Ukiah Daily Journal Staff
Updated: 03/15/2011 10:24:30 AM PDT
Citizens of Mendocino County have two wonderful opportunities before them to get involved in their community and help shape the future and quality of local government.
There are opportunities now to serve on either the Mendocino County Grand Jury, or on a Citizens Advisory Committee to shape redistricting in our county.
The Mendocino County Grand jury regroups annually in June, bringing together 19 citizens to take a close look at how local government agencies are working - or not. The grand jury looks at specific complaints from citizens about problems they perceive in public offices but also makes a routine study of local institutions, from school districts, to juvenile hall to the board of supervisors to water districts.
The grand jury is not a criminal grand jury like those put together in order to prosecute a case. It is, instead, a civic body intended as this county's watchdog over government and people in power. It does a great deal of good and can be a rewarding year long experience for anyone who has a certain amount of time they can devote to this important task.
The CAC for redistricting is a once-a-decade event that follows the U.S. Census.
Once the 2010 Census population numbers for Mendocino County are official - expected that the end of this month - the county must look at its political dividing lines - the supervisor district lines in this case - and see if they need changing.
To do that the county will appoint 10 people, two from each of the current five supervisor districts, to the CAC. These folks will not only look to see how population growth or reduction in various areas of the county may require supervisor boundaries to be changed, but they can also look at making wholesale changes to how we draw our supervisor districts. For instance, the districts now generally follow a north-south line, which could be changed to an east-west orientation, giving all districts a piece of inland territory and a piece of coastal territory rather than the all-inland or all-coastal makeup of all but the 5th District.
This group will meet through the spring and will make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for summer passage.
Both of these jobs are well worth doing and we hope that people who are serious about committing time and energy - and willing to leave their personal agendas at home - will step forward.
To apply for the grand jury: go to www.mendocino.courts.ca.gov/grandjury. Applications are also available at the Mendocino County Superior Courthouse, 100 N. State St., Room 303, in Ukiah, or by calling the grand jury at 463-4320.
To apply for the CAC contact your own supervisor or go to www.co.mendocino.ca.us/cob/forms.htm.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Editorial: Shasta County Grand jury offers chance to be watchdog
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/
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/
County grand jury service could be just right for you
Have you ever wanted to be an investigative reporter? Do you suspect funny business, creative budgeting, government wastefulness or inefficiencies?
Do you believe it is a citizen’s responsibility to watchdog our elected and appointed officials? Would you have the courage to recommend positive change?
Mimi Kalland and Maryellen Simkins of Los Osos recommend serving on the grand jury and applying by March 30.
Kalland served from 2006 to 2007 and said, “It was an amazing experience to have 18 people of disparate backgrounds and disciplines meet, investigate and agree. There’s something empowering about 18 people recommending solutions about government operations.”
After serving with Kalland, Simkins applied to stay through 2008 as forewoman tasked to design the training program for the new jurists.
“You learn all about the county departments and how they work — or don’t work and should work.”
Each panel decides together what they will investigate and what to report. Twelve to 20 reports are filed. Reports are made public, and departments respond defensively or acknowledge and pledge to honor the recommendations.
“When we investigated a complaint about voter machines, it was an election year and we thoroughly investigated all phases. Our report praised (county Clerk-Recorder) Julie Rodewald’s genius,” Simkins said.
Any citizen can send in complaints or suggestions for the grand jury to consider.
Once the 18 jurists plus 18 alternates are interviewed, selected and impaneled by the presiding judge, they begin training for $15 a day and mileage learning their subpoena powers and responsibilities during their July 1 through June 30 service.
“It starts with mornings two times a week. Later in the process, it takes more time for the group to investigate complaints or a department that hasn’t been reviewed recently. Then it takes time to agree and time to write final reports,” Simkins said.
“It’s a unique group,” Kalland said. “Everyone starts from scratch to learn, and each has their own talents to offer — 18 people cooperating. One rule is we have to work together, at least in pairs, even making phone calls.”
Both women were awed visiting county jails wearing bulletproof vests. Each was converted and is now passionate that the county needs to invest in a new women’s jail.
Kalland appreciated their impact on countywide planning departments to review their historical building procedures after investigating a rejected development plan for Paso Robles’ Farmers Alliance building.
Simkins is pleased they reported recommendations for handling bullying in schools.
Do you have the right stuff to ask the tough questions? Applications are due March 30 for 2011-12.
Applicants should have open minds, basic computer skills, dedicated time to serve and enjoy working with new friends. Contact 788-7062 or www.slocourts.net/grand_jury.
Contact Judy Salamacha at jsalamacha@yahoo.com or 801-1422.
Read more: http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2011/03/20/1529859/county-grand-jury-service-could.html#ixzz1HIKiIiKy
Do you believe it is a citizen’s responsibility to watchdog our elected and appointed officials? Would you have the courage to recommend positive change?
Mimi Kalland and Maryellen Simkins of Los Osos recommend serving on the grand jury and applying by March 30.
