Gran Jurado del Condado de Siskiyou
2013-2014
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
6 hallazgos
F1:
The most overriding message that the Jury received during this (530) 841-2134 - Phone (530) 841-4094-Fax investigation was the need for a Representative Payee program in Adult Protective Services. Without the RP program many senior citizens whose Katherine O'Shea, Ph.D., Director only impairment is the inability to manage their financial affairs could end up Social Services Division subject to conservatorship. This not only costs the conserved senior their 818 South Main Street Yreka, CA 96097 right to self-determination, it also is far more costly to the county coffers. (530) 841-2700-Phone (530) 841-4399- Fax
F2:
The SA6 is doing a good job of make seniors aware of elder abuse, but the Jury believes they need include a/J ages in their awareness campaigns. Several recent cases of elder abuse have been reported to authorities by grocery clerks, pharmacy technicians and bank tellers, indicating that people are willing to get involved provided they know what to watch out for.
F3:
Participation in the SA6 monthly meetings has dwindled from a high of 45 or so people to a core group of 8 - 10, and many agencies have stopped coming at all.
F4:
It is very important to have a permanent Jaw enforcement representative on the SA6. A lot of the initial impetus for SA6 came from a detective with the Sheriff's office. Due to changes in shift and responsibilities he is no longer able to participate at the previous level.
F5:
While the emphasis on fighting elder abuse has been rightfully placed on its victims, it is also necessary to consider the perpetrators. Many elder abuse victims refuse to cooperate with authorities because they are protecting their relatives or friends. If some consideration was given Response to 2012-2013 Grand Jury RE: Elder Abuse September 11, 2013 to helping the perpetrators overcome addiction, assistance with job hunting, etc., victims may feel less reluctance in coming forward.
F6:
Recommendation number six requests that all critical school and district personnel should become familiar with the CISD and CISM procedures. Unfortunately, the Grand Jury did not speak to the most "critical personnel" about CISD and CISM procedures and training. The district superintendent and the district's head counselor (along with two principals) have been trained in and are familiar. with the CISD and CISM procedures. In the event that a traumatic event takes place in one of our schools the superintendent (with the assistance of the district head counselor and principals) is responsible for orchestrating any and all critical incident stress management procedures and debriefings. It is my belief that finding number six is unfounded. I appreciate the fact that the Grand Jury spent time and energy investigating SVUSD and that the narrative portion of the report was, for the most part, accurate. However, I must respectfully disagree with all six of the findings brought by the Grand Jury. Sgince,re lty, r ~ Dr. Bryan L. Caples District Superintendent Scott Valley Unified School District October 17, 2013 Siskiyou County Administration Attention: Becky Sloan P.O. Box 750 Yreka, CA 96097 RE: Scott Valley Unified School District Watchdog Report by 2012-2013 Siskiyou County Civil Grand Jury Dear Civil Grand Jury, County Administrator, Board of Supervisor's and County Counsel; On behalf of the Scott Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees and pursuant to the requirements of California Penal Code Section 933C, I have enclosed our required responses to the 2012-2013 Final Report of the Siskiyou County Civil Grand Jury. We have carefully reviewed the Grand Jury's findings, and recommendations in accordance with subdivision (b) of Section 933 and have enclosed our responses within. Respectfully submitted, f!h~., tJflwi,y; Charnna Gilmore Scott Valley Unified School District Board of Trustee, Board President Cc: Dr. Bryan Caples, Superintendent, Scott Valley Unified School District Debbie Miller, Principal, Etna Elementary School, Fort Jones Elementary School Allen Carver, Principal, Scott Valley Jr. High, Scott Valley Community Day School Bruce Bishop, Principal, Etna High School, Scott River High School Kermith Walters, County Superintendent, Siskiyou County Office of Education Jennifer Thackeray, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee Christine Hullquist, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee Tammi Bennett, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee Scott Pynes, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee 11918 Main Street, Fort Jones CA 96032 530.468.2727 www.svusd.us RESPONSE TO GRAND JURY REPORT Report Title: Scott Valley Unified School District Watchdog Report Report Date: 2012-2013 Notice and Receipt Date: August 21, 2013 Response Date: October 20, 2013 FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: • I (we) agree with the Findings and Recommendations: None • I (we) disagree wholly or partially with Findings and Recommendations: Finding 1, Finding 2, Finding 3, Finding 4, Finding 5, Finding 6 We, the Scott Valley Unified School Board, understand and appreciate the purpose and the intention of the Siskiyou County Civil Grand Jury and reporting process. It assures the community for which we serve that we are performing the duties of a school board, in a manner accordance to federal and state policies. We viewed this process as an opportunity to be analyzed and to get direct feedback and possible criticism on areas, which we may have fell short on and/or areas needing improvements. It is appears that Scott Valley Unified School District (SVUSD) may have been chosen for this process as a result of our unification process. We thank you for your comprehensive look at our school district, and your recognition of the many fine programs and services we offer for our students, employees and communities. We would also like to thank you for your recognition of our exemplary test scores, which are a reflection of the hard work of our students, their teachers and other school employees, and the dedication and expertise of our administration. The last section of the report has six findings and subsequent recommendations. It is this portion of the report, which we are responding to, pursuant to the requirements of California Penal Code Section 933C, and would like our response noted and accompany all future use of the said Grand Jury report. Response to Grand Jury Report - SVUSD School Board 1 FINDING 1: "After unification, one of the most difficult tasks was taking the various policies and procedures from each of the individual school and writing a single, comprehensive set of policies and procedures. Whenever a new State or Federal law or regulation is enacted, that must be incorporated into the District's policies and procedures. The California School Board Association may also send out new policies, which must be reviewed and adopted into the District policies and procedures. The Superintendent oversees the revisions and presents them to the School Board for review and ratification. Revising and rewriting policies and procedures is a continuous process." RESPONSE: Reviewing policy and procedures is a constant and continual activity within the Scott Valley Unified School District It involves the Superintendent, the District staff, teachers, classified staff, community members and the SVUSD Board. SVUSD has and still does, subscribe to the California School Boards Association's recommended policy program, Gamut Online, which allows us to incorporate all mandated State and Federal regulations into our board policies. We can and do revisit, revise and/or replace policies as needed or as set by law. There is no finding stating SVUSD is not actively "revising and rewriting policies and procedures" as this process is done on a continual basis, therefore we reject this finding.
Recomendaciones adicionales
9
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
The Human Services Agency should investigate the relative costs of Representative Payee versus Conservatorship and decide which is better for the individual and the county. If it is not feasible to have an in-house RP program, the HSA should investigate contracting with a private RP.
R2:
Elder Abuse awareness campaigns should include speaking with all segments of the community. In addition to talks given at senior citizen lunches, SA6 should also target service organizations, businesses and high schools. The more people who are watching out for our senior citizens the harder it becomes for those who prey on them. A booth at the county fair and pamphlets outlining the problems and possible solutions should also be considered.
R3:
An attempt should be made discover why so many agencies have dropped out, fix those problems and get them involved again. Agencies that have ceased involvement due to territorial or philosophical disputes need to get over themselves and remember that compromise is not a dirty word. Cooperation, not competition is the key to combating elder abuse.
R4:
The Sheriffs Office should assign a deputy or detective to attend the 1-hour per month SA6 meeting. It would also be nice if a representative of the Yreka Police Department also attended. Perhaps a rotation can be worked out allowing law enforcement personnel from other agencies to attend.
R5:
As is the case with domestic violence, elder abuse can only be fought, and hopefully eradicated by paying attention to both the abused victim and the abuser. The safety of the victim must come first, but if nothing is done to improve the circumstances of the abuser then the vicious cycle will be perpetuated.
