Riverside County Grand Jury
2024-2025
From the annual report
The consolidated year-end volume. The individual investigations it contains are listed separately below.
📑 Year-End Report
The full consolidated volume; individual reports are listed below.
Individual reports (14)
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
Finding #1: The response from the Executive Office and Purchasing addresses vendor non-compliance but does not address the oversight performance of vendors for post awarded contracts. The response only addresses vendor non-compliance or non- performance.
F2:
Finding #6: This finding has been corrected following the conversion to PeopleSoft.
F3:
Finding #7: The County’s Internal Audit Division has improved the audits of the County’s vendor management.
F4:
Finding #1: The response from the Executive Office and Purchasing addresses vendor non-compliance but does not address the oversight performance of vendors for post awarded contracts. The response only addresses vendor non-compliance or non- performance.
F5:
Finding #6: This finding has been corrected following the conversion to PeopleSoft.
F6:
Finding #7: The County’s Internal Audit Division has improved the audits of the County’s vendor management.
Additional Recommendations
2
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
Recommendation #1: The County does not assign a risk value to critical vendors but has agreed to review the recommendation.
R2:
Recommendation #2: The County should establish a performance review of vendors to help identify emerging issues. 16
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
12 findings
F1:
After hiring a new Registrar, the new Registrar made security and ballot processing improvements.
F2:
The ROV is cooperative with a community group interested in local election integrity.
F3:
A community group is unable to independently verify ROV's certified election results, even when ROV provides the documentation it has available to them.
F4:
Riverside County contracted for a procedural audit of ROV’s procedures to improve its election processes. 14
F5:
Comprehensive independent performance audits encompass a broader spectrum of election issues than procedural audits.
F6:
Riverside County’s ROV exceeded voter roll maintenance legal requirements in preparing for the November 5, 2024, General Election.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters implement additional methods and resources to make voter rolls as accurate as possible no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F-6 Financial Impact: Moderate
F7:
The ROV complies with state laws in its Vote by Mail signature verification process.
F8:
Temporary ROV employees manually conduct Vote by Mail signature verifications.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters explore the use of an automated signature verification process no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F-7 and F-8 Financial Impact: Moderate 15
F9:
The ROV does not provide a comprehensive ballot audit trail for all issued, received, returned, and challenged ballots.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors contract with a third-party, independent firm to conduct a performance audit of all aspects of ROV’s election processes and to take any necessary actions deemed appropriate by the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F1 through F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate
F10:
Handwritten Chain of Custody documents for the 2024 Primary Election and 2024 General Election were not always legible.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters explore automating ballot chain of custody processes no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, F-8, F-9, and F-10 Financial Impact: Moderate
F11:
ROV does not conduct emergency drills with temporary employees.
Related Recommendations (2)
R5:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters establish detailed emergency procedures and drills for all employees and practice those procedures for each ballot processing shift no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Finding: F-11 Financial Impact: Minimal
R7:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors establish an election security task force to enhance a unified security environment surrounding elections no later than March 1, 2026. Based on Finding: F-11 and F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate REQUIRED RESPONSES According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 90 days while an elected county officer must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 60 days. California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. Who Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of F1 through F-12 R-1 through R-7 Supervisors 16 INVITED RESPONSES Who Findings Recommendations District Attorney, Riverside F-12 R-7 County Sheriff, Riverside County F-11 and F-12 R-7 Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Civil Grand Jury do not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. Report Issued Date: 6/18/2025 Report Public Date: 6/24/2025 Response Due Date: 9/24/2025 17
F12:
Cameras in the ROV ballot processing facility did not record during the two emergency evacuations. RECOMMENDATIONS The Civil Grand Jury submits the following recommendations to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and the ROV Registrar as they continue to take actions to improve public confidence in the county's election processes.
Related Recommendations (2)
R6:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters obtain high-definition cameras for all ballot processing areas, record all ballot processing sessions, and keep recordings for at least 12 months so that it is ready no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Finding: F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate
R7:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors establish an election security task force to enhance a unified security environment surrounding elections no later than March 1, 2026. Based on Finding: F-11 and F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate REQUIRED RESPONSES According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 90 days while an elected county officer must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 60 days. California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. Who Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of F1 through F-12 R-1 through R-7 Supervisors 16 INVITED RESPONSES Who Findings Recommendations District Attorney, Riverside F-12 R-7 County Sheriff, Riverside County F-11 and F-12 R-7 Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Civil Grand Jury do not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. Report Issued Date: 6/18/2025 Report Public Date: 6/24/2025 Response Due Date: 9/24/2025 17
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
12 findings
F1:
After hiring a new Registrar, the new Registrar made security and ballot processing improvements.
