Gran Jurado del Condado de Trinity
2003-2004
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
5 hallazgos
F1:
In California, the activities of public officials are guided by the Common Law Doctrine of Incompatible Offices. This doctrine addresses the potentially overlapping duties and conflicts when two public offices are held by a single official. The offices are considered incompatible if there 1) is a significant clash of duties or loyalties between the offices, 2) if public policy considerations make it improper for one person to hold both offices and 3) if either officer exercises a supervisory, auditory, appointive, or removal power over the other. The Common Law Doctrine of Incompatible Offices only applies to someone who holds two public offices simultaneously. It does not preclude an official from simultaneously holding an office and an "employment", based on case law and Attorney General opinions. The Attorney General's office has concluded that City Administrators and Managers are "officers" in several legal opinions (51 Ops.Cal. Atty.Gen. 183 (1968), 80 Ops.Cal.Atty.Gen. 74, 75-76 (1997), 82 Ops.Cal.Atty.Gen. 201). In an opinion on whether a person could serve simultaneously as the City Administrator and Fire Chief of the City of Oroville, the Attorney General's office stated "Prospective as well as present clashes of duties and loyalties give rise to the prohibition. Only one significant clash is required to make offices incompatible." Mr. Muir currently serves as a public official (Auditor) and an employee (Director of Behavioral Health Services). The Board of Supervisors specifically chose not to name Mr. Muir as County Administrative Officer (CAO) or interim CAO. According to a member of the Board of Supervisors, the CAO position is now shared between the Auditor/Controller, County Counsel, and Board of Supervisors, with several Department Heads "pitching in". Mr. Muir performs most of the CAO's duties although he does not technically hold that title. In a brief survey, the Grand Jury found several instances where Mr. Muir was cited as the CAO by other Department heads. Even though the CAO position has not been filled, it is still cited by County staff, such as the legal advertisement for Community Development Block Grants. Legal arguments can be made both "for" and "against" the conclusions that 1) Mr. Muir should be considered to be the CAO even though he does not hold that specific title and 2) that the CAO is a public official and therefore subject to the Common Law Doctrine of Incompatible Offices. The Grand Jury believes that the most appropriate method to settle this discussion is to 1) obtain an opinion from the Attorney General, and 2) comply with the opinion. It is possible that the County may chose not to comply with the opinion, since Attorney General opinions are not binding. In that case, the District Attorney should pursue the issue in court.
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R1:
The District Attorney should obtain a legal opinion from the Attorney General's Office (AG) as to whether Mr. Muir's multiple duties violate the Common Law Doctrine of Incompatible Offices. If the Attorney General concludes that Mr. Muir should divest himself of incompatible duties, the Board of Supervisors should take steps to implement the AG opinion. In the event that the Board of Supervisors chose to ignore the AG opinion, the District Attorney should pursue the issue in court. -19-
F2:
It is poor public policy to have the Auditor and County Administrative Officer positions combined. The result is a concentration of power with no checks and balances. It compromises the jurisdictional independence of various positions. The Grand Jury believes that the rationale expressed in the Common Law Doctrine of Incompatible Offices should be considered. It is easy to conceive of situations where incompatible offices may arise. The following are examples of situations where there is a significant clash of duties or loyalties between the offices, where public policy considerations make it improper for one person to hold both offices and where either officer may exercise a supervisory, auditory, appointive, or removal power over the other. Example 1: In 2002-2003, the Grand Jury received a complaint concerning an application for a housing rehabilitation grant. Mr. Muir served on the Loan committee that selected recipients of the grant. The applicant was denied a grant and the appeal was submitted to the acting CAO - also Mr. Muir. The Grand Jury report stated "This situation underscores the need to hire a full time County Administration Officer". The County has had to resolve this conflict by appointing a different Department head to review appeals. Example 2: In 2003-2004 The Grand Jury received a complaint from an applicant for the position of Personnel Manager. Mr. Muir served on the committee interviewing job applicants. The applicant was not selected for the position. An appeal of the decision was submitted to the County Administrative Officer - also Mr. Muir. Mr. Muir is currently serving as the Personnel Manager, following the resignation of the selected candidate. County employees and job applicants should have someone to go to, to hear, explore and perhaps find a remedy if they feel the Personnel Department has erred. By being both the Personnel Manager and CAO, Mr. Muir has eliminated these options for county staff and applicants. The current County Council is retiring. He is very involved in personnel matters. His replacement may not have the inclination or the time as a new employee to assist the Department heads and the Personnel Department employees to the current extent. The Personnel Department should have a dedicated head, one who only deals with personnel matters. Example 3: Mr. Muir currently serves as the Director of Behavioral Health, which is a county Department head. Department heads are responsible for recommending budgets and staffing levels and serving as an advocate for their Department. The Grand Jury found no evidence that this exists, but there is the possibility that a combined Department Head/Auditor/Administrative Officer may favor their own department. In contrast, there is the likelihood that a part-time Department head may not be able to devote sufficient time to Behavioral Health Services. The 2001-2002 Grand Jury stated "We recognize that the Mental Health Director is also the County Auditor and the interim CAO, in addition to other duties that he has been assigned. Overall, he can only devote about 30% of his time overseeing the TCBHS Department operations". Example #4: Numerous questions have been raised regarding the finances of Trinity Hospital, particularly which hospital services operate at a financial deficit. The Auditor has presented various sets of figures, some of which have been questioned by hospital staff. The hospital's Chief Financial Officer developed an alternate set of figures, in part because the hospital and county use different auditing procedures. The role of a Chief Administrative Officer would have been to resolve the difference of opinion between these two financial officials. A full-time CAO would have been more likely to have the time to dedicate to resolving the hospital funding issues. Conclusion: The Grand Jury recognizes that there is some efficiency in combining multiple part- time positions into one. However, the positions selected for combination should not have a significant clash of loyalties or exercise a supervisory power over the other. The Auditor/Controller has the duty to advise the Department heads of the availability of funds and maintain an ongoing tally to assure that the various arms of County government stay within budgetary limitations. The CAO may be expected and requested by the Board of Supervisors to explore visionary ideas to improve the functions of County government that may not fit into the budgetary guidelines. It seems that the County would benefit from the checks and balances of a separate CAO and County Auditor/Controller. One of the CAO duties, according to the job description, is "oversees and maintains the economic efficiency of County government, coordinating studies, analyzing resources, and developing recommendations to assist the County in better meeting the changing needs and requirements of County government". The Grand Jury wonders if serious issues facing the County, such as operation of Trinity Hospital, would have been better served if there were a full-time person dedicated to this task.
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R2:
The Grand Jury strongly recommends that the County have a separate Chief Administrative Officer, Auditor/Controller and Personnel Manager.
F3:
The Grand Jury polled 8 rural counties in northern California (Del Norte, Mendocino, Siskyou, Tehama, Modoc, Lake and Colusa). Colusa County has eliminated their CAO and delegated those duties to the County Clerk. Alpine County, which has a population of less than 2000 people, has an assistant to the Board of Supervisors. The remaining 6 counties have a CAO which is not combined with an elected position. The Grand Jury contacted the California State Association of Counties (CSAC). CSAC considers Brian Muir to be the interim Chief Administrative Officer.
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R3:
The Grand Jury strongly recommends that the County have a separate County Administrative Officer and Auditor/Controller.
F4:
The County Administrative Officer position is described as a "single-position management classification". According to the CAO job description, the CAO supervises the appointed Department heads, Personnel Manager, Personnel Analyst 1& II, Director of Information Technology, Grants Coordinator, Clerk to the Board of Supervisors, Deputy Risk Manager and other administrative staff. The CAO serves as the Purchasing Agent and Employee Relations Officer, directly oversees Information and Technology Services, Human Resources, Grants Administration, and Risk Management. The CAO duties include development and administration of the budget, approving the filling of vacant positions, direction of central services (including building management, use of office equipment and maintenance of County equipment), reviews and coordinates applications for State and Federal grants, oversees the performance of appointed Department heads, present the County's Annual report to the Board of Supervisors, etc. Mr. Muir performs the bulk of these duties in addition to serving as the Auditor and Director of Behavioral Health Services. It would seem difficult to perform all these duties in an effective and efficient manner.
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R4:
The Grand Jury strongly recommends that the County have a separate County Administrative Officer and Auditor/Controller.
F5:
Mr. Muir was elected as Auditor/Controller, with the assumption that was a full-time position. In actuality, 65.5% of his salary is from Auditor/Controller, 10.3% from the Director of Behavioral Health Service, and 24.2% from the CAO position.
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R5:
The salary for Auditor/Controller should be reduced proportionately if it is not a full- time position. Conclusion: The Grand Jury recognizes that having a separate Auditor and County Administrative Officer increases the cost to the County during a time of tight budgets. However, the lack of a full-time CAO may cost more to the County in the long run. Distribution of the CAO duties to existing staff may result in lower efficiencies due to a higher workload. We have become "penny wise and pound foolish" without a full-time person to evaluate efficiencies in County government, to seek outside funding through grants or legislative appropriation or to "think outside the box" to resolve thorny issues such as the operation of Trinity Hospital. Responses Required: All of the recommendations listed above are directed to the Board of Supervisors or their designated staff. Under Penal Code 933, the following entities are required to respond to the listed findings within the time period indicated: Entity
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
7 hallazgos
F1:
The Committee found personnel well trained, competent and sober, performing excellent work in the field with limited financial resources.
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R1:
The Grand Jury commends the DOT and its employees for a fine job most notably in the removal of the snow during the severe storms in late December and January. In addition special recognition and commendations go to the mechanics that maintain the equipment.
