Score: +7
(16/6/9)
Trinity County Grand Jury
• 2016-2017
Far2016-2017-001*
Published: June 02, 2017
12 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 12 findings
F1
The County Auditor requested clarification from Gallina, LLP, the County's external auditors, to ensure IRS compliance regarding fringe benefits provided to some employees, including County vehicle usage.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1
and general services personnel, to explain the term "home" and whether it encompasses a commute to and from if "home" is outside of the county;
F2
On December 21, 2016 the County Auditor issued a memorandum to County department heads, BOS and CAO-CC providing clarification of taxable fringe benefits with regard to vehicle usage effective with the January, 2017 pay period.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2
County Code Chapter 2.56.070.C- Emergency situations and authorization for the use of county vehicles states "The immediate family of county employees who are assigned vehicles are not permitted to ride in county vehicles except with the prior approval of the county administrative officer". When an employee of the County is using their own vehicle for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business, specify if and when it is allowable for the immediate family of county employees to be permitted to ride in a personal vehicle. (Ord. 1234 §1, 1999; Ord.11 83 §3(part), 1993; Ord. 350-1 §1,1976; Ord.350 §4,1975) Enforce adherence to County Vehicle Usage Procedures and encompassing Ordinances
F3
The BOS provided a $10,000 vehicle allowance/stipend to a County employee based on a Staff Report that did not include complete information necessary for the BOS to make an informed decision.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3
and Codes through training and memorandums and at annual employee evaluations. Ensure all County employees using personal vehicles for County business submit proof
F4
County Ordinance 2.56.040 may not be beneficial to the County budget as currently written in its explanation of vehicle use.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4
of insurance pursuant to County Policy 2002-02(P) at annual employee evaluations or when employees who use personal vehicles for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business change the status of ownership of the vehicle used.
F5
The BOS is not adhering to the terms of the January, 16, 2015 contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP with regard to developing specific criteria needed to review and evaluate the performance of "Firm," the definition of which is Prentice & Epperson LLP as County Counsel.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5
Promptly complete the Classification and Compensation Study.
F6
The BOS is not adhering to the terms of the January 16, 2015 contract agreement and its subsequent amendments in regard to an annual open session review and evaluation of the contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP.
Related Recommendations (1)
R6
Publish the Classification and Compensation Study and make it available to the public. Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation
F7
The BOS did not adhere to Government Code Section 31000 when a contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP assigning County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO was entered into.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7
Study. Treat the recruitment and hiring of a competent, experienced CAO as a priority. To that
F8
The BOS contracted with Prentice & Epperson LLP designating County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO without establishing an expiration date.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8
end, offer a competitive compensation package. Develop a procedure/policy that ensures contract renewals are timely and in accordance
F9
The BOS did not create an alternative plan in the instance a CAO is not recruited.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9
with contracted work, and confirms contracts are reviewed monthly by the department implementing the contract. Develop specific criteria needed to review and evaluate the performance of "Firm", the
F10
The CAO position qualifications presented to applicants are not uniform nor in alignment with County Code 2.08.020.
Related Recommendations (1)
R10
definition of which is Prentice & Epperson LLP as County Counsel. Provide professional qualifications for the appointment of CAO-CC as described in
F11
The County's contract agreement with Cooperative Personnel Services for the recruitment of a CAO is current and ending only when a CAO qualified applicant is made an offer and the offer is accepted.
Related Recommendations (1)
R11
Government Code Section 31000. Establish uniformity between County Code 2.08.020 and the position description of
F12
BOS amended the original contract agreement with Koff and Associates four times after the contract agreement had expired.
Related Recommendations (1)
R12
County Administrative Officer. COMMENDATION The Grand Jury appreciates the cooperation and responsiveness of all County employees interviewed. It is apparent that despite significant workloads and in some circumstances limited staffing levels, the citizens of Trinity County are fortunate to have dedicated employees willing to go the extra mile to ensure effective ongoing county operations.
Commendations 1
-
CM1The Grand Jury appreciates the cooperation and responsiveness of all County employees interviewed. It is apparent that despite significant workloads and in some circumstances limited staffing levels, the citizens of Trinity County are fortunate to have dedicated employees willing to go the extra mile to ensure effective ongoing county operations. REQUEST FOR RESPONSES Pursuant to Penal Code section 933.05, the Grand Jury requests responses as follows:
Agency Responses 4
Government agencies' official responses to this report's findings and recommendations. Click on a response to see the structured breakdown.