R6:
''All critical school and district personnel should become familiar with both the CISM and CISD procedures. These procedures should implemented when traumatic events occur in the Scott Valley communities." RESPONSE: We will continue ensure proper training on our procedure effectiveness for dealing with future traumatic events. Response to Grand Jury Report - SVUSD School Board 7 Office of Public Administrator matter:
R7:
-The obvious recommendation would be to provide alternate route to the visitation area and individual secure cubicles for visitation; again, totally impractical in the present facility. RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATION #7 The visitation area and individual secure cubicles will be reconfigured as part of the preliminary planning for the new jail facility.
R8:
- The Jury commends that the maintenance be continued even though the facility is old and will eventually be replaced. The jury further recommends that the site selection, funding, design and construction of a new jail proceed with utmost haste. RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATION #8 The Board of Supervisors concurs with Grand Jury Recommendation #8 and site selection for a new jail facility has been completed and the county is in initial stages of selection an architectural firm for design services. Final construction will be dependent on available funding and future resources for operation.
R9:
- It is recommended that CCO provide statistics on the success rate of these programs and the costs per successful rehabilitation. RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATION #9 The Board of Supervisors concurs with Grand Jury Recommendation #9. Brandon Criss Ed Valenzuela Michael Kobseff Grace Bennett Marcia H. Armstrong District 1 District2 District3 District4 Districts COUNTY OF SISKIYOU PROBATION DEPARTMENT CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER TODD HEIE MEMO TO: SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY ADULT DMS!ON 805 JUVENILE LANE YREKA, CA 96097 FROM: TODDHEIE ~ (530) 841-4155 CHIEF PROBATION OFFICER~ fax (530) 841-4157 DATE: SEPTEMBER 19, 2013 RE: RESPONSE TO SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT: SISKIYOU COUNTY PROBATION JUVENILE DMS!ON 269 SHARPS RoAD Response to Recommendation #1: YREKA, CA 96097 (530) 841-4180 With regards to contracting with other Counties to place ·minor's in our fax (530) 841-4188 juvenile hall, the idea has been considered numerous times over the years. We actually did have a contract with Modoc County a few years ago but they only used it for one minor. The primary problem is that most Counties do not have general fund dollars sitting around to pay the $100.00 average daily cost to house a minor in another County. Even if they did, the amount of revenue would nowhere near balance out the cost of staffing the currently CHARI.IE BYRD empty pod, which has been estimated to be in excess of one million dollars YOUTH CORRECI10NS CENTER per year. Nonetheless, I meet regularly with the Chief Probation Officers' of 269 SHARPS Ro. neighboring Counties and will certainly keep my ears open for any interest in YREKA, CA 96097 housing their youth in our juvenile hall. (530) 841-4185 fax (530) 841-4188 Response to Recommendation #2: As referenced above, it has been estimated that it would cost over one million dollars per year to open the currently unused pod in the juvenile hall. You essentially have to double your juvenile hall staff, as minimum staffing requirements would apply to each pod at all times. We would also be extremely hard pressed to keep an appreciable amount of youth in a second pod given the lack of need and money for other Counties to place their youth in our facility. Also, if the idea were to only open the second pod every time the population exceeds 20 minor's, it would create a logistical nightmare as far as staffing goes. In other words, it would have to either always be open and staffed, or not at all. Each pod contains 20 beds, and our population has been as low as six youth in recent months. Nonetheless, I will continue to brainstorm ways of utilizing the space which, it is my understanding, cannot be re-purposed until at least 1O years after the grant DEPT. MAnlNG was awarded. Re-purposing the facility is also extremely problematic as ADDRFSS: there are strict rules on not mixing adults with juveniles within a facility. ~~!\:1'0c,OUNTY 805 JUVENILE LANE YREKA, CA 96097 ~ "':> . ' r ' J , • ) ju. J s~: -?,; -<::> &>M-1 ••• --~ .~<:i~ Board of Supervisors Response to the FY12/13 Grand Jury Juvenile Hall matter:
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
6 hallazgos
F1:
I am not sure how to respond to this "finding." Recommendation number one simply asks us to continue doing something that we are already doing. Recommendation number one states that the district should continue to keep on top of its policies and procedures, adding to and modifying them as necessary. Approximately every three months the school Board adopts, revises, and reviews school district policies (as noted by SVUSD Board meeting minutes). I find this "finding" to be arbitrary in nature as it is an act that the school district has been doing every three months since unification six years ago. If there is a problem or issue that needs to be addressed (as noted in the paragraph under the Findings and Recommendations section of the report) we are more than happy to address it. Otherwise, I find it hard to understand how we can fix something that is not broken.
F2:
Once again, I find it hard to understand why finding number two is an issue. The fact that . none of the SVUSD Board members have teaching or school administrative experience is ~IJ\} couflfJr inconsequential. Each and every one of our Board members meets the legal criteria for §~ Board membership. At the current time there are no laws in place stating that school ,"'"'T " 4' -p; ~ ~ l/lisrRA\G1-s Board members have teaching or administrative experience. On a personal note ... I believe the fact that not one of our Board members has "educational experience" provides them the opportunity to provide us with a "fresh perspective" on educational matters and issues. Once again, I fail to see why finding number two is presented as a finding.
F3:
Finding number three, once again, in my opinion, is capricious in nature. The finding simply states that the District must be constantly aware of where funds are and where they are not. The District employs a highly trained and capable Chief Business Official that spends eight to twelve hours a day working on financial matters and keeping me "aware of where funds are and where they are not." I, along with my CBO and the Board are constantly aware of the educational funding (or lack of funding) and expenses of the district. The district and school sites have done an excellent job (as noted by our financial records) working through the statewide "fiscal crisis" by providing top-notch educational opportunities for our students (as noted by our school's high API scores).
F4:
Recommendation number four requests that the District track all students in the community to assure they receive the education necessary for success in adulthood. SVUSD does an excellent job of tracking students that remain in the community. SVUSD has very few truancy problems due to the fact that students who show signs of truancy are referred to our District Advisory Committee (DAC) and/or our local School Attendance Review Board (SARB). The DAC and the SARB work closely with truant students and their parents/guardians to ensure that student truancy issues are resolved. However, when students move out of the school district it is impossible to track their academic performance and educational paths. Furthermore, there are no processes, procedures, or mandates in place that enable and/or require California school districts to perform such tasks.
F5:
Finding number five seems to be more of a complaint against a "cross section" of parents in our community. Whether or not these facts are true I don't believe the school district has any jurisdiction and/or recourse against parents that choose to raise their children with values that are contradictory to the mission of the school system. Furthermore, reporting that 90% of Etna High School students drink and smoke marijuana (oftentimes at school) is not only offensive to our staff and community members, it is, in my opinion, extremely irresponsible to publish it as fact. I can't conceive any rational person believing this statement to be factual. My only wish is that you had spoken to the principal and counselor at Etna High School because they are two "community experts" whose opinions on this matter would have been accurate and without error.