F2:
The newspaper advertisement, paid for by the DOT, in the February 26, 2003 issue of the "Trinity Journal" was the subject of Citizen Complaint #13. The advertisement informed the public of details concerning the proposed East Connector Road in Weaverville and urged attendance at a public meeting of the BOS in which a decision was to be made. NOTE: No formal recommendation is made based on pending litigation. All Trinity County Department Heads are advised that "in light of the considerable authority enjoyed by officials who control public funds, and the important public interest in protecting such moneys from improper use, such officials may be held to a higher standard than simply the avoidance of "fraud, corruption or actual malice" in their handling of public funds. Such public officials must use "due care" (i.e. reasonable diligence) in authorizing the expenditure of public funds, and may be subject to personal liability for improper expenditures made in the absence of such due care" (Sup.,130 Cal.Rptr.697,711,1227). All need be cautious that any issue addressed in the advertisement media using government funds be presented such that no bias is communicated. Misuse may result in personal liability to the authorizing party.
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R2:
RECOMMENDATION #4: This recommendation has been implemented.
F3:
Investigation of Citizen Complaint 2003-2004 #24, concerning the use of a single divider stripe on portions of some county roads concluded that in and of itself is not illegal. Information from the CALTRANS District Officers in Redding indicate the County is not required to follow any established traffic control markings, regardless of funding source, unless it chooses to do so. However, the CALTRANS Local Assistance Officer and their Striping Expert highly recommend that, for liability and risk purposes, whenever not following an adopted striping specification, a risk assessment should be made. The CALTRANS officials also noted that for designs stamped by a professional engineer, that engineer is potentially personally liable should a lawsuit be brought.
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R3:
The DOT should establish a written policy or specification on striping along with a risk assessment whenever an adopted specification is not used.
F4:
There is a concern for the planned reduction of positions on the road crews through retirement or attrition. Long term employees bring a higher level of experience needed for multifaceted duties required for smaller road crews.
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R4:
The DOT should plan and fund for proper disposition of trained and skilled employees among the various road crews as this second phase of reducing positions is implemented.
F5:
All the county road yards appeared to have sufficient equipment and good rolling stock that were well maintained. Maintenance records were adequate and up to date. The Ruth and Zenia yards are well secured. The buildings are in good conditions, no deficiencies were observed. The Hayfork and Hyampom yards are well secured. The Buildings are in adequate condition. The oil tank for the heater in the quansit shop in Hayfork is not adequately blocked. A small amount of fuel spillage is noted around the tank. During the winter months, in order to maintain heat, the roof turbines on the quansit are covered. When the turbines are covered, inadequate ventilation exists creating a carbon monoxide hazard potential. There is insufficient electrical power available on one side of the Hayfork quansit. The Hawkins Bar yard is well secured. The building is very old but usable. The Weaverville yard is well secured. The buildings are rundown and in need of repair or replacement. Debris is evident throughout the yard and highly visible from Highway 3. The Lewiston yard is unsecured. The wood portion of the building is in fair condition and the metal portion is in need of repair or replacement. The Junction City yard has no perimeter fence and stored timbers present a potential hazard to children who frequent the yard. The buildings, while old, are adequate for present staffing levels. The Trinity Center yard is poorly located. Being positioned immediately adjacent to Swift Creek introduces the potential for storm water discharge directly from the yard into the creek. Within the yard the fuel storage tanks discharge lines are inadequately braced, vulnerable to failure and thus vulnerable to uncontrolled discharge. A large fir tree is leaning significantly and is in contact with the east discharge lines. The buildings are old but adequate except for the office space which has a failed roof. Significant quantities of asphalt grindings are stored (piled) within the yard. Perimeter fencing is good and an on-site resident ensures security.
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R5:
Hayfork - Remove the small area (quantity) of contaminated soil around the oil tank and install a proper stand. Install an exhaust fan in the quansit for proper winter ventilation. Weaverville - A general cleanup and disposal of unneeded equipment and supplies is in order. Buildings need repair and/or replacement. Lewiston - Finish the fence. Repair the buildings, with specific attention to the metal portion of the building. Junction City - Remove the debris stored in the yard. Fence the yard where and if needed. Trinity Center - If possible, and in accordance with earlier plans, move yard from edge of Swift Creek to Highway 3, across from CALTRANS yard. If not moved: Install storm water drainage control including oil/water separation. Install spill prevention valves on fuel tanks to prevent the potential for significant uncontrolled spills and remove the fir tree that threatens the discharge piping.
F6:
The deteriorating condition of the county roads in the Ruth-Zenia area was the subject of a Grand Jury Report in 1992-1993. An assessment of the condition of some of these roads was conducted last fall during yard inspections. Results show significant overall improvement since the 1992-1993 Report. Recent travels reveal that our heave winter weather has caused new damage in some areas and demonstrates the need for continuing maintenance.
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R6:
The DOT is commended for the long range planning and added attention in upgrading and maintaining these roads.
F7:
The County Auditor is recommending deleting all funding for Miscellaneous Public Works. This covers work on levees, cattle guards, footbridges and miscellaneous public signs and non-road tasks assigned by the BOS. The County has agreements with the Corps of Engineers to provide maintenance on several (but not all) levees that provide flood protection. In the event of storm damage, repairs to these levies may be precluded from FEMA grants if maintenance has been suspended by the County.
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R7:
The BOS should not implement the Auditors recommendation to delete funding for Miscellaneous Public Works. CONCLUSION: The DOT has done a very fine job during a period of severe fiscal limitation. Future success is hinged on an ability to continue to meet need in spite of financial constraints. Example, the late December through early January storms resulted in $200,000 in unprogrammed snow removal expense plus inflicted $900,000 in infrastructure damage not yet programmed for repair. RESPONSES REQUIRED: RESPOND IN RECOMMENDATION
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
5 hallazgos
F1:
Quality Review: The Medi-cal review was reviewed for compliance and areas of concern. In was found that the Medi-Cal review process is primarily concerned with the adequacy of paper work to meet requirements of that state agency. There has been significant improvement in the Behavioral Health's compliance with the requirements since the last Grand Jury assessment of this department. Following the previous investigation of this department by the grand jury, the Board of Supervisors agreed to form a committee to oversee the Kings View Behavioral Health Program and determine the quality of its services to clients. This has not occurred. Instead, they decided to rely on the review by Medi-Cal. There is a process whereby clients and/or other citizens can express concerns, complaints (or exceeded expectations) with the department. At present, there is no formal or semi-formal system for determining general client satisfaction or specific improvement as a direct result of services. Administrators stated that they believe that clients are free to complain or to disagree about services offered and that the program is a good one for their clients. The results of the survey conducted by the Grand Jury demonstrate dramatic improvement in personnel satisfaction. Since a significant number of the responding employees are not those present at the time of the last grand jury, it is not clear if the present personnel better fit the needs of the administration, or if there have been changes in management style. In the previous grand jury investigation, advisory board members reported being frustrated by lack of input into department programs. -32−
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R1:
The Behavioral Health Department is to be congratulated on improved compliance with Medi-Cal regulations. Since Medi-Cal is the primary funding source for this department, it is imperative to strive for maximum compliance. However, much of the concern in the previous grand jury investigation of this department, as managed by Kings View, concerned client and personnel dissatisfaction. This department is also to be congratulated on improved job satisfaction as expressed by the responding personnel. While an established method to receive and log active complaints is in place, a method of surveying client opinion as to services and outcome of prescribed treatment is strongly recommended. The low incidence of client representation on the advisory board for this department is of concern, as it may indicate a disconnection between clients and the professional staff. It is recommended that every effort be made to increase client (present or former) willingness to be members of this board in order to affect policies that may be made. The state mandated percentage of user representation should be the minimum on the board, and the present user representation is well below this required number. It is also recommended that the Advisory Board be supported and encouraged to take an active role in ongoing development and review of policies for the department.
F2:
Video conferencing: The use of video-conferencing between clients and psychiatrists is provided to enable clients to have direct interactions with a psychiatrist for some counseling and for prescription and follow up when psychotropic medication is indicated. There is not a psychiatrist available in Trinity County and the cost of providing these services through an on site person, who would need to be paid for travel time and accommodations is prohibitive. Recruitment of an on site psychiatrist is almost impossible given the amount of money available for this service. Costs are reduced by using teleconferencing. More than one psychiatrist provides the service, thus permitting clients some flexibility in scheduling and the opportunity to change professionals if the client wishes. Teleconferencing is provided in a secure room with two-way visual and verbal content. Members of this committee observed the process (without a client present) and spoke with one of the psychiatrists. The deputy directors stated that they consider this to be an excellent system for providing services with maximum flexibility for clients. They reported high client satisfaction. Because of confidentiality constraints, clients were not interviewed concerning their experiences with this type of service; staff reported that complaints about this system were minimal. A member of this committee, who is a retired psychologist, stated that he believes this system, as it functions, is excellent.
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R2:
The Behavioral Health Department is to be commended for their effort to provide psychiatric services within the county in spite of financial and distance constraints. Again, the development of a method to assure accuracy in assessing client responses to the service is recommended.
F3:
Selection of a new executive director: Initial posting of the position and interviewing of candidates are conducted by Kings View outside of Trinity County. After a selection is made, the successful applicant is interviewed by Brian Muir, and if he has no objection, the person is hired. The deputy directors and the advisory board have no formal place in this recruitment process. The deputy directors assured the grand jury committee members that they had full confidence that they would approve of the person if Mr. Muir approved of the selection.