▶
BOS
October 03, 2017
•
3 pages
• 14 responses
•
Score: -2
(+1, 0, -3)
View Details ▾
14 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County Auditor requested clarification from Gallina, LLP, the County's external auditors, to ensure IRS compliance regarding fringe benefits provided to some employees, including County vehicle usage.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
Disagree wholly. The Elections Department complied with Election Code sections 15272 and 15104(d). Proper access has been provided to observers. Recommendation #1: Adhere to the Election Codes concerning observers Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the recommendation has been adhered to and followed. Recommendation #2: The computer screens used for the signature validation shall be placed closer to the observers' relegated viewing area, enabling them to see the signatures clearly as stated...
R1
and general services personnel, to explain the term "home" and whether it encompasses a commute to and from if "home" is outside of the county;
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the recommendation has been adhered to and followed. Recommendation #2: The computer screens used for the signature validation shall be placed closer to the observers' relegated viewing area, enabling them to see the signatures clearly as stated in EC 15272. KEITH GROVES JUDY MORRIS BOBBI CHADWICK VACANT DISTRICT 1 JOHN FENLEY DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
Response: Election Code 15272 refers to manual tallies and access to the individuals conducting...
F2
On December 21, 2016 the County Auditor issued a memorandum to County department heads, BOS and CAO-CC providing clarification of taxable fringe benefits with regard to vehicle usage effective with the January, 2017 pay period.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Recommendation #3: The EO must continue to balance the rights of individual voters and observers to assure that the election process is transparent and all voter/citizen rights are upheld. Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the recommendation has been adhered to Finding #3: EC 12109 was not adhered to by the EO. Whenever the ballots at any election or from any precincts are to be tallied at a central place and not at the precincts, the elections official or secretary of the jurisdic...
R2
County Code Chapter 2.56.070.C- Emergency situations and authorization for the use of county vehicles states "The immediate family of county employees who are assigned vehicles are not permitted to ride in county vehicles except with the prior approval of the county administrative officer". When an employee of the County is using their own vehicle for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business, specify if and when it is allowable f...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Election Code 15272 refers to manual tallies and access to the individuals conducting the tallies. It appears that the Grand Jury may be misinterpreting the code. Finding #2: The EO designated a viewing area at the Weaverville Veteran's Hall polling place wherein observers could view the election process but not interfere with voters' rights to Response: Agree. Recommendation #3: The EO must continue to balance the rights of individual voters and observers to assure that the election process is transparent and all voter/citizen rights are upheld. Response: The Board of Supervisors does not hav...
F3
The BOS provided a $10,000 vehicle allowance/stipend to a County employee based on a Staff Report that did not include complete information necessary for the BOS to make an informed decision.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
The Board of Supervisors has no responsive information regarding this finding. Recommendation #4: Place a public notification of Pre-Canvass, Election Day, and Canvass procedures in a newspaper of general circulation published in Trinity County at least I 0 days before the day of the election. Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. Recommendation #5: Place a public notification of Pre-Canvass, Election Day, and Canvass procedures at least 10 days before the day of the election in the glass enclosed bulletin board on the wall near the Court House ...
R3
and Codes through training and memorandums and at annual employee evaluations. Ensure all County employees using personal vehicles for County business submit proof
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Disagree wholly. The Elections Department complied with Election Code sections 15272 and 15104(d). Proper access has been provided to observers. Recommendation #1: Adhere to the Election Codes concerning observers Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the recommendation has been adhered to and followed. Recommendation #2: The computer screens used for the signature validation shall be placed closer to the observers' relegated viewing area, enabling them to see the signatures clearly as stated...
F4
County Ordinance 2.56.040 may not be beneficial to the County budget as currently written in its explanation of vehicle use.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
Disagree wholly. Voter information is kept in a locked and secured area, only accessible by Trinity County Clerk/Recorder/Assessor's office staff. Recommendation #8: Perform inventory of all keys distributed to Court House employees. Response: Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the election officials have inventory of the keys, pursuant to County policy. Recommendation #9: Distribute keys as necessary for County and Court employees to perform their duties. Response: Board of Supervisors does not have au...