F2:
The ROV is cooperative with a community group interested in local election integrity.
F3:
A community group is unable to independently verify ROV's certified election results, even when ROV provides the documentation it has available to them.
F4:
Riverside County contracted for a procedural audit of ROV’s procedures to improve its election processes. 14
F5:
Comprehensive independent performance audits encompass a broader spectrum of election issues than procedural audits.
F6:
Riverside County’s ROV exceeded voter roll maintenance legal requirements in preparing for the November 5, 2024, General Election.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters implement additional methods and resources to make voter rolls as accurate as possible no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F-6 Financial Impact: Moderate
F7:
The ROV complies with state laws in its Vote by Mail signature verification process.
F8:
Temporary ROV employees manually conduct Vote by Mail signature verifications.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters explore the use of an automated signature verification process no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F-7 and F-8 Financial Impact: Moderate 15
F9:
The ROV does not provide a comprehensive ballot audit trail for all issued, received, returned, and challenged ballots.
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors contract with a third-party, independent firm to conduct a performance audit of all aspects of ROV’s election processes and to take any necessary actions deemed appropriate by the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F1 through F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate
F10:
Handwritten Chain of Custody documents for the 2024 Primary Election and 2024 General Election were not always legible.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters explore automating ballot chain of custody processes no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Findings: F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, F-8, F-9, and F-10 Financial Impact: Moderate
F11:
ROV does not conduct emergency drills with temporary employees.
Related Recommendations (2)
R5:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters establish detailed emergency procedures and drills for all employees and practice those procedures for each ballot processing shift no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Finding: F-11 Financial Impact: Minimal
R7:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors establish an election security task force to enhance a unified security environment surrounding elections no later than March 1, 2026. Based on Finding: F-11 and F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate REQUIRED RESPONSES According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 90 days while an elected county officer must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 60 days. California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. Who Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of F1 through F-12 R-1 through R-7 Supervisors 16 INVITED RESPONSES Who Findings Recommendations District Attorney, Riverside F-12 R-7 County Sheriff, Riverside County F-11 and F-12 R-7 Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Civil Grand Jury do not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. Report Issued Date: 6/18/2025 Report Public Date: 6/24/2025 Response Due Date: 9/24/2025 17
F12:
Cameras in the ROV ballot processing facility did not record during the two emergency evacuations. RECOMMENDATIONS The Civil Grand Jury submits the following recommendations to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors and the ROV Registrar as they continue to take actions to improve public confidence in the county's election processes.
Related Recommendations (2)
R6:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Registrar of Voters obtain high-definition cameras for all ballot processing areas, record all ballot processing sessions, and keep recordings for at least 12 months so that it is ready no later than the next Primary Election on June 2, 2026. Based on Finding: F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate
R7:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the Riverside County Board of Supervisors establish an election security task force to enhance a unified security environment surrounding elections no later than March 1, 2026. Based on Finding: F-11 and F-12 Financial Impact: Moderate REQUIRED RESPONSES According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 90 days while an elected county officer must respond to grand jury findings and recommendations within 60 days. California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. Who Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of F1 through F-12 R-1 through R-7 Supervisors 16 INVITED RESPONSES Who Findings Recommendations District Attorney, Riverside F-12 R-7 County Sheriff, Riverside County F-11 and F-12 R-7 Reports issued by the Civil Grand Jury do not identify individuals interviewed. Penal Code section 929 requires that reports of the Civil Grand Jury do not contain the name of any person or facts leading to the identity of any person who provides information to the Civil Grand Jury. Report Issued Date: 6/18/2025 Report Public Date: 6/24/2025 Response Due Date: 9/24/2025 17
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
The Civil Grand Jury found no evidence that any actions taken by Riverside County employees in the administration of the grants in question constituted malfeasance or misconduct.