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R3:
Kings View may never send for approval any but their ideal candidate for this sensitive position, and Mr. Muir may always be correct in his analysis of the candidate, but it would seem at least courteous to allow the deputy directors and advisory board to speak with the person before confirming his or her appointment. It is recommended that the advisory board (with its consumer representatives) and the deputy directors be formally given opportunities to ask questions they consider important as part of the selection process.
F4:
Interactions with staff members at the juvenile facility: The need for client confidentiality is clear; counselors should not discuss privileged information with facility staff, and there have been no complaints presented to the grand jury in this area. Couched among statements of respect for counseling services provided in the juvenile facility there was a noted lack of respect for sessions consisting of "playing"—a board game, for instance. Possible rationale for the use of board games and other devices in gaining or maintaining rapport with clients was suggested and defended by directors when this concern was reported to them during the meeting before this report was prepared.
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R4:
The need for rapport, especially with young clients, is not in question in this report. Some level of rapport with facility staff is also important for maximum benefit of counseling and for facility staff support of goals. Some statement to facility staff of the rationale for use of nonstandard materials or techniques in a specific case is recommended if this can be done without violating client confidentiality.
F5:
Quandary in Crisis Intervention with person's on parole: After 5:00 P.M., crisis calls are routed through 911 to the sheriff's department. Suicide calls are routed to the sheriff's department as well as to Behavioral Health, in order that the individual's safety can be assured. At the hospital, a determination is made whether-or-not there is a serious risk to the safety of that person or others. A procedure, known as "51-50," may be employed to place the individual under involuntary commitment for up to 72 hours if it is determined that the person is a danger to himself or herself or to others. The quandary is when a person is on parole after being convicted of a crime related to substance abuse and who also has a history of severe depression. If the individual becomes suicidal when under the influence of a substance, and his or her parole is conditional on not using that substance; if the person calls the crisis line, he or she will be remanded to jail for the remainder of his sentence. If he or she does not call, suicide may result. This situation occurs more frequently than most of us would imagine. The Behavioral Health Department is not paid for time spent by counselors working with their clients if the client is in jail. It is the department's policy to continue seeing clients while they are in jail if they are already in the program.
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R5:
The Health and Human Services Committee of the grand jury supports the Behavioral Health Department's policy of maintaining continuity of treatment for incarcerated clients as the client's best chance to improve. Beyond frequent reminders to consumers with this risk and recommendation of use of earlier use of the crisis line rather than substance abuse the grand jury has no recommendation or solution for this quandary. CONCLUSION: The Behavioral Health Department has made improvements in many areas since the previous grand jury investigation. There is continued need for better client representation on the advisory board for this department, and a clearer avenue for input by the advisory board into the department's policies and in the selection process for a new executive director. A system for monitoring and acting on client recommendations for changes within the department has also been recommended. -35- The original pilot program method of service was optimal, but very expensive. In the climate of shrinking budgets and increasing, frequently changing requirements from state agencies and mandated methods of treatment under these programs, such programs are no longer possible, except citizens with sufficient high level insurance to pursue treatment privately. The staff is dedicated to providing the best possible service to clients and to interacting effectively with other agencies to provide a wide range of cooperative programs to benefit clients. They are commended for their efforts. RESPONSES REQUIRED:
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
2 hallazgos
F1:
In an environ of shrinking budgets, limited funding, unfunded mandates and increased scrutiny by state and federal agencies, IHSS offers both shelter to our needy and a bargain to badly battered County health system providers. The relatively small sum going to caregivers proves doubly beneficial as the economic "ripple effect" energizes households and communities within the County.
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R1:
Develop and maintain clear channels for feedback from IHSS clients and caregivers to assure quality care. Provide incentives to caregivers for increasing their proficiency of client care.
R55-04:
FROM: Trinity County Board of Supervisors Response to 2003-2004 Trinity County Grand Jury Health and Human SUBJECT: Services Committee Report on In-Home Support Services September 14, 2004 DATE: The Board of Supervisors submits these responses to the 2003-2004 Grand Jury report on In-Home Support Services by their Health & Human Services Committee. FINDING #1: The Board of Supervisors agrees with Finding #1 and understands the importance of caregivers. RECOMMENDATION #1: It is the intent of the Board of Supervisors to insure clear channels of communication between the County and IHSS clients and caregivers. This can be achieved through the IHSS Advisory Committee as well as through negotiations with caregivers through their union. It is also the intention of the Board to provide incentives to better trained caregivers and this will be accomplished as scarce funding allows. FINDING #2: The Board does not agree with this finding. It would seem the isolation and dependence of IHSS clients could foster abuse by caregivers no matter where the clients live be it a rural or urban setting. -59- WILLIAM CHAMBERS BILLIE MILLER RALPH MODINE HOWARD FREEMAN ROBERT REISS DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5 2. RECOMMENDATION #2: This recommendation is being implemented in part. State and Federal laws require monitoring of client services and the Health and Human Services Department is meeting legal requirements. Additional services to clients such as "visiting friends" can be beneficial however funding is not presently available for these services. The County does, however, take an active role in supporting the Trinity County Commission on Aging which is addressing this and other issues facing seniors. RM: :
F2:
The rural nature of the County and subsequent isolation raises the potential for abuse and fraud within client-caregiver relationships (cabin-fever).
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R2:
The County should endeavor to determine what monitoring demands this places upon HHS and assist them in obtaining resources to meet this need. This will reduce the need for increasing State oversight of County functions (and fixing what ain't broke). The County should support a volunteer program of "visiting friends" to provide additional social support and observation in the homes of clients. Conclusion: Through the remarkably professional efforts of a dedicated Health and Human Services organization, IHSS has provided our community maximum care (more bang for the buck). We will become increasingly reliant upon this model as more costly, less viable health systems evaporate and self-destruct. Increasing state oversight and subsequent demands upon County resources are a primary threat to the success of the program. Unless our seated Supervisors are asleep at the switch, they will immediately address this matter by asking the Director of the Trinity County Health and Human Services Department how their body might best serve the organization, thus ensuring the health of a dynamic system. IHSS must respect the privacy of clients and caregivers, but we attest to the fact that we have some remarkable successes within our County. Our thanks go to: Linda Wright, Director, Trinity County Health and Human Services Department, James Curran (retired), Adult Services Supervisor/Deputy Veterans Service Officer/Public Guardian, and Donna Pate, CalWorks Employment Program Supervisor, Trinity County Department of Health and Human Services for their professionalism, dedication and assistance in this matter. Responses Required: All of the recommendations listed above are directed to the Board of Supervisors or their designated staff. Under Penal Code 933, the following entities are required to respond to the listed findings within the time period indicated: Recommendation Respond In:
R55-04:
FROM: Trinity County Board of Supervisors Response to 2003-2004 Trinity County Grand Jury Health and Human SUBJECT: Services Committee Report on In-Home Support Services September 14, 2004 DATE: The Board of Supervisors submits these responses to the 2003-2004 Grand Jury report on In-Home Support Services by their Health & Human Services Committee. FINDING #1: The Board of Supervisors agrees with Finding #1 and understands the importance of caregivers. RECOMMENDATION #1: It is the intent of the Board of Supervisors to insure clear channels of communication between the County and IHSS clients and caregivers. This can be achieved through the IHSS Advisory Committee as well as through negotiations with caregivers through their union. It is also the intention of the Board to provide incentives to better trained caregivers and this will be accomplished as scarce funding allows. FINDING #2: The Board does not agree with this finding. It would seem the isolation and dependence of IHSS clients could foster abuse by caregivers no matter where the clients live be it a rural or urban setting. -59- WILLIAM CHAMBERS BILLIE MILLER RALPH MODINE HOWARD FREEMAN ROBERT REISS DISTRICT 1 DISTRICT 2 DISTRICT 3 DISTRICT 4 DISTRICT 5 2. RECOMMENDATION #2: This recommendation is being implemented in part. State and Federal laws require monitoring of client services and the Health and Human Services Department is meeting legal requirements. Additional services to clients such as "visiting friends" can be beneficial however funding is not presently available for these services. The County does, however, take an active role in supporting the Trinity County Commission on Aging which is addressing this and other issues facing seniors. RM: :
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
17 hallazgos
F1:
At the present time all attorneys working under the Public Defenders contract are residents of Trinity County, and are geographically accessible to their clients and client families. In the past some attorneys were hired from out of the area. This situation can cause undue hardship for all involved.
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R1:
All future Public Defender contracts should attempt to retain the services of local attorneys, and future contracts should continue to require attorneys maintain a local office.
F2:
The current contract makes provision for yearly attorney evaluations by the County Counsel, County Administrative Officer, and the Judges of the Superior Court, to ensure the performance requirements outlined in the contract are being met. The previous contract had the same provision without the inclusion of the judges, and evaluations have been conducted on an informal basis.
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R2:
The attorney evaluations (as stated in the current agreement) should be conducted on a yearly basis with a resultant written report. These reports should be kept on file and made available to interested parties with legal justification for such access.
F3:
Under the current system the only avenue a detainee has to contact their court appointed attorney is via a collect phone call from the jail. These calls are not reimbursable to the attorneys. Because of the outrageously high charges levied on these calls, both attorneys interviewed have adopted a policy of not accepting collect calls from their in-custody clients. The lack of communication requires the attorneys make a trip to the jail when a short telephone call would have sufficed.