R4
of insurance pursuant to County Policy 2002-02(P) at annual employee evaluations or when employees who use personal vehicles for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business change the status of ownership of the vehicle used.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. Recommendation #5: Place a public notification of Pre-Canvass, Election Day, and Canvass procedures at least 10 days before the day of the election in the glass enclosed bulletin board on the wall near the Court House main entrance. Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors is aware that this information is posted on the County website, which had greater circulation than the bulletin board. Recommendation #6: Place a public notification of ...
R5
Promptly complete the Classification and Compensation Study.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors is aware that this information is posted on the County website, which had greater circulation than the bulletin board. Recommendation #6: Place a public notification of Pre-Canvass, Election Day, and Canvass procedures at least 10 days before the day of the election to www.trinitycountv.org_website. Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the recommendation has been adhered to Recommen...
R6
Publish the Classification and Compensation Study and make it available to the public. Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the recommendation has been adhered to Recommendation #7: Utilize the SOS's suggested Election Observer Panel Plan available at http://www.sos.ca.govlelections/voting-systems/oversight/county-election-observer-
Response: The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the election officials follow all requirements regarding observations. The Board of Supervisors is aware that an enh...
R7
Study. Treat the recruitment and hiring of a competent, experienced CAO as a priority. To that
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
The Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the election officials follow all requirements regarding observations. The Board of Supervisors is aware that an enhances observation window has been put in place, which should allow the appropriate viewing and privacy issues to continue to be adhered to. Finding #4: Trinity County employees working at the Court House have access to voter information kept inthe secure storage area. Response: Disagree wholly. Voter information is kept in a locked and secured area, o...
R8
end, offer a competitive compensation package. Develop a procedure/policy that ensures contract renewals are timely and in accordance
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, the Board of Supervisors has confidence that the election officials have inventory of the keys, pursuant to County policy. Recommendation #9: Distribute keys as necessary for County and Court employees to perform their duties. Response: Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, it is appropriate for the Trinity County Clerk/Recorder/Assessor's office staff to have Recommendation #10: Designate separate secure storage locations in the Courthouse for each County department us...
R9
with contracted work, and confirms contracts are reviewed monthly by the department implementing the contract. Develop specific criteria needed to review and evaluate the performance of "Firm", the
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Board of Supervisors does not have authority over the elected officials. However, it is appropriate for the Trinity County Clerk/Recorder/Assessor's office staff to have Recommendation #10: Designate separate secure storage locations in the Courthouse for each County department use that is also separate from Court use. Response: The Board of Supervisors does have storage locations that are separate from the Court house. The County will continue to review storage issues.
R10
definition of which is Prentice & Epperson LLP as County Counsel. Provide professional qualifications for the appointment of CAO-CC as described in
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
The Board of Supervisors does have storage locations that are separate from the Court house. The County will continue to review storage issues.
▶
BOS
September 21, 2017
•
4 pages
• 12 responses
•
Score: +4
(+5, 6, -1)
View Details ▾
12 responses to findings and recommendations
F3
The BOS provided a $10,000 vehicle allowance/stipend to a County employee based on a Staff Report that did not include complete information necessary for the BOS to make an informed decision.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree
Finding #3:
The BOS provided a $10,000 vehicle allowance/stipend to a County employee based on a Staff Report that did not include complete information necessary for the BOS to make an informed decision.
F4
County Ordinance 2.56.040 may not be beneficial to the County budget as currently written in its explanation of vehicle use.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
: County Ordinance 2.56.040 may not be beneficial to the County budget as currently written in its explanation of vehicle use. <b>Response:</b> Disagree partially, not enough information.
R4
of insurance pursuant to County Policy 2002-02(P) at annual employee evaluations or when employees who use personal vehicles for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business change the status of ownership of the vehicle used.
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future with oversight by HR. Recommendation #6: Publish the Classification and Compensation Study and make it available to the public. Response: Recommendation has not been implemented but it is of course required to do so.
<b>Recommendation #7:</b> Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation Study. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future once study is complete. <b>Recommendation #8:</b> Treat the recruitment and hiring of...
R5
Promptly complete the Classification and Compensation Study.
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future with oversight by HR. Recommendation #6: Publish the Classification and Compensation Study and make it available to the public. Response: Recommendation has not been implemented but it is of course required to do so.