Kalland served from 2006 to 2007 and said, “It was an amazing experience to have 18 people of disparate backgrounds and disciplines meet, investigate and agree. There’s something empowering about 18 people recommending solutions about government operations.”
After serving with Kalland, Simkins applied to stay through 2008 as forewoman tasked to design the training program for the new jurists.
“You learn all about the county departments and how they work — or don’t work and should work.”
Each panel decides together what they will investigate and what to report. Twelve to 20 reports are filed. Reports are made public, and departments respond defensively or acknowledge and pledge to honor the recommendations.
“When we investigated a complaint about voter machines, it was an election year and we thoroughly investigated all phases. Our report praised (county Clerk-Recorder) Julie Rodewald’s genius,” Simkins said.
Any citizen can send in complaints or suggestions for the grand jury to consider.
Once the 18 jurists plus 18 alternates are interviewed, selected and impaneled by the presiding judge, they begin training for $15 a day and mileage learning their subpoena powers and responsibilities during their July 1 through June 30 service.
“It starts with mornings two times a week. Later in the process, it takes more time for the group to investigate complaints or a department that hasn’t been reviewed recently. Then it takes time to agree and time to write final reports,” Simkins said.
“It’s a unique group,” Kalland said. “Everyone starts from scratch to learn, and each has their own talents to offer — 18 people cooperating. One rule is we have to work together, at least in pairs, even making phone calls.”
Both women were awed visiting county jails wearing bulletproof vests. Each was converted and is now passionate that the county needs to invest in a new women’s jail.
Kalland appreciated their impact on countywide planning departments to review their historical building procedures after investigating a rejected development plan for Paso Robles’ Farmers Alliance building.
Simkins is pleased they reported recommendations for handling bullying in schools.
Do you have the right stuff to ask the tough questions? Applications are due March 30 for 2011-12.
Applicants should have open minds, basic computer skills, dedicated time to serve and enjoy working with new friends. Contact 788-7062 or www.slocourts.net/grand_jury.
Contact Judy Salamacha at jsalamacha@yahoo.com or 801-1422.
Read more: http://www.sanluisobispo.com/2011/03/20/1529859/county-grand-jury-service-could.html#ixzz1HIKiIiKy
Thursday, March 17, 2011
It's time to think about serving on the grand jury of Humboldt County
Allan Edwards/For the Times-Standard
Posted: 03/17/2011 01:30:32 AM PDT
In his inaugural speech of January 20, 1961, President Kennedy admonished all of us to stand willing to serve our country. In that same address he also said some equally important words: “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”
Liberty is not easy to keep alive, nor is it convenient to maintain. It demands personal sacrifice. Our Founding Fathers knew this, maintaining that we need a participatory citizenry, one that works actively for the well-being of our nation as well as our individual communities in order for liberty to thrive. But how can ordinary citizens be active participants in the maintenance of liberty and democratic governance?
One of the institutions the founders established was citizen participation in the oversight of those who govern -- the Grand Jury. It is a time-honored, prestigious and very necessary part of the judicial branch of government, and every county in California affords its citizens the opportunity to serve their communities by applying for possible selection to become a member of the County Grand Jury. Each year that opportunity to step up and serve the community comes up, and that time is now.
As former grand jury foreman Matt Morehouse states, “Service as a Grand Juror is at times frustrating, difficult and maddening,but it is at all times personally enriching and rewarding.” True, the work is sometimes demanding, sometimes tedious, but it is never boring. The rewards, however, are many. Most important is serving the demands of democracy. But on a personal level, hear some more comments from former jurors:
”As a former member of the Grand Jury in this county, I would like to state that the experience is one that I had looked forward to for many years. As an officer in county administration in two other counties, I was not eligible for the Grand Jury. When I was chosen for the Grand Jury in Humboldt County, the experience was even more than I had expected, leaving me with a sense of accomplishment and a desire to serve again another year. It is heady stuff, this work, and I can only urge that if one is interested in offering services to the community, this is a fantastic way to do so.” -- Phil Minor.
”Two direct benefits come to mind when I consider my service on the Grand Jury. First, the educational value is immeasurable. Like most laypeople, I didn't know much about how our local government worked. The second benefit is the formation of many good and fast friendships. When you spend that much time together, two or three days a week for an entire year, you naturally discover the strengths and weaknesses in one another and learn to work together as a team. I would serve again in a heartbeat and encourage anyone with the ability and the time to do so.” -- Keath North
If you would like to serve our county, the Humboldt County Chapter of the California Grand Juror's Association urges you to apply for service. Remember those famous statements telling us that if good men and women remain silent, do nothing, fail to contribute to the maintenance of our cherished way of life and liberty, then those not so good will fill the void. Please consider applying. You may do so directly by sending a letter of interest to: Jury Services Office, 825 Fifth St. Eureka, CA 95501
To learn more about service on the Humboldt County Grand Jury, you can call 476-2475 or visit the Grand Jury's website at http://co.humboldt.ca.us/grandjury.