F2:
There were previous issues with claims filed by the same subrecipient that could have prompted an earlier investigation into the documentation. 10
Related Recommendations (2)
R1:
The Civil Grand Jury recommends that HWS strictly enforce existing policies that prevent the distribution of grant funds based on claims that lack the required clarity and documentation no later than November 1, 2025. Based on Findings 2, 3, and 4 Financial Impact-Minimal
R2:
The Civil Grand Jury recommends that HWS upper management personnel emphasize the importance of addressing lower-level grant reviewers' concerns regarding claims that lack the required clarity and documentation no later than November 1, 2025. Based on Findings 2 and 3 Financial Impact-Minimal
F3:
Claim reviewers expressed documentation concerns to their supervisors, yet the claims were paid.
F4:
HWS experienced political pressure from both Federal and state governments to settle marginal claims, particularly during and immediately following the COVID-19 pandemic.
F5:
Issues that were not apparent in individual claims submitted by a subrecipient became evident when multiple claims were reviewed collectively.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Civil Grand Jury recommends that HWS implement a policy requiring a brief review of the previous months’ claims from a subrecipient as part of processing grant claims no later than January 1, 2026. Based on Finding 5 Financial Impact-Minimal
F6:
HWS employees lack fraud detection training. RECOMMENDATIONS
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Civil Grand Jury recommends that Riverside County implement mandatory fraud detection training for new employees processing grant claims and require annual fraud detection training for all current employees in this role no later than January 1, 2026. Based on Finding 6 Financial Impact-Minimal to Moderate 11 REQUIRED AND INVITED RESPONSES Under California Penal Code §933, governing bodies are required to respond to Civil Grand Jury report findings and recommendations within 90 days. California Penal Code §933.05 specifies how these governing bodies must respond. Required Responses – Due in 90 Days Locations Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of Supervisors F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-4 Invited Responses – Not Required Locations Findings Recommendations Director of HWS, County of Riverside F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-4 County Counsel, County of Riverside R-4 District Attorney, County of Riverside R-4
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
5 findings
F2:
RSO deputies are assigned to HHCYC from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. This amount of time is insufficient as the children tend to act out after RSO deputies go off duty at 12 a.m. STAFF MEMBER OVERSIGHT AND AUTHORITY
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that RSO expand their presence to 24 hours per day, and increase the number of deputies by two for a total of four on rotating shifts. Based on Findings: F-2 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: High STAFF MEMBER OVERSIGHT AND AUTHORITY
F3:
Staff members are unable to enforce basic rules due to guidelines contained in Foster Youth Bill of Rights (FYBR), that were passed in California in 2001. TRANSPORTATION
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
DPSS should contact the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to identify any flexibilities in following the provisions of the Foster Youth Bill of Rights . Providing staff members with the ability to limit the children’s use of cell phones, reject their refusal to receive prescribed medications, or attend school, will give them greater influence in preventing disruptive episodes. DPSS should provide all communications between CDSS on this matter to provide evidence that they have pursued this issue. Based on Findings: F-3 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Minor to Moderate 15 TRANSPORTATION
F4:
Presently, HHCYC staff transport children to schools throughout the county and pick them up after school. This is an undue burden on staff members, waste of resources, and potential liability to RIVCO.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that DPSS pursue the use of outside transportation services for taking children to school. DPSS should provide documented evidence of contact with at least two transportation services. In the interim, there should be an avoidance in using personal vehicles for transporting children. Based on Findings: F-4 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Moderate to High
F5:
Commercial rideshare companies may well be picking up underage children in violation of company policies. ACTIVITIES
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that DPSS issue letters to the major rideshare companies notifying them that there are unaccompanied, underage children at foster care facilities thereby suggesting drivers screen the riders before accepting the fare at these locations. Based on Findings: F-5 Implementation January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Minimal ACTIVITIES
F6:
HHCYC areas such as the gym, farm, and classrooms, are being underutilized for activities. 14 ~ RECOMMENDATIONS MEDICAL