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R3:
Previously a local phone line existed in the jail for attorney contact. Funds from the Inmate Welfare Fund should be used to reestablish a dedicated phone line for inmate-attorney contact. If a direct line is not possible attorneys should be reimbursed for the calls from inmates. CONCLUSION: When compared to other counties statewide, Trinity County Public Defender per capita costs and caseload numbers seem reasonable. The Public Defenders and Courts appear to have a good working relationship and a history of cooperation. Clients interviewed were generally satisfied with their attorneys. Attorney performance is not easily evaluated in part because of client confidentiality, and the inclusion of Judicial oversight in the yearly evaluations provides firsthand knowledge of attorney performance to help ensure clients are receiving competent representation. -105- RESPONSES REQUIRED: RESPOND IN RECOMMENDATION ENTITY
F4:
for the following services ("Call" or "Calls"): local, 4.1 The System will provide an automatic "on/off" interLATA, interstate, and/or international and/or feature. The System will have the capability of prepaid calling telephone services from inmate being monitored over a dedicated phone line to telephones at Client's designated facility(ies) as set provide for on-line diagnostics and troubleshooting. forth in Exhibit A attached hereto. During the term 4.2 The System will provide for automatic billing of this Agreement, T-NETIX shall be the exclusive and placing of collect calls without the need for provider of these services at Client's "Designated conventional live operator services. T-NETIX will be Facility" as shown on Exhibit "A". responsible for all billing and collections of inmate
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R4:
for the following services ("Call" or "Calls"): local, 4.1 The System will provide an automatic "on/off" interLATA, interstate, and/or international and/or feature. The System will have the capability of prepaid calling telephone services from inmate being monitored over a dedicated phone line to telephones at Client's designated facility(ies) as set provide for on-line diagnostics and troubleshooting. forth in Exhibit A attached hereto. During the term 4.2 The System will provide for automatic billing of this Agreement, T-NETIX shall be the exclusive and placing of collect calls without the need for provider of these services at Client's "Designated conventional live operator services. T-NETIX will be Facility" as shown on Exhibit "A". responsible for all billing and collections of inmate
F5:
2.2 Notwithstanding 2.1 above, this agreement 5.1 All components of the System including, but may be terminated by either party, and without not limited to, computer workstation(s), central further notice, if a party defaults in the performance processing unit(s), proprietary software and inmate of an obligation or materially breaches any of the telephones and concentrators provided by T-NETIX, terms or conditions of this agreement and fails to shall at all times remain the property of T-NETIX. cure such default or breach within thirty (30) days Data placed on the T-NETIX proprietary software by after service of written notice upon them of such Client shall remain the property of Client. default or breach. Notice of such default or breach shall be given as set forth in Paragraph 9.1. 5.2 The Parties agree that T-NETIX's software and T-NETIX Products and Services.
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R5:
2.2 Notwithstanding 2.1 above, this agreement 5.1 All components of the System including, but may be terminated by either party, and without not limited to, computer workstation(s), central further notice, if a party defaults in the performance processing unit(s), proprietary software and inmate of an obligation or materially breaches any of the telephones and concentrators provided by T-NETIX, terms or conditions of this agreement and fails to shall at all times remain the property of T-NETIX. cure such default or breach within thirty (30) days Data placed on the T-NETIX proprietary software by after service of written notice upon them of such Client shall remain the property of Client. default or breach. Notice of such default or breach shall be given as set forth in Paragraph 9.1. 5.2 The Parties agree that T-NETIX's software and T-NETIX Products and Services.
F6:
shall be in writing and addressed to Client at the 6.1 The System will have the capability to address in Section 8.2 above and to T-NETIX as automatically limit the duration of each Call to a follows: duration designated by T-NETIX and Client. If to T-NETIX: T-NETIX, Inc. Use of Space; Right of Access.
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R6:
shall be in writing and addressed to Client at the 6.1 The System will have the capability to address in Section 8.2 above and to T-NETIX as automatically limit the duration of each Call to a follows: duration designated by T-NETIX and Client. If to T-NETIX: T-NETIX, Inc. Use of Space; Right of Access.
F7:
Attention: President Client shall make available to T-NETIX 2155 Chenault Dr., Suite 410 7.1 sufficient space within the Designated Facilities for Carrollton, TX 75006 the System and to allow for T-NETIX's performance Telephone: (972) 236-1180 of services as required herein. The space should Fax: (972) 236-6977 have the appropriate heating, ventilation and air conditioning for the System. Prior to installation, T- with a copy to: T-NETIX, Inc. NETIX will provide Client with specifications for such Attention: Chief Legal Officer facilities and for the heating, ventilation and air 2155 Chenault Dr., Suite 410 conditioning. Telephone: (972) 236-1175 Fax: (972) 236-6978 7.2 Client shall afford T-NETIX personnel or contractors access to the System in order to or to such other address as either Party may perform services described herein. Reasonable designate from time-to-time in writing to the other security during access will be provided by Client. Party. Commissions. 8. 9.2 Unless otherwise provided herein, notices shall be sent by (i) hand delivery, (ii) registered or Subject to the provisions of this Section 8, 8.1 certified U.S. mail, postage prepaid, (iii) commercial T-NETIX will pay Client a commission of thirty-three courier delivery service, or (iv) facsimile, and shall (33%) of gross billed revenues (excluding federal, be deemed served or delivered (w) upon receipt at state and local fees, taxes and surcharges) from the address for notice specified above when hand completed Calls. Such fees, taxes and surcharges delivered, (x) upon confirmation of sending when include, but are not limited to, Federal Universal sent by facsimile, (y) when delivered after being Service Fund ("FUSF") amounts. In the event Client sent by courier delivery service, or (z) five (5) days authorizes prepaid calling services, T-NETIX may be after deposit in the mail when sent by U.S. mail. paid for such services through deductions from commissions.
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R7:
Attention: President Client shall make available to T-NETIX 2155 Chenault Dr., Suite 410 7.1 sufficient space within the Designated Facilities for Carrollton, TX 75006 the System and to allow for T-NETIX's performance Telephone: (972) 236-1180 of services as required herein. The space should Fax: (972) 236-6977 have the appropriate heating, ventilation and air conditioning for the System. Prior to installation, T- with a copy to: T-NETIX, Inc. NETIX will provide Client with specifications for such Attention: Chief Legal Officer facilities and for the heating, ventilation and air 2155 Chenault Dr., Suite 410 conditioning. Telephone: (972) 236-1175 Fax: (972) 236-6978 7.2 Client shall afford T-NETIX personnel or contractors access to the System in order to or to such other address as either Party may perform services described herein. Reasonable designate from time-to-time in writing to the other security during access will be provided by Client. Party. Commissions.
F8:
9.2 Unless otherwise provided herein, notices shall be sent by (i) hand delivery, (ii) registered or Subject to the provisions of this Section 8, 8.1 certified U.S. mail, postage prepaid, (iii) commercial T-NETIX will pay Client a commission of thirty-three courier delivery service, or (iv) facsimile, and shall (33%) of gross billed revenues (excluding federal, be deemed served or delivered (w) upon receipt at state and local fees, taxes and surcharges) from the address for notice specified above when hand completed Calls. Such fees, taxes and surcharges delivered, (x) upon confirmation of sending when include, but are not limited to, Federal Universal sent by facsimile, (y) when delivered after being Service Fund ("FUSF") amounts. In the event Client sent by courier delivery service, or (z) five (5) days authorizes prepaid calling services, T-NETIX may be after deposit in the mail when sent by U.S. mail. paid for such services through deductions from commissions.
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R8:
9.2 Unless otherwise provided herein, notices shall be sent by (i) hand delivery, (ii) registered or Subject to the provisions of this Section 8, 8.1 certified U.S. mail, postage prepaid, (iii) commercial T-NETIX will pay Client a commission of thirty-three courier delivery service, or (iv) facsimile, and shall (33%) of gross billed revenues (excluding federal, be deemed served or delivered (w) upon receipt at state and local fees, taxes and surcharges) from the address for notice specified above when hand completed Calls. Such fees, taxes and surcharges delivered, (x) upon confirmation of sending when include, but are not limited to, Federal Universal sent by facsimile, (y) when delivered after being Service Fund ("FUSF") amounts. In the event Client sent by courier delivery service, or (z) five (5) days authorizes prepaid calling services, T-NETIX may be after deposit in the mail when sent by U.S. mail. paid for such services through deductions from commissions.
F9:
circumstances of such required disclosure. 9.1 Unless otherwise provided herein, all notices and communications concerning this Agreement Call Duration.
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R9:
circumstances of such required disclosure. 9.1 Unless otherwise provided herein, all notices and communications concerning this Agreement Call Duration.
F10:
Indemnification. T-NETIX shall indemnify and hold Client harmless against all claims, 8.2 Separate commission payments shall be demands and causes of action made against Client payable on the 20th day of each month for the arising from damage to or destruction of property preceding month's call volume and shall be made or injury to persons occurring as a result of the acts payable to: or omissions of T-NETIX, its officers, employees, Client Name: subcontractors, or agents in furnishing or supplying Inmate Welfare Fund work, services, materials or supplies in connection Trinity County CA Sheriff's Department with the performance of this Agreement. In no 101 Memorial Drive event, however, will either Party be liable for Weaverville, CA 96093 punitive or consequential damages, even if Attn: Sheriff Lorrac Craig notification has been given as to the possibility of such damages, including but not limited to, loss of causes of nonperformance and will continue its business interruption, profits, telephone or performance whenever and to the extent such howsoever caused and even if due to the causes are removed. negligence, breach of contract or other fault of the respective Parties.