F6:
Recommendation number six requests that all critical school and district personnel should become familiar with the CISD and CISM procedures. Unfortunately, the Grand Jury did not speak to the most "critical personnel" about CISD and CISM procedures and training. The district superintendent and the district's head counselor (along with two principals) have been trained in and are familiar. with the CISD and CISM procedures. In the event that a traumatic event takes place in one of our schools the superintendent (with the assistance of the district head counselor and principals) is responsible for orchestrating any and all critical incident stress management procedures and debriefings. It is my belief that finding number six is unfounded. I appreciate the fact that the Grand Jury spent time and energy investigating SVUSD and that the narrative portion of the report was, for the most part, accurate. However, I must respectfully disagree with all six of the findings brought by the Grand Jury. Sgince,re lty, r ~ Dr. Bryan L. Caples District Superintendent Scott Valley Unified School District October 17, 2013 Siskiyou County Administration Attention: Becky Sloan P.O. Box 750 Yreka, CA 96097 RE: Scott Valley Unified School District Watchdog Report by 2012-2013 Siskiyou County Civil Grand Jury Dear Civil Grand Jury, County Administrator, Board of Supervisor's and County Counsel; On behalf of the Scott Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees and pursuant to the requirements of California Penal Code Section 933C, I have enclosed our required responses to the 2012-2013 Final Report of the Siskiyou County Civil Grand Jury. We have carefully reviewed the Grand Jury's findings, and recommendations in accordance with subdivision (b) of Section 933 and have enclosed our responses within. Respectfully submitted, f!h~., tJflwi,y; Charnna Gilmore Scott Valley Unified School District Board of Trustee, Board President Cc: Dr. Bryan Caples, Superintendent, Scott Valley Unified School District Debbie Miller, Principal, Etna Elementary School, Fort Jones Elementary School Allen Carver, Principal, Scott Valley Jr. High, Scott Valley Community Day School Bruce Bishop, Principal, Etna High School, Scott River High School Kermith Walters, County Superintendent, Siskiyou County Office of Education Jennifer Thackeray, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee Christine Hullquist, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee Tammi Bennett, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee Scott Pynes, Scott Valley Unified School District, Board of Trustee 11918 Main Street, Fort Jones CA 96032 530.468.2727 www.svusd.us
Recomendaciones adicionales
2
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
- Continue encouraging surrounding counties to share costs and utilize the additional housing available at the CBYCC. RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATION #1 The Board of Supervisors is open to contracting with neighboring counties in leasing out unoccupied space at the Juvenile Hall.
R2:
- As future budgets will allow, increase staffing in order to provide full and complete occupancy of the entire facility. RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATION #2 The Board of Supervisors will review juvenile hall staffing during fiscal year budget deliberations as appropriate. Brandon Criss Ed Valenzuela Michael Kobseff Grace Bennett Marcia H. Armstrong District 1 District2 District3 District4 District5 Scott Valley Unified School District "To ensure high levels oflearningfor all students." Board Members: 11918 Main Street I PO Box 687 Mrs. Charnna Gilmore, President Fort Jones, CA 96032 Mrs. Tammi Bennett PHONE (530) 468-2727 I FAX (530) 468-2729 Mrs. Christine Hullquist Mr. Scott Pynes Dr. Bryan Caples, Superintendent Mrs. Jennifer Thackeray Dear Siskiyou County Grand Jury Members, Please accept this correspondence as my response to the Watchdog Report of Scott Valley Unified School District published in the 2012-2013 Siskiyou County Grand Jury Report. Although I appreciate the process the Grand Jury uses to inform the public regarding watchdog reports, I was, to say the least, a bit confused and dismayed when I reviewed the
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
3 hallazgos
F1:
"After unification, one of the most difficult tasks was taking the various policies and procedures from each of the individual school and writing a single, comprehensive set of policies and procedures. Whenever a new State or Federal law or regulation is enacted, that must be incorporated into the District's policies and procedures. The California School Board Association may also send out new policies, which must be reviewed and adopted into the District policies and procedures. The Superintendent oversees the revisions and presents them to the School Board for review and ratification. Revising and rewriting policies and procedures is a continuous process." RESPONSE: Reviewing policy and procedures is a constant and continual activity within the Scott Valley Unified School District It involves the Superintendent, the District staff, teachers, classified staff, community members and the SVUSD Board. SVUSD has and still does, subscribe to the California School Boards Association's recommended policy program, Gamut Online, which allows us to incorporate all mandated State and Federal regulations into our board policies. We can and do revisit, revise and/or replace policies as needed or as set by law. There is no finding stating SVUSD is not actively "revising and rewriting policies and procedures" as this process is done on a continual basis, therefore we reject this finding.
F2:
"The current School Board does not have anyone with teaching or administrative experience; consequently the Board lacks someone who understands the more complex issues regarding school administration and educational programs who can review the budget and other accountability documents and understand what is going on behind the scenes." RESPONSE: School boards throughout California are made up of elected community members and are designed to be nonpartisan. The SVUSD Board of Trustees is comprised of five members, all serving four-year terms. Terms are staggered to keep experienced members on the Board at all times. Currently, the only requirement to run for the elected position of SVUSD Board Trustee is as follows: at least 18 years of age, a citizen of the State of California, a resident of the Scott Valley School District, a registered voter and eligible under the state constitution to be elected to public office. From that point, it is up to the Scott Valley community to elect a person they see fit for the position. Response to Grand Jury Report - SVUSD School Board 2 Again, there is no finding, as the Scott Valley Unified School District cannot, nor will ever control, nor be accountable for the state and/or county election process. We reject this finding.
F4:
in the review of the Public Administrator:
Recomendaciones adicionales
5
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
"The District should continue to keep on top ofi ts policies and procedures, adding to and modifying them as necessary." RESPONSE: As stated above, our District employs the services of the California School Board Association, using the state-of-art Gamut Online system to assist our District with board policy management
R2:
"Short of electing a Board member with these qualifications, the Board must rely heavily on the District Superintendent and his staff" RESPONSE: SVUSD does not have any control, nor should it, on the Siskiyou County election process. The SVUSD Board of Trustees will continue to oversee the activities of the District, using their own personal and professional backgrounds and will work together with the Superintendent, along with the entire, dedicated staff, who have all been hired in their respected fields, to aid in making decisions and policies which will reflect our District mission statement set forth; "To ensure high levels of learning for all students".
R3:
"Due to the fluid nature ofe ducational funding, the task is daunting to assure that all expenses are adequately funded. The District must be constantly aware of where funds are and where they are not" Response to Grand Jury Report - SVUSD School Board 3 RESPONSE: The district will continue to adhere to the procedures already in place to ensure fiscal solvency.
R4:
"/tis essential that all children and youth in the community be tracked no matter which academic path they choose, to assure they receive the education necessary for success in adulthood." RESPONSE: There is no requirement, mandates or methods for school districts to track students who are enrolled in other forms of education. The choice for a student's education entity is a parent's decision to make. Public school systems, such as SVUSD cannot assure the educational quality of outside organizations, entities or services, such as Independent Study, charter schools and/or home schooling, nor is it possible to track their progress to insure success.