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the following activities be considered at HHCYC: • Gym – offer children various sports such as basketball, volleyball, and table tennis as well as dance, exercise, movies, lectures, and guest speakers. • Classrooms – offer instruction on computer use, art, and music, as well as life fundamentals such as, how to create a resume, present oneself at a job interview, and develop proper speaking skills. • Pool (once refurbished) - offer swimming lessons, water polo, exercise classes. • Farm - place animals such as sheep, goats, therapy horses, chickens, and ducks on the property to teach children about the responsibility of feeding, grooming, and basic care of animals. Invite animal rescue organizations to bring in their animals for the day. • Occupations - Invite guests who can speak about different trades that the children can pursue. • Assign murals throughout the grounds that children can design and paint. Based on Findings: F-6 Implementation: Starting January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Minimal to Moderate 16 ~ REQUIRED RESPONDENTS According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies have 90 days to respond to grand jury report findings and recommendations. The California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the parameters within which governing bodies are permitted to respond. Department Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of Supervisors F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 INVITED RESPONDENTS Agencies/ Departments Findings Recommendations California Department of Social F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 Services RIVCO DPSS F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 RUHS Behavioral Health F-1 R-1 RIVCO Executive Office F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 Report Issued Date: 4-29-2025 Report Public Date: 5-2-2025 Response Due Date: 8-2-2025 17
Additional Recommendations
1
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that at least one medical professional be assigned at least part time to HHCYC. Dedicated, on-site behavioral health support should be expanded to 24-hours daily. Based on Findings: F-1 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Moderate to High SECURITY
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
R-1 RIVCO Executive Office
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that at least one medical professional be assigned at least part time to HHCYC. Dedicated, on-site behavioral health support should be expanded to 24-hours daily. Based on Findings: F-1 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Moderate to High SECURITY
F2:
RSO deputies are assigned to HHCYC from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. This amount of time is insufficient as the children tend to act out after RSO deputies go off duty at 12 a.m. STAFF MEMBER OVERSIGHT AND AUTHORITY
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that RSO expand their presence to 24 hours per day, and increase the number of deputies by two for a total of four on rotating shifts. Based on Findings: F-2 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: High STAFF MEMBER OVERSIGHT AND AUTHORITY
F3:
Staff members are unable to enforce basic rules due to guidelines contained in Foster Youth Bill of Rights (FYBR), that were passed in California in 2001. TRANSPORTATION
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
DPSS should contact the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to identify any flexibilities in following the provisions of the Foster Youth Bill of Rights . Providing staff members with the ability to limit the children’s use of cell phones, reject their refusal to receive prescribed medications, or attend school, will give them greater influence in preventing disruptive episodes. DPSS should provide all communications between CDSS on this matter to provide evidence that they have pursued this issue. Based on Findings: F-3 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Minor to Moderate 15 TRANSPORTATION
F4:
Presently, HHCYC staff transport children to schools throughout the county and pick them up after school. This is an undue burden on staff members, waste of resources, and potential liability to RIVCO.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that DPSS pursue the use of outside transportation services for taking children to school. DPSS should provide documented evidence of contact with at least two transportation services. In the interim, there should be an avoidance in using personal vehicles for transporting children. Based on Findings: F-4 Implementation: January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Moderate to High
F5:
Commercial rideshare companies may well be picking up underage children in violation of company policies. ACTIVITIES
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that DPSS issue letters to the major rideshare companies notifying them that there are unaccompanied, underage children at foster care facilities thereby suggesting drivers screen the riders before accepting the fare at these locations. Based on Findings: F-5 Implementation January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Minimal ACTIVITIES
F6:
HHCYC areas such as the gym, farm, and classrooms, are being underutilized for activities. 14 ~ RECOMMENDATIONS MEDICAL
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the following activities be considered at HHCYC: • Gym – offer children various sports such as basketball, volleyball, and table tennis as well as dance, exercise, movies, lectures, and guest speakers. • Classrooms – offer instruction on computer use, art, and music, as well as life fundamentals such as, how to create a resume, present oneself at a job interview, and develop proper speaking skills. • Pool (once refurbished) - offer swimming lessons, water polo, exercise classes. • Farm - place animals such as sheep, goats, therapy horses, chickens, and ducks on the property to teach children about the responsibility of feeding, grooming, and basic care of animals. Invite animal rescue organizations to bring in their animals for the day. • Occupations - Invite guests who can speak about different trades that the children can pursue. • Assign murals throughout the grounds that children can design and paint. Based on Findings: F-6 Implementation: Starting January 1, 2026 Financial Impact: Minimal to Moderate 16 ~ REQUIRED RESPONDENTS According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies have 90 days to respond to grand jury report findings and recommendations. The California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the parameters within which governing bodies are permitted to respond. Department Findings Recommendations Riverside County Board of Supervisors F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 INVITED RESPONDENTS Agencies/ Departments Findings Recommendations California Department of Social F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 Services RIVCO DPSS F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 RUHS Behavioral Health F-1 R-1 RIVCO Executive Office F-1 through F-6 R-1 through R-6 Report Issued Date: 4-29-2025 Report Public Date: 5-2-2025 Response Due Date: 8-2-2025 17