Allan Edwards is a former member of the Humboldt County Grand Jury.
http://www.times-standard.com/guest_opinion/ci_17633571
Posted: 03/17/2011 01:30:32 AM PDT
In his inaugural speech of January 20, 1961, President Kennedy admonished all of us to stand willing to serve our country. In that same address he also said some equally important words: “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe, in order to assure the survival and the success of liberty.”
Liberty is not easy to keep alive, nor is it convenient to maintain. It demands personal sacrifice. Our Founding Fathers knew this, maintaining that we need a participatory citizenry, one that works actively for the well-being of our nation as well as our individual communities in order for liberty to thrive. But how can ordinary citizens be active participants in the maintenance of liberty and democratic governance?
One of the institutions the founders established was citizen participation in the oversight of those who govern -- the Grand Jury. It is a time-honored, prestigious and very necessary part of the judicial branch of government, and every county in California affords its citizens the opportunity to serve their communities by applying for possible selection to become a member of the County Grand Jury. Each year that opportunity to step up and serve the community comes up, and that time is now.
As former grand jury foreman Matt Morehouse states, “Service as a Grand Juror is at times frustrating, difficult and maddening,but it is at all times personally enriching and rewarding.” True, the work is sometimes demanding, sometimes tedious, but it is never boring. The rewards, however, are many. Most important is serving the demands of democracy. But on a personal level, hear some more comments from former jurors:
”As a former member of the Grand Jury in this county, I would like to state that the experience is one that I had looked forward to for many years. As an officer in county administration in two other counties, I was not eligible for the Grand Jury. When I was chosen for the Grand Jury in Humboldt County, the experience was even more than I had expected, leaving me with a sense of accomplishment and a desire to serve again another year. It is heady stuff, this work, and I can only urge that if one is interested in offering services to the community, this is a fantastic way to do so.” -- Phil Minor.
”Two direct benefits come to mind when I consider my service on the Grand Jury. First, the educational value is immeasurable. Like most laypeople, I didn't know much about how our local government worked. The second benefit is the formation of many good and fast friendships. When you spend that much time together, two or three days a week for an entire year, you naturally discover the strengths and weaknesses in one another and learn to work together as a team. I would serve again in a heartbeat and encourage anyone with the ability and the time to do so.” -- Keath North
If you would like to serve our county, the Humboldt County Chapter of the California Grand Juror's Association urges you to apply for service. Remember those famous statements telling us that if good men and women remain silent, do nothing, fail to contribute to the maintenance of our cherished way of life and liberty, then those not so good will fill the void. Please consider applying. You may do so directly by sending a letter of interest to: Jury Services Office, 825 Fifth St. Eureka, CA 95501
To learn more about service on the Humboldt County Grand Jury, you can call 476-2475 or visit the Grand Jury's website at http://co.humboldt.ca.us/grandjury.
Allan Edwards is a former member of the Humboldt County Grand Jury.
http://www.times-standard.com/guest_opinion/ci_17633571
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Grand jury urges county of Marin to create permanent emergency shelter
By Richard Halstead
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 03/14/2011 05:52:48 PM PDT
A Marin civil grand jury called Marin County's policies that have resulted in the lack of a permanent emergency homeless shelter "misguided and misplaced."
There are hundreds of homeless families and individuals who need a shelter, yet the county has no plans to create one, according to the grand jury report released Monday.
Responding to the report, Larry Meredith, director of Marin County Department of Health and Human Services, said, "There are many points of disagreement, including some of the facts."
Meredith said the county has doubled its investment in providing emergency shelter to the homeless over the past three years from $578,000 to $1.25 million. He acknowledged, however, that most of the money went to support existing programs, which are insufficient to meet the current needs.
Neither Supervisor Susan Adams nor Steve Kinsey, who serve on the county's Homelessness Policy Steering Committee, could be reached for comment on the report. Kinsey was on his way to Washington D.C. on county business.
One of the report's major findings is that families and children represent the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population in Marin. A federally mandated count of the homeless conducted in 2009 identified 1,147 people as unsheltered in Marin, meaning they reside in a place not meant for human habitation, such as a car, park, sidewalk, open space or on the street.
Of that unsheltered group, the grand jury reportsthere were 111 families and 169 children under the age of 15. Another 1,241 children were identified as being at imminent risk of homelessness.
The grand jury report noted that short-term emergency housing exists for only 14 homeless families, at the Family Emergency Center in San Rafael operated by the nonprofit Homeward Bound. For unsheltered individuals, just 40 permitted beds are available year round, at the Mill Street Center in San Rafael, also operated by Homeward Bound.
During the past three winters much of the slack has been taken up by a group of local churches and synagogues that have allowed the homeless to sleep in their facilities on a rotating basis. The Rotating Emergency Shelter Team (REST) program can provide shelter for a maximum of 20 women and 45 men each night. Participants must be drug free. The program, however, turns away as many as 20 people a night during the four months that it operates.
