a support for the victim is critical.
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CL112 Page 169The Family Law Facilitator has proven to be a valuable resource for people who cannot afford the services of a private attorney and are seeking assistance in obtaining a divorce, domestic violence orders, and child support orders.
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CL113 Page 169Holding batterers accountable for their actions contributes to victim safety.
No Responses Found 1
Government entities assigned to respond to this report. No response documents have been linked in our database.
Santa Cruz County Auditor-Controller
Elected County Office