<b>Recommendation #7:</b> Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation Study. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future once study is complete. <b>Recommendation #8:</b> Treat the recruitment and hiring of...
R6
Publish the Classification and Compensation Study and make it available to the public. Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
Recommendation has not been implemented but it is of course required to do so.
<b>Recommendation #7:</b> Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation Study. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future once study is complete. <b>Recommendation #8:</b> Treat the recruitment and hiring of a competent, experienced CAO as a priority. To that end, offer a competitive compensation package. Response: Recommendation has been implemented <b>Recommendation #9:</b> Develop a procedure/policy that ensures contr...
F7
The BOS did not adhere to Government Code Section 31000 when a contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP assigning County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO was entered into.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
Agree, disagree partially, or disagree wholly. (If you disagree in any way, provide an explanation of your reasons) Finding #8: The BOS contracted with Prentice & Epperson LLP designating County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO without establishing an expiration date. <b>Response:</b> Disagree wholly, agreement for CAO duties terminates upon hiring a CAO or anytime prior. Finding #9: The BOS did not create an alternative plan in the instance a CAO is not recruited. Disagree partially, The County has been in active recruitment since early Response: 2016 beginning wit...
R7
Study. Treat the recruitment and hiring of a competent, experienced CAO as a priority. To that
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
Recommendation has been implemented <b>Recommendation #9:</b> Develop a procedure/policy that ensures contract renewals are timely and inaccordance with contracted work, and confirms contracts are reviewed monthly by the department implementing the contract. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has been implemented. <b>Recommendation #10:</b> Develop specific criteria needed to review and evaluate the performance of "Firm", the definition of which is Prentice & Epperson LLP as County Counsel. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has been implemented since at least 2016. Also, the contract is not with "P...
F8
The BOS contracted with Prentice & Epperson LLP designating County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO without establishing an expiration date.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
disagree in any way, provide an explanation of your reasons) Finding #8: The BOS contracted with Prentice & Epperson LLP designating County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO without establishing an expiration date.
R8
end, offer a competitive compensation package. Develop a procedure/policy that ensures contract renewals are timely and in accordance
Response: Implemented
Score: 0
Recommendation has been implemented <b>Recommendation #9:</b> Develop a procedure/policy that ensures contract renewals are timely and inaccordance with contracted work, and confirms contracts are reviewed monthly by the department implementing the contract. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has been implemented. <b>Recommendation #10:</b> Develop specific criteria needed to review and evaluate the performance of "Firm", the definition of which is Prentice & Epperson LLP as County Counsel. <b>Response:</b> Recommendation has been implemented since at least 2016. Also, the contract is not with "P...
F9
The BOS did not create an alternative plan in the instance a CAO is not recruited.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
2016 beginning with hiring recruitment firm CPS HR Consultant which has been the focus since. In theory, an alternate plan could be developed if the Board chose to do so. Finding #10: The CAO position qualifications presented to applicants are not uniform nor in alignment with County Code 2.08.020. Response: Agree in part. Finding #11: The County's contract agreement with Cooperative Personnel Services for the recruitment of a CAO is current and ending only when a CAO qualified applicant is made an offer and the offer is accepted.
<b>Response:</b> Agree <b>Finding #12:</b> BOS amended the ori...
F10
The CAO position qualifications presented to applicants are not uniform nor in alignment with County Code 2.08.020.
Response: Disagree Partially
Score: 0
Agree in part. Finding #11: The County's contract agreement with Cooperative Personnel Services for the recruitment of a CAO is current and ending only when a CAO qualified applicant is made an offer and the offer is accepted.
<b>Response:</b> Agree <b>Finding #12:</b> BOS amended the original contract agreement with Koff and Associates four times after the contract agreement had expired. <b>Response:</b> Agree Recommendation #1: Revise County Ordinance 2.56.040 -Vehicles assigned to department of transportation and general services personnel, to explain the term "home" and whether it encompa...
F12
BOS amended the original contract agreement with Koff and Associates four times after the contract agreement had expired.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree <b>Finding #12:</b> BOS amended the original contract agreement with Koff and Associates four times after the contract agreement had expired.