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
The City of Banning violated California Election Code §13313 by failing to ensure that its employees were prepared to provide voters with candidate statements on the first day of the 10-day examination period
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning establish and implement a policy that mandates compliance with all provisions of California Election Code §13313 no later than December 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-1 Financial Impact: Minimal
F2:
The City of Banning processed candidate documents inconsistently.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning train additional city employees to manage the Administrative City Clerk’s election duties when the Administrative City Clerk is unavailable to assist the public no later than December 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, and F-3 Financial Impact: Minimal
F3:
The City of Banning “date-stamped” candidate documents inconsistently.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning establish and implement a policy requiring city personnel to process candidate documents consistently and date-stamp all candidate documents no later than December 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, and F-3 Financial Impact: Minimal 8 Statutes of California and Digest of Measures, 2002, Volume 1, Chapter 228, Section 12, p.1021. URL is https://clerk.assembly.ca.gov/sites/clerk.assembly.ca.gov/files/archive/Statutes/2002/2002_Statutes_1667_Vo l_1.pdf#page=427. Accessed April 15, 2025. City of Banning, Municode Codification, Ordinances, Title 1 – General Provisions, Chapter 1.12. URL is https://library.municode.com/ca/banning/codes/code_of_ordinances/450194?nodeId=TIT1GEPR_CH1.12EL. Accessed on April 15, 2025. 6
F4:
The City of Banning has not updated its election ordinances to align with current California election laws. RECOMMENDATIONS
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning review and revise all election ordinances to conform to current California election laws no later than June 30, 2026. Based on Findings: F-4 Financial Impact: Minimal REQUIRED RESPONSES According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies, such as the Banning City Council, have 90 days to respond to Grand Jury report findings and recommendations. The California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. Banning City Council Findings: F-1, F-2, F-3, and F-4 Recommendations: R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4 Report Issued Date: 5-20-2025 Report Public Date: 5-23-2025 Response Due Date: 8-23-2025 7
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
The City of Banning violated California Election Code §13313 by failing to ensure that its employees were prepared to provide voters with candidate statements on the first day of the 10-day examination period
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning establish and implement a policy that mandates compliance with all provisions of California Election Code §13313 no later than December 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-1 Financial Impact: Minimal
F2:
The City of Banning processed candidate documents inconsistently.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning train additional city employees to manage the Administrative City Clerk’s election duties when the Administrative City Clerk is unavailable to assist the public no later than December 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, and F-3 Financial Impact: Minimal
F3:
The City of Banning “date-stamped” candidate documents inconsistently.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning establish and implement a policy requiring city personnel to process candidate documents consistently and date-stamp all candidate documents no later than December 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, and F-3 Financial Impact: Minimal 8 Statutes of California and Digest of Measures, 2002, Volume 1, Chapter 228, Section 12, p.1021. URL is https://clerk.assembly.ca.gov/sites/clerk.assembly.ca.gov/files/archive/Statutes/2002/2002_Statutes_1667_Vo l_1.pdf#page=427. Accessed April 15, 2025. City of Banning, Municode Codification, Ordinances, Title 1 – General Provisions, Chapter 1.12. URL is https://library.municode.com/ca/banning/codes/code_of_ordinances/450194?nodeId=TIT1GEPR_CH1.12EL. Accessed on April 15, 2025. 6
F4:
The City of Banning has not updated its election ordinances to align with current California election laws. RECOMMENDATIONS
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the City of Banning review and revise all election ordinances to conform to current California election laws no later than June 30, 2026. Based on Findings: F-4 Financial Impact: Minimal REQUIRED RESPONSES According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies, such as the Banning City Council, have 90 days to respond to Grand Jury report findings and recommendations. The California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. Banning City Council Findings: F-1, F-2, F-3, and F-4 Recommendations: R-1, R-2, R-3, and R-4 Report Issued Date: 5-20-2025 Report Public Date: 5-23-2025 Response Due Date: 8-23-2025 7
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
12 findings
F1:
In violation of the California Government Code §6505.6 and its own joint powers authority agreement, the March JPA Commission has not appointed a professionally qualified commissioner or staff member as its treasurer (i.e., qualified to serve as a treasurer for one of the cities or the county).
