I write to voice my appreciation for the
recently ended grand jury and taking seriously its public oversight function of
local government. It did not shy away from difficult issues facing our
community and providing informed criticism and guidance. From the outset, it
appeared this grand jury had no intent of acting in a compliant, lapdog mode to
local government leadership.
Earlier this year, it issued a report critical
of a policy of the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office of not informing released
indigent arrestees that they had the legal right under California Penal Code
686.5 to be returned to the place of arrest if it was over 25 miles away. This
was critically important information that I was not aware of, and it was, in my
mind, tragically relevant with respect to the ill-fated late night release of
Gary Bullock.
The grand jury’s recent report assessing local
government’s efforts to end homelessness in Humboldt County was refreshing in
its candor. Its assessment that local efforts have been largely uncoordinated
rankled local officials. However, I would urge local leadership to engage the
grand jury’s report and seriously consider the recommendations stated therein.
The report looked at models from other California locales that have proven
successful to some degree.
“Solving” the
seemingly intractable problem of homelessness will be difficult and, no doubt,
involve collective sacrifice. But I know our community is a compassionate one
and is serious about ending homelessness in Humboldt County. I welcome the
input provided by the grand jury.
July 7, 2015
Eureka
Times-Standard
Letter
from Peter DeAndreis, Eureka
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