▶
BOS
September 06, 2017
•
1 pages
• 4 responses
•
Score: +4
(+4, 0, 0)
View Details ▾
4 responses to findings and recommendations
F2
On December 21, 2016 the County Auditor issued a memorandum to County department heads, BOS and CAO-CC providing clarification of taxable fringe benefits with regard to vehicle usage effective with the January, 2017 pay period.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree, Respondents that the Board of Supervisors has agency over will be provided the California Penal Code (PEN) and Trinity County Policy. Finding #3: Some Respondents do a very commendable job with their response which is thoughtful, on-time, and in the format required by law. Response: Agree. Recommendation #2: Both the Court and Grand Jury should help respondents be aware of requirements in both format and timeliness for responding to Grand Jury Reports. Response: Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future as provided by the Court and Grand Jury. KEITH ...
R2
County Code Chapter 2.56.070.C- Emergency situations and authorization for the use of county vehicles states "The immediate family of county employees who are assigned vehicles are not permitted to ride in county vehicles except with the prior approval of the county administrative officer". When an employee of the County is using their own vehicle for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business, specify if and when it is allowable f...
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future as provided by the Court and Grand Jury. KEITH GROVES JUDY MORRIS BOBBI CHADWICK VACANT DISTRICT 1 JOHN FENLEY DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
F3
The BOS provided a $10,000 vehicle allowance/stipend to a County employee based on a Staff Report that did not include complete information necessary for the BOS to make an informed decision.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Recommendation #2: Both the Court and Grand Jury should help respondents be aware of requirements in both format and timeliness for responding to Grand Jury Reports. Response: Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future as provided by the Court and Grand Jury. KEITH GROVES JUDY MORRIS BOBBI CHADWICK VACANT DISTRICT 1 JOHN FENLEY DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
R6
Publish the Classification and Compensation Study and make it available to the public. Develop a plan of action to implement the results of the Classification and Compensation
Response: Will Implement
Score: +1
Agree, Respondents that the Board of Supervisors has agency over will be provided the California Penal Code (PEN) and Trinity County Policy. Finding #3: Some Respondents do a very commendable job with their response which is thoughtful, on-time, and in the format required by law. Response: Agree. Recommendation #2: Both the Court and Grand Jury should help respondents be aware of requirements in both format and timeliness for responding to Grand Jury Reports. Response: Recommendation has not been implemented, but will be implemented in the future as provided by the Court and Grand Jury. KEITH ...
▶
BOS
September 06, 2017
•
4 pages
• 17 responses
•
Score: +1
(+6, 0, -5)
View Details ▾
17 responses to findings and recommendations
F1
The County Auditor requested clarification from Gallina, LLP, the County's external auditors, to ensure IRS compliance regarding fringe benefits provided to some employees, including County vehicle usage.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Finding #3: During the calendar year 2016, the BOS evaluated only one other County department head, and that person only once. Response: Agree. During this time period, the county supervisors only had the right to evaluate this one other employee. KEITH GROVES JUDY MORRIS BOBBI CHADWICK DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 VACANT DISTRICT 3<br>40 JOHN FENLEY DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
Finding #4: BOS minutes, for each meeting held during the calendar year 2016, where an evaluation of the CC was scheduled, indicate, "Evaluation was held," except the meeting on March 1, 2016, where the minutes report, "Dire...
R1
and general services personnel, to explain the term "home" and whether it encompasses a commute to and from if "home" is outside of the county;
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. Recommendation #2: The BOS and CC discuss and act on in closed session only those matters clearly within the Government Code section cited on the BOS agenda to justify Response: Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. Recommendation #3: The BOS and CC and CAO acknowledge by their actions in future that the Brown Act requires them to conduct the public's business in the open. Response: Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. We also welcome the Grand Jury to attend the continuing Brown Act classes with the Board t...
F2
On December 21, 2016 the County Auditor issued a memorandum to County department heads, BOS and CAO-CC providing clarification of taxable fringe benefits with regard to vehicle usage effective with the January, 2017 pay period.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Finding #3: During the calendar year 2016, the BOS evaluated only one other County department head, and that person only once. Response: Agree. During this time period, the county supervisors only had the right to evaluate this one other employee. KEITH GROVES JUDY MORRIS BOBBI CHADWICK DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 VACANT DISTRICT 3<br>40 JOHN FENLEY DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
Finding #4: BOS minutes, for each meeting held during the calendar year 2016, where an evaluation of the CC was scheduled, indicate, "Evaluation was held," except the meeting on March 1, 2016, where the minutes report, "Dire...