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R10:
Indemnification. T-NETIX shall indemnify and hold Client harmless against all claims, 8.2 Separate commission payments shall be demands and causes of action made against Client payable on the 20th day of each month for the arising from damage to or destruction of property preceding month's call volume and shall be made or injury to persons occurring as a result of the acts payable to: or omissions of T-NETIX, its officers, employees, Client Name: subcontractors, or agents in furnishing or supplying Inmate Welfare Fund work, services, materials or supplies in connection Trinity County CA Sheriff's Department with the performance of this Agreement. In no 101 Memorial Drive event, however, will either Party be liable for Weaverville, CA 96093 punitive or consequential damages, even if Attn: Sheriff Lorrac Craig notification has been given as to the possibility of such damages, including but not limited to, loss of causes of nonperformance and will continue its business interruption, profits, telephone or performance whenever and to the extent such howsoever caused and even if due to the causes are removed. negligence, breach of contract or other fault of the respective Parties.
F11:
General. be or for one year thereafter shall have any interest, interpreted, construed and enforced pursuant to the direct or indirect, in this Agreement or the proceeds laws of the State of California. If any term, covenant or condition contained herein shall be thereof. invalid or unenforceable to any extent and in any respect under any laws governing this Agreement, Worker's Compensation. T-NETIX
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General. be or for one year thereafter shall have any interest, interpreted, construed and enforced pursuant to the direct or indirect, in this Agreement or the proceeds laws of the State of California. If any term, covenant or condition contained herein shall be thereof. invalid or unenforceable to any extent and in any respect under any laws governing this Agreement, Worker's Compensation. T-NETIX
F12:
Force Majeure. Neither Party will be liable to the other for delays or inability to perform their
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Force Majeure. Neither Party will be liable to the other for delays or inability to perform their
F13:
Interest of Public Officials. No officer, agent or employee of the Client during their tenure This Agreement shall
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R13:
Interest of Public Officials. No officer, agent or employee of the Client during their tenure This Agreement shall
F14:
acknowledges that it is aware of the provisions of the remainder of this Agreement shall not be the Labor Code of the State of California which affected thereby, and each term, covenant or condition of this Agreement shall be valid and requires every employer to be insured against liability for worker's compensation or to undertake enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law. This Agreement shall not be binding self-insurance in accordance with the provisions of upon either Party until accepted in writing by an that Code and it certifies that it will comply with authorized representative of T-NETIX as indicated provisions commencing such before the by the signature below. This Agreement may not be performance of the work of this Agreement. A copy assigned or transferred to any other person or of the certificates evidencing such insurance shall entity without the prior written mutual agreement of be provided to Client prior to commencement of the Parties. Should T-NETIX assign this Agreement work. to any person acquiring all or substantially all of its assets or to any person or entity with or into which This Agreement is to be performed by employees subject to these provisions. A copy of the relevant T-NETIX merges, Client may, at its option, prevailing wage is on file with the Department of terminate the agreement effective as of the date Transportation, County of Trinity, PO Box 2490, such assignment occurs. Should Client not exercise Weaverville, California 96093. Copies will be its option to terminate and desire to continue receiving the services provided pursuant to this provided upon request. Agreement, it is understood and agreed, that all terms and conditions hereof will be binding upon Nondiscriminatory Employment.
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R14:
acknowledges that it is aware of the provisions of the remainder of this Agreement shall not be the Labor Code of the State of California which
F15:
In and inure to the assignee or merged surviving entity connection with the execution of thisAgreement, T- as though such entity was an original party to this NETIX shall not discriminate against any employee Agreement. This provision shall be included in the or applicant for employment because of race, color, document memorializing the transferring of T- religion, age, sex, national original, political NETIX's assets to such assignee or merged affiliation, ancestry, marital status, disability or surviving entity. sexual orientation. This policy does not require the employment of unqualified persons.
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R15:
In and inure to the assignee or merged surviving entity connection with the execution of thisAgreement, T- as though such entity was an original party to this NETIX shall not discriminate against any employee Agreement. This provision shall be included in the or applicant for employment because of race, color, document memorializing the transferring of T- religion, age, sex, national original, political NETIX's assets to such assignee or merged affiliation, ancestry, marital status, disability or surviving entity. sexual orientation. This policy does not require the employment of unqualified persons.
F16:
Entire Agreement; Amendments. This obligations if such failure results from a Force Agreement represents the entire Agreement Majeure event, which will include any Acts of God, between the Parties with respect to the matters acts of governments, acts of terrorism, riots, wars, addressed herein and supersedes all prior strikes, fires, weather, delays in transportation, negotiations, representations or agreements shortages of materials, the unavailability of between the Parties, whether written or oral, on equipment or other matters beyond the reasonable the subject matter hereof. This Agreement may control of the Party. Any such Force Majeure event not be amended, modified, altered, or rescinded will extend the time for such performance for a except upon a written instrument designated as an period equal to the period of delay; provided amendment to this Agreement and executed by all however, that the Party whose performance is Parties hereto. prevented or delayed by such Force Majeure will take all reasonable steps to avoid or remove such
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R16:
Entire Agreement; Amendments. This obligations if such failure results from a Force Agreement represents the entire Agreement Majeure event, which will include any Acts of God, between the Parties with respect to the matters acts of governments, acts of terrorism, riots, wars, addressed herein and supersedes all prior strikes, fires, weather, delays in transportation, negotiations, representations or agreements shortages of materials, the unavailability of between the Parties, whether written or oral, on equipment or other matters beyond the reasonable the subject matter hereof. This Agreement may control of the Party. Any such Force Majeure event not be amended, modified, altered, or rescinded will extend the time for such performance for a except upon a written instrument designated as an period equal to the period of delay; provided amendment to this Agreement and executed by all however, that the Party whose performance is Parties hereto. prevented or delayed by such Force Majeure will take all reasonable steps to avoid or remove such
F17:
Exhibits. This Agreement includes Exhibits Exhibit A, Facilities; and attached hereto as indicated below: T-NETIX Proposal Dated May 14, 2004. T-NETIX, Inc. CLIENT Signature: COUNTY OF TRINITY Printed Name: Thomas R Merriam By: EVP - Strategic Markets Title: Chair, Board-of-Directors_ Robert A. Reiss, Chairman of the Board ATTEST: Clerk APPROVED AS TO By:_ FORM INITIAL DATE Deputy CC 7.13.0 AUD APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM CAO Fund: Organization: Account: County Auditor Counsel By: Title: THE SYSTEM INSTALLED AT THE SITE MAY HAVE THE CAPACITY TO RECORD INMATE PHONE CALLS AND/OR ALLOW CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS TO MONITOR INMATE PHONE CALLS. BY PROVIDING EQUIPMENT HAVING EITHER OR BOTH OF THESE CAPABILITIES, T-NETIX MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS AS TO THE LEGALITY OF RECORDING OR MONITORING INMATE TELEPHONE CALLS. EXHIBIT A Trinity County Sheriff's Office Facility Name & Address: 1. Memorial Drive Weaverville, CA 96093 Trinity County Juvenile Probation Department 333 Tom Bell Road Weaverville, CA 96093 (ATTACHMENTS NOT INCLUDED - SEE ORIGINAL COUNTY CONTRACT) RECEIVEDSEP 1 0 2004 TRINITY COUNTY UPERIOR RINITY COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS P.O. BOX 1613, WEAVERVILLE, CALIFORNIA 96093 PHONE (530) 623-1217 FAX (530) 623-8365 /gP ijķ, TO: Honorable Anthony Edwards Trinity County Board of Supervisors FROM: Response to 2003-04 Trinity County Grand Jury Judicial Committee SUBJECT: Final Report. "Review of Public Defenders". DATE: Sept. 7, 2004 The Trinity County Grand Jury has requested a written response to the Judicial Committee's final report regarding "Review of Public Defenders". Finding #1: At the present time all attorneys working under the Public Defenders contract are residents of Trinity County, and are geographically accessible to their clients and clients families. In the past some attorneys were hired from out of the area. This situation can cause hardship for all involved.
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R17:
Exhibits. This Agreement includes Exhibits Exhibit A, Facilities; and attached hereto as indicated below: T-NETIX Proposal Dated May 14, 2004. T-NETIX, Inc. CLIENT Signature: COUNTY OF TRINITY Printed Name: Thomas R Merriam By: EVP - Strategic Markets Title: Chair, Board-of-Directors_ Robert A. Reiss, Chairman of the Board ATTEST: Clerk APPROVED AS TO By:_ FORM INITIAL DATE Deputy CC 7.13.0 AUD APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM CAO Fund: Organization: Account: County Auditor Counsel By: Title: THE SYSTEM INSTALLED AT THE SITE MAY HAVE THE CAPACITY TO RECORD INMATE PHONE CALLS AND/OR ALLOW CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS TO MONITOR INMATE PHONE CALLS. BY PROVIDING EQUIPMENT HAVING EITHER OR BOTH OF THESE CAPABILITIES, T-NETIX MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS AS TO THE LEGALITY OF RECORDING OR MONITORING INMATE TELEPHONE CALLS. EXHIBIT A Trinity County Sheriff's Office Facility Name & Address:
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
7 hallazgos
F1:
Staffing Levels and Overcrowding - The staffing levels at the jail currently meet the staffing levels required by the State of California, but this is accomplished partially by using patrol officers and thus decreases patrol coverage. The September population average that was in excess of established inmate population maximums is clear indication of current and anticipated future problems within the jail. Operating at or above the maximum inmate population requires diverting even more patrol deputies from public protection and response activities into correctional officer activities. Routine operation above the established maximum capacities make Trinity County vulnerable to inmate grievance and potential suit. One direct result of a full jail is the jailers inability to accomplish optimum segregation of inmates by classification, (Citizen Complaint 2003- 2004 #32).