The grand jury stated that even though several REST sponsors consistently state they do not intend to serve indefinitely, the county has no contingency plan to replace the faith-based program.
The grand jury noted that in 2006 a so-called "Visionary Committee," consisting of two county supervisors, directors of local nonprofits and others, drafted a 10-year plan to end homelessness in Marin. This plan identified the creation of a permanent emergency shelter that would accept all comers without conditions as its top priority, to be in place no later than 2009.
The grand jury recounted, however, how money once intended for an emergency shelter has been routed elsewhere. For example, in 2009 the county gave $150,000 earmarked for an emergency shelter to Homeward Bound, which needed money to pay for Americans with Disabilities Act improvements to its facilities.
During the current fiscal year, the county awarded another $550,000 to keep Homeward Bound's Mill Street Center operational and allocated $200,000 to Housing First, a new program that will move chronically homeless individuals into permanent supportive housing.
Meredith said, "We wanted a more balanced approach between the front-end temporary shelter and the longer-term both prevention and remediation of homelessness. This is based on the federal strategy."
The grand jury acknowledged the potential for Housing First, because the county estimates approximately 10 to 15 percent of homeless individuals use a disproportionate amount of social and police services. But it noted that only 12 individuals will participate in Housing First initially and only incrementally more in successive years.
"Housing First and permanent emergency shelter should not be an 'either/or' proposition," the report stated.
The grand jury noted that in addition to a lack of funding, finding a site for a permanent emergency shelter has also been a major roadblock. For example, when the county considered the defunct honor farm detention facility near McInnis Park as a potential site, the landlord would not enter into a lease. When the county approached San Rafael about using a commercial space, it was again rebuffed. This year, churches in Terra Linda and Ross were forced to drop out of the REST program after neighbors complained.
The grand jury noted that a new state law took effect in 2008 that requires cities and counties to identify potential sites where new emergency shelters can be located without discretionary review. To date, however, only Larkspur and Ross have complied with the law.
Contact Richard Halstead via e-mail at rhalstead@marinij.com
http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_17613654
Marin Independent Journal
Posted: 03/14/2011 05:52:48 PM PDT
A Marin civil grand jury called Marin County's policies that have resulted in the lack of a permanent emergency homeless shelter "misguided and misplaced."
There are hundreds of homeless families and individuals who need a shelter, yet the county has no plans to create one, according to the grand jury report released Monday.
Responding to the report, Larry Meredith, director of Marin County Department of Health and Human Services, said, "There are many points of disagreement, including some of the facts."
Meredith said the county has doubled its investment in providing emergency shelter to the homeless over the past three years from $578,000 to $1.25 million. He acknowledged, however, that most of the money went to support existing programs, which are insufficient to meet the current needs.
Neither Supervisor Susan Adams nor Steve Kinsey, who serve on the county's Homelessness Policy Steering Committee, could be reached for comment on the report. Kinsey was on his way to Washington D.C. on county business.
One of the report's major findings is that families and children represent the fastest-growing segment of the homeless population in Marin. A federally mandated count of the homeless conducted in 2009 identified 1,147 people as unsheltered in Marin, meaning they reside in a place not meant for human habitation, such as a car, park, sidewalk, open space or on the street.
Of that unsheltered group, the grand jury reportsthere were 111 families and 169 children under the age of 15. Another 1,241 children were identified as being at imminent risk of homelessness.
The grand jury report noted that short-term emergency housing exists for only 14 homeless families, at the Family Emergency Center in San Rafael operated by the nonprofit Homeward Bound. For unsheltered individuals, just 40 permitted beds are available year round, at the Mill Street Center in San Rafael, also operated by Homeward Bound.
During the past three winters much of the slack has been taken up by a group of local churches and synagogues that have allowed the homeless to sleep in their facilities on a rotating basis. The Rotating Emergency Shelter Team (REST) program can provide shelter for a maximum of 20 women and 45 men each night. Participants must be drug free. The program, however, turns away as many as 20 people a night during the four months that it operates.
The grand jury stated that even though several REST sponsors consistently state they do not intend to serve indefinitely, the county has no contingency plan to replace the faith-based program.
The grand jury noted that in 2006 a so-called "Visionary Committee," consisting of two county supervisors, directors of local nonprofits and others, drafted a 10-year plan to end homelessness in Marin. This plan identified the creation of a permanent emergency shelter that would accept all comers without conditions as its top priority, to be in place no later than 2009.
The grand jury recounted, however, how money once intended for an emergency shelter has been routed elsewhere. For example, in 2009 the county gave $150,000 earmarked for an emergency shelter to Homeward Bound, which needed money to pay for Americans with Disabilities Act improvements to its facilities.
During the current fiscal year, the county awarded another $550,000 to keep Homeward Bound's Mill Street Center operational and allocated $200,000 to Housing First, a new program that will move chronically homeless individuals into permanent supportive housing.