R6:
''All critical school and district personnel should become familiar with both the CISM and CISD procedures. These procedures should implemented when traumatic events occur in the Scott Valley communities." RESPONSE: We will continue ensure proper training on our procedure effectiveness for dealing with future traumatic events. Response to Grand Jury Report - SVUSD School Board 7 Office of Public Administrator matter:
Vista rápida
Detalles completos →
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
3 hallazgos
F1:
funds generally are earmarked for spe- then being offered to residents and The City of Montague appears to be cific use i.e., economic development, The bottom line is that each grant / CONCLUSION business owners of Montague, as low performing admirably with respect to and usually have some strings / condi- loan program is slightly different. The There are many grant and funding pro- interest loans. Third, members of the their administration of grants and tions attached. The conditions may be City, through partnership with other grams available to communities in Grand Jury were not familiar with the loans. They are very active in seeking that the recipient matches some por- organizations, must identify appropri- Siskiyou County. The City of Mon- process of procuring and administer- appropriate grants for their commu- tion of the grant, perhaps somewhere ate programs that will assist the City tague, with the assistance of grant ad- ing funds earmarked for community nity. Looking at this model, it is easy between 1 to 10%. Other conditions in accomplishing specific goals. Grant ministration oriented organizations improvement. to see how an assertive attitude in pur- may also require some education and applications must be completed. There such as JEDI and the Siskiyou Eco- suing grant funds available, can APPROACH / or training as well as regular progress are people who are trained in grant nomic Development Council, is doing greatly benefit a community. The methods we employed were quite reports. Usually, loans for municipali- writing, which improves the probabil- a good job in utilizing these types of simple yet time consuming. City em- ties are offered at low interest rates. ity of receiving a grant, as the wording programs. Research is done by these
F4:
It is very important to fully placed on its victims, it is also The Siskiyou County District Attorney have a permanent law enforcement necessary to consider the perpetrators. RESPONSES REQUESTED or his designate is request to respond solutions should also be considered. representative on the SA6. A lot of the Many elder abuse victims refuse to co- Pursuant to California Penal Code to
F5:
Whilte the emphasis on vicious cycle will be perpetuated. Findings 1, 2, 3 and 5. at the county fair and pamphlets fighting elder abuse has been right- outlining the problems and possible
Recomendaciones adicionales
4
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
ployees were interviewed. Financial The reason it is important to differen- is important. Procedures have been es- organizations and the City of Mon- Keep up the good work. statements were reviewed and articles tiate between a grant and a loan is that tablished and implemented to notify tague to find applicable projects and from the Siskiyou Daily News and the the municipality may apply for funds the public of the availability of funds. then follow through by applying for Internet were examined. through grants and turn those funds When Montague receives notification these funds. 8— 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT
R2:
Elder Abuse should be made to discover why so Office should assign a deputy or de-
R4:
The Sheriff’s in coming forward. designate is requested to respond to
R5:
As is the case speaking with all segments of the fix those problems and get them SA6 meeting. It would also be nice if with domestic violence, elder abuse The Chief of the Yreka Police De- community. In addition to talks given involved again. Agencies that have a representative of the Yreka Police can only be fought, and hopefully partment is requested to respond to at senior citizen lunches, SA6 should ceased involvement due to territorial Department also attended. Perhaps a eradicated by paying attention to both
Vista rápida
Detalles completos →
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
3 hallazgos
F1:
The City of Dunsmuir sponsibilities and options of prop- A parcel of foreclosed commercial became apparent and threatened to being investigated by the Grand billing procedures appear to have erty owners. Put into place a property was purchased at auction. delay closing. In order to facilitate Jury. It was also clear that City staff limited ability to correctly identify, standard billing procedure with the The previous property owners owed transfer of the property the seller felt that this case could have been bill and collect for garbage, sewer purpose of assuring the new owner the City of Dunsmuir for past sewer, was forced to enter into an agree- handled much differently. The and water services with respect to receives bills in a timely manner. water and garbage services. The ment with the City of Dunsmuir Grand Jury was also assured that fil- the current property owner. Lack of complainant asserted that the city with regard to escrow closing costs. ing liens to collect sewer, water and communication with new property
F2:
The new owner was not commercial property changing own- tion. tween the beginning of foreclosure against the complainant’s property. billed for services allegedly owed. ership. proceedings and the close of escrow. During our fact-finding, it became Findings /
F3:
In this instance the City attempted to collect, through es- Those funds were ultimately recov- garbage fees is not a normal or de- owners has caused constant confu- of Dunsmuir filed an untimely lien, crow, the outstanding sewer, water ered from the City, although small sired practice. sion and expense for both the City rendering it invalid. and garbage charges owed by the claims court action was required. and new owner causing a great deal previous owners, causing costly The Grand Jury was also advised of dismay for both.
Recomendaciones adicionales
3
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
Notify new should be reviewed for legitimacy, services for water and sewer were clarify and resolve the pertinent is- to update procedures for billing and property owners of their rights, re- approved and signed off by more billed incorrectly. The complainant sues. collections regarding services pro- sponsibilities and options concern- than one person before filing. vided by the city. did not seek any financial remedies. ing sewer, water and garbage The remedy requested was that the Procedures collection immediately upon sale of RESPONSE REQUESTED Conclusions City acknowledge their wrongful After receiving and reviewing the property. Timely communication The City of Dunsmuir Mayor or his practices and correct them so no fur- complaint, the Grand Jury inter- 1.The City of Dunsmuir attempted would eliminate the majority of con- designate is requested to respond to ther property transfers would be viewed the complainant who pro- to collect money from the wrong fusion, unnecessary lawsuits and this report pursuant to California treated in the same manner. vided additional documentation. property owner. liens that have been ongoing for Penal Code 933.05. 20— 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT
R2:
Properly train Background Upon attempting to resell the prop- apparent that the current administra- all personnel about the rights, re- erty and convey clear title, the lien tion was familiar with the issue
R3:
Put into place delays in reselling the property. The In response to the complaint, the that a review of policy and proce- procedures for approving a lien. It complainant further asserted that Grand Jury undertook to address, dures is being currently undertaken
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
2 hallazgos
F1:
The primary mission of the well as the rehabilitation value of the other projects off site, while the fourth 9 months of their sentence. The in- FIRE unit and Siskiyou County Volun- Deadwood Conservation Camp is to Camp in preparing the inmate for crew, comprised of skilled workers, mates are not considered dangerous or teer Fire Departments. The Camp provide fire suppression in Siskiyou eventual release into society. The tour remain in camp working in the various violent. Although firearms are stored partners with the College of the Siskiy- County: the Camp is a low cost ended with a hot lunch, prepared and repair shops. at Camp, on site correctional staff is ous, and assisted in the building, main- manpower asset to the county. armed only with pepper spray and tenance and support of their Fire served by inmate kitchen staff in the dining hall. Inmates work a standard 40-hour handcuffs. Training Center. Other ongoing part-
F2:
Fighting fires and other The primary function of the Dead- clerks, plumbers, welders, carpenters walled prison. Fighting fires and other and Wildlife, Siskiyou County Fair- work activities instills a strong work wood conservation Camp is to provide and electricians). The lead clerk and work activities instill a strong work grounds, Scott Valley Adopt-a-High- ethic and contributes to building an inmate fire suppression crews, princi- lead cook may earn up to $3.90 per ethic and contribute to building self- way, local public schools, Cemetery inmates self worth and self-esteem. It pally operating in Siskiyou County day. Fire crew members may earn worth. It also prepares the inmate for Districts, Siskiyou County Fire Safe prepares the inmate for release back although they can be sent to other $1.00 per hour when fighting fires or release back into society at the end of Councils, the Cities of Weed, Etna, into society at the end of their areas as well. Inmate crews also on other declared emergencies. In- their sentence. It is felt that the recidi- Fort Jones, Mt. Shasta, and Yreka, Iron sentence. provide labor for other endeavors, such mate earnings are held in individual vism rate of “Con Camp” parolees is Gate and Mount Shasta Fish Hatchery, as flood control, conservation projects, trust funds where the money can be much lower than that of other prison Lake Siskiyou Recreation area and
Recomendaciones adicionales
2
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
Keep up the week. They are paid $1.45 per day for Most inmates quickly learn that being nerships and projects include those excellent work. DISCUSSION unskilled labor, and up to $2.56 per selected to serve time at a Conserva- with Klamath National Forest, Castle ABOUT THE CAMP day for skilled labor (mechanics, tion Camp is more desirable than at a Crags State Park, Shasta Valley Fish
R2:
Keep up the and community services. used to help their families, or as sav- inmates. many others. excellent work. 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT—
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