R2
County Code Chapter 2.56.070.C- Emergency situations and authorization for the use of county vehicles states "The immediate family of county employees who are assigned vehicles are not permitted to ride in county vehicles except with the prior approval of the county administrative officer". When an employee of the County is using their own vehicle for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business, specify if and when it is allowable f...
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. Recommendation #3: The BOS and CC and CAO acknowledge by their actions in future that the Brown Act requires them to conduct the public's business in the open. Response: Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. We also welcome the Grand Jury to attend the continuing Brown Act classes with the Board to keep them abreast Recommendation #4: The BOS and CC promptly develop and adopt criteria for evaluation of the CC as the employment agreement for the CC requires. Response: Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. Will...
F3
The BOS provided a $10,000 vehicle allowance/stipend to a County employee based on a Staff Report that did not include complete information necessary for the BOS to make an informed decision.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. During this time period, the county supervisors only had the right to evaluate this one other employee. KEITH GROVES JUDY MORRIS BOBBI CHADWICK DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 VACANT DISTRICT 3<br>40 JOHN FENLEY DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5
Finding #4: BOS minutes, for each meeting held during the calendar year 2016, where an evaluation of the CC was scheduled, indicate, "Evaluation was held," except the meeting on March 1, 2016, where the minutes report, "Direction was given to staff." Response: Disagree wholly. Administration staff found this not to be accurate. Finding #5: Evaluation of employees in...
R3
and Codes through training and memorandums and at annual employee evaluations. Ensure all County employees using personal vehicles for County business submit proof
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. We also welcome the Grand Jury to attend the continuing Brown Act classes with the Board to keep them abreast Recommendation #4: The BOS and CC promptly develop and adopt criteria for evaluation of the CC as the employment agreement for the CC requires. Response: Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. William II Recommendation #5: The BOS should promptly hire and maintain a competent and qualified CAO. Response: Implemented; as stated to the Grand Jury in meetings and response to item # 17 the board has been engaged in this p...
F4
County Ordinance 2.56.040 may not be beneficial to the County budget as currently written in its explanation of vehicle use.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
Disagree wholly. As provided to the grand Jury previsoly. In 2001 (Duval vs. Board of Trustees of Coalinga Huron Joint Unified School District) and in 2014 (Save our Peninsula Committee vs. Monterey County) the court ruled that employee reviews can include a wide range of topics. These topics can be discussed as part of an effort to set goals and evaluate Finding #6: The contract between the BOS and the CC called for creation of criteria and standards for evaluating the CC's performance. Under the contract, performance reviews are to be conducted annually. Response: Agree. Finding #7: The BOS ...
R4
of insurance pursuant to County Policy 2002-02(P) at annual employee evaluations or when employees who use personal vehicles for County business, in the process of County business, or on the way to their regular place of County business change the status of ownership of the vehicle used.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Implemented before the present Grand Jury was seated. William II Recommendation #5: The BOS should promptly hire and maintain a competent and qualified CAO. Response: Implemented; as stated to the Grand Jury in meetings and response to item # 17 the board has been engaged in this process for well over a year to hire a CAO. 43 4
F5
The BOS is not adhering to the terms of the January, 16, 2015 contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP with regard to developing specific criteria needed to review and evaluate the performance of "Firm," the definition of which is Prentice & Epperson LLP as County Counsel.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
This information clearly WE STAND AFFICANTE THESE PLE PROPERTY BUT NOT REPORT FOR 42 3
- 10 TV 10 Finding #16: There are important, inherent, and unavoidable conflicts between the responsibilities of the CC and the CAO. Response: Disagree wholly. We do not see any inherent conflicts between the two positions. Finding #17: The BOS has failed its responsibility to employ a CAO who has the knowledge and experience to run the county with a professional understanding of how all county functions operate together to their best effect. The CAO is a position of leadership. Response: Disagree wholly. A...