Meredith said, "We wanted a more balanced approach between the front-end temporary shelter and the longer-term both prevention and remediation of homelessness. This is based on the federal strategy."
The grand jury acknowledged the potential for Housing First, because the county estimates approximately 10 to 15 percent of homeless individuals use a disproportionate amount of social and police services. But it noted that only 12 individuals will participate in Housing First initially and only incrementally more in successive years.
"Housing First and permanent emergency shelter should not be an 'either/or' proposition," the report stated.
The grand jury noted that in addition to a lack of funding, finding a site for a permanent emergency shelter has also been a major roadblock. For example, when the county considered the defunct honor farm detention facility near McInnis Park as a potential site, the landlord would not enter into a lease. When the county approached San Rafael about using a commercial space, it was again rebuffed. This year, churches in Terra Linda and Ross were forced to drop out of the REST program after neighbors complained.
The grand jury noted that a new state law took effect in 2008 that requires cities and counties to identify potential sites where new emergency shelters can be located without discretionary review. To date, however, only Larkspur and Ross have complied with the law.
Contact Richard Halstead via e-mail at rhalstead@marinij.com
http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_17613654
As water agency prepares for financial windfall, Placer County grand jury expresses planning concerns
Panel praises water provider for lean, efficient organization
By Gus Thomson, Journal Staff Writer
A grand jury report is recommending the Placer County Water Agency plan more for the future, including how to spend the tens of millions of dollars in profits it may be earning annually from the Middle Fork Project.
The agency is working toward assuming control over the Middle Fork Project’s series of revenue-generating reservoirs and power plants in 2013.
But a report recently issued by the Placer County grand jury, is expressing concern over how the Water Agency will use its share of what could turn out to be as much as $20 million a year in total net revenues just more than a decade after the 2013 relicensing date.
The report notes that the agency board of directors recently approved a resolution indicating what types of projects could be funded by the expected additional revenue from the sale of power from the Middle Fork Project.
The list includes water rights protection, supply development, conservation, recycling, groundwater management, replacing aging infrastructure and development of extensions to serve existing neighborhoods.
“This is an excellent start but the list is so broad it provides little guidance to PCWA staff,” the grand jury said.
The grand jury said that interviews with management and leaders of organizations dealing with the agency indicate that the water provider – one of the largest special districts in the county – is an “efficient, lean organization” with a stable work force.
While it didn’t delve into pay to employees, the agency has recently started posting salaries on its Web site. The top pay level, for example, for the agency’s Director of Strategic Affairs Einar Maisch is between $177,500 annually. For Director of Technical Services Brian Martin $157,081 and Director of Financial Services Joe Parker $145,211. General Manager Dave Breninger’s annual pay is set by the board at $216,172.
Wally Reemelin, president of the League of Placer County Taxpayers, said that the grand jury is on the right track by recommending more specific planning by the Water Agency for Middle Fork Project revenues.
“There will be a lot of money so plans need to be formulated,” Reemelin said.
On the grand jury’s conclusion that the agency is a “lean” organization, Reemelin said that water rates could be lower. Reemelin added that Breninger’s salary seems to be “a bit high for what he’s doing.”
“The governor only gets $179,000 a year and he has more responsibility,” Reemelin said.
The report stated that Placer County’s population increased 14 percent between 2004 and 2009, while revenues, expenses and capital assets with the Water Agency increased by 30 percent, 54 percent and 95 percent respectively – and staff increased by only 7 percent.
Breninger said that the grand jury input is always welcome.
“We’re always pleased to have the grand jury take a look and we’re diligently looking at responses now,” Breninger said. “I think they’re helping us to look several more horizons ahead. We’re in a position for great opportunities many local governments don’t have.”
Recommendations by the grand jury include:
n Establishing an ongoing process to prioritize and rank proposed projects that will be funded from the additional revenue expected from the sale of Middle Fork Project power
n Increase staff within the agency’s strategic affairs division to provide backup and continuity for key positions and ensure all issues are getting the required attention
n Develop formalized plan to develop internal candidates and outside sources for key staff and management positions
The report said that the workforce has been stable, with most of the management having worked together as a team for several years.
“However its workforce is aging, with most of management being eligible to retire now,” the grand jury said. It’s recommending a better succession plan for replacing key positions within the agency, particularly Maisch’s and Breninger’s.
For the agency’s eight top executive and management positions, the grand jury found an average age of 57 and average length of service of 24 years.
Breninger told board members that grand jurors and staff met March 1 to discuss the report again, with a focus on its recommendations. A response to the recommendations is due with the grand jury by May 17
http://auburnjournal.com/detail/173811.html?content_source=&category_id=2&search_filter=&user_id=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&event_ts_to=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=&town_id=
By Gus Thomson, Journal Staff Writer
A grand jury report is recommending the Placer County Water Agency plan more for the future, including how to spend the tens of millions of dollars in profits it may be earning annually from the Middle Fork Project.
The agency is working toward assuming control over the Middle Fork Project’s series of revenue-generating reservoirs and power plants in 2013.