9 hallazgos
F1:
All prisoners are pat are received prior to taking delivery at
F2:
Any money found ona destroying the items. Prisoners are Lieutenant in charge consists of 41 prisoner when arrested or sent to him issued one allotment of the above Summary individuals. There are 25 male and 6 or her during incarceration are held by and will retain that original issue The lieutenant of the Siskiyou County female corrections deputies, a work the jail in trust for the prisoner. These during their entire incarceration. Sheriff’s Department in charge of the release program manager, 2 nurses, 3 funds are used to pay any fines or fees Destruction of any of these items re- jail was contacted, and arrangements kitchen staff and 3 extra help deputies assessed the inmate and money left sults in debiting the prisoners per- were made to tour the jail facility on (2 male and 1 female). Corrections over may be used to purchase items sonal bank account. hence they will February 21, 2013. deputies attend a corrections academy from the Jail Commissary on a weekly have less money for personal use; a rather than a police academy and are basis. Commissary items are primarily powerful incentive to care for county Thirteen members of the Siskiyou thus not interchangeable with patrol snack foods such as candy bars and property. County Civil Grand Jury personally deputies, and have police powers only chips. No soft drinks are allowed as inspected the physical layout of the when on duty. the bottles or cans may be used as, or They are provided a net laundry bag jail and were shown the procedures fashioned into, weapons. Prisoners can and laundry is done weekly (unless for handling prisoners from initial Conclusions fill out a commissary list with items prisoner does own laundry). Laundry booking until release. The Siskiyou County Jail is a well run, they wish to purchase. Their account is done in a mesh bag that is tied and although outdated institution. Most, if balance is checked against cost of secured with an individual tag. The Discussion not all of the problems cited by the items they wish to order. If there bag is washed intact and returned to The current jail was built in 1987, over Jury are due to the age of the facility is sufficient money to cover cost of prisoner intact so that it is highly 25 years ago. It was designed to house and the budget and manpower cuts their purchases, they will be allowed. unlikely that any items are removed 68 inmates, primarily misdemeanor necessitated by the economic down- during process. violators and those felons awaiting turn. The Jury believes that these The commissary service is provided trail and sentencing. After conviction problems will be ameliorated by the by an off site business and, in return A significant finding is that there is and sentencing the felons were then construction of the new Siskiyou for the delivery service, provides only one washing machine and one sent to the California Department of County Jail. To this end, the Jury the jail with a small commission on dryer in the facility laundry room! The Corrections. recommends that this process proceed its sales. The approved shopping list laundry room is so small, that there is with all due haste. (for the entire jail) is sent to the no room to add additional machines. After passage of AB109 felons commissary supplier and each order If one of the machines breaks down, sentenced to four or less years serve is filled and packed in individual laundry must be taken to a public their time in the county jail. In Findings and bags labeled with the inmates name laundromat. addition, certain parole violators from
F3:
Prisoners have certain inmate assistance, manages to prepare of operating in an antiquated and Technology exists in the form of privileges and obligations when and serve over 300 meals per day. inadequate jail facility. BOSS (Body Orifice Security Scan- incarcerated. They are issued 2 sets ner) chairs, and virtual strip-search of orange jumpsuits, 2 sets of The kitchen staff stated that they Today, by double bunking prisoners machines, such as those used in air- underwear, 1 pair of Orange colored could save the county substantial (two beds per cell), the jail Capacity is ports, allowing body cavity searches to plastic clogs, towels and bedding. money if they could order food in 107. The bed count includes three be conducted on-site and with less Inmate workers are also issued larger quantities but due to the small Medical Beds and four PC (Protective humiliation for both the officer and appropriate work clothes, which size of the storage area that is not Custody) beds. These single bed prisoner. are only worn while performing possible. CONTINUED ON PAGE 11 10— 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT INSPECTION OF THE S ISKIYOU C OUNTY J AIL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 Since there are inmates helping in Medical Balance would not allow available weapons are to defuse Of course this may or may not prove The jury further recommends that the the kitchen, the knives used for food an inmate to purchase anything from the situation verbally, superiority of anything, as it had been pretty dry site selection, funding, design and preparation are counted at the begin- the commissary until their balance numbers by summoning help via up to the date of inspection. construction of a new jail proceed with ning and end of each shift. is positive. radio, and as a last resort to use Mace utmost haste. The inmate must choose between talk- or pepper spray. The one-way windows between the The Jury was provided lunch from the ing to the nurse and the snacks they control room have been repaired to
F4:
The kitchen and associated The existing jail facility is clean and not allowed to perform body cavity food storage areas are clean and well well run. The Sheriff, his staff and searches; if the visual strip search
F5:
Two nurses provide routine surveillance. The sheriff’s staff has visiting area at the same time. Having bulb would shatter and rain down glass The Grand Jury could find no statistics medical treatment. Inmates are identified these areas and “off limit” rival gang members or child sex and drugs on the recreational room to determine the success rate of these charged $3.00 from their personal lines have been painted on the floors. offenders and general population floor. The prisoners would then use the programs to see if they are truly cost account for each Medical visit Inmate s who enter these areas are inmates in the visiting area simultane- restroom in the recreational area to in- effective, requested. When inmates are respon- subject to disciplinary action. ously could present a serious situation. gest or hide the drugs. sible for a portion of each visit it
F6:
Previous Grand Juries have present average population of 96 in- melt and deposit their payload to the community along with state and local Grand Jury recommends that the issue identified a number of deficiencies in mates, that requires 288 visitation floor to be retrieved by the inmates. organizations benefit from this be brought before the Board of Super- the design of the facility that pose a se- hours per week. Another ploy was to carefully break an practice. These work furlough pro- visors (BOS) to obtain additional curity risk to the staff and inmates. ordinary light bulb so the bulb portion grams include automotive shop, an- funds. There are certain blind spots in the This requires careful selection of was still intact, fill the bulb with drugs imal control, among others. facility that are obscured from video which prisoners can occupy the and toss that onto the steel roof. The
F7:
It is required that inmates major expenses. An amusing example and with the support of the local worked for years.” “The walk-in re- quently re-arrested for another viola- be offered at least three hours per is the recreation area. This area high school district, along with the frigerator and freezer have hanging tion, that negative balance is carried week of visitation. As stated before with its 20-foot or so walls is topped Community Correction Partnership thermometers inside that we check on over and any money on the arrestees prisoners must be escorted through the with a steel meshed roof originally (CCP), and other resources, inmates occasionally.” The failure of the refrig- person, or provided by visitors, will control room to gain access to the designed to keep contraband, mainly can obtain GED’s, vocational, and eration systems, without immediately be applied to that negative account visitation room. The visitation room is weapons, from being tossed over the course completion certificates to make alerting the staff, could result in sub- balance. a locked area with seats, a window, walls from the outside and onto them competitive and employable stantial loss of supplies, as well as pre- and telephone to communicate with the roof. upon release. Work programs both senting a significant health hazard.
F8:
Previous jail inspections on the recreational area floor would be RESPONSES be registered against the inmates via procedure in that at least two and reports noted that the jail had cause to suspect that contraband had REQUESTED “bank account.” There is no limit officers are in the control room during many roof leaks. When questioned been induced into the jail. on the amount of negative balance movement of an inmate from one area about this the Jury were told that The Sheriff or his designate and the allowed. However, since this is the to another. there had been some repairs made
F9:
To alleviate the over- day’s menu and the taste and quality could buy with the $3.00 charged for
Recomendaciones adicionales
9
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
This equipment their work duties. The Siskiyou County Grand Jury is child molesters and sex offenders, as is fairly expensive so it is recom- required to inspect the conditions they would be at significant risk of mended that the Board of Supervisors One of an inmates obligations is to and management of all correctional being assaulted if placed in general re-allocate sufficient funds to procure care for the clothes and bedding issued facilities in Siskiyou County on a population. such equipment. to them and not to express their yearly basis as directed by Penal Code anger of being incarcerated by Section 919(b). The current jail staff, in addition to the
R2:
The current organized. The kitchen, pantry, and ancillary personnel have developed reveals an indication that there is process seems to be working well and walk-in refrigerator and freezer are procedures that mitigate the shortcom- something secreted in a body cavity, the Grand Jury does not recommend small, as they were only designed to ings of the existing facility. They the prisoner must be transported to any changes. feed 68 inmates. Despite the cramped should be commended for doing an Fairchild Medical Center for the facility the kitchen staff, along with outstanding job given the constraints search to be performed by a doctor.
