In a world where government is often indecipherably complex and alienatingly distant from the average citizen — especially in the rural north state — it is refreshing to see examples of genuine self-government in action.
The Shasta County grand jury, which is holding an open house this afternoon to recruit and inform potential members for the coming year, is one body that serves as a reminder of who is in charge — namely, the people.
An investigative body tasked with inspecting local jails but beyond that able to watchdog local government as it sees fit, the civil grand jury is not a panel of experts and attorneys. It comprises 19 citizens whose primary qualification — beyond being 18, of "ordinary intelligence" and "sound judgment," and not a convicted felon — is caring enough to devote themselves to the job.
The work involved might lead some to wonder whether anyone of sound judgment would in fact volunteer for the grand jury. The commitment is intense, with potential jurors warned that they'll spend 10 to 20 hours a week on the grand jury's business. And that's not for the week or two that most jurors spend on a court trial. Instead, the term is a full fiscal year – from July to the following June. Realistically, it's difficult for anyone with a full-time job, children to care for, and a lawn to keep mowed.
But those who've been able to make the time rarely complain about the hours being wasted. Instead, they repeat that it was profoundly educational, as well as a chance to draw public attention to quietly festering problems in government and make a real difference.
For anyone who thinks that sounds like a fine way to pass a year, today's open house is an opportunity to learn more from former grand jurors and the Superior Court officials who oversee the program — and a chance to embark on a noble public service.
If you're going
The open house for potential volunteers for the 2010-11 Shasta County grand jury is at 5:30 p.m. today in the community room at the Redding library, 1100 Parkview Avenue. For more information, visit www.shastacountygrandjury.org.
http://www.redding.com/news/2011/mar/21/editorial_grand_jury/
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