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R1:
The Trinity County Superior Court, Trinity County District Attorney and Trinity County Public Defenders need to ensure that no pretrial or presentence individual is incarcerated within the Trinity County Jail unless there is substantial reason to conclude that it is necessary for protection of the public during proceedings or needed to prevent flight to avoid prosecution. We suggest, to help reduce inmate overcrowding, periodically, annually or more frequently, a meeting be held between the District Attorney and Public Defenders to review experience during the most recent period and recommend or make further reductions in inmate populations as appropriate.
F2:
Food Service - (Citizen Complaint 2003-2004 #17) Through inspection and interview with staff and inmates it is apparent that the food served within the jail is of good quality and nutritious. Most inmates who had served time in other facilities were very complimentary of the food served. Due to good nutrition and decreased physical activity, most inmates gain weight while in Trinity County Jail.
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R2:
Food service personnel should be commended for their good work and encouraged to keep it up.
F3:
Inmate Welfare Fund - Purchase of items and expenditures that support the welfare of the inmates are routinely made from an Inmate Welfare Fund, as established by -89- Penal Code 4025. This fund comes from varied sources such as abandoned inmate accounts, commissary sales and principally from revenue from the "for profit" inmate telephone system. The Jail Policy and Procedure Manual establishes an Inmate Welfare Fund Council, which includes the opportunity for citizen members, to control expenditures from the fund. Currently no Inmate Welfare Fund Council exists and expenditures are determined solely by the Sheriff. During the jail visit by the Judicial Committee, few inmate welfare items, such as exercise or recreation equipment, were observed.
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R3:
The Trinity County Sheriff should immediately appoint a new Inmate Welfare Fund Council which includes citizen membership. One early expenditure for the council to consider is the establishment of a dedicated and controlled telephone for inmates to communicate with their appointed Public Defender, or their hired attorneys using phone card or collect calls, (see Finding and Recommendation #5). Starting with calendar year 2004, the Sheriff should provide an itemized report of expenditures from the Inmate Welfare Fund to the County Board of Supervisors as required by Penal Code 4025 (e).
F4:
Inmate Telephone System - A for profit (for the jail) telephone system has been contractually provided for inmate use. This system has been operating with no apparent Trinity County oversight and has been a routine source of continuing complaints by both inmates, inmate families and Public Defenders. Citizen Complaint 2003-2004 #17 addressed this telephone system. During interview, Public Defenders indicate the excessive expense of this system has resulted in their not accepting collect calls from their inmate clients! Calls from the inmates are prohibitively expensive and most inmates soon lose their opportunity to call loved ones due to service disconnects or service blocks resulting from excessive bills. Trinity County relies on the service provider to establish the Trinity County share of the profits. The current contract for this service has passed through three different companies since the service was initiated.
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R4:
A new Inmate Telephone System contract is currently under preparation, this contract needs to ensure that inmate costs are held to a reasonable level and the revenue from the contract must be subject to regular audits by the County Auditor.
F5:
Inmate Contact With Public Defenders - A common complaint from inmates at the Trinity County Jail, confirmed by their appointed defenders, is that they have little or no telephonic contact with their appointed Public Defender. This results in inmates having no knowledge of the progress of their cases and a doubt that their interests are -90- being protected. Lack of contact is influenced by two correctable situations: 1. Inmates cannot call their defenders on the telephone (see Recommendation 3 and Finding 4), and 2. There is no private place nor time established within the jail for inmates to meet with their defenders.
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R5:
The Jail Commander, in coordination with Trinity County Public Defenders should establish a set private location and mutually agreeable time for public defenders to meet with inmates to work on their cases. The Jail Commander should solicit Inmate Welfare Fund money to install a dedicated telephone for inmate use in calling their Public Defenders. Control must be established to limit numbers called to Public Defender offices only and to limit time access by inmates (See Recommendation 3).
F6:
Physical Plant - Several physical plant deficiencies were observed that (if not already), should be identified to general services for prioritization for repair. First is the hot water heater that periodically trips. the circuit breaker (a potential fire hazard), subject of Citizen Complaint 2003-2004 #14. Additional observations are: The high security B Tank and D Tank have no security camera thus necessitating repetitive physical visits by the guards; C and D Tank have four beds and eating space for only two inmates; parking lot surveillance is deficient, no camera surveillance; to be fully usable the exercise yard needs a full cover and recreation/exercise equipment; there are broken windows in G Tank and in the south entry door into the exercise yard; and the Pod should be modified to make it fully usable space.
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R6:
The Jail Commander should Work Order each of these deficiencies, not already reported, to General Services indicating relative importance (Priority) of each and indicate any available funding such as the potential purchase of exercise or recreation equipment through the Inmate Welfare Fund.
F7:
During interviews, one inmate indicated that he had requested to vote and was told that there was no provision to accommodate his request.
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R7:
The Jail Policy and Procedure Manual should be revised to include provisions for eligible inmate voting in accordance with Title 15, Section 1071. -91- CONCLUSION: Considering the severe limits on funding and the overcrowded conditions within the Trinity County Jail, the Grand Jury Judicial Committee is convinced that the Sheriffs Jail staff are all doing an outstanding job. The officers involved should be commended for the professional manner in how they perform their duties.
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
2 hallazgos
F1:
The Special Grand Jury Committee found a great deal of misunderstanding exists within the County regarding the audit cycle requirements of Government Code §26909 (f) for District's, which allows a one-year or two-year or five-year audit cycle (see above in Purpose). It was further discovered by conversations with the County Auditor/Controller, Board of Supervisors members and Special District Board members that varying interpretations or requirements are being applied, at will. This variation of audit cycle selections is not well understood.
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R1:
The Grand Jury recommends that each District, County Auditor/Controller, BOS member, appropriate CPA or public accountant read thoroughly Government Code §26909 with special attention to paragraph (f) [see above], which allows a one-year or two-year or five-year audit cycle to be selected. The Grand Jury further recommends that the County Auditor/Controller and the Board of Supervisors consult with the Districts in order to select the appropriate audit cycle (see Government Code §26909 (f) above, which best suits their individual situation.
F2:
Government Code §26909 (f) authorizes a five-year audit cycle providing the BOS adopts an annual budget threshold not to be exceeded by the District.
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R2:
The BOS adopt a budget threshold for Districts to qualify for a five-year audit cycle and announce this to all Districts within the County CONCLUSION: The Grand Jury thanks all of those volunteers who serve their particular area of interest especially the Fire Fighters and Medical Aid personnel. The escalating costs of the audit, as prescribed by Government Code §26909, is increasingly difficult for some District's within the county to pay from their budgets. In some cases the cost of the audit(s) actually impedes the District's from performing the very services they are intended to perform. The Grand Jury, by this Final Report, continues to highlight the appropriate section of Government Code §26909 (f), which can authorize a one-year, two-year or five-year audit cycle, as applicable. SPECIAL NOTICE: The Grand Jury takes Special Notice that some current Grand Juror's serve on selected District's or Community Service organizations covered by this report. Those affected Grand Jurors excluded themselves from participating in discussion or voting. RESPONSES REQUIRED: All of the recommendations listed above are directed to the Board of Supervisors or their designated staff. Under Penal Code 933, the following entities are required to respond to the listed findings within the time period indicated: Board of Supervisors (BOS) 90 Days Auditor/Controller 60 Days Acting County Administrative Officer (CAO) 60 Days RECENED TRINITY COUNTY BRIAN E. MUIR, COUNTY AUDITOR-CONTROLLER DAVID NELSON, CHIEF DEPUTY AUDITOR-CONTROLLER P.O. BOX 1230, WEAVERVILLE, CALIFORNIA 96093 PHONE (530) 623-1317 FAX (530) 623-1323 TO: The Honorable Anthony Edwards, Presiding Judge of the Superior Court Brian Muir, Auditor - Controller FROM: CC: Kelly Frost, Deputy Clerk to the Board of Supervisors SUBJECT: Response to Recommendations of 2003-04 Grand Jury Special Committee Report re: Compliance on Annual Audits for Special Districts DATE: July 2, 2004 The Grand Jury Special Committee has requested a written response to their final report on Compliance on Annual Audits for Special Districts. In my capacity as Auditor/Controller performing the duties of County Administrative Officer my response is as follows:
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Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
8 hallazgos
F00:
0 1- coolo TRINITY COUNTY -co.-
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R00:
0 1- coolo TRINITY COUNTY -co.-
F1:
Long-Range Planning At one time, the Hospital Administrator and consultant were developing a five-year business plan for the hospital. This long-range plan was scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2003, but was delayed following termination of the previous Hospital Administrator. A business plan is a basic, common-sense necessity to avoid crisis management. In addition, it would be needed if the County decides to pursue establishment of a healthcare district. The interim Hospital Administrator had tabled development of the five-year plan and instituted a short-term management strategy. Currently, there are no other efforts to develop a long-range plan for the hospital in any other format.
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R1:
Immediately begin development of a long-range plan, incorporating Recommendations 2 and 3, below.