But a report recently issued by the Placer County grand jury, is expressing concern over how the Water Agency will use its share of what could turn out to be as much as $20 million a year in total net revenues just more than a decade after the 2013 relicensing date.
The report notes that the agency board of directors recently approved a resolution indicating what types of projects could be funded by the expected additional revenue from the sale of power from the Middle Fork Project.
The list includes water rights protection, supply development, conservation, recycling, groundwater management, replacing aging infrastructure and development of extensions to serve existing neighborhoods.
“This is an excellent start but the list is so broad it provides little guidance to PCWA staff,” the grand jury said.
The grand jury said that interviews with management and leaders of organizations dealing with the agency indicate that the water provider – one of the largest special districts in the county – is an “efficient, lean organization” with a stable work force.
While it didn’t delve into pay to employees, the agency has recently started posting salaries on its Web site. The top pay level, for example, for the agency’s Director of Strategic Affairs Einar Maisch is between $177,500 annually. For Director of Technical Services Brian Martin $157,081 and Director of Financial Services Joe Parker $145,211. General Manager Dave Breninger’s annual pay is set by the board at $216,172.
Wally Reemelin, president of the League of Placer County Taxpayers, said that the grand jury is on the right track by recommending more specific planning by the Water Agency for Middle Fork Project revenues.
“There will be a lot of money so plans need to be formulated,” Reemelin said.
On the grand jury’s conclusion that the agency is a “lean” organization, Reemelin said that water rates could be lower. Reemelin added that Breninger’s salary seems to be “a bit high for what he’s doing.”
“The governor only gets $179,000 a year and he has more responsibility,” Reemelin said.
The report stated that Placer County’s population increased 14 percent between 2004 and 2009, while revenues, expenses and capital assets with the Water Agency increased by 30 percent, 54 percent and 95 percent respectively – and staff increased by only 7 percent.
Breninger said that the grand jury input is always welcome.
“We’re always pleased to have the grand jury take a look and we’re diligently looking at responses now,” Breninger said. “I think they’re helping us to look several more horizons ahead. We’re in a position for great opportunities many local governments don’t have.”
Recommendations by the grand jury include:
n Establishing an ongoing process to prioritize and rank proposed projects that will be funded from the additional revenue expected from the sale of Middle Fork Project power
n Increase staff within the agency’s strategic affairs division to provide backup and continuity for key positions and ensure all issues are getting the required attention
n Develop formalized plan to develop internal candidates and outside sources for key staff and management positions
The report said that the workforce has been stable, with most of the management having worked together as a team for several years.
“However its workforce is aging, with most of management being eligible to retire now,” the grand jury said. It’s recommending a better succession plan for replacing key positions within the agency, particularly Maisch’s and Breninger’s.
For the agency’s eight top executive and management positions, the grand jury found an average age of 57 and average length of service of 24 years.
Breninger told board members that grand jurors and staff met March 1 to discuss the report again, with a focus on its recommendations. A response to the recommendations is due with the grand jury by May 17
http://auburnjournal.com/detail/173811.html?content_source=&category_id=2&search_filter=&user_id=&event_mode=&event_ts_from=&event_ts_to=&list_type=&order_by=&order_sort=&content_class=1&sub_type=&town_id=
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Solano County needs Grand Jury members
Times-Herald staff report
Posted: 03/09/2011 01:01:43 AM PST
FAIRFIELD -- The Solano County Superior Court is looking for citizens to serve on the Civil Grand Jury, with potential to serve a subsequent Grand Jury term, court officials have announced.
To be eligible, residents must be 18 or older, have lived in the county at least one year and be U.S. citizens. The deadline to apply is May 2.
As the county's investigative body, the Civil Grand Jury may examine all aspects of local government in an effort to ensure that residents' interests are being served. The Grand Jury also looks into citizen complaints alleging suspicions of governmental misconduct or inefficiencies.
Grand Jury service requires a time commitment of at least 10 to 25 hours per week.
Residents interested in applying may call Florinda Itchon at the Office of the Grand Jury at (707) 435-2575 or visit the court's website at www.solanocourts.com to obtain an application.
Posted: 03/09/2011 01:01:43 AM PST
FAIRFIELD -- The Solano County Superior Court is looking for citizens to serve on the Civil Grand Jury, with potential to serve a subsequent Grand Jury term, court officials have announced.
To be eligible, residents must be 18 or older, have lived in the county at least one year and be U.S. citizens. The deadline to apply is May 2.
As the county's investigative body, the Civil Grand Jury may examine all aspects of local government in an effort to ensure that residents' interests are being served. The Grand Jury also looks into citizen complaints alleging suspicions of governmental misconduct or inefficiencies.
Grand Jury service requires a time commitment of at least 10 to 25 hours per week.
Residents interested in applying may call Florinda Itchon at the Office of the Grand Jury at (707) 435-2575 or visit the court's website at www.solanocourts.com to obtain an application.