R3:
Normally the jail. Currently there are no misde-
R4:
It is recom- dures seem to be working well and accommodate ten inmates. As there is It was discovered that “friends” of the being maintained at county expense. mended that the alarms be either re- there is no recommendation for not separation of inmates on the inmates would freeze drugs inside ice paired or replaced. If the cost of repair change. locked side, presenting a logistics cubes; toss them onto the roof from Limitations prevent commercial and or replacement cannot be diverted problem for jail staff. Assuming the the outside where the ice cubes would non-government access but the from normal operating funds the
R5:
These proce- visitors. The visitation area can inside and outside the facility are
R6:
Recommending limit observation of the deputies by the crowding problems, the Sheriff’s of the food served was excellent. the visit. The nurses stated, “This pol- altering the jail is impractical given inmates. Department is sponsoring and imple- icy has significantly reduced the its present age and design. Again, menting repeat offender reduction It was also noticed that the electronic amount of sickness among the jail the sheriff and his jail staff are Much to their credit, the jail staff programs, educational programs, temperature monitors and alarms on population!” commended for improvising and has adapted to the realities of partnership projects, relapse preven- the refrigerator and freezer are not making do with the current situation. housing a more violent and cunning tion, and re-entry skill classes. Educa- functioning. When asked about this, In addition, if an inmate is released genre of inmate without incurring tion is a key element of this program one of the cooks stated: “They haven;t with a negative balance, and is subse-
R7:
The obvious The Jail staff solved the problem mended that CCP provide statistics unnecessary requests. This saves time present jail (noted by previous Grand recommendation would be to provide by covering the existing meshed roof on the success rate of these programs and money. Juries) is that moving a prisoner from alternate route to the visitation area with a lightweight plastic tarp and and the cost per successful rehabilita- the cell areas to any other area such as and individual secure cubicles for locking the recreational area restroom. tion. If Medical care is needed and there are the exercise area, to get medical treat- visitation; again, totally impractical To use a restroom now requires an not sufficient funds in the inmate’s ac- ment, or to get to the visitation area re- in the present facility. inmate to ask to be escorted back to count to cover the cost, the care will quires the prisoner to pass through the the housing area. Any water or glass be provided anyway and a charge will control room. Security is established
R8:
The Jury recom- Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors account used to purchase “treats” from and, although the ceilings showed mends that the maintenance be contin- are requested to respond to this report the commissary, and those items It might be noted that the jail officers evidence of earlier leaks, there had ued even though the facility is old pursuant to California Penal Code sec- are on a “cash only” basis, a negative do not carry lethal weapons. their been no water dripping this year. and will eventually be replaced. tions 933 and 933.05 (a). 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT—
R9:
It is recom- tends to decrease the number of The major flaw in the design of the
Vista rápida
Detalles completos →
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
2 hallazgos
F1:
facility. shower and are issued CBYCC and all residents are required to be clothing and footwear. At that time The Siskiyou County Office of in attendance at mealtime. Owing to lack of funding for staff an offer is made for the facility to wash Education provides two teachers members, the rooms on one side their personal clothing. and one aide for the facility school. Mental health services are provided of the facility currently are unoccu- RESPONSES REQUESTED Residents can complete qualifications locally, through the County Behavioral pied; although the communal areas Once the juvenile enters into the and either receive a GED, a County Health department. Routine medical are utilized. The staff has reached The Chief Probation Officer, or his population, he or she soon learns certificate of completion or a diploma care is provided through the Depart- out to surrounding counties expressing designate, and the Siskiyou County that their time in CMYCC is fully from Yreka High School. ment of Public Health, while specialty a willingness to house some of Board of Supervisors are requested structured and that they are required services are available via tele-medi- their juveniles in an attempt to to respond to this report pursuant to to participate in the school program. The CBYCC was opened in 2008. cine on SKYPE. The residents refer seek additional funds. No contracts California Penal Code sections 933 Schedules are rigidly adhered to. Since then, approximately 178 to this as “doc in the sky.” have been arranged at this time. and 933.05(a). 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT—
F2:
possessions. Both the staff member scheduled weekdays from 3:00pm sters were previously problem stu- (which has various settings, such and the child sign a form certifying till 4:00pm. dents. as sick baby, drug baby...etc...) Overall, the Grand Jury was very that the inventory is correct and is not cared for properly it does impressed with the layout, security, complete. Family visits are scheduled on Sunday, The juvenile resident can earn up to what all babies do...it cries. The and cleanliness of the facility and Tuesday and Thursday. Sunday visits ten points per day for good conduct. prospective mother must learn why the professionalism of its staff. The minors are also allowed to are one hour, from 2:30pm to They can also lose points for bad the baby is crying and what to do The facility is well maintained, voluntarily admit to possessing any 3:25pm or 3:30pm to 4:30pm. Tues- behavior. The earned points can be to stop the noise. Boys are also organized and supervised and one prohibited items before being day and Thursday visits are two used to purchase either small items encouraged and welcome to attend can easily imagine it would compare searched. When this happens, the hour sessions, either from 2:00pm to from the commissary or special this training. very favorably with any Juvenile staff member on duty looks at the 4:00pm or 4:00pm to 6:00pm. privileges such as the right to play Facility in the state. situation. Each incident stands on Dinner is served at 5:00 and the 6:00 video games. its own and the minor is informed to 9:00 period is free time. Non- that lying or trying to conceal contra- compliance with the rules usually The Center maintains a full time
Recomendaciones adicionales
1
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
into the facility, is given an opportu- and each resident (individually, not school program. In that short period “Baby Training Class” for pregnant nity to make two telephone calls. If as a group) is given the opportunity of time, the school has seen 19 residents. Part of this training includes Continue encouraging surrounding they do not wish to speak to a par- to take a shower. Breakfast is residents receive their high school a computerized baby doll that the counties to share costs and utilize the ent at that time, they may elect to served at 8:05am and school runs from diplomas and a further 15 obtained prospective mother is given charge of. additional housing available at the defer the call until later. 8:45am to 2:45pm with a break for their GED certificates. These num- She must learn to care for it, just as she CBYCC. lunch. If Monday is a holiday, there bers indicate a success rate of about would a real baby. Staff, in the presence of the child, is a school session Saturday. Vari- 46%: a significant percentage when inventories the minor’s clothing and ous special programs and activities are one considers that many of the young- When the “computerized baby”
Vista rápida
Detalles completos →
Hallazgos y recomendaciones aún no extraídos.
