Score: +65
(79/12/14)
Contra Costa County Grand Jury
• 2019-2020
Contact: Anne Granlund Foreperson
Published: June 08, 2020
14 pages
⚠️ 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.
Findings and Recommendations 9 findings
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Board of Directors should consider identifying options to fund additional fire stations and staff to restore fire services to pre-2008 levels,
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire department to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
No recommendations for this finding
F9
Due to a lack of funding, the number of fire stations and staffing levels in East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has not been restored to pre-2008 levels.
No recommendations for this finding
Agency Responses 13
Government agencies' official responses to this report's findings and recommendations. Click on a response to see the structured breakdown.
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City of El Cerrito
August 21, 2020
•
3 pages
• 11 responses
•
Score: +8
(+8, 3, 0)
View Details ▾
11 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
R6
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
R7
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire department to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. RESPONSE: The City of El Cerrito agrees with this finding. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's o...
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City of El Cerrito
August 21, 2020
•
3 pages
• 13 responses
•
Score: +5
(+9, 0, -4)
View Details ▾
13 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
R3
The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Board of Directors should consider identifying options to fund additional fire stations and staff to restore fire services to pre-2008 levels,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
F9
Due to a lack of funding, the number of fire stations and staffing levels in East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has not been restored to pre-2008 levels.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City agrees with this finding. F2: Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F3: Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. Response: The City agrees with this finding. F4: Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. Response: The City agre...
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City of Hercules
July 23, 2019
•
4 pages
• 13 responses
•
Score: +5
(+8, 1, -3)
View Details ▾
13 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
Partially disagree, while the inability to recruit may hamper filling these types of positions, the lack of adequate revenues often precludes the ability to even offer these specialized units or positions.
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
This recommendation will not be implemented because it is not warranted or reasonable as the use of a one-size fits all approach does not accommodate the unique nature of the County's disparate communities and hiring for fit and community character are increasingly of greater importantance in the current climate.
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
R3
The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Board of Directors should consider identifying options to fund additional fire stations and staff to restore fire services to pre-2008 levels,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
This recommendation will not be implemented by the City of Hercules based on current COPS Hiring Program requirements including a local match, the limited 36 month duration of the funding, and the requirement that the officers be retained after the grant period ends.
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Will Not Implement
Due: June 30, 2021
Scheduled: FY 2020-21
Score: -1
The recommendation will not be implemented as the City of Hercules restored a traffic unit in the 2018/19 fiscal year and that continues, and the West Contra Costa
Unified School District has discontinued their funding of two school resource officers as of FY 2020-21. However, the City has retained the two former SRO positions and those will be reassigned to general policing.
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
This recommendation has been something done in Hercules for a number of years already and was initially implemented by the City of Hercules in the 2015-16 Fiscal Year with funding provided for two over-hire police officer positions and that has been included in each budget since. We appreciate the Grand Jury's efforts on behalf of our communities and the residents of Contra Costa County. Please feel free to contact me for additional information regarding the City's response at (510) 799-8216. Sincerely, David Biggs City Manager
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
F9
Due to a lack of funding, the number of fire stations and staffing levels in East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has not been restored to pre-2008 levels.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree.
▶
City of Orinda
August 04, 2020
•
3 pages
• 16 responses
•
Score: +2
(+9, 0, -7)
View Details ▾
16 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions present challenges in maintaining police services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F2:
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F3:
Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. The City of Orinda agrees with...
R1
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions present challenges in maintaining police services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F2:
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F3:
Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. The City of Orinda agrees with...
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F3:
Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F4:
Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F5:
Low office...
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions have resulted in reducing or eliminating staffing of traffic units, school resource officers, community outreach, or other police services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F3:
Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F4:
Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F5:
Low office...
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F4:
Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F5:
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions may contribute to increased average response times for Priority 1 (emergency) calls. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F6:
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who me...
R3
The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Board of Directors should consider identifying options to fund additional fire stations and staff to restore fire services to pre-2008 levels,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Due to low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions, officers are often required to put in mandatory overtime to cover critical services. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F4:
Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F5:
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions may contribute to increased average response times for Priority 1 (emergency) calls. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F6:
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who me...
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F5:
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions may contribute to increased average response times for Priority 1 (emergency) calls. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F6:
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who meet the required hiring standards and complete the rigorous testing process. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F7:
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job Gen...