F2:
Financing of a Health Care System The overall financial situation for small rural hospitals is dire and getting worse. During the past three years, 20% of rural hospitals have closed or gone bankrupt. California has 71 rural hospitals, of which 76% lose money (source: California State Rural Health Association). A similar county-subsidized hospital, Modoc Medical Center, is in debt over $3.5 million dollars. Other rural north-state hospitals that have remained solvent have needed a supplemental, dedicated source of funding to offset losses. The Grand Jury reviewed potential sources of funding for health care. Funds received from the State, such as health re-alignment funds and tobacco settlement funds are distributed among mandated County programs. The County receives approximately $1.5 million in health re-alignment funds, which pays for the County Medical Services Program (CMSP exceeded $619,000 in 2002-2003), operation of the public health department, inmate health care, etc. $100,000 was dedicated to the hospital in the 2003-2004 budget. Increased diversion of those funds to pay for the hospital's operating expenses is not feasible since the County would have to find the funds to operate other health care programs. Increase of the Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) would provide less than 5% of the operating deficit. Impact fees, leveed on new construction, are dedicated to the school system by state law. Grants are not available to cover operating costs for the hospital. The Solid Waste Assessment ($100 per improved parcel) was approved prior to the passage of Propositions 13 and 218 and can not be diverted to the hospital. An increase in the sales tax rate is a possible option if approved by over 66% of the voters. However, the effect on local businesses would have to be evaluated. To address the funding issue, other rural north-state hospitals have established a local healthcare district or special district to provide supplemental funding. After their hospitals closed or went bankrupt, local citizens banded together to form a healthcare district and re-open their hospital. Assessments range from $100 per parcel to $150 per occupied household. The hospitals provide basic, stripped-down services, including an emergency room, a small number of acute beds, a laboratory and skilled nursing facility. One includes a rural health clinic and the others have clinics operated by private providers. Patients in need of more intensive care are referred to larger regional hospitals. Creation of a Trinity HealthCare District is the most appropriate funding source to ensure that a basic healthcare system is available to all Trinity County residents. The California Health and Safety Code (Sections 32000 - 32508) guides the establishment of Health Care Districts. Section 32121 lists the many powers of a district, which include: 1. To establish, maintain and operate or provide assistance in the operation of one or more health facilities or health services... 2. To acquire, maintain and operate ambulances or ambulance services within and without the district. 3. To establish, maintain and operate, or provide assistance in the operation of, free clinics, diagnostic and testing centers, health education programs, wellness and prevention programs, rehabilitation, aftercare, and any other health care services provider, groups and organizations that are necessary for the maintenance of good physical and mental health in the communities served by the district. A Trinity HealthCare District would not be limited to support of Trinity Hospital. It would provide a mechanism to coordinate and fund health care throughout the County, benefiting all citizens. There are 77 healthcare districts in California, of which 59 operate or lease hospitals. Eighteen healthcare districts provide health services only, such as clinics and emergency services (source: Association of California Healthcare Districts). Depending on the wishes of Trinity County citizens, a -64~ healthcare district could provide supplemental funding to Trinity Hospital, emergency and ambulance services, and clinics. In the event that Trinity Hospital closes, the district could fund clinics and ambulance services. A healthcare district is governed by a five member board, which serves without a salary. The first board is appointed by the Board of Supervisors and serve two to four year terms. As their initial terms expire, the appointed members are replaced by an elected board. The election of representatives dedicated solely to the oversight of a health care system for Trinity County would eliminate many of the concerns regarding the Board of Supervisors oversight of Trinity Hospital. The process to establish a Trinity HealthCare District is time consuming. The Local Agency Formation Committee (LAFCo) is required to review the formation of special districts. A description of the proposed district boundaries, proposed activities and budget must be submitted. The long-range plan described in Finding #1 is used to determine the proposed activities and budget, which are then used to develop a proposed assessment. LAFCo approves the format of a petition to place the formation of the healthcare district on the ballot. The petition must be signed by 12% of the registered voters within the proposed special district. Two issues are placed on the ballot: whether to create the special district and whether to authorize an associated assessment (tax). The first issue requires the approval of a majority of voters, while the assessment of taxes must be approved by greater than 66% of voters. Healthcare districts have chosen different methods of leveeing assessments, ranging from taxes collected on all parcels to taxes collected only on occupied parcels. Another option is to collect taxes by property owner, so that people who own multiple parcels would only pay one assessment. Some healthcare districts have chosen to place a time limit on the assessment and the assessment must be periodically re- approved by voters. Incentives could be developed for voter approval of the assessment, such as providing a credit against hospital, clinic or ambulance bills to landowners who have paid their tax for that year. The citizens of Trinity County can determine the most equitable method of collecting taxes to fund the district.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (5)
R2:
A. Immediately undertake the necessary steps to place a proposed Trinity HealthCare District on the November, 2004 ballot. B. Immediately hold a series of public meetings (in Weaverville, Hayfork, etc.) to solicit comment on the public's prioritized health care needs to be paid for through a Trinity HealthCare District, for example, a hospital with an emergency room; access to clinics in Weaverville, Hayfork and Southern Trinity and subsidies for ambulance and emergency services. C. Immediately hold a series of public meetings (in Weaverville, Hayfork, etc.) to solicit comment on a payment structure for a Trinity HealthCare District that seems most equitable to voters, including credit for an annual payment against hospital or clinic bills. D. Develop an informational program to educate voters about the benefits of a Trinity HealthCare District, such as an elected Board and dedicated funds for a variety of healthcare services (including, but not limited to the hospital).
R2A:
The recommendation has been implemented in part. The Board of Supervisors has voted to place an assessment on a June, 2004, mail ballot. The recommendation will be implemented in part.
R2B:
Public meetings will be held to solicit public comment prior to the June ballot measure.
R2C:
The recommendation will not be implemented in part. The payment structure for the assessment has already been specified by the Board of Supervisors in preparing the June ballot measure.
R2D:
I have no authority to implement this recommendation. Sources of Increased Revenue
F3:
Sources of Increased Revenue In addition to creation of a healthcare district, other small rural hospitals that have remained solvent have taken steps to maximize the reimbursement rates from Medicare, Medi-Cal and cash payers. In 1997 the Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program established Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) as a method to preserve access to rural health care for Medicare recipients. CAHs must meet certain eligibility requirements (including a 15 acute bed limit and potentially increased costs) in return for higher Medicare reimbursement rates. The costs of converting to CAH status must be weighed against potentially higher reimbursement and are dependent on the proportion of Medicare patients compared to other payment sources. Other north-state rural hospitals have completed studies to evaluate costs versus benefits and have elected to convert to CAH status. Trinity Hospital has not yet completed its evaluation of whether it would be beneficial to participate in the program. Reimbursement rates would be increased under the State's Medi-Cal program if the clinic qualified for designation as a rural health clinic. To qualify for such a designation, over 50% of the clinic patients must come from a "rural" area, which excludes Weaverville. Weaverville does not qualify as a "rural" area because of the ratio of patients to physicians. In April 2002, staff performed a preliminary evaluation of whether more than 50% of the clinic patients came from rural areas based on zipcode. Slightly more than half of the clinic patients listed Weaverville addresses, which presumably disqualified the clinic from rural status. The study was very rudimentary and based on older data. No recent or thorough evaluation of whether the clinic qualifies for rural health designation (and increased Medi-Cal reimbursement rates) has been conducted. A significant number of patients in Trinity County pay cash for health care services. For certain medical procedures they may receive a discount from Redding medical providers if payment is provided upon admission. Other hospitals offer discounts for bills paid within a short period of time. Trinity Hospital has been unable to offer a similar cash payment incentive because of an inadequate billing system and the requirement to offer the same early payment discounts to Medicare or Medi-Cal. For fiscal year 2002-2003, Trinity Hospital had a bad debt provision of over $844,000, a portion of which may be collected in the future. These are patients who used services at the hospital but did not pay. Some chose not to pay, but many can't afford to pay. Patients on limited incomes may qualify for programs such as Medi-Cal, CMSP or charity care, which would then reimburse the hospital for services provided. However, certain patients chose not to complete the paperwork necessary to qualify them for these programs, which decreases the hospital's revenue and places a greater financial burden on Trinity County. It is important for uninsured, limited income patients to realize that they can contribute positively to the hospital and clinic's bottom line by qualifying for financial support programs, when appropriate.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (5)
R3:
A. Immediately complete the assessment of the costs and benefits of converting to Critical Access Hospital status. If appropriate, apply for Critical Access Hospital accreditation to increase the Medicare reimbursement rate. B. Conduct a formal evaluation of the clinic, and generate a written report, to determine if it qualifies for a Rural Health designation and increased Medi-Cal reimbursement rates. C. Develop an incentive program for cash payments. D. Develop an outreach program for uninsured patients who may qualify for Medi-Cal, CMSP or charity payments to ensure they complete paperwork.
R3A:
The recommendation has been implemented. In January of 2004, the consulting firm of Clark, Lowry & Koortbojian provided the Board of Supervisors with a report evaluating a critical access financial model for Trinity Hospital. The report indicated that the Hospital would increase revenues by approximately $200,000 per year by downsizing services and converting to a critical access license. The Hospital Administrator is working to obtain a critical access license for Trinity Hospital.
R3B:
The recommendation will not be implemented. Under current regulations we already know that the area around the Hospital has too many physicians to qualify for the rural health designation.
R3C:
The recommendation will be implemented within 60 days. The Hospital has contracted with an outside agency to prepare billings, and the Hospital Administrator has indicated that the new service will enable the Hospital to develop a discount for cash payments.
R3D:
The recommendation has been implemented. The Hospital will continue to assist uninsured patients in completing the application paperwork for programs to provide assistance in covering hospital charges.