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
2 hallazgos
F1:
The most overriding mes- cies participating in SA6 include law otherwise healthy senior to remain in they choose. It can be very difficult denied for any reason. Few abused sage that the Jury received during this enforcement (one of the principal their home. Since all monies are paid to distinguish between serious self- seniors can afford the cost of staying investigation was the need for a Rep- founders is with the Siskiyou County directly to the RP and the senior has neglect that requires intervention by in one of these facilities. resentative Payee program in Adult Sheriff’s Office), Adult Protective no direct access, there is a far lower authorities, and may be a result of Protective Services. Without the RP Services, Victim’s Witness (part of the chance of financial abuse. Budget cuts dementia or other physical ailment, The lack of acceptable options for program many senior citizens whose Siskiyou County District Attorney’s eliminated this necessary program and and a senior’s choice to live in a abused seniors can and often does only impairment is the inability to Office), Northern Valley Catholic So- the one private, for profit RP has cluttered or messy house. In the latter lead to a refusal to cooperate with manage their financial affairs could cial Services, Far Northern Regional moved out of the area. A private RP case all that may be necessary is the authorities in investigating and prose- end up subject to conservatorship. Center, Family Resource Centers, usually charges a percentage of a offer of some housekeeping help. cuting cases of elder abuse. Over the This not only costsd the conserved Madrone Hospice, Fairchild Medical client’s income, placing this service last few years many law enforcement senior their right to self-determination, Center, as well as private individuals out of reach for many senior citizens. Many well-intentioned organizations personnel have undergone specific it also is far more costly to the county who provide services to elders. Many In addition to paying all bills, the RP actually alienate the seniors they are training in the unique problems coffers. other agencies and organizations have is in a position to monitor credit cards trying to help by failing to listen encountered in elder abuse investiga-
F2:
The SA6 is doing a good are available to speak about elder with paying the bills. Money manage- someone in the community becomes due to a lack of reporting with these job of making seniors aware of elder abuse and what Siskiyou County ment also acts as a deterrent to finan- aware that something is amiss in a types of cases. The Jury expects that abuse, but the Jury believes they need is attempting to do about it at meet- cial abuse since there is another pair of senior’s life it is necessary to involve as people become more aware of elder to include all ages in their awareness ings, senior centers and other venues eyes watching. However, unlike the the authorities. Many times both lasw abuse and the scope of the problem campaigns. Several recent cases of throughout the area. RP program, it is less likely to notice enforcement and Adult Protective that more cases of physical abuse will elder abuse have been reported to suspicious spending patterns. Services are called. However, because come to light. It is incumbent upon all authorities by grocery clerks, phar- CONTINUED ON PAGE 8 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT—
Recomendaciones adicionales
1
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
The Human also been involved with the above and utilities for unwarranted or suspi- and infantilizing the elders. The use of tions. Prosecutions for elder abuse Services Agency should investigate named ones representing the core cious changes in spending patterns or senior citizen volunteers diminishes are also increasing, with the Victim’s the relative costs of Representative group. use of electricity. the chances that offers of assistance Witness section providing aid and Payee versus Conservatorship and Northern Valley Catholic Social Serv- will be refused due to pride and a comfort to these vulnerable people. decide which is better for the individ- SA6 meets once a month with presen- ices (NVCSS) offers a Money Man- perceived loss of independence. Of ual and the county. If it is not feasible tations and discussions of new and agement Program that is one step course seniors helping seniors benefits In Siskiyou County the majority of to have an in-house RP program, the existing programs, information ex- below RP. This program entails send- both parties. reported elder abuse cases involve HSA should investigate contracting changes on scams directed at seniors ing a volunteeer (who has been finger- financial abuse and neglect (including with a private RP. and gneral information on trends in printed and undergone a background When volunteer intervention leads to self-neglect). Cases involving physical elder abuse. In addition, SA6 members check)into the senior’s home to help the discovery of elder abuse, or when abuse are more rare but this may be
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
4 hallazgos
F1:
attorneys in the Office of County the decedent’s remains; assemble a list the responsibility of the County to into the Public Administrator’s Office. The office and storage space assigned Counsel. of assets, including bank accounts, take care of all final arrangements, The log showed that the overwhelm- to the Assistant Public Administrator cash, promissory notes and debts, such as inventory and disposition ing number of cases deal with the is inadequate. It is unreasonable to ex- stocks and bonds, business interests, of personal assets, and providing final deaths and estates of indigent county pect the APA to work in the same real property, motor vehicle, insurance disposition of the body. residents. room where coffee breaks are taken. RESPONSES REQUIRED: and miscellaneous items. Disposition of the remains is normally During the period covering January
F2:
respond to Findings 1 - 4. method of transferring assets; fulfills However, the county contracts indi- The decedent’s date of death was The training standards for the APA are all probate duties; reviews Court doc- gent cremation at $1900. The APA February 9, 2006. This was originally unclear. The County Counsel is requested to uments and determines appropriate files paperwork for the County, applies a Public Guardian Case, which was respond to
F3:
The procedures for bidding function and operations of various may be appointed as Assistant as executor. duties to the best of their abilities. and contracting services related to the county departments. In carrying out Public Admnistrator (APA). The However, the conditions under which functions of the Public Administrator this responsibility, the 2012 - 2013 APA is responsible for carrying When inventory and disposition of the APA operates are not optimal. The should be reveiwed. Grand Jury elected to look into the out the day-to-day operations of the personal possessions is required, work/storage space assigned to the office of the Siskiyou County Public Public Administrator Office and a local contractor, experienced in APA is inadequate. It is unclear how Administrator. reports directly to the District holding estate sales, is hired to sort much, if any, specific training is
F4:
The District Attorney’s of Section 24300 of the California containing all of the Public Adminis- whelming, there are also times when appear to be primarily civil in nature. office primarily handles criminal Government Code, the offices of trator’s records, also doubles as the the APA is utilized as a Legal It appears to the Grand Jury that this procedures and complaints. It is District Attorney and Public Adminis- coffee room. Space is definitely at a Secretary in performing other duties function would be better served in the unclear why the civil function of trator were consolidated. premium in this room and access to within the District Attorney’s Office. office of the County Counsel, which Public Administrator is assigned to the PA file cabinet would be hindered Conversely, although the APA mainly deals with civil matters, rather than the this office. The office of the Public Administrator by anyone sitting at the conference works alone, other staff in the DA’s District Attorney’s office. is charged with planning, organizing, table. office are available to help when coordinating, overseeing and carrying necessary.