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Mandatory overtime can lead to officer stress, which creates retention challenges. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F5:
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions may contribute to increased average response times for Priority 1 (emergency) calls. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F6:
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who meet the required hiring standards and complete the rigorous testing process. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F7:
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job Gen...
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions may contribute to increased average response times for Priority 1 (emergency) calls. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F6:
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who meet the required hiring standards and complete the rigorous testing process. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F7:
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job General Information Administration Planning Parks & Recreation Police Public Works (925) 253-4200 (ph) (925) 253-4220 (ph) (925) 253-421...
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Low officer staffing ratios and/or unfilled officer positions may contribute to increased average response times for Priority 1 (emergency) calls. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F6:
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who meet the required hiring standards and complete the rigorous testing process. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F7:
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job General Information Administration Planning Parks & Recreation Police Public Works (925) 253-4200 (ph) (925) 253-4220 (ph) (925) 253-421...
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who meet the required hiring standards and complete the rigorous testing process. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F7:
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job General Information Administration Planning Parks & Recreation Police Public Works (925) 253-4200 (ph) (925) 253-4220 (ph) (925) 253-4210 (ph) (925) 254-2445 (ph) (925) 254-6820 (ph) (925) 253-4231 (ph) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 253-7719 (fax) (925) 253-7716 (fax) (925) 254-9158 (fax) (925) 253-7699 (fox)
opp...
R6
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Recruiting officers is challenging due to fewer applicants who meet the required hiring standards and complete the rigorous testing process. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F7:
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job General Information Administration Planning Parks & Recreation Police Public Works (925) 253-4200 (ph) (925) 253-4220 (ph) (925) 253-4210 (ph) (925) 254-2445 (ph) (925) 254-6820 (ph) (925) 253-4231 (ph) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 253-7719 (fax) (925) 253-7716 (fax) (925) 254-9158 (fax) (925) 253-7699 (fox)
opp...
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job General Information Administration Planning Parks & Recreation Police Public Works (925) 253-4200 (ph) (925) 253-4220 (ph) (925) 253-4210 (ph) (925) 254-2445 (ph) (925) 254-6820 (ph) (925) 253-4231 (ph) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 253-7719 (fax) (925) 253-7716 (fax) (925) 254-9158 (fax) (925) 253-7699 (fox)
opportunities contribute to fewer applicants for law enforcement positions. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F8:
Each Contra Costa police agency (except those that contract with the...
R7
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire department to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Will Not Implement
Score: -1
Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job General Information Administration Planning Parks & Recreation Police Public Works (925) 253-4200 (ph) (925) 253-4220 (ph) (925) 253-4210 (ph) (925) 254-2445 (ph) (925) 254-6820 (ph) (925) 253-4231 (ph) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 254-2068 (fax) (925) 253-7719 (fax) (925) 253-7716 (fax) (925) 254-9158 (fax) (925) 253-7699 (fox)
opportunities contribute to fewer applicants for law enforcement positions. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F8:
Each Contra Costa police agency (except those that contract with the...
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Each Contra Costa police agency (except those that contract with the Sheriff's Office) conducts its own recruiting program to attract potential applicants. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F9:
The process of hiring and training new officers takes an extensive amount of time and resources to complete. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F10:
Each Contra Costa police agency (except those that contract with the Sheriff's Office) manages its own screening process for police officer positions, resulting in a replication of efforts across the County. The City of Orinda agrees ...
F9
Due to a lack of funding, the number of fire stations and staffing levels in East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has not been restored to pre-2008 levels.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The process of hiring and training new officers takes an extensive amount of time and resources to complete. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F10:
Each Contra Costa police agency (except those that contract with the Sheriff's Office) manages its own screening process for police officer positions, resulting in a replication of efforts across the County. The City of Orinda agrees with the finding.
F11:
Contra Costa cities that contract with the Sheriff for police services are generally able to fill vacancies faster than non-contract cities. The City of Orinda agrees with the findi...
▶
City of Pinole
August 18, 2020
•
3 pages
• 11 responses
•
Score: +11
(+11, 0, 0)
View Details ▾
11 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with finding #1.
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #2.
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #3.
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #4.
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #5.
