Mendocino County Grand Jury
• 2001-2002
Point Arena City Government a review of Point Arena (City) city government and related issues found that the City is
⚠️ 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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
No recommendations for this finding
F7
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
Policies and procedures for City elected officials, employees, commissions, and citizen’s advisory groups are not complete or organized for easy reference.
No recommendations for this finding
F9
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.
No recommendations for this finding
F10
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.
No recommendations for this finding
F11
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.
No recommendations for this finding
F12
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.
No recommendations for this finding
F13
The City General Plan lists a goal to establish a capital improvement plan.
No recommendations for this finding
F14
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.
No recommendations for this finding
Comments 1
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CO1The 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.” Response Required Point Arena City Council Redwood Coast Fire District Board of Directors Emergency Service Authority Board of Directors 2001-2002 Mendocino County Grand Jury Final Report 36
No Responses Found 1
Government entities assigned to respond to this report. No response documents have been linked in our database.
Point Arena
City