Recomendaciones adicionales
4
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
Pursuant to California Penal Code The office also determines ownership done by cremation. Since there are 2010 through December 2011, this Dedicatedspaceand adequate storage section 933.05 (a): and title of assets; estimates the balue only two funeral homes in the county, office handled forty (40) cases. should beassigned to the APA. Every of each asset; collects benefits due the one in Yreka and one in Mt. Shasta, According to the tracking log, effort should be made to find this The Siskiyou County Board of decedent; arranges for income tax re- there is little competitive bidding. all but four have been closed. space in the existing courthouse rather Supervisors is requested to respond to turns; lists debts and obligations in- However, there is one case of an than waiting for the new courthouse to
R2:
sponsibilities; ensures that Court payments, then pays for the non- present APA in 2009. After ensuring The training provided to both the Mandates are achieved; prepares and covered portion of the cremation. that all efforts to find a next of kin Public Administrator (at present the files appropriate Court Papers; com- had been exhausted, the money District Attorney) and the APA pletes forms and carries Court In the event that a County resident remains in the savings account for should meet those enumerated by processes for State and County aid dies without a written will (intestate) possible future claims. the state in chapters 2 and 3 of the programs; attends Court hearings; en- the APA becomes the executor of Standards and Certification Plan for sures that individuals receive proper that estate. If the estate is under The Grand Jury randomly checked California State Association of Public notification of all legal matters and $100,000 probate and disposition of several cases and found that each file Administrators, Guardians and Con- meets time constraints. assets is handled by the Public seemed to be well documented. servators. At present only the Public 2012 - 2013 SISKIYOU COUNTY GRAND JURY REPORT—
R3:
Standard com- Attorney (DA). and itemize the inventory, then arrange provided to the APA and whether that petitive bidding guidelines and County In accordance with the Siskiyou and conduct the sale. training meets State standards or if accounting procedures should apply County Code of Ordinances, Title Grand Jury members met briefly such standards exist. There appears to when outside assistance id required in 2, Administration; Chapter 2, Conduct with the DA in his capacity as Public Our initial investigation was of the be little information on how private dealing with indigent and intestate of Board and Office Business, Administrator, then interviewed the interview type only. We did not ask attorneys are contracted and bids for cases. Article3; Consolidation of Offices; APA. This meeting was held in a very for any documentation or look into other services are selected. Sec. 2-2-301 (1) Pursuant to this small conference room which, in any files. We found that, while the authority, conferred by the provisions addition to housing the file cabinet duties of the APA are often over- The duties of the Public Administrator
R4:
The County out the following functions: create Most of the APA’s time is spent
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
6 hallazgos
F1:
After unification, one of
F2:
The current School Board lems, lack of initiative in regard to ac- in all of the county schools. The CISD does not have anyone with teaching or viewed was that unification has also ademic tasks, disciplinary issues and and CISM intervention protocols are administrative experience; conse- A committed number of residents benefitted the Valley as it served to substance abuse. In addition, for many research-based best practices for re- serve as officers for Scott Valley break down the divisions and the walls quently the Board lacks someone who years adolescent alcohol and mari- sponding to traumatic events. CISD Scholarships and Educational Awards, that existed between the Etna and Fort understands the more complex issues juana use have been significant issues and CISM are a structured process for regarding school administration and Incorporated. This organization began Jones communities. According to in Scott Valley. To the detriment of stu- helping those involved in a critical in- as a 501(c) (3) organization to State accountability standards, Scott educational programs who can review dents, a cross-section of adults (par- cident to share their experiences, vent raise money for student college Valley students are performing above the budget and other accountability ents and others) in Scott Valley emotions, learn about stress reactions documents and understand what is scholarships. The current Board of the State benchmarks. SVUSD has provides alcohol to their children and and symptoms and be given referrals going on behind the scenes. Director includes a President, Vice many great community members, the friends of their children. The only for fruther help, if required. When President, Secretary, Treasurer, Chief teachers, administrators and staff who
F3:
Due to the fluid nature of ing and being involved in an accident. looks for people who are good at successfully through the fiscal com- educational funding, the task is daunt- According to some community ex-
F4:
Although the district for the Scott Valley community: so Valley communities. specific process they undertake in stroy much of the good work that so reports that 100% of the Etna High many community members work tire- awarding scholarships and awards. many have accomplished on behalf of School students graduate, other lessly on behalf of the students of RESPONSES REQUESTED Once students apply, 5 members from Scott Valley students. students may follow a drop out path Scott Valley, yet other community The Scott Valley Unified School Dis- the Board of Directors work with the and simply disappear from the members (across all socio-economic trict School Board is requested to re- District counselor to award scholar- FINDINGS AND statistical radar. Often these youth levels) are actively working to destroy spond to Findings 1 through 6 ships that have very narrow qualifica-
F5:
During the course of this ago the County Office of Education scholarship or award. When the stu- and other staff employed, services to
F6:
Approximately 12 years process. dent who applies is accepted for a SVUSD has been able to keep teachers
Recomendaciones adicionales
5
No vinculadas a hallazgos específicos.
R1:
The District investigation, one complaint was heard employees and other agency employ- dent matriculates at a college, the stu- the students have been maintained, should continue to keep on top of its repeatedly: some parents work against ees worked to develop Critical Inci- dent is awarded the money. Even there has been better coordination be- policies and procedures, adding to and the school and the teachers, enabling dent Stress Management (CISM) and students who didn’t graduate can tween the schools, and a consistency modifying them as necessary. inappropriate behaviors from their Critical Incident Stress Debriefing apply for a scholarship or award if of practices have saved money. The children including behavioral prob- (CISD) procedures for implementation they begin attending college. general consensus of people inter-
R2:
Short of elect- change that has occurred in Scott Val- asked, critical school personnel were Financial Officer, and 7 other Board care about the students, give sacrifi- ing a Board member with these quali- ley in recent years is that parents or unfamiliar with the CISD and CISM of Directors members. In March of cially and work hard on behalf of the fications, the Board must rely heavily other adults will make sure that the procedures, despite having had several each year the corporation members students and the Valley communities. on the District Superintendent and his students who are drinking remain at traumatic events that have occurred in hold elections for new officers and The new Superintendent is well liked staff. the party house where the alcohol is the Scott Valley communities over the board members. The public is invited in the community and appears to have provided, rather than the student leav- past several years. to provide input. The corporation the administrative skills to navigate
R4:
It is essential the District Administrators must get Merit Scholarship, McConnell Foun- CONCLUSIONS dation Scholarship, the Ford Founda- Although unification has been a diffi- procedures. the Superintendent over- that all children and youth in the more involved with this very serious sees the revisions and presents them to community be tracked no matter problem. The adults that provide tion Scholarship, The Rotary, the cult and sometimes an emotionally the School board for review and ratifi- which academic path they choose, the substances should be rigorously Mason’s, Evening Star Scholarships charged process, overall, the unifica- cation. Revising and rewriting policies to assure they receive the education prosecuted. and Scott Valley Scholarships and Ed- tion of the Scott Valley Schools has and procedures is a continuous necessary for success in adulthood. ucational Awards, Inc. Every stu- been positive and successful. The
R5:
Although the and educational awards that are tending. They take these items to Scott programs, they can drop out of any the most difficult tasks was taking the schools have some ability to address available for pursuing a college Valley Bank to claim their scholarship. academic program and not be tracked. various policies and procedures from these issues by offering counseling, education. The bank sends the money to the Fi- If a student remains in the District each of the individual schools and suspending the student, taking away nancial Aid office of the college in the programs, truancy issues can be writing a single. comprehensive set of school privileges, expelling a student The District school counselor envelope provided. Scholarship and identified and addressed. Twelve assists students who apply for award money must be claimed by Oc- policies and procedures. Whenever a years ago the District had a lot and working with Law Enforcement new State or Federal law or regulation and County Juvenile Probation to deal the scholarships and awards. Infor- tober 1st. If a student has followed the of truancy, but with the institution is enacted, that must be incorporated with the more recalcitrant students. mation can be accessed on the process and has not been provided into the District’s policies and proce- of SARB (Student Attendance and More must be done within the adult website: lionbytes.com. Many of the with an award or scholarship, they can Review Board) with the District scholarships are from an organization, write a letter of appeal to the corpora- dures. The California School Board Attorney’s Office, truancy for District community so that some parents and Association may also send out new other adults do not easily undermine or an individual. These include the tion. students now is minimal. policies, which must be reviewed and these efforts. The School Board and Lion’s Pride Scholarship, National adopted into the District policies and
R6:
All critical working with other people and are plexities of the coming years. The ing to assure that all expenses are ad- perts, 90% of the High School stu- school and district personnel should c o o rg m an m iz it a t t e i d o n t p o r o v th id e e s c o o v m e m r 7 u 0 n s it c y h . o T la h r e - m co a m jo m r u i n ss it u y e a t t h la a r t g t e h e n e s e c d h s o t o o l a s d a d n r d es s th i e s e c q o u n a st t a el n y t l f y u n aw de a d r . e T o h f e w D h i e st r r e i c f t u m nd u s s t a b re e d m e a n r t i s ju a a n r a e . d O ri f n te k n in g s tu a d n e d n ts s m a o t k te in n g d b an ec d o C m I e S f D a m p i r l o ia c r e d w u i r th es b . o T th h e t s h e e p C r I o S c M e- ships and awards each year. the pervasive alcohol and marijuana and where they are not. classes under the influence. This cer- dures should be implemented when The Scott Valley Scholarships and use among the youth of the Valley. tainly presents a profound conundrum traumatic events occur in the Scott Educational Awards Corporation has a Left unaddressed, these issues can de-
Additional documents
Documents found alongside this year's reports — not grand jury reports or responses.