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
The recommendation has not yet been implemented, but plans are underway to implement by June 30, 2021. The Contra Costa County Fire Chiefs Association was approved for grant funding in the amount of $300,000 for a software program which will provide a uniform evacuation planning platform for fire agencies within the county. The funds are expected to be available in late 2020, and implementation is expected for mid-2021.
Recommendation #6: The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground senso...
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #6.
R6
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
The recommendation has not yet been implemented but will be implemented in the future. As a municipal fire agency contracted with the Contra Costa Regional Fire Communications Center (CCRFCC) for dispatch services, Pinole Fire Department has access to real-time satellite detection of fires as provided by PG&E. CCRFCC (which is operated by Contra Costa County Fire Protection District) can use this information for early detection to dispatch fire resources to a given area, often in remote locations, and use this information to support or confirm a fire. PG&E fire spotting cameras in the areas su...
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #7.
R7
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire department to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
The recommendation has not yet been implemented but will be implemented in the future. While it is unclear whether a local agency can regulate PG&E activities by way of an ordinance like that which was passed by SRVFPD, the City of Pinole will review and consider such mechanisms as recommended in this report by June 30, 2021. The City appreciates the time and effort spent by Her Honor and the Grand Jury in consideration of these matters. Sincerety, Roy∕Swearingen, Mayor CITY OF PINOLE
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #8, as we understand the San Ramon Valley FPD ordinance to be written.
▶
City of Pinole
July 21, 2020
•
4 pages
• 13 responses
•
Score: +12
(+12, 1, 0)
View Details ▾
13 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with finding #1.
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #2.
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
This recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, by June 30, 2021. Recommendation #3: The Sheriff, and the City/Town Councils of Antioch, Brentwood, Clayton, Concord, Danville, El Cerrito, Hercules, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, Oakley, Orinda, Pinole, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, San Pablo, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek should consider directing their police departments to apply annually, or when offered in 2021, to the Department of Justice COPS Hiring Program, which provides funding for hiring additional officers, by June 30, 2021. Response: This ...
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #3.
R3
The East Contra Costa Fire Protection District Board of Directors should consider identifying options to fund additional fire stations and staff to restore fire services to pre-2008 levels,
Response: Requires Analysis
Score: 0
This recommendation requires further analysis. The scope and parameters of the analysis will include a review of the details in the COPS Hiring Program, and the grant application and submittal process, which will be completed by November 20, 2020.
Pinole, CA 94564 FAX: (510) 724-9826 www.ci.pinole.ca.us Recommendation #4: The City/Town Councils of Antioch, Brentwood, Clayton, Concord, Danville, El Cerrito, Hercules, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, Oakley, Orinda, Pinole, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, San Pablo, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek should consider identifying funds to increase the n...
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #4.
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
This recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, by June 30, 2021. Recommendation #5: The City/Town Councils of Antioch, Brentwood, Clayton, Concord, Danville, El Cerrito, Hercules, Lafayette, Martinez, Moraga, Oakley, Orinda, Pinole, Pittsburg, Pleasant Hill, Richmond, San Pablo, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek should consider identifying funds that would permit their police departments to over-hire officer positions as a strategy for keeping departments fully staffed, by June 30, 2021. Response: This recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be...
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #5.
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
This recommendation has not yet been implemented, but will be implemented in the future, by June 30, 2021. The City appreciates the time and effort spent by Her Honor and the Grand Jury in consideration of these matters. Sincerely, Roy Swearingen Mayor
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #6.
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #7.
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #8.
F9
Due to a lack of funding, the number of fire stations and staffing levels in East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has not been restored to pre-2008 levels.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with Finding #9.
▶
City of Richmond
July 21, 2020
•
3 pages
• 1 response
•
Score: +1
(+1, 0, 0)
View Details ▾
1 response to findings and recommendations
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
We agree with this finding. 6. The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County. Response: We disagree with this finding. The City of Richmond did not experience a disruption in our emergency response or communications as a result of the PSPS. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning. Response: We agree with this finding. 8. An ordinance pa...