Related Recommendations (1)
R1:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission comply with California Government Code §6505.6 and its own joint powers authority agreement by appointing a professionally qualified commissioner or staff member as treasurer by October 1, 2025. (A professionally qualified treasurer is defined as a person whose academic and work experience qualifies them to serve as treasurer within the cities of Moreno Valley, Perris, or Riverside.) Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, F-6, and F-10 Financial Impact: Minimal
F2:
The March JPA did not perform monthly bank reconciliations for the 2022-2023 fiscal year until the end of the 2022-2023 fiscal year.
Related Recommendations (1)
R2:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission require its Chief Executive Officer to prepare, sign, and date a quarterly agenda item confirming that its internal financial controls comply with US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) standards no later than October 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-2, F-3, F-4, and F-5 Financial Impact: Minimal
F3:
The March JPA Commission has not complied with its own joint powers agreement by failing to complete annual financial audits within six months following the end of each fiscal year.
Related Recommendations (1)
R3:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission mandate that its staff members complete March JPA annual financial statement audits within six months of the end of each fiscal year no later than August 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-2, F-3, F-4, and F-5 Financial Impact: Minimal
F4:
For the past four years, auditors have consistently reported internal control issues to the March JPA Commission and management, particularly regarding the segregation of duties. These unresolved issues increase the risk of errors, fraud, and unauthorized transactions.
Related Recommendations (1)
R4:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission transfer its March Inland Port Airport Authority to the County of Riverside no later than July 1, 2028. Based on Findings: F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, F-6, F-7, F-8, F-9, and F-10 Financial Impact: Minimal to the March JPA; Moderate to Riverside County
F5:
Persistent unresolved internal control issues create uncertainty regarding the accuracy of March JPA's financial records and the effectiveness of its financial procedures.
Related Recommendations (1)
R5:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority dissolve its Utility Authority no later than July 1, 2028. Based on Findings: F-11 Financial Impact: Minimal to Moderate The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers
F6:
The March JPA oversees an airport authority. The airport's operating expenses consistently surpass its operational income. The March JPA was not originally intended to become a permanent, stand-alone airport
Related Recommendations (1)
R6:
Authority transfer its Successor Agency to the County of Riverside no later than July 1, 2028. Based on Findings: F-11 Financial Impact: Minimal to the March JPA; Minimal to Riverside County
F7:
authority governed by non-elected officials who rely heavily on a single administrative staff member.
Related Recommendations (1)
R7:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission dissolves itself no later than December 31, 2028. Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, F-7, F-8, F-9, F-10, and F-11 Financial Impact: Minimal to Moderate
F8:
March JPA Commissioners are appointed to serve on the March JPA Commission. The Commission is not accountable to any single city, county, or state government, including voters.
Related Recommendations (1)
R8:
If the March Joint Powers Authority does not agree to dissolve itself by December 31, 2028, the Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission modify its joint powers agreement to convert its appointed commissioner positions into elected positions no later than October 1, 2027. (Candidates should appear on the 2028 California primary election ballot.) Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, F-6, F-7, F-8, and F-9 Financial Impact: Minimal to the March JPA; Moderate to Cities and Riverside County
F9:
March JPA Commissioners' votes may sometimes conflict with the positions held by their respective city councils or county board.
Related Recommendations (1)
R9:
The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers Authority Commission hire an independent firm to conduct a forensic audit of the March JPA financial records from July 1, 2021, to June 30, 2023, with a completion deadline of no later than January 1, 2026. Based on Findings: F-1, F-2, F-3, F-4, F-5, and F-6 Financial Impact: $8,000 to $20,000 The Riverside County Civil Grand Jury recommends that the March Joint Powers
F10:
The County of Riverside has departments and personnel with specialized expertise and resources that the March JPA lacks, enabling it to meet the commercial and general aviation needs at the March Air Reserve Base more efficiently than the small March JPA staff. March JPA can legally transfer its utility authority to the California Gas Company and its
Related Recommendations (1)
R10:
Authority Commission develop and approve a succession plan for key staff positions, including the Chief Executive Officer, by October 1, 2025. Based on Findings: F-12 Financial Impact: Minimal (See Next Page) REQUIRED RESPONSES The governmental entities are required to respond to the findings and recommendations listed below. According to California Penal Code §933, governing bodies have 90 days to respond to grand jury report findings and recommendations. The California Penal Code §933.05 outlines the limits within which governing bodies are allowable to respond. REQUIRED RESPONSES Recommendations Locations Findings March JPA Commission
F11:
Successor Agency to the County of Riverside.