R5
Promptly complete the Classification and Compensation Study.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Implemented; as stated to the Grand Jury in meetings and response to item # 17 the board has been engaged in this process for well over a year to hire a CAO. 43 4
F6
The BOS is not adhering to the terms of the January 16, 2015 contract agreement and its subsequent amendments in regard to an annual open session review and evaluation of the contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Finding #7: The BOS and CC have not created such criteria and standards. Response: Disagree wholly. They were provided to the Grand Jury. ENTERNO. Finding #8: The County has a form for department head performance review that applies to all County department heads. It is called "Trinity County Department Head Performance Review". That form has established the questions and issues suitable and useful for evaluation of County employees, including the CC and the CAO. Response: Agree. Finding #9: During the evaluation sessions named in previous Findings, the BOS and the CC did not use or dis...
F7
The BOS did not adhere to Government Code Section 31000 when a contract agreement with Prentice & Epperson LLP assigning County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO was entered into.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
Disagree wholly. They were provided to the Grand Jury. ENTERNO. Finding #8: The County has a form for department head performance review that applies to all County department heads. It is called "Trinity County Department Head Performance Review". That form has established the questions and issues suitable and useful for evaluation of County employees, including the CC and the CAO. Response: Agree. Finding #9: During the evaluation sessions named in previous Findings, the BOS and the CC did not use or discuss the agreed upon criteria or standards for CC's performance (because none existed) and...
F8
The BOS contracted with Prentice & Epperson LLP designating County Counsel to perform additional duties in the absence of a CAO without establishing an expiration date.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Finding #9: During the evaluation sessions named in previous Findings, the BOS and the CC did not use or discuss the agreed upon criteria or standards for CC's performance (because none existed) and did not use or discuss the performance review form named in previous Findings. USED & AGNOSTIC INTO Response: Cannot state. As the grand Jury was told on many occasions, the board will not violate state law in answering (government section 54963). In fact, a formal complaint was . submitted on one grand jury member for unethical and quite possibly illegal behavior due to this 6.5 line of que...
F9
The BOS did not create an alternative plan in the instance a CAO is not recruited.
Response: Unknown
Score: 0
Finding #12: Interviews with persons present at the agenized evaluations of the CC revealed that the BOS and CC discussed advice and counsel the BOS thought helpful to the CC in her dual role of interim or acting CAO because, the BOS suggested to the Grand Jury, the dual role presented problems too complex for a person without previous CAO experience to Response: Again, we cannot respond without violating state law. But it's worthy to note that the question infers just what has been charged by the responding writer that the grand jury did in fact try to ask unethical questions trying to get bo...
F10
The CAO position qualifications presented to applicants are not uniform nor in alignment with County Code 2.08.020.
Response: Agree
Score: +1
Agree. Finding #11: Interview with persons present at the agenized evaluations of the CC revealed that the BOS and CC discussed the performance of other County employees, including Response: See response to finding #9. Finding #12: Interviews with persons present at the agenized evaluations of the CC revealed that the BOS and CC discussed advice and counsel the BOS thought helpful to the CC in her dual role of interim or acting CAO because, the BOS suggested to the Grand Jury, the dual role presented problems too complex for a person without previous CAO experience to Response: Again, we canno...
F11
The County's contract agreement with Cooperative Personnel Services for the recruitment of a CAO is current and ending only when a CAO qualified applicant is made an offer and the offer is accepted.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
See response to finding #9. Finding #12: Interviews with persons present at the agenized evaluations of the CC revealed that the BOS and CC discussed advice and counsel the BOS thought helpful to the CC in her dual role of interim or acting CAO because, the BOS suggested to the Grand Jury, the dual role presented problems too complex for a person without previous CAO experience to Response: Again, we cannot respond without violating state law. But it's worthy to note that the question infers just what has been charged by the responding writer that the grand jury did in fact try to ask unethica...
F12
BOS amended the original contract agreement with Koff and Associates four times after the contract agreement had expired.
Response: Disagree
Score: -1
Again, we cannot respond without violating state law. But it's worthy to note that the question infers just what has been charged by the responding writer that the grand jury did in fact try to ask unethical questions trying to get board members to violate the law as Peur and the second was an or come Finding #13: Interviews with persons present at the agenized evaluations of the CC revealed that the BOS and CC discussed advice on legal matters affecting the County that was not a proper subject in a closed session. Response: See response to finding #9. Noteworthy the question lacks understandi...
* This report's PDF did not contain easily extractable text and required Optical Character Recognition (OCR) for analysis. There may be minor errors in the extracted findings and recommendations due to OCR limitations with scanned documents.