Imperial County Qualified applicants encouraged to apply to serve on Civil Grand Jury
By SILVIO J. PANTA
Imperial Valley Press
12:34 AM PST, March 8, 2011
Applications are being accepted for those wanting to serve on the upcoming 2011-2012 Imperial County Civil Grand Jury, Jury Commissioner Kristine Kussman announced.
The 19-member body would serve from July 1 through June 30, 2012, and be made up of committees who regularly meet on average of three hours per month.
The meetings are scheduled on a bi-weekly basis in the evenings and the stipend is $15 per day plus mileage.
The Jury Department must receive complete applications by April 15. Superior Court judges will be reviewing qualified candidates for the random drawing scheduled for June 22 at 4 p.m.
Applications can be downloaded from the Imperial County Superior Court’s Web site at www.imperial.courts.ca.gov or requested by telephone at 760-482-2256. The applications can also be picked up in person at the Court’s Jury Commissioner’s Office located at the Jury Commissioner’s Office at the courthouses in El Centro, Calexico, Brawley or Winterhaven.
Candidates must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age with a solid knowledge of English. The candidates also have lived in the U.S. since July 1, 2010 and pass a criminal background check.
The county’s Civil Grand Jury is impaneled to act as a component of the court, as authorized by the State Constitution, “to be a voice of the people and conscience of the community,” Kussman said.
Staff Writer Silvio J. Panta can be reached at 760-337-3442 or at spanta@ivpressonline.com
Imperial Valley Press
12:34 AM PST, March 8, 2011
Applications are being accepted for those wanting to serve on the upcoming 2011-2012 Imperial County Civil Grand Jury, Jury Commissioner Kristine Kussman announced.
The 19-member body would serve from July 1 through June 30, 2012, and be made up of committees who regularly meet on average of three hours per month.
The meetings are scheduled on a bi-weekly basis in the evenings and the stipend is $15 per day plus mileage.
The Jury Department must receive complete applications by April 15. Superior Court judges will be reviewing qualified candidates for the random drawing scheduled for June 22 at 4 p.m.
Applications can be downloaded from the Imperial County Superior Court’s Web site at www.imperial.courts.ca.gov or requested by telephone at 760-482-2256. The applications can also be picked up in person at the Court’s Jury Commissioner’s Office located at the Jury Commissioner’s Office at the courthouses in El Centro, Calexico, Brawley or Winterhaven.
Candidates must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age with a solid knowledge of English. The candidates also have lived in the U.S. since July 1, 2010 and pass a criminal background check.
The county’s Civil Grand Jury is impaneled to act as a component of the court, as authorized by the State Constitution, “to be a voice of the people and conscience of the community,” Kussman said.
Staff Writer Silvio J. Panta can be reached at 760-337-3442 or at spanta@ivpressonline.com
Santa Barbara Civil Grand Jury releases compensation survey
By DAILY SOUND STAFF REPORT -- MARCH 8, 2011
The Santa Barbara County Civil Ground Jury on Monday released the results of a survey of public employee salaries and total compensation.
The survey reports total compensation paid to senior executives and elected officials for 72 government entities throughout the county.
Among the findings:
The County Board of Supervisors earn $84,200 annually. The Santa Barbara City Council earns $39,729 annually, plus $7,116 for a car allowance. The mayor earns $49,661 and a $10,296 car allowance.
Santa Barbara Police Chief Cam Sanchez earns $207,860 in total compensation; the general manager of the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District earns $154,987.
Santa Barbara City Administrator Jim Armstrong earns $245,062 in total compensation.
The survey, which is based on 2009 data, is already widely available publicly.
The report includes information on elected officials, managers of county government and cities, along with special districts and school districts throughout the county.
The survey breaks down the compensation into salaries, bonuses, and the value of annual benefits.
“Although compensation paid to public officials in California is part of the public record, it is fair to say few citizens know what these amounts are,” said Kathryn McKee, jury foreperson.
Public employee salaries and benefits has been at the center of debate locally and nationally, as politicians argue over the cause of the continuing decline of the economy.
Joe Armendariz, executive director of the Santa Barbara County Taxpayers’ Association, and a member of the Carpinteria City Council, said he was not surprised by the numbers.
“Most of the public employees I know are fine people, who do good, and important work for the particular jurisdiction that employs them,” Armendariz said. “Contrary to the hyperbole emanating from the defenders of the status quo, the Santa Barbara County Taxpayers Association is not interested in demonizing our public employees or calling into question their value or their worth.”
Armendariz said, however, that according to the state's Employment Development Department, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, public employees particularly at the federal, and state level, earn far more than their private sector equivalents.
“Once you factor in the value of their retirement, and health care benefits, (it is) substantially more, in some cases 500 percent more,” Armendariz said.
The survey can be found at http://www.sbcgj.org/2011/
http://www.thedailysound.com/News/030811-SANTA-BARBARA-GRAND-JURY
The Santa Barbara County Civil Ground Jury on Monday released the results of a survey of public employee salaries and total compensation.