F4:
Economic Impact of Closure of the Hospital and Associated Facilities The economic impact of closure of the hospital and associated clinic and skilled nursing facility has not been quantified, but would obviously be severe. The Center for Economic Development (CED) at Chico State has performed studies to evaluate the impact of closure of hospitals. For other rural communities, closure of the hospital would result in direct impacts such as loss of 4 to 20% of the community's jobs. Indirect impacts included decreased revenue for schools (as hospital employees with families moved away) and an exodus of senior citizens who felt that accessible health care was critical. The CED study did not address decreases in property values; however, in a survey conducted by the Trinity County Board of Supervisors, over 75% of respondents thought their property values would decrease if the hospital closed. The lack of an adequate health care system is also likely to discourage new residents and businesses from relocating to Trinity County. --67- Trinity County is obligated to provide health care to indigent residents, according to Section 17000 of the Welfare and Institutions Code. Several court cases have upheld this basic obligation, despite a County's financial constraints. In the event that the hospital and associated clinic close, the Department of Health Services will require the County to provide alternative health care for indigents, such as contracts for transporting patients to another facility. To date, the County has not quantified the cost to meet these obligations or made this information available to the public. An immediate impact of hospital closure would be the need to provide expanded emergency health care. The current resources of Trinity Life Support and the volunteer fire departments are stretched thin, almost to the breaking point. To meet public health and safety needs, the County must provide greater financial support to Trinity Life Support and emergency medical services to purchase additional equipment and supplies, increase staffing levels and subsidize overhead costs. Many residents assume that if the hospital closes, the financial burden on the County would cease. However, the hospital has long-term financial obligations, such as repayment of the debt to the County and a small, deferred liability to CALPERS. To date, the County has not made information available to the public regarding financial obligations that will remain if the hospital closes. If the hospital closes, documentation of the costs for indigent care, supplemental emergency service and long-term financial obligations must be done as part of the budget process and will not place an additional financial burden on the County. The economic impact study can be done at minimal cost to the County (approximately $2000).
Recomendaciones relacionadas (5)
R4:
A. Develop a contract with the Center for Economic Development at Chico State, or similar provider, to perform an economic impact study of hospital closure. B. Document the continued costs to the County, if the hospital closes, for legally mandated indigent care (including transportation costs to Redding) and distribute that information to the public. C. Document the continued costs to the County, if the hospital closes, for increased subsidies for ambulance and emergency medical services and distribute that information to the public. D. Document the continued costs to the County, if the hospital closes, for long-term financial obligations and repayment of current debt and distribute that information to the public.
R4A:
The recommendation has been implemented. The Center for Economic Development at Chico State has been retained to do an economic impact study of a closure of the Hospital.
R4B:
The recommendation will not be implemented. Costs for legally mandated indigent care are not readily available, but they should be minimal.
R4C:
The recommendation will be partially implemented. A draft plan of the cost of ambulance and emergency medical services in the event the Hospital closes has been prepared. It is anticipated that actual costs will be substantially lower than the plan estimates due to other assistance including grant funding for ambulance purchases. The plan is available for use as information relating to the need for a healthcare district.
R4D:
The recommendation has been implemented. As County Auditor/Controller, I have regularly advised the Board of Supervisors in public meetings over the last two years regarding the negative cash flow at the Hospital and the resulting deficit in the Hospital Fund. I have always made it clear that the deficit must be repaid. I will continue to advise the Board about the Hospital debt and possible repayment options. Contingency Planning
F5:
Contingency Planning The financial woes of the hospital are nothing new. Yet the County has not developed a contingency plan in the event of hospital closure. The County should be exploring options to provide alternative health care to citizens of Trinity County in the event of hospital closure, even temporarily. The Skilled Nursing Facility (convalescent home) associated with the hospital receives a higher rate of reimbursement from Medicare because it is physically associated with the hospital. If the hospital closes, it is unlikely that the nursing facility will remain open for two reasons. First, the services that support the nursing facility (electrical, air-conditioning, dietary kitchen, etc) are intertwined with the hospital. Second, the reimbursement rate would decrease, making the nursing facility financially unstable.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (4)
R5:
A. Develop a contingency plan for provision of health care in the event the hospital closes, including expansion, modification and alternative licensing of the Trinity Community Health Clinic or appropriate expansion of other clinic services throughout the county. B. Set up a meeting between local physicians, County staff and Hospital Administrator to obtain their input on alternative health care in the event of hospital closure. C. Develop a transition plan to assist residents of the skilled nursing facility and their families to find alternative accommodations.
R5A:
The recommendation will be implemented in the next 90 days.
R5B:
The recommendation will be implemented in the next 60 days.
R5C:
The recommendation has been implemented. The County would assist residents of the skilled nursing facility and their families in finding alternative accommodations. This effort can not be completed in advance since availability of alternative accommodations will be a function of vacancies at other facilities at the time of closure.
F6:
Retention of Long-term Options The County should not take any action that would reduce options for re-opening the hospital in the event of closure. One rural hospital was closed for a temporary period and the emergency equipment was sold, so when they managed to reopen they had to borrow equipment for sometime until they could afford to purchase it. It took over two years to get it reopened. If the hospital is closed with a debt exceeding $2,000,000, the sale of the equipment appears to be a source that the Board of Supervisors would sell off to recoup some of their losses.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (1)
R6:
If Trinity Hospital is closed temporarily or permanently, equipment must not be sold for a period of three to five years, allowing input from all sources relying heavily on a group representing pre-hospital care and health care officials. - --69-
F7:
Dissemination of Public Information The County has not effectively communicated the status of the hospital, funding options or other related health care issues, such as closure of the skilled nursing facility or clinic. Nor have they provided a forum for the public to provide input regarding their concerns about the hospital and health care or a mechanism for the public to provide assistance. Currently, the Board of Supervisors serves as the hospital's Board of Directors. Their meetings are held at 1:30 pm during the first regularly scheduled Board meeting of each month. During that meeting the Hospital Administrator provides a verbal (not written) update on the hospital status. However, many citizens are unable to attend a meeting during working hours. As a result, it is difficult for many citizens to keep up to date on the hospital status.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (3)
R7:
A. Create a Trinity HealthCare Advisory Committee to provide a forum for the public to provide input on the hospital and health care and a mechanism for the public to provide assistance. : B. Hold the hospital Board of Directors meeting in the evening or require the Hospital Administrator to submit a monthly written status report. Conclusion: It is imperative that the County Board of Supervisors, with input from citizens, develop a vision for providing health care in Trinity County and a plan for accomplishing that vision. The Board of Supervisors should take an active role in the development of this plan, rather than relying passively on the recommendation of a consultant. They should visit other rural hospitals and health care districts and learn from their experiences. The closure of Trinity Hospital would severely impact the quality of health care in the County. There is a critical need to immediately develop a contingency plan to provide health care in the event the hospital closes. The residents of Trinity County must be able to make intelligent choices about their health care system. In the event the hospital closes, they need information on the costs of providing alternative health care and the economic losses to the county. Citizens must realize that if they want health care beyond that provided in adjacent counties they must be willing to shoulder part of the financial burden. . -70- The Grand Jury strongly recommends the creation of a Trinity HealthCare District to fund and coordinate health care throughout the county. The property assessment must be based on the level of health care desired by citizens, which may or may not include a hospital. Responses Required: All of the recommendations listed above are directed to the Board of Supervisors or their designated staff. Under Penal Code 933, the following entities are required to respond to the listed findings within the time period indicated: Respond In: Recommendation
R7A:
The recommendation will be implemented. The Board of Supervisors has directed that an ordinance be written to create a healthcare advisory committee in the event that the assessment ballot measure passes.
R7B:
Implementation of the recommendation is up to the Board of Supervisors. However, in my opinion, the regular Board meetings combined with reports in the news media effectively communicate the Hospital status. In addition, Board members are always willing to discuss the Hospital with their constituents on an individual basis. APR 1 4 2004 TRINITY HOSPITAL A Service of Trinity County The Honorable Anthony Edwards, TO: Presiding Judge of the Superior Court Larry McDonough, Interim Administrator FROM: Response to Recommendations of 2003-2004 Grand Jury Report SUBJECT: DATE: April 12, 2004 The Grand Jury Health and Human Services Committee has requested a written response to their final report on Review of Trinity Hospital and Health Care System. In my capacity as Interim Administrator and Chief Financial Officer of the Hospital my response is as follows:
Hallazgos & Recomendaciones
2 hallazgos
F1:
I agree with the Grand Jury's finding and have already initiated a new contract with a different phone provider. This system will provide greater security, affordability and control to both staff and minors. Additionally, this system will provide the opportunity for prepaid phone cards to be purchased so families without a hard line phone can receive calls to a cell phone. Cc: Kelly Frost, Deputy Clerk of the Board . RECEIVED SEP 1 0 2004 TRINITY COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT TRINITY COUNTY Board of Supervisors P.O. BOX 1613, WEAVERVILLE, CALIFORNIA 96093 PHONE (530) 623-1217 FAX (530) 623-8398 WATER ‘S’ To: The Honorable Anthony Edwards Presiding Judge of the Superior Court From: Trinity County Board of Supervisors CC: Kelly Frost, Deputy Clerk of the Board of Supervisors Subject: Response to Recommendations of 2003-2004 Grand Jury Judicial Committee Report Re: Trinity County Juvenile Detention Facility Date: September 1, 2004 The Grand Jury Judicial Committee has requested a written response regarding implementation of recommendations in their final report on the Trinity County Juvenile Detention Facility.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (1)
R1:
A new Inmate Telephone System contract is currently under preparation, this contract needs to ensure that inmate costs are held to a reasonable level and the revenue from the contract must be separate for the JDF from the Trinity County Jail revenues and be subject to regular audits.
F2:
The Trinity County Juvenile Detention Facility is the newest, cleanest and best run of this type facility that any member of the Grand Jury Judicial Committee has ever witnessed.
Recomendaciones relacionadas (1)
R2:
The management and staff of the JDF should all be commended for the professional and caring accomplishment of their duties. CONCLUSION: This facility and those who operate it provide a much needed service and are a credit to our county. RESPONSES REQUIRED: RESPOND IN
* 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.
Additional documents
Documents found alongside this year's reports — not grand jury reports or responses.