▶
City of Richmond
July 21, 2020
•
4 pages
• 1 response
•
Score: +1
(+1, 0, 0)
View Details ▾
1 response to findings and recommendations
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
We agree with this finding. 7. Negative perceptions of policing and the availability of less dangerous job opportunities contribute to few applicants for law enforcement positions. Response: We agree with this finding. 8. Each Contra Costa police agency conducts its own recruiting program to attract potential candidates. Response: We agree with this finding. 9. The process of hiring and training new officers takes an extensive amount of time and resources to complete Response: We agree with this finding. 10. Each Contra Costa police agency manages its own screening process for police officer p...
▶
City of San Ramon
July 30, 2020
•
3 pages
• 10 responses
•
Score: +9
(+9, 1, 0)
View Details ▾
10 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #1 of the Grand Jury.
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #2 of the Grand Jury.
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #3 of the Grand Jury.
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #4 of the Grand Jury.
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #5 of the Grand Jury.
R5
The City Councils of El Cerrito, Pinole, and Richmond should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre- determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
Recommendation #5 of the Grand Jury has been implemented.
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
the rigorous testing process. The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #6 of the Grand Jury.
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #7 of the Grand Jury.
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #8 of the Grand Jury.
F9
Due to a lack of funding, the number of fire stations and staffing levels in East Contra Costa Fire Protection District has not been restored to pre-2008 levels.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
The City of San Ramon concurs with Finding #9 of the Grand Jury.
▶
Contra Costa County Fire Protection District
August 18, 2020
•
5 pages
• 11 responses
•
Score: +9
(+9, 2, 0)
View Details ▾
11 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. F2. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread. Response: Agree. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. Response: Agree. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's orders to evacuate during an emergency. Response: Agree. 4005 Port Chicago Highway, Suite 250 · Concord, CA 94520-1180 Telephon...
R1
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
The recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in 2021. Collectively, the Contra Costa County Fire Chiefs Association supported a grant application in 2019 to provide funding for the procurement and implementation of a software program that will provide a uniform evacuation planning platform. The $300,000 grant was approved in late 2019 with funding to be available in late 2020. Procurement is expected to commence in late 2020 with implementation scheduled in mid-2021. The software will satisfy the recommendation included in this report. R2. The Board of Directors of Cont...
F2
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County require property owners to perform weed abatement on their property to reduce the risk of fire spread.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. F3. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use predetermined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans. Response: Agree. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's orders to evacuate during an emergency. Response: Agree. 4005 Port Chicago Highway, Suite 250 · Concord, CA 94520-1180 Telephone: (925) 941-3300 • Fax: (925) 941-3309 • www.cccfpd.org
• • • F5. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, dr...
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
This recommendation has been implemented (partially), requires more analysis in some cases, or is not feasible in some cases. Since 2019 the fire agencies within Contra Costa County have been working individually, and collectively, on researching or implementing many of the technologies referenced. The Contra Costa Regional Fire Communications Center (CCRFCC), operated by the Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, has access to real-time satellite detection of fires as provided by PG&E. The CCRFCC can use this information to dispatch fire resources to a given area, often in remote locat...
F3
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use pre- determined polygons and routing algorithms in their evacuation plans.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. F4. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement's orders to evacuate during an emergency. Response: Agree. 4005 Port Chicago Highway, Suite 250 · Concord, CA 94520-1180 Telephone: (925) 941-3300 • Fax: (925) 941-3309 • www.cccfpd.org
• • • F5. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires. Response: Agree. It should be noted, however, that the majority of the "new technologies" ...
F4
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County recommend that residents comply with law enforcement’s orders to evacuate during an emergency.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. 4005 Port Chicago Highway, Suite 250 · Concord, CA 94520-1180 Telephone: (925) 941-3300 • Fax: (925) 941-3309 • www.cccfpd.org
• • • F5. Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires. Response: Agree. It should be noted, however, that the majority of the "new technologies" referenced are in various forms of research or early stages of testing and are not readily available for fire departments to be deployed. F6. The October 2019 Public Safety Po...
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Requires Analysis
Score: 0
This recommendation requires further analysis. It is unclear whether PG&E can be regulated by a local agency in a manner similar to the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District. PG&E has filed a lawsuit against the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District challenging the validity of the ordinance. Upon resolution of this legal challenge, there will be more information available in providing a better understanding and potential direction for similar local regulation of PG&E activities. Until these matters are resolved, implementation of this recommendation is not feasi...
F5
Not all fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County use new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, for early detection of fires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. It should be noted, however, that the majority of the "new technologies" referenced are in various forms of research or early stages of testing and are not readily available for fire departments to be deployed. F6. The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County. Response: Agree. F7. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning. Respons...
F6
The October 2019 Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events disrupted emergency response efforts and communications in Contra Costa County.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. F7. Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning. Response: Agree. F8. An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs. Response: Agree, as we understand the San Ramon Valley FPD ordinance to...
F7
Fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County are not always informed by PG&E when the utility is performing non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk during a Red Flag Warning.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. F8. An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs. Response: Agree, as we understand the San Ramon Valley FPD ordinance to be written. RECOMMENDATIONS - California Penal Code Section 933.05(b) requires a response to the designated recommendations of the Grand Jury. R1. The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra ...
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree, as we understand the San Ramon Valley FPD ordinance to be written. RECOMMENDATIONS - California Penal Code Section 933.05(b) requires a response to the designated recommendations of the Grand Jury. R1. The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire
• . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technol...
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East Contra Costa Fire Protection District
September 10, 2020
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4 pages
• 2 responses
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Score: +2
(+2, 0, 0)
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2 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
During a Red Flag Warning, fire districts and fire departments in Contra Costa County often deploy pre-positioned firefighting strike teams to maximize the ability to respond to wildfires.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with findings F1-F8 except to the extent that ECCFPD cannot speak to the other fire protection agencies' activities and capabilities.
F8
An ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, requiring PG&E to give advance notice of non-emergency maintenance work that presents a high fire risk, enables the fire district to pre-position a team at the utility worksite and recover labor and equipment costs.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
agrees with findings F1-F8 except to the extent that ECCFPD cannot speak to the other fire protection agencies' activities and capabilities.
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Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District
August 12, 2020
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3 pages
• 3 responses
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Score: 0
(+0, 3, 0)
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3 responses to findings and recommendations
R1
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
The recommendation has not yet been implemented but is scheduled to be implemented in 2021. Together, the Contra Costa County Fire Chiefs Association supported a grant application to provide funding for the procurement and implementation of a software program that will provide a uniform evacuation planning platform. The $300,000 grant was approved in late 2019 with funding to be available in late 2020. Procurement is expected to commence in late 2020 with implementation scheduled in mid-2021. The software will satisfy the recommendation included in this report. R2. The Board of Directors of Co...
R2
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider identifying funds to adopt or expand the use of new technologies, such as ground sensors, drones, satellites, and fire spotting cameras, to help detect fires in high-risk areas,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
This recommendation has been implemented (partially) and also requires more analysis in some cases. The fire agencies within Contra Costa County have been working individually, and collectively, on researching or implementing many of the technologies referenced. The Contra Costa Regional Fire Communications Center (CCRFCC), has access to realtime satellite detection of fires. This information can then be disseminated to responding agencies and used in dispatching additional resources. A cameras network has been installed in Contra Costa County that can be accessed by the individual agencies li...
R4
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Moraga-Orinda Fire Protection District, and Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District should review and consider mechanisms, such as the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, that would enable their fire district to recover labor and equipment costs from PG&E for overseeing electrical utility work that presents a high fire risk,
Response: Requires Analysis
Score: 0
This recommendation requires further analysis. It is unclear whether PG&E can be regulated by a local agency in a manner like the ordinance passed by the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District. This ordinance has been challenged in court by PG&E. Until a ruling has been passed down by the court this recommendation or implantation is not possible. The Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District Board of Directors reviewed and approved this response at their meeting on August 12, 2020. Sincerely, Bryan Craig FIRE CHIEF
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San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District
August 27, 2020
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3 pages
• 1 response
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Score: 0
(+0, 1, 0)
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1 response to findings and recommendations
R1
The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technology,
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
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The Board of Directors of Contra Costa County Fire Protection District, East Contra Costa Fire Protection District, Rodeo-Hercules Fire Protection District, and San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District should consider directing their Fire Chief to update wildfire evacuation plans and incorporate pre-determined polygons and advanced routing technology, by June 30, 2021.
~ - + <b>RESPONSE:</b> The recommendation has been implemented in part as the District is in the process of updating wildfire evacuation plans, and should be completed by June 30, 2021. <b>GRAND JURY RECOMMENDATION #2:</b> ...