The survey reports total compensation paid to senior executives and elected officials for 72 government entities throughout the county.
Among the findings:
The County Board of Supervisors earn $84,200 annually. The Santa Barbara City Council earns $39,729 annually, plus $7,116 for a car allowance. The mayor earns $49,661 and a $10,296 car allowance.
Santa Barbara Police Chief Cam Sanchez earns $207,860 in total compensation; the general manager of the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District earns $154,987.
Santa Barbara City Administrator Jim Armstrong earns $245,062 in total compensation.
The survey, which is based on 2009 data, is already widely available publicly.
The report includes information on elected officials, managers of county government and cities, along with special districts and school districts throughout the county.
The survey breaks down the compensation into salaries, bonuses, and the value of annual benefits.
“Although compensation paid to public officials in California is part of the public record, it is fair to say few citizens know what these amounts are,” said Kathryn McKee, jury foreperson.
Public employee salaries and benefits has been at the center of debate locally and nationally, as politicians argue over the cause of the continuing decline of the economy.
Joe Armendariz, executive director of the Santa Barbara County Taxpayers’ Association, and a member of the Carpinteria City Council, said he was not surprised by the numbers.
“Most of the public employees I know are fine people, who do good, and important work for the particular jurisdiction that employs them,” Armendariz said. “Contrary to the hyperbole emanating from the defenders of the status quo, the Santa Barbara County Taxpayers Association is not interested in demonizing our public employees or calling into question their value or their worth.”
Armendariz said, however, that according to the state's Employment Development Department, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, public employees particularly at the federal, and state level, earn far more than their private sector equivalents.
“Once you factor in the value of their retirement, and health care benefits, (it is) substantially more, in some cases 500 percent more,” Armendariz said.
The survey can be found at http://www.sbcgj.org/2011/
http://www.thedailysound.com/News/030811-SANTA-BARBARA-GRAND-JURY
Mendocino County Grand jurors needed for 2011-12 term
Ukiah Daily Journal Staff
Updated: 03/08/2011 11:59:50 PM PST
Jurors are needed to serve on the Mendocino County civil grand jury for the coming yearlong term, the Mendocino County Superior Court has announced.
"All qualified citizens interested in serving on the 2011-12 Mendocino County grand jury are invited to submit their applications to the Superior Court for consideration," said Judge Cindee F. Mayfield, chairwoman of the Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee, in a prepared statement.
Applications are due by May 13, with the yearlong term to begin July 1.
The 19-member civil grand jury investigates the operations of the county, city and district governments, and is empowered to provide civil oversight of local government departments and agencies and respond to citizens' complaints.
To qualify, a prospective juror must be a United States citizen, fluent in written and spoken English, at least 18 years old and a Mendocino County resident for at least a year, according to the Superior Court.
Grand jurors may not serve on any other government board or commission, hold public office or be involved in an election campaign during their term.
Before nominations, each qualified applicant is interviewed by a Superior Court judge and undergoes background investigations by the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office.
The hours are flexible because the grand jury sets its own agenda and schedules its own meetings, and because small committees do much of the work, according to the Superior Court. Training is provided.
More information and applications are available online at www.mendocino.courts.ca.gov/grandjury. Applications are also available at the Mendocino County Superior Courthouse, 100 N. State St., Room 303, in Ukiah, or by calling the grand jury at 463-4320.
For more information, call Sally Nevarez at 463-4662.
http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/ci_17571386
Updated: 03/08/2011 11:59:50 PM PST
Jurors are needed to serve on the Mendocino County civil grand jury for the coming yearlong term, the Mendocino County Superior Court has announced.
"All qualified citizens interested in serving on the 2011-12 Mendocino County grand jury are invited to submit their applications to the Superior Court for consideration," said Judge Cindee F. Mayfield, chairwoman of the Grand Jury Recruitment/Selection Committee, in a prepared statement.
Applications are due by May 13, with the yearlong term to begin July 1.
The 19-member civil grand jury investigates the operations of the county, city and district governments, and is empowered to provide civil oversight of local government departments and agencies and respond to citizens' complaints.
To qualify, a prospective juror must be a United States citizen, fluent in written and spoken English, at least 18 years old and a Mendocino County resident for at least a year, according to the Superior Court.
Grand jurors may not serve on any other government board or commission, hold public office or be involved in an election campaign during their term.
Before nominations, each qualified applicant is interviewed by a Superior Court judge and undergoes background investigations by the Mendocino County Sheriff's Office.
The hours are flexible because the grand jury sets its own agenda and schedules its own meetings, and because small committees do much of the work, according to the Superior Court. Training is provided.
More information and applications are available online at www.mendocino.courts.ca.gov/grandjury. Applications are also available at the Mendocino County Superior Courthouse, 100 N. State St., Room 303, in Ukiah, or by calling the grand jury at 463-4320.
For more information, call Sally Nevarez at 463-4662.
http://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/ci_17571386
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