F12:
The March JPA does not have a succession plan to replace upper management personnel should it be necessary. The March JPA has over $40,000,000 in its "unrestricted" funds.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
Disagree Partially referred to Sheriff’s R1 Implemented response
F2:
Agrees R2 Implemented
F3:
Disagrees Wholly - referred to Sheriff’s response
F4:
Disagree Partially referred to Sheriff’s response Key Findings Findings #1, #3, and #4. The County Board of Board of Supervisors responses were based on the Sheriff Department’s invited responses that focused on what happened within the Sheriff’s jurisdiction and not the problems outside of their jurisdiction. The County Board of Supervisors agreed to Finding #2 and advocates for additional funding through the California Office of Emergency Services that meets quarterly and is responsible for the 911/E911 services and funding in each county in the State. Key Recommendations The County has implemented both recommendations and alternatively included their own
Additional Recommendations
5
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
Children Services Division Dedicated to None Protecting Riverside County Children
R2:
2020 Consolidated General Election None Administrated Fairly and Impartially
R3:
Internal Audits Marginalized 1. The Continuity Committee should review the proposed Audit Oversight Committee membership composition and charter before being implemented to ensure the Internal Audit and Audit Committee Charter align to achieve the desired goals.
R4:
Risk Associated with Lack of Vendor 1. Recommendation #1: The County does Management not assign a risk value to critical vendors but has agreed to review the recommendation.
R5:
911 Call Failed, Now What
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
6 findings
F1:
Finding #1: The response from the Executive Office and Purchasing addresses vendor non-compliance but does not address the oversight performance of vendors for post awarded contracts. The response only addresses vendor non-compliance or non- performance.
F2:
Finding #6: This finding has been corrected following the conversion to PeopleSoft.
F3:
Finding #7: The County’s Internal Audit Division has improved the audits of the County’s vendor management.
F4:
Finding #1: The response from the Executive Office and Purchasing addresses vendor non-compliance but does not address the oversight performance of vendors for post awarded contracts. The response only addresses vendor non-compliance or non- performance.
F5:
Finding #6: This finding has been corrected following the conversion to PeopleSoft.
F6:
Finding #7: The County’s Internal Audit Division has improved the audits of the County’s vendor management.
Additional Recommendations
2
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
Recommendation #1: The County does not assign a risk value to critical vendors but has agreed to review the recommendation.
R2:
Recommendation #2: The County should establish a performance review of vendors to help identify emerging issues. 16
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings & Recommendations
4 findings
F1:
Disagree Partially referred to Sheriff’s R1 Implemented response
F2:
Agrees R2 Implemented
F3:
Disagrees Wholly - referred to Sheriff’s response
F4:
Disagree Partially referred to Sheriff’s response Key Findings Findings #1, #3, and #4. The County Board of Board of Supervisors responses were based on the Sheriff Department’s invited responses that focused on what happened within the Sheriff’s jurisdiction and not the problems outside of their jurisdiction. The County Board of Supervisors agreed to Finding #2 and advocates for additional funding through the California Office of Emergency Services that meets quarterly and is responsible for the 911/E911 services and funding in each county in the State. Key Recommendations The County has implemented both recommendations and alternatively included their own
Additional Recommendations
4
Not linked to specific findings.
R1:
Children Services Division Dedicated to None Protecting Riverside County Children
R2:
2020 Consolidated General Election None Administrated Fairly and Impartially
R3:
Internal Audits Marginalized 1. The Continuity Committee should review the proposed Audit Oversight Committee membership composition and charter before being implemented to ensure the Internal Audit and Audit Committee Charter align to achieve the desired goals.
R4:
Risk Associated with Lack of Vendor 1. Recommendation #1: The County does Management not assign a risk value to critical vendors but has agreed to review the recommendation.
Quick View
Full Details →
Findings and recommendations not yet extracted.
* 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.