Home
California Grand Jury Reports
Kern County Grand Jury final report
To link to this object, paste this link in email, IM or document
To embed this object, paste this HTML in website
Kern County Grand Jury final report
|
small (250x250 max)
medium (500x500 max)
large ( > 500x500)
Full Resolution
|
|
Final Report Table of Contents
Front Cover: County of Kern Cities and Communities ( hard copy only)
Inside Front Cover: County of Kern 2004 Olympian Medalists ( hard copy only)
Inside Back Cover: Scaled Composites- Spaceship One ( hard copy only)
Back Outside Cover: California Map and Facts About Kern County ( hard copy only)
Grand Jury Photo .................................................................................................................. i
2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury ................................................................................... ii
Table of Contents .................................................................................................................. iii
Grand Juror Oath ................................................................................................................. viii
2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Organization and Committees Chart …………… ix
Presiding Judges ( hard copy only) ........................................................................................... x
Support Staff ( hard copy only) ................................................................................................. xi
Foreperson Photo .................................................................................................................. xii
Foreperson Letter To Judge ................................................................................................. xiii
Grand Jury Officers Photo .................................................................................................. xv
Administration and Audit Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Viridiana Herrera ( hard copy only) .................................. xvi
Administration and Audit Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ............. xvii
Mission Statement ...................................................................................................... 1
Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant ....................................................................... 2
Environmental Health Department Animal Control Division .............................. 4
Response ( Web site only)
Kern County Department of Child Support Services............................................. 8
Response ............................................................................................................. 11
Kern County Emergency Management Services..................................................... 12
Response ( Web site only)
Art Contest Drawing by Maribel Echeverria ( hard copy only) ................................ 16
Cities and Joint Powers Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Jeremy Terrazas ( hard copy only) ...................................... 17
Cities and Joint Powers Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ................ 18
Mission Statement ...................................................................................................... 19
City of Arvin ............................................................................................................... 20
Response ( Web site only)
City of Bakersfield...................................................................................................... 24
Response ( Web site only)
City of California City ............................................................................................... 29
Response .............................................................................................................. 33
City of Delano ............................................................................................................. 37
Response .............................................................................................................. 41
City of Maricopa......................................................................................................... 45
Response .............................................................................................................. 48
City of McFarland ...................................................................................................... 50
Response .............................................................................................................. 53
City of Ridgecrest ....................................................................................................... 56
Response ........................................................................................................... 60
City of Shafter.......................................................................................................... 62
City of Taft ............................................................................................................... 65
Special Purpose Vehicle Photo ( hard copy only) ............................................. 69
Response ........................................................................................................... 70
City of Tehachapi .................................................................................................... 77
City of Wasco ........................................................................................................... 81
Response ........................................................................................................... 84
Art Contest Drawing by Lilia Saldivar ( hard copy only) ....................................... 86
Continuity and Tracking Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Ernesto Silva ( hard copy only) ........................................ 87
Continuity and Tracking Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ............ 88
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 89
2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Tracking Reports ..................................... 90
County Services and Special Districts Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Ivan Alarez ( hard copy only) ........................................... 93
County Services and Special Districts Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) … 94
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 95
Delano Mosquito Abatement District .................................................................... 96
Response ........................................................................................................... 98
Indian Wells Valley Airport District ..................................................................... 101
Indian Wells Valley Water District ....................................................................... 103
Response ........................................................................................................... 104
Kern- Tulare & Rag Gulch Water District............................................................ 106
Response ( Web site only)
North Bakersfield Recreation & Park District..................................................... 109
North Kern Cemetery District ............................................................................... 112
Response ( Web site only)
North of the River Municipal Water District ....................................................... 114
Tehachapi Cummings County Water District ..................................................... 116
Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Parks District ................................................. 119
Edit Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Larry Clayton ( hard copy only) ...................................... 121
Edit Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ............................................... 122
Mission Statement .................................................................................................. 123
2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports Tracking Reports ............ 124
Health, Education, and Social Services Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Manuel Sanchez ( hard copy only) ................................... 127
Health, Education, and Social Services Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) … 128
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 129
Adult Education And Other Special Schools In Kern County............................ 130
Biosolid Use In Kern County.................................................................................. 133
Response ( Web site only)
Disaster Preparedness and Safety at Kern County High Schools....................... 137
Kern County School Districts Trustees’ Compensation ...................................... 143
Response - Beardsley School District.................................................... 148
Response - Lakeside Union School District.......................................... 149
Response - Lost Hills Union School District ........................................ 150
Response - Sierra Sands Unified School District................................. 151
Response - Wasco Union High School District .................................... 153
Response - West Side Regional Occupational Program ..................... 154
Response - General Shafter ............................................. ( Web site only)
Response - Fairfax School District................................... ( Web site only)
Response - Buttonwillow Union School District ............ ( Web site only)
Response - Edison ............................................................. ( Web site only)
Response - Elk Hills Elementary ..................................... ( Web site only)
Response - Semitropic ...................................................... ( Web site only)
Response - Mojave Unified School District .................... ( Web site only)
Response - McKittrick School District ............................ ( Web site only)
Response - KC Superintendent Of Schools ................... ( Web site only)
Response - Panama- Buena Vista Union School District ( Web site only)
Response - Maple School District .................................... ( Web site only)
Response - Norris .............................................................. ( Web site only)
Response - Rosedale Union School District..................... ( Web site only)
Response - Maricopa Unified School District ................ ( Web site only)
Response - Wasco Union High School District .............. ( Web site only)
Response - Richland School District ............................... ( Web site only)
Response - Kern High School District ............................ ( Web site only)
Response - Vineland School District................................ ( Web site only)
Response - Bakersfield City School District.................... ( Web site only)
Response - Arvin Union School District .......................... ( Web site only)
Response - Southern Kern Unified School District ........ ( Web site only)
Response - Di Giorgio Elementary School District ........ ( Web site only)
Response - Standard School District ............................... ( Web site only)
Response - Greenfield Union School District.................. ( Web site only)
Response - Taft City School District................................ ( Web site only)
Response - Belridge Elementary School District ........... ( Web site only)
Response - McFarland Unified School District .............. ( Web site only)
Response - Blake School District...................................... ( Web site only)
Response - So. Fork Union School District ..................... ( Web site only)
Response - Delano Joint Union High School District..... ( Web site only)
Response - Taft High School District............................... ( Web site only)
Response - Delano Union School District ........................ ( Web site only)
Response - Tehachapi Unified School District................ ( Web site only)
Response - No Kern Vocational Training Center........... ( Web site only)
Response - Rio Bravo- Greeley Union School District.... ( Web site only)
Response - Midway School District ................................. ( Web site only)
Response - Fruitvale School District................................ ( Web site only)
Response - East Kern ROP............................................... ( Web site only)
Response - Muroc Joint Unified School District............. ( Web site only)
Response - El Tejon Unified School District ................... ( Web site only)
Response - Kernville Union Elementary School District ( Web site only)
Response - Linns Valley - Poso Flat School ................... ( Web site only)
Response - Pond Union Elementary School District ..... ( Web site only)
Kern High School District Police Department...................................................... 155
Kern Medical Center............................................................................................... 157
Response .................................................................................................. 161
Law and Justice Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Diana Damian ( hard copy only) ...................................... 163
Law and Justice Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) .......................... 164
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 165
Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault......................................... 166
Arvin Police Department ........................................................................................ 169
Bakersfield Police Department............................................................................... 172
Bear Valley Police Department .............................................................................. 175
Response ( Web site only)
California City Police Department ........................................................................ 177
Response ........................................................................................................... 180
California Correctional Institution Tehachapi..................................................... 182
Response ........................................................................................................... 185
Camp Erwin Owen.................................................................................................. 187
City of Taft Police Department .............................................................................. 190
Delano Police Department ...................................................................................... 192
Response ........................................................................................................... 196
Gang Intervention and Supression Team ............................................................. 200
James G. Bowles Juvenile Hall............................................................................... 202
Response ........................................................................................................... 204
Kern County Fire Department Arson Unit........................................................... 206
Kern County Probation Department Adult Services........................................... 208
Kern County Probation Department Victim/ Witness Program ......................... 210
Response ........................................................................................................... 212
Kern County Sheriff’s Department Central Receiving Facility ......................... 213
Response ........................................................................................................... 215
Kern County Sheriff’s Department Headquarters .............................................. 216
Response ........................................................................................................... 218
Kern County Sheriff’s Department K- 9 Unit ....................................................... 220
Response ........................................................................................................ 223
Kern County Sheriff’s Department Lamont Substation ..................................... 225
Response ( Web site only)
Kern County Sheriff’s Department Lerdo Detention Facility ............................ 229
Response ........................................................................................................... 241
Kern County Sheriff’s Department Taft Substation ........................................... 246
Response ( Web site only)
Kern County Sheriff’s Department Wasco Substation........................................ 250
Kern County Sheriff’s Property Room ................................................................. 252
Response .......................................................................................................... 254
Larry J. Rhoades Kern Crossroads Facility ......................................................... 256
Response ........................................................................................................... 258
Larry J. Rhoades Kern Crossroads Facility ( Re- visit) ........................................ 259
Response ........................................................................................................... 260
McFarland Correction Facility .............................................................................. 261
North Kern State Prison Delano I.......................................................................... 263
Report Drawing ( hard copy only) ..................................................................... 267
Response ........................................................................................................... 268
North Kern State Prison Delano II ........................................................................ 270
Report Photo ( hard copy only) .......................................................................... 271
Report Drawing ( hard copy only) ..................................................................... 272
Shafter Community Correctional Facility ............................................................ 273
Response ( hard copy only) ................................................................................. 276
Shafter Police Department ..................................................................................... 278
Taft Community Correctional Facility.................................................................. 280
Wasco State Prison Reception Center ................................................................... 282
Art Contest Drawing by Irma Hernandez ( hard copy only) .................................. 284
Library Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Andrew Horn ( hard copy only) ....................................... 285
Library Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ......................................... 286
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 287
Art Contest Drawing by Allison Mello ( hard copy only) ........................................ 288
Public Relations Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Michael Jimenez ( hard copy only) .................................. 289
Public Relations Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) .......................... 290
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 291
Grand Jury Awareness Week Proclamation Award ( hard copy only) .................. 293
Grand Jury Public Awareness Award Program ( hard copy only) ........................ 294
Grand Jury Graphic Arts Contest Flyer ( hard copy only) ..................................... 295
Art Contest Winning Drawings
Art Contest Grand Prize Winner – Christopher Gainey ( hard copy only) ...... 296
Art Contest First Runner- Up – Silvia Cuevas ( hard copy only) ....................... 297
Art Contest Second Runner- Up – Raul Lora ( hard copy only) ......................... 298
Grand Jury Training/ Guest Speakers ( hard copy only) ......................................... 299
Law Day Workshop ( hard copy only) ....................................................................... 301
Grand Jury Information Brochure ( hard copy only) .............................................. 303
Recruitment Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Sandra Christensen ( hard copy only) ............................. 305
Recruitment Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ................................. 306
Mission Statement .................................................................................................. 307
Public Presentations ( hard copy only) ...................................................................... 308
Ad Hoc County Contract Procedures Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Eric Martinez ( hard copy only) ....................................... 309
Ad Hoc Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ......................................... 310
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 311
County Contract Procedures.................................................................................. 312
Response – Auditor- Controller- County Clerk ............................................. 318
Response - Kern County Board of Supervisors........................................... 319
Art Contest Drawing by Maira Munoz ( hard copy only) ....................................... 320
Ad Hoc Clinica Sierra Vista Committee
Art Contest Drawing by Daniel Gonzalez ( hard copy only) ................................... 321
Ad Hoc Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ......................................... 322
Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 323
Clinica Sierra Vista ................................................................................................. 324
Response – Kern County Board of Supervisors ............................................ 330
Response - Clinica Sierra Vista....................................................................... 331
Art Contest Drawing by Paul Ortiz Perez ( hard copy only) .................................. 332
2004- 2005
Kern County Grand Jury
Also served: Gladys M. Neary
Name Terms Served City Nominating Judge
Anderson R. Ross 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Robert Tafoya
Arnold, Fred W. 2004- 2005 Frazier Park Robert Tafoya
Duffel, Patricia L. 2001- 2002, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Charles P. McNutt
Evenson, Fred E. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace
Florence, Donald C. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Gary T. Friedman
Garretson, Ervin E. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace
Gosling, Elizabeth A. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Gary T. Friedman
Harrison, Leone J. 2004- 2005 Taft Kenneth C. Twisselman
Herrick, Robert E. 1999- 2000, 2000- 2001,
2004- 2005
Bakersfield Kenneth C. Twisselman
Hill, Donald D. 1991- 1992, 1997- 1998,
2000- 2001, 2004- 2005
Bakersfield Frank A. Hoover
Jefferson, Robert B. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace
Kline, Patrice S. 2001- 2002, 2002- 2003,
2004- 2005
Tehachapi Arthur E. Wallace
Mainland, John C. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Jon E. Stuebbe
Mendes, Reba M. 2002- 2003, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace
Noce, Anthony W. 2001- 2002, 2003- 2004,
2004- 2005
Bakersfield John I. Kelly
Troxel, Gordon F. 2002- 2003, 2004- 2005 Delano Sidney P. Chase
Wells, Ethel V. 1995- 1996, 1999- 2000,
2004- 2005
Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace
Williams, Daniel L. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Kenneth C. Twisselman
Woessner, Richard L. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield John I. Kelly
GRAND JUROR’S OATH
“ I do solemnly swear ( affirm) that I will support
the Constitution of the United States and of the
State of California, and all laws made pursuant
to and in conformity therewith, will diligently
inquire into, and true presentment make, of all
public offenses against the people of this state,
committed or triable within this county, of which
the grand jury shall have or can obtain legal
evidence. Further, I will not disclose any
evidence brought before the grand jury, nor
anything which I or any other grand juror may
say, nor the manner in which I or any other grand
juror may have voted on any matter - before the
grand jury. I will keep the charge that will be
given to me by the court.”
Section 911, Penal Code, Amended June 2, 1983)
2004- 2005 KERN COUNTY GRAND JURY
ORGANIZATION AND COMMITTEES CHART
OFFICERS:
Elizabeth A. Gosling - Foreperson
Donald D. Hill – Foreperson Pro Tem
Patrice S. Kline, Recording Secretary
Reba M. Mendes and John E. Garretson – Sergeant- at- Arms
Ethel V. Wells – Parliamentarian
COMMITTEES:
Administration & Audit Law & Justice
Finance, audits, and administration concerns Investigates criminal justice agencies
R. Ross Anderson – Chairperson Donald C. Florence - Chairperson
Robert E. Herrick John E. Garretson
Donald D. Hill Patrice S. Kline
Ethel V. Wells Richard L. Woessner
Cities & Joint Powers Library
Cities and Joint Powers Agency Reviews Organizes research material
Daniel L. Williams – Chairperson Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson
Patricia L. Duffel Donald D. Hill
Fred E. Evenson Richard L. Woessner
Continuity & Tracking Public Relations
Maintains contact with Board of Supervisors, tracks Informs the public of the Grand Jury and its mission
reports, formats final report book Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson
Fred W. Arnold - Chairperson Patricia L. Duffel
Patrice S. Kline – Tracking Coordinator
Anthony W. Noce – Editor Final Report Book Recruitment
County Services & Special Districts
Aids the Court in recruiting the subsequent
Grand Jury
Reviews Special Districts and County Services Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson
Reba M. Mendes – Chairperson Patrice S. Kline
Robert B. Jefferson
Ethel V. Wells Ad Hoc – County Contract Procedures
Special Investigation
Edit Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson
Format and grammatical review of final reports
and jury correspondence
Elizabeth A. Gosling
John C. Mainland
Patrice S. Kline – Chairperson Ethel V. Wells
Elizabeth A. Gosling
Reba M. Mendes Ad Hoc – Clinica Sierra Vista
Special Investigation
Health, Education, and Social Services R. Ross Anderson – Chairperson
Monitors health, education, and social services agencies Fred E. Evenson
Gordon F. Troxel – Chairperson Elizabeth A. Gosling
Fred W. Arnold Robert E. Herrick
Leone J. Harrison Donald D. Hill
John C. Mainland John C. Mainland
June 22, 2005
The Honorable Lee P. Felice
Presiding Judge of the Superior Court
1415 Truxtun Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Dear Judge Felice:
In compliance with Penal Code Section 933( a) of the California Penal Code, the
2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury presents its final report of investigations
undertaken and completed by Grand Jury members. Each report received the
approval of the Grand Jury as required by Section 916 of the California Penal
Code.
What a year!!!!!!!!!!!! Nineteen people from all areas of the County who had
applied and been nominated by one of the Superior Court Judges began in July
2004 a journey of community service to the County which has increased our
knowledge of County and City workings, and broadened our knowledge of how
great and huge Kern County really is.
These nineteen people, losing a few and gaining others, developed into a
cohesive unit during the course of the year and undertook the task of monitoring
public agencies, special districts, non- profit organizations, and investigating
citizen’s complaints. Their various background and perspective, which each
member brought to the Jury, made this Final Report both objective and positive.
Our appreciation goes out to Mr. Bernard Barmann, County Counsel, who gave
us such valuable advice and direction; to Mr. Mike Yraceburn, District
Attorney’s Office, and his Deputies who provided excellent training and
information during the Indictments, and to Lillie Davis, Superior Court liaison
to the Grand Jury, for her patience and assistance in making this year run
smoothly.
On February 23, 2005, a Grand Jury Appreciation Day was held by the Liberty
Bell and high school Art winners from throughout the County were recognized
for their participation in an art contest which has added greatly to our Final
Report. Recognition was also given to the various newspapers in the area who
have printed our Final Reports as they have been released. Kern County is the
only County in the State of California which releases each Report as it is
completed. Agencies are then able to respond to those reports and most of those
responses are then included in the Final Report.
This year the Grand Jury requested and received training throughout the year by heads of
Departments, Mayors, and other officials which added immensely to our knowledge of how
County and Cities function. We express our sincere appreciation to these Department Heads and
other officials for their time.
This Grand Jury has completed over 61 Final Reports this year. That has involved over 22,000
hours served voluntarily by this Jury. We have driven or been driven from Ridgecrest to the east
to Taft to the west. Each juror contributes about 1100 hours each year in an effort to provide an
overview of agencies. So, anyone who is interested in serving on the Kern County Grand Jury
certainly needs stamina because it does involve a lot of hard work!!!!!!!!!!
My congratulations to the Law and Justice Committee consisting of four individuals who have
visited every prison jail facility, Sheriff’s substations, Probation Department divisions, Alliance
on Family Violence, and many other legal facilities in the County. They have filed 31 reports
this year.
A great deal of time and research goes into completing a Final Report. My committees are
required to review highly complicated background information and they are to be complemented
for the vast amount of work they have done this year.
My thanks to Chief Dennis Thompson and the Kern County Fire Department for their gracious
willingness in providing transportation for the entire Grand Jury for several of our trips
throughout the County. In all of our contacts with the Fire Department, all of the employees
have been very competent, well trained, responsible people. The County should be proud of that
Department and Chief Thompson.
This has been a very rewarding and interesting year for me as the Foreperson. I greatly
appreciate the Superior Court’s confidence in choosing me as the Foreperson. It has been my
privilege to have worked with such a great group of citizens of Kern County.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth A. Gosling, Foreperson
2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury
Grand Jury Officers
Elizabeth A. Gosling Don Hill
Foreperson Foreperson Pro Tem
Patrice Kline Ethel Wells
Recording Secretary Parliamentarian
John Garretson Reba Mendes
Sgt- at- Arms Asst. Sgt- at- Arms
MISSION STATEMENT
ADMINISTRATION & AUDIT COMMITTEE
The Administration and Audit committee is responsible for reviewing and
overseeing County Departments in their management, performance, and execution
of fiscal responsibilities to the County of Kern taxpayer. The Committee
investigates complaints from citizens who allege managerial or fiscal
irresponsibility of nonprofit corporations who receive money and grants from the
County of Kern in addition to the County Departments. Also an extensive amount
of time was spent assisting other Grand Jury Committees with managerial and
fiscal matters.
The following pages reflect many hours of interviews, reading, discussion,
researching, and writings to compile as accurate a view as possible of the County
functions that the Committee addressed. The reports cannot capture all the
peripheral sources and effort that individuals made to help the Committee
understand and appreciate the “ whole picture” of local government and where
each department contributes to the success of the County as a whole. While other
Kern County operations could have also been high- lighted in these reports, time
did not permit the kind of in- depth review and analysis that would be necessary in
order to present a balanced view of all Kern County operations.
The Committee’s mission has been to improve working conditions, financial
accountability, and better management for the benefit and gain of the County, its
employees, and the taxpayers.
BEAR MOUNTAIN CO- GENERATION PLANT
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY
The Administration and Audit Committee and the Grand Jury Foreperson of the 2004-
2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant on August
26, 2004, pursuant to a recommendation of the 1994- 1995 Kern County Grand Jury.
PROCESS:
The Administration and Audit Committee and the Grand Jury Foreperson traveled to the
Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant. The Plant Vice President met the committee at the
gated entrance to the plant and the committee was then escorted to the plant’s operation
center.
BACKGROUND:
There are eight co- generation plants operating in Kern County owned by DPS Juniper,
LLC. The Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant is located in the northeast section of
Bakersfield, approximately one mile southeast of Alfred Harrell Highway and one and a
half miles north of the intersection of State Highway 178 and Fairfax Road. The facility
staffs nine full- time employees on a 24/ 7- rotation schedule. After introductions to the
Plant Manager and Lead Operator the committee was provided with safety equipment and
taken on a tour of the plant. The staff was extremely co- operative and helpful in
explaining all operations of the plant.
FINDINGS:
The 1994- 1995 Kern County Grand Jury recommended that:
1. The City of Bakersfield and the State and Federal agencies monitor the co-generation
plants using chemicals and anhydrous ammonia in residential
areas.
2. The City of Bakersfield see that the hazardous material used is sufficiently
regulated by both state and federal law.
3. The City of Bakersfield require that the above ground steam pipes be clearly
marked with paint and lights due to the off- road vehicle and equipment use in
the area.
4. The City of Bakersfield require the plant management to monitor the
hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide solution, and the tanks holding such
chemicals as to avoid accessibility by vehicle traffic. These tanks should be
protected against vehicle damage as such damage could pose off- sight
consequences or public threat.
5. The 1995- 1996 Grand Jury monitor the co- generation plants near schools and
residential areas.
The plant has complied with the recommendations of the 1994- 1995 Grand Jury. State
and Federal agencies monitor the plant. All pipes are color- coded and chemical tanks are
more than adequately protected in the event of any mishap. In the event of a disaster the
plant personnel and city/ county fire departments that have access to the plant, are well
equipped to handle all emergencies. Safety training is ongoing and the Standard
Operating Procedures Manual is revised annually and as needed if evidenced by a
particular incident. A direct safety phone system has been installed with Dr. Thorner
School, which is located within one mile of the plant. Eight- foot chain- link fencing
surrounds the plant and security cameras have been installed that provide more than
adequate protection against outside intrusion. The Bear Mountain Plant, although a very
small operation, is run efficiently. The plant produces enough energy to supply power to
approximately 50,000 homes daily.
COMMENTS:
The visit to the plant was not only informative but also enlightening as to the purpose and
operation of a co- generation plant.
RECOMMENDATION:
This committee feels that the management and staff of Bear Mountain Co- Generation
Plant be commended for their compliance with the recommendations of the 1994- 1995
Grand Jury. This report should be sent to DPS Juniper, LLC, 34759 Lencioni Avenue,
Bakersfield, California 93308.
Note: Present and Past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be
accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca/ grandjury
NO RESPONSE REQUIRED
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT
ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
Pursuant to Penal Code 925 the Administration and Audit Committee of 2004- 2005 Kern
County Grand Jury investigated the Animal Control Division of the Environmental
Health Services Department.
PROCESS:
The Administration and Audit Committee interviewed Department heads of Animal
Control Divisions of the County of Kern and Bakersfield City Animal Control.
The Committee visited the County Facilities on South Mt. Vernon Avenue and the local
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ( SPCA) Facility.
BACKGROUND:
Articles and pictures published in The Bakersfield Californian have created considerable
interest in animal control. Pictures of abandoned dogs in apparent states of starvation and
a barrel of animal bodies after euthanasia have aroused considerable emotion and has
resulted in at least two emotional sessions before the Kern County Board of Supervisors.
The intent of the investigation is to determine the facts and put the matter in proper
perspective.
FINDINGS:
The Animal Control Division operates an Animal Shelter at 201 South Mt. Vernon
Avenue in Bakersfield and also have a smaller facility in Mojave; two facilities are
operated under contract, Lake Isabella Animal Shelter ( Kern Valley) and the Ridgecrest
Animal Shelter. The Cities of Arvin, Maricopa, Tehachapi, and Delano have contracts
with the Animal Control Division for services. However, the contract with Delano has
not been used in many months.
Delano, Taft, Shafter, and Wasco provide residents with animal control within respective
communities.
Revenue generated from licensing, redemptions, and adoptions is 30% of Animal
Services total budgeted revenue. The facilities at the animal shelter were found to be
clean and odor free. Dogs are provided with plastic pads that provide sleeping areas off
of the floor of the kennel and are provided with adequate food and water.
The City of Bakersfield has its own Animal Control Division which is a Division of the
Bakersfield Police Department and contracts for shelter services with the County of Kern.
The City has four Animal Control Officers equipped with proper animal control trucks.
The Officers respond to over 14,500 calls per year. When not on duty the regular police
officers handle calls.
The Bakersfield Animal Control Division is in the building stages of a new animal
shelter. The shelter will be adjacent to the Kern County Animal Shelter on South Mt.
Vernon Avenue. The construction of the new facility will be an advantage to owners of
lost animals as animals do not know City or County boundary lines.
For several years the City contracted for shelter and licensing with the local SPCA. The
contract was terminated on June 30, 2003, and the City then contracted for services from
Kern County which is apparently a mutually satisfying arrangement.
The SPCA facilities were also visited although being a non- profit organization and not
subject to any inspection by the Grand Jury. The shelter is on Gibson Street in
Bakersfield and in the past performed in general the same procedures as the County
shelter. The shelter on Gibson Street still receives animals from the public. The facility
also practices euthanasia. The SPCA had the contract for animal control for the City of
Bakersfield and had a “ BROWN GATE” which limited public access to areas that were
not ready for the public.
Animal Control Division is located at 201 South Mt. Vernon Avenue and is leased from
the City of Bakersfield. The lease will expire December 31, 2028. The County of Kern
owns the buildings at the location.
Both the City of Bakersfield and the Kern County Animal Control operations hold special
clinics to assist pet owners in licensing and vaccinating.
Animal Control has 38 funded positions. Currently there are three vacant officer
positions and three vacant shelter worker positions. The use of volunteers is encouraged
but requires staff to train and plan schedules.
One of the more emotional issues brought before the Board of Supervisors regarding the
Animal Control operation was the “ GREEN GATE” which refers to a gate that separates
the adoption facility from the area that is used for lost animals and animals that have been
confiscated by law enforcement or are quarantined. The “ GREEN GATE” is a safety
issue.
The first row of kennels is the area that contains the dogs ready for adoption and is open
to the public. The animals in the adoption kennel have been given a “ SAFER” test to
determine if an animal is social and non- aggressive. The animals have been spayed or
neutered and given necessary vaccinations making animals ready for adoption.
Behind the “ GREEN GATE” are the kennels that hold the dogs that are lost or are
strays. After visiting the office area people looking for a lost dog may describe the animal
and check the recent list of animals brought in by Animal Control Officers. The public
does have access to the area but must be escorted by a kennel worker.
The current use of the “ GREEN GATE” and a shelter worker allows safe supervision of
residents looking for lost animals. The protection of small children in the kennel areas is
vital. It would not be wise to allow the public free access to all areas. The current use of
the gate to separate the areas is justified and good policy.
Also behind the “ GREEN GATE” is an open reception area where animal control trucks
unload animals needing to be processed. On occasion an aggressive animal does get loose
from Animal Control Officers.
Animal control is a social problem and is a much larger problem than most people
realize. If all pet owners were responsible, took care of their pets, kept the animals under
control, vaccinated, and licensed the problem would be solved. Fifty percent of the
animals turned in at the shelter are turned in by owners.
For the years of 1998 through 2004 Animal Control Services had a low of 21,732 and a
high of 37,744 calls per year. The percentage of animals redeemed ( by owner) fell within
2.93% and 4.28%. The percentage of animals euthanized fell between 73.5% and 90%.
To assist owners of lost animals the Animal Control Division now has an updated web
site. Animals that are ready for adoption are posted as are lost animals. The site may be
accessed at www. co. kern. ca. us/ acd/
COMMENTS:
The Board of Supervisors has requested a comprehensive review of the Animal Control
Division including administration, shelter operations, field operations, volunteer program,
educational programs, and public relations. The Request for Proposal ( RFP) was due on
March 15, 2005, with completion on or before June 30, 2005, if possible. The Kern
County Grand Jury and Animal Control Division agree with the actions of the Board of
Supervisors in regards to the review of the agency.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. Install a concrete pad with a roof for the feeding of large animals in the corrals.
2. Provide the needed Director of Volunteer Services.
3. Remove the “ GREEN SLATS” from the gate thus giving the public the opportunity
to visually see what is behind the gate.
4. Continue Public Relation programs that show the positive side of the Animal Control
Division.
5. Continue educating the public on being responsible pet owners stressing
training, the reasons for vaccinations, importance of spay and neutering, and
licensing.
6. Plant sod and maintain the area that is used for prospective animal adopters to interact
with animals.
7. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that Animal Control Division
post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it will be available for
public reviewing.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be
accessed at the Kern County Library and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED:
WITHIN 90 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301
Kern County Board of Supervisors
Response to Grand Jury Final Report
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SERVICES
ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION
Response to Findings:
The Board of Supervisors notes that the findings are substantially correct.
Response to Recommendations:
The Board of Supervisors thanks the Grand Jury for reviewing the operations of the Animal Control
Division. The Board of Supervisors directed that a consultant specializing in animal control operations
and facilities be secured to provide an intensive review of the Animal Control Division. This consultant
is now under contract with the County and the Grand Jury’s report will be provided to the consultant and
the Grand Jury’s recommendations will be considered for implementation.
POLGJANIMALB
KERN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF
CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Administration and Audit Committee met with the Kern County Department of Child
Support Services on September 14, 2004, to discuss the newspaper article appearing in
The Bakersfield Californian on September 9, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code 925.
PROCESS:
The Committee met with the Director, Child Support Services and the Chief Attorney,
Child Support Services, to discuss the report completed by the California Performance
Review report released in August 2004.
BACKGROUND:
The article in the Bakersfield Californian dated September 9, 2004, indicated that Kern
County was one of the state’s worst- performing counties and it was suggested that a
private company take over the child support operations. The California Performance
Review report indicated that Kern County ranked fourth worst out of California’s 58
counties.
Kern County was one of seven counties singled out as performing below minimum
federal standards. This would result in a loss of monies to the State from the Federal
programs. The newspaper article also indicated the possibility of the loss of employment
for the Child Support staff.
FINDINGS:
The Director and Chief Attorney advised that the information used to complete the
performance report was based on figures from 2001 data. Information as of 2003
indicates an average collection of approximately 47% of total cases in Kern County.
At the time the Child Support Services separated from the District Attorney’s office in
December 2001, the percentage was approximately 34% being collected.
The Federal average is approximately 45% collections and the State is approximately
47% collection of child support.
Kern County has had a change in philosophy since becoming independent from the
District Attorney’s Office. The majority of collection is done by wage assignment for
which they can collect up to 50% of the earnings of an absent parent.
Presently, Kern County is collecting approximately $ 70-$ 72 million and ranks nine to ten
in the State. Department of Human Services cases include 26 % to 30% of the total cases
being processed by Child Support Services.
In regards to the Performance report including Kern in the worst collecting category
along with Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Riverside, and Yuba
counties, management pointed out that each of these counties have a large migrant
population making collection difficult.
Child Support Services does not purge cases from their statistics. Cases remain active.
There is no mechanism in place for those who might be considered “ uncollectible”. Also,
bankruptcy does not include elimination of child support payments.
The Kern County Child Support Services employ approximately 285 people including
120 Family Support officers, seven attorneys, and four Paralegals. There are
approximately 55,000 cases with each Family Support officer having a caseload of
approximately 1,400.
Kern County Child Support has been instrumental in completing a program called KIDZ,
a case management and accounting system, accomplished with federal and state funds
and used by several other counties. These include Imperial, Ventura, Kern, Stanislaus,
Yolo, Yuba, Placer, Mendocino, and Butte counties.
As of September 2004 improvements to the Kern County system have been great.
Management advises that Kern County compares very well to other large counties.
Management has recently implemented a Job Source Center in the lobby where a person
ordered to pay child support but unemployed can obtain help. The Director indicated this
has been very successful. There are approximately 500 visits per month to this office.
Management also pointed out a video teleconferencing system used by the Department
enabling the Family Support officers to immediately interview an applicant applying at
the Department of Human Services via teleconferencing.
The telephone receptionists receive approximately 500 calls a day with approximately a
three minute wait.
Child Support Services repays costs to the County providing public assistance in the
amount of approximately $ 2 to $ 3 million a year. Other monies go to the State and
Federal governments.
In regards to the privatization of Child Support management advised that some states
have transferred to that system. Information was provided indicating that that had not
been successful. The State does not reward counties for reaching recommended goals as
would be required with private companies.
The Director advised that although the State administers costs to Child Support, this
agency has not cut their budget. The Director is proud of the fact that this agency has
done well in managing the budget for the department.
COMMENTS:
The Committee was impressed with the progress that has been made in the past three
years with the collection of child support improving to approximately 47%, slightly
above that of the Federal standards.
The negative report published in The Bakersfield Californian gave the wrong impression
of the accomplishments of this agency and the employees.
The Job Resource Room located in the lobby provides excellent opportunity for an
individual to obtain employment information. The teleconferencing program saves staff
costs by providing access to clients at the Department of Human Services rather than
having to send staff to each office.
Management and staff should be commended for the excellent work being done both on
behalf of the children in Kern County and the County itself. Employees are providing an
excellent service to the community.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. The Child Support Services department involved should post a copy of this report
where it would be available for public reviewing.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be
accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
NO RESPONSE REQUIRED
Kern County Board of Supervisors
Response to Grand Jury Final Report
KERN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES
Response to Findings:
The Board of Supervisors notes that the findings are substantially correct.
Response to Recommendations:
The Grand Jury's report will be posted as requested.
POLGJCSS
KERN COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
SERVICES
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
Pursuant to Penal Code sections 925 and 933, the Administration and Audit Committee
of the 2004- 2005 Grand Jury selected the Kern County Emergency Management Services
as one of the County Departments for oversight review this year.
PROCESS:
The Administration and Audit Committee members initiated the inquiry by interviewing
the Kern County Fire Department Chief ( Director of Emergency Management Services),
and a portion of the Emergency Management staff.
BACKGROUND:
In 1990 an Emergency Management budget was established to separately identify and
account for the resources necessary to operate the Emergency Services function of the
General Services Division of the County Administrative office. Emergency Management
Services is responsible for countywide emergency services planning and disaster
preparedness including public information and education.
Kern County is the third largest county, in area, in the State with a population of 724,883
as of January 1, 2004. It covers a variety of climates and terrain varying from high desert
and wildlands to urban areas. This variety of climates and terrain and the presence of
known faults running through the County results in possible occurrences of many types
of natural disasters. In addition to these natural disasters technological and man made
disasters must be considered possible. The diverse population of the County with the
many spoken languages must be considered when dealing with disasters be they natural
or man made.
In the spring of 2001 the County Administrative Officer upon receipt of a proposal from
the County Fire Department recommended to the Board of Supervisors that the
Emergency Services function, responsibility, and resources be transferred to the Fire
Department. This recommendation was approved by the Board in July 2001.
The approval of the transfer allows the County to capitalize on the Fire Department’s
professional and technical expertise in planning and emergency preparedness and
response.
In the aftermath of terrorist attacks on America on September 11, 2001, the Kern County
Emergency Services Division has intensified their efforts to prepare the County to meet
any eventual disaster and increase public awareness of security measures and terrorism
preparedness.
FINDINGS:
Subsequent to the preliminary meeting with the Fire Department, the Grand Jury was
advised that Emergency Management Services would be conducting a Weapons of Mass
Destruction ( WMD) Full Scale Exercise ( FSE) and were invited to attend this exercise as
observers. The goal of this exercise was to improve the County’s capabilities to respond
to a Weapons of Mass Destruction event.
Preliminary information revealed that the exercise would have eleven field sites. Grand
Jury members were assigned to all but one of these sites. A preliminary briefing was
held at the Kern County Department of Public Health conference room and members of
the Grand Jury observing the exercise attended this meeting. Grand Jury Observers were
required to meet at assigned sites prior to 8: 00 am on the day of the exercise and be
prepared to stay for the duration of the exercise, which was expected to end at noon.
Following the end of the exercise a debriefing was held and Grand Jurors were advised
that comments would be welcomed. These comments were subsequently forwarded to
the Kern County Fire Chief.
On the Thursday following the exercise the Grand Jury was invited by the Kern County
Fire Department to view equipment provided by the Department of Homeland Security at
the Fire Department’s Headquarters. Contacts and interviews were made with the
following agency personnel at the exercise and equipment viewing:
Kern County Fire Department Kern County Sheriff
Kern County Administrative Offices Kern County Waste Management
Kern County District Engineer Kern County Mental Health
Kern County Public Health Kern County Counsel
Kern County Emergency Medical Services Kern County Roads Department
Kern County Human Services Kern Medical Center
Kern County Parks and Recreation Kern County Purchasing
Bakersfield City Manager Bakersfield City Fire Department
Bakersfield City Police Department
State of California Office of Emergency Services
Naval Air Weapons Station, China Lake
Hall Ambulance
Salvation Army
American Red Cross
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services
Additional interviews were held with the Kern County Fire Chief, a Deputy Chief, the
Emergency Services Manager, and the Kern County Administrative Officer.
COMMENTS:
The Kern County Fire Department has made large strides in restructuring the Emergency
Management operations since the transfer of authority from General Services Department
and is to be commended for all efforts in providing the County with a capable and
experienced Emergency Management Department.
All the information received indicates the transition from the Kern County General
Services Division to the Kern County Fire Department was performed in a timely
manner with very little disruption of any local services. The transfer has resulted in
increased capabilities for handling emergencies of all types.
It was noted that that there was no involvement by any of the communities located in the
Eastern part of Kern County in the emergency exercise. Additionally there was no
representation by the Superintendent of Kern County Schools.
The Fire Department is also to be commended for the preparation of the many pamphlets
relating to disasters and emergencies that have been distributed throughout the County.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
· An effort to find a permanent site for the Emergency Operations Center should
continue to be made as funds become available.
· The training programs and emergency management exercises must be continued
to provide the necessary expertise for all concerned with emergencies of any
type.
· An unplanned emergency drill should be conducted at some time in the future to
evaluate reactions of various participating agencies.
· The Kern County Fire Department and Kern County Board of Supervisors
should post a copy of this report where it would be available for public
reviewing.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses
Can be accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED
WITHIN 90 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301
MISSION STATEMENT
CITIES AND JOINT POWERS COMMITTEE
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee visited each of the eleven incorporated Cities of
Kern County in an effort to provide innovative ways to provide growth and prosperity
and to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
The Committee’s efforts were devoted to providing an outsider review of the operations
and the administrative and fiscal management of the Cities’ affairs. Recommendations
were thoroughly evaluated to insure the recommendations would not only be beneficial,
but worth the effort put forth by the Cities in implementing them.
Each of the Cities face unique challenges but each has shown a sense of unity in meeting
the challenges. However, population growth seemed to be the topic of each visit, and
created concern about housing development, streets and roads, police and fire protection,
crime, etc.
The majority of the Cities visited have been hampered in achieving set goals due to State
shortfalls in funding. With continuing funding problems, Cities have had to lay off staff,
reduce services, and rework plans for the future.
It was a rewarding experience to visit each of the Cities and get a first hand view of the
operations and how the Cities are meeting the challenges that are being faced.
The eleven incorporated Cities visited this year are:
Arvin Ridgecrest
Bakersfield Taft
Delano Tehachapi
Maricopa Wasco
McFarland Shafter
City of California City
CITY OF ARVIN
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury
visited the City of Arvin on March 22, 2005, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a.
PROCESS:
Members of the Committee met with a number of administrative staff and the Arvin
Police Chief. The Committee also read numerous newspaper articles, minutes, agendas,
and financial reports.
BACKGROUND:
The sleepy little City of Arvin sits nestled in the foothills southeast of Bakersfield. The
City has been in existence for many years but was incorporated in 1960 as a General Law
City. Arvin is an agricultural area with two well known farms, Grimmway and Humbolt
located in the City.
Arvin was named after an early pioneer, Arvin Richardson. Richardson lived in a home
near DiGiorgio Park. One of Arvin’s well known claims to fame is the fact that the City
sits on the White Wolf Grade earthquake fault. After the tremendous earthquake of 1952
the foothills east of Arvin shifted at least three feet, straight up! Arvin is also known for
almost being buried in dust during the infamous dust storm of December 1977. Pictures
of Arvin under the miles high dust cloud were shown throughout the world.
FINDINGS:
Arvin has been in a state of flux for a number of years. Controversy has dogged the
political scene and members of the City Council. The citizens finally spoke and a new
Mayor and two new Council members are in place. The new Council members and the
Mayor are still becoming acclimated to the highly charged atmosphere left behind.
The Mayor receives a stipend of $ 900.00 per month for doing the Mayor’s job. The
Council members are eligible for $ 300.00 per month. The Mayor is considered a Council
Member also and could collect the extra $ 300.00 on top of the $ 900.00. However, the
new Mayor has opted not to do so. The Council members and the Mayor also receive a
$ 150.00 allowance for electronics upkeep; cell phones, phone pagers, computers, etc.
The Council members also receive as part of the job a $ 3,000.00 stipend to spend on
computers, cell phones, pagers, and such needed for the job. The items go with the
Council members when the term is up, usually a four year term. Each Council member is
allowed a $ 95.00 per diem per day for use of private vehicles for working trips around
the County and out. Mileage is provided also. All trips are to be cleared ahead of time.
Even though the above mentioned compensation package is permissible by law it seems
excessive when comparing the package to other cities such as the City of Bakersfield
whose council members are compensated only $ 100.00 per month plus a small stipend
for mileage.
The Police Chief was interim Police Chief for 1 ½ years before becoming full time Police
Chief. The Police Chief is still bucking controversy from the Police union but hopes
better working relations will soon be established. The Chief is looking to putting
together a possible Police Commission Advisory Group to work along side of law
enforcement. Another option for better relations to be established is to have one person
put in place as a News Media Spokesperson for the Police Department and the City.
Having a person in place as a liaison would eliminate misunderstandings cropping up in
newscasts. The Police Chief is open to suggestions on how to better the City and Police
Department.
The City is currently in compliance with State laws as per the California Water
Regulatory Board guidelines. The City receives water from the Arvin Community
Service District, a separate entity from the City. Down the road more room will be
needed for wastewater disposal and the City is working on a plan to address the problem.
More land may become available soon and a company is already coming along side to
take the wastewater problem and run with it.
Arvin citizens and management realize the need for having a full time Code Enforcement
person in place. Hopefully the need will be addressed very soon. Having a full time
Code Enforcement person will help in areas not in compliance under City code. Carports
thrown together and not permitted, cars parked up on lawns, garbage cans knocked over
and garbage strewn about, etc. must be addressed soon in order for the City to be in
compliance and for the overall aesthetic look of the City. So many new areas of
construction are being built and the areas not up to code look very tacky and are seen as a
blight on the City.
New construction of affordable housing is moving right along. Beautiful homes in the
2,000- 2,400 sq. ft. area are being built South and East of town. The homes are in the
affordable price range of $ 150,000.00 - $ 200,000.00. Homes like the homes mentioned
would sell for up to $ 300,000 or more in the Bakersfield City area. People are moving in
from the Ventura/ Oxnard area and the Moorpark area quite rapidly. It only makes sense
to sell a small home in the L. A. area and move to Arvin to a much better quality of home
and atmosphere and still be able to put money away. The commute for people still
working in L. A. is not that bad considering the perks of living in the town of Arvin away
from the hustle and bustle of L. A.
A review of the financial picture for the City of Arvin reveals some rather disturbing
trends. For example, the general fund ending balance on June 20, 2003 was
$ 1,678,491.00. On June 30, 2004, the balance in the fund was $ 1,024,522.00 which
represents a 39% decrease. The projected balance in the fund for June 30, 2005, is
$ 540,012.00 which translates into an additional 53% decrease! Not included in the
current year budget, however, is an expected payment of approximately $ 300,000.00 in
vehicle license fees, of which the City just recently became aware. If the revenue
materializes, it certainly would be a welcome relief. Without the revenue, however, the
total City budget ( inclusive of all funds) reveals deficit spending in the amount of
$ 726,330.00 for the current year.
COMMENTS:
As a result of State shortfalls in funding levels cities have continued to suffer financially.
Tough financial decisions have had to be made to accommodate the unfortunate
circumstances. It appears, however, that in Arvin’s case the budget adjustments that may
have been made did not cut the flow of red ink as the resources have continued to shrink
substantially at least over the past two years.
Arvin is commended for continuing to move forward and leaving the past where the past
belongs.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. An in- depth analysis of revenues and expenditures of all funds should be made to
determine what actions need to be taken to stem the tide of deficit spending in
Arvin’s City Budget.
2. Arvin should continue to pursue governmental grants wherever possible to
maintain an adequate revenue base which will allow the City to remain afloat.
3. In lieu of the City’s financial situation, the Arvin City council members should
seriously reconsider the decision of setting the compensation package to the
maximum as allowed by law. Reconsidering the decision would show that the
council members have the City at heart and are not in office for personal gain.
4. Arvin should designate one person to be a public relations spokesperson. Having
a spokesperson would allow the City to speak with one voice so as to eliminate
conflicting statements regarding City affairs.
5. The City should actively pursue a Police Commission Advisory Group to work
along side of law enforcement.
6. The City should hire a full time Code Enforcement person as soon as possible in
order to keep code enforcement up to date.
7. Arvin City officials and staff should continue to keep a positive attitude and a
positive front to the community. Arvin has much to offer and the more positive
picture put forth to the public the better.
8. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Arvin post
a copy of this report and response as required where it will be available for public
review.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury reports and responses can be
accessed at the County Libraries and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED
RESPOND WITHIN 60 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301
July 19, 2005
Honorable Lee P. Felice
Presiding Judge
Kern County Superior Court
1415 Truxton Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Re Official Response to Grand Jury Report on the City of Arvin
Honorable Judge Felice;
Please thank the Grand Jury and Staff for taking time to visit our City and to report
on their visit. I am pleased that their visit was pleasant and that they were treated in a
professional manner by our administrative and management team. It
is clear from the report that our City via the new elected officials and management
team is making progress to insure that the City is run in an efficient manner and that
clarity and open government is present in the City of Arvin. We expect major growth
in the City and it is imperative that professional administration is responsive to the
needs of the new and current residents of our great City of Arvin.
I want to clarify some facts and bring to your attention some statements that need
revision in order to enhance the quality of the report that has been written by the
Grand Jury about our City. It is our intention to work with the Grand Jury and to
have an open door policy for all external entities that may want to learn more about
the workings of our City government.
First, I was made aware that we have 48 hours to make correction upon receipt of the
preliminary report and before it is made public. However, I have reviewed the initial
notification correspondence to our City Manager and there is no information
regarding this option. If we had been notified of this option the City could have
provided additional or updated information that would clarify any misunderstandings
and erroneous statements from appearing in a final report.
Our finance Director, David Powell, provided all the information he was requested
but since he was not told what the Grand Jury was looking for he did not go further
than to provide the requested information. I am confident he and the City Manager
would have suggested and delivered additional information to clarify some of the
misunderstandings regarding our financial situation and other matters covered in the
Grand Jury Report if they had been made aware what the Grand Jury's goal was
regarding specific financial matters.
Page 2
Grand Jury Response
Additionally, I suggest that copies of the Grand Jury be individually addressed to
the Mayor and Council Members. If we are to be individually held liable for
responding to its content, then we should be individually notified. I am aware
that correspondence to our City Clerk can be considered legal notification to the
City but I think it would be a courtesy.
The first example of this is that the current City Manager, Enrique Medina Ochoa,
upon taking office made an administrative decision to lower the daily stipend to
$ 50 from the $ 95 approved by the previous City Manager/ City Attorney, Arnoldo
Beltran. The current policy provides for a travel stipend for travel outside of the
City of Arvin of $ 10.00 for breakfast, $ 15.00 for lunch and $ 25.00 for dinner.
Parking and other fees that are expended by the City traveler are reimbursed upon
presentation of appropriate receipts.
Second, the City of Bakersfield compensation is erroneously stated in the report
and should not be compared to Arvin since the size of the Cities are considerably
different and the time required of elected officials is without the aide of assigned
support staff in the City of Arvin. The Mayor of Bakersfield receives $ 2,000.00
per month and receives a Council stipend of $ 100.00 per month since he is a
member of the Council. The Council Members and the Mayor in Bakersfield get
at $ 433.00 car allowance and there is no car allowance provided to elected
officials in Arvin.
The City of Arvin Mayor receives $ 900.00 per month per state statute and
adopted resolution. As a Council Member he is also entitled to an additional
$ 300.00 but he had not opted not to take that benefit. All other Council Members
do receive that amount.
Third, the Police Chief was Interim Chief for ½ year from January to June of
2004 prior to be appointed Police Chief. The City will work to insure that only
one person officially speaks for the City and the Police Department.
Financially the City is now working with a balanced budget. The City of Arvin
had a $ 600K plus deficit when the current City Manager and Financial Director
were initially employed in May of 2003. The following year of 2004 the budget
deficit was reduced to $ 400K plus. In 2005, via cost saving measures such as
employment lay- offs, frugal spending, and vacancy savings while conjunctively
seeking external funds, we expected a $ 200,000 plus deficit. However, the City
solicited and received various grants and greater tax receipts then projected and
this FY20004- 05 the financial numbers reflect revenues exceeding expenses by
approximately $ 50,000. This means that the General Fund has a balance on June
30, 2005 of well over One Million Dollars. The budget is balanced and the City of
Arvin is no longer operating under a deficit mode.
Page 3
Grand Jury Response
The following will address the recommendations individually.
1. This fiscal year the City of Arvin will have a balanced budget with no deficit.
The City administration will continue to take actions to stem the tide of deficit
spending.
2. Arvin continues to pursue external funding sources. The current administration
has revived the Arvin Redevelopment Agency. The agency is pursuing funds via
bonds or notes that will supplement programs that will enhance the economic
and aesthetic vitality of the City.
Page 3
Grand Jury Report Response
3. No Council Member is taking advantage of all the benefits provided for salary
and support services. The current Council Members do not seem to have personal
gain in mind.
4. Arvin will dedicate a media spokesperson to deal with public relations matters.
At this time the Mayor and City Manager are the primary media representatives.
5. Arvin will pursue the selection of a Police Commission Advisory Group. The
City will be hosting a Neighborhood Academy for Leadership and this will lead
to the identification and training of potential advisory members who can serve on
cities advisory organizations.
6. The City will pursue the hiring of a Code Enforcement Officer. A firm has also
been recommended by one of the Council Members to this work at no cost to the
City. The management team of the City is currently looking at this possibility.
7. Arvin City Officials will promote a positive image for the City based on internal
efforts to educate all employees regarding the bright future of the City.
8. The City of Arvin will post a copy of this report for public viewing.
Please feel to call me or our administrative staff to update or clarify any
questions regarding the management of our great City of Arvin.
CITY OF BAKERSFIELD
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury began
City of Bakersfield visits on September 30, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code 925. a.
Subsequent visits with different department heads were arranged during the remaining
months of 2004 into 2005.
PROCESS:
Members of the Committee met with several members of the City Staff on the first visit
held. After determining that the Committee wished to make an in- depth report on
Bakersfield this year, the Committee set up a number of meetings with department heads,
the Mayor, and a City Council member. The Committee also perused budget reports,
agenda and meeting minutes, Grand Jury reports from previous years, and a number of
newspaper articles generated throughout the year.
BACKGROUND:
There but for a major flood Bakersfield could have been known as “ Bohnasfield” or even
“ Woodysfield”. The first permanent home, built at 24th and P streets in what was then
known as Kern Island, was built in 1860 by Christian Bohna. Mr. Bohna was a corn
farmer and used to average 110 bushels of corn per acre. One of the daughters married
Dr. Sparrell Woody in 1861 and the families combined their efforts in the corn business.
A major flooding occurred in 1863 that resulted in major damage to the corn crops but
left the home still standing. A discouraged Christian Bohna sold the property to a
stranger in town, Colonel Thomas Baker, for the sum of $ 200.00. The Woody family
moved up the hill to the Linn’s Valley/ Glennville area and the Bohna family left for
Oregon. Colonel Baker was very accommodating to visitors coming through the valley
and allowed them to rest their wagons and animals in Baker’s fields, thus the name
change from Kern Island to Bakersfield.
The City was first incorporated in 1873. Three years later the town dis- incorporated. In
1898 the City again incorporated and in 1910 the City of Kern, formerly the Town of
Sumner ( now known as East Bakersfield/ Old Town Kern), annexed to the City of
Bakersfield. The City of Bakersfield is a Charter City, one of two in Kern County. Other
little known facts about Bakersfield: the City colors are blue and gold; the City bird is the
Western Robin; the City flower is the Miss Bakersfield Camellia. The City of
Bakersfield has two Sister Cities in Japan and now one in Mexico.
FINDINGS:
The City of Bakersfield has a population of over 221,000 people and covers more than
110 square miles. Needless to say the potholes and street problems are still first and
foremost in many citizen’s minds. According to the Roads Department the City is doing
the best job possible with the resources available. Possibly the new name change for the
former “ Centennial Garden”, now known as “ Rabobank Arena”, and the monies acquired
during the name change will generate the impetus for major road repairs to take place.
As any city knows the wheels of progress tend to grind slowly. Bakersfield has set in
motion