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Extracted from Consolidated Report
This investigation was originally published as part of a larger consolidated report containing multiple investigations. View the consolidated PDF for the complete document.
⚠️ 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 14 findings
F1
Page 63
The City is operating fiscally in the black, but City administration has expressed concern that the current recession and reduction in State revenue may present problems. The product tax from private fish companies has dwindled in recent years primarily from the reduction in the urchin fishery.
No recommendations for this finding
F2
Page 63
The City manages revolving loan funds in accordance with published guidelines. The City uses the self-sustaining funds for private enterprise and affordable housing.
No recommendations for this finding
F3
Page 63
City ordinances are not codified in a meaningful way. The City has established a goal to codify ordinances, but has not had the time or manpower to accomplish this goal.
No recommendations for this finding
F4
Page 63
The City is not in compliance with the affordable housing element of its General Plan. According to the General Plan, affordable housing development in the City is hampered by price and availability of real estate, land use controls, building codes, local permit processing, various special fees, environmental/site condition studies, and limitations on density.
No recommendations for this finding
F5
Page 63
The Grand Jury heard testimony that water pressure and capacity for fire protection to the southern end of the City in the cove area are not adequate.
No recommendations for this finding
F6
Page 63
The Grand Jury heard testimony that emergency equipment access to the Wharf Master’s Inn and Coast Guard House bed and breakfast is not adequate. 63
No recommendations for this finding
F7
Page 64
The City has recently adopted a policy for fire safety plan checks. The policy does not include systematic fire safety checks of existing buildings and businesses accessed by the public.
No recommendations for this finding
F8
Page 64
Policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions, and citizen’s advisory groups are not complete or organized for easy reference.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Page 63
67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72
F9
Page 64
City Council and Planning Commission meetings reviewed and attended were in accordance with Brown Act requirements. However, citizens wishing to express concerns on various issues are allowed only five minutes.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Page 63
67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72
F10
Page 64
Emergency services procedures have been implemented, but the City lacks a dedicated shelter. The City is in continuous collaboration with the Emergency Services Authority to improve the effectiveness of the emergency services program.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Page 63
67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72
F11
Page 64
The rescue boat for Arena Rescue is inoperative because it needs new engines. The City is exploring the possibility of grants for new engines. At present the rescue boat is a depreciating asset because of lack of maintenance and damage from exposure to the elements.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Page 63
67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72
F12
Page 64
Recently a member of the City Council resigned his position and immediately took a salaried position with the City. Although this did not violate the present policies and procedures of the City, it gave the appearance of conflict of interest. 64
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Page 63
67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72
F13
Page 65
The City General Plan lists a goal to establish a capital improvement plan.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Page 63
67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72
F14
Page 65
Areas within the City limits are not totally in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. Violations include lack of handicap or wheelchair access, parking, and signs. Responses to Findings 1 through 14 No legal response received by deadline.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
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67 Response (City Council): The recommendation has already been implemented. The RCFPD has retrieved ISO rating information, has requested a rating review, and has been reviewed. Understanding the components that contribute to a reduced (better) ISO rating, the District is steadily working towards that end (i.e. standardized training with supporting documentation, regular water testing, increased water availability, etc.) F. The City complete and gather into one compendium policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions and citizen advisory groups. (Finding 8) Response (City Council): The recommendation will be implemented in the future. This will be accomplished by June 30, 2004, with the codification of ordinances (see B above). G. The City Council allow more flexible time for public comment during meetings. To allow more time for public comment, the City consider a separate Planning Commission meeting on a different day than the City Council meeting. (Finding 9) Response (City Council): This recommendation will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council sets a five-minute limitation on public comment under Privilege of the Floor for items not appearing on the Agenda. This limitation is not often adhered to and is used as a tool to maintain order and structure if necessary. Plus, the public is able to comment on Agenda items as they are discussed on the Agenda. Written comments from the public are also encouraged. The Council did have a separate Planning Commission but abandoned it after a five-year period because it 68 was becoming increasingly difficult to find people to serve on both the City Council and the Planning Commission. It is a small town and those willing to donate time to serve on boards are few. H. The City continue its efforts to enhance the emergency services program by dialog with the Emergency Services Authority in Ukiah. The City address issue of establishing and equipping an emergency shelter. (Finding 10) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The VFW Hall is used as a council meeting Chamber, a court, and as an emergency operation center. During an emergency, it will become the communication point for disaster/rescue related activity. It is outfitted with a generator, phone lines, emergency radios, etc. Separate from this facility, the Point Arena High School gymnasium is designated as a Red Cross emergency shelter. I. The City decide either to continue its efforts to reinstate the Arena Rescue boat to operational status, or discontinue the program and sell the boat. The Grand Jury encourages the City to give protection of coastal resources from oil spills a high priority in making its decision. (Finding 11) Response (City Council): This recommendation has already been implemented. The City recently received grant funds to upgrade the rescue boat. It has now been upgraded and is now back in operation. J. The City adopt a minimum time period after leaving office to restrict City elected officials in regard to accepting City employment. (Finding 12) 69 Response (City Council): This recommendation will be implemented in the future. A policy will be adopted no later than December 31, 2002. K. The City establish a capital improvement program in accordance with its General Plan goal. (Finding 13) Response (City Council): This policy will not be implemented because it is unwarranted. The City Council has developed a transportation plan, the wastewater treatment plant has a capital improvements program to ensure its future viability and the pier facility doesn’t generate enough revenue to provide for a complete capital improvements schedule. Outside funding must be sought for big-ticket capital improvement items at the pier facility. The California Department of Boating and Waterways has been contacted for possible funding for hoist upgrades. L. The city comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Comprehensive Access Plan. (Finding 14) Response (City Council): This recommendation has been partially implemented. The recommendation is vague. However, the City is currently working to install new sidewalks on a couple of residential streets that currently don’t have sidewalks. The City leases the City Hall and chambers from the County of Mendocino. Parking along Highway One (Main Street) is within the California Department of Transportation’s jurisdiction. The Pier Facility is handicapped accessible. Comment The Grand Jury commends the city government and citizenry of Point Arena on its completion and adoption of its General Plan, its efforts to establish its emergency services program, its successful petroleum and solid waste recycling program, its support of the Safe Passages program, and its sound fiscal management. The Grand Jury applauds the dedication of the virtually unpaid elected officials of the city and the dedication of its salaried employees as well. Misinformation and lack of communication between various factions of the citizenry and City government is endemic. The public does not regularly attend City Council meetings. The City Council in the past has had to appoint members because of lack of interest. The Grand Jury would remind the citizenry of Point Arena that “you get the government you deserve.” Supplemental Comments The Grand Jury attended the special joint meeting of the City of Point Arena and the Redwood Coast Fire Protection District on February 19, 2003 in which Point Arena considered the following positive steps to begin resolving the public safety issues in the Arena cove area. (1) The owners of the Wharfmaster’s Inn and Coast Guard House B&B agreed to upgrade their water storage to approximately 20,000 gallons with fire equipment access and hose connection access. 71 (2) The City of Point Arena and the owners of the aforementioned lodging establishments agreed to improve the secondary vehicle access to the Wharfmaster’s Inn. (3) The City of Point arena agreed to upgrade the main water transmission line supplying the Arena cove area, to assure adequate water pressure and volume. The plans are to be completed by August 19, 2003. (4) The City of Point Arena is to aggressively procure funding to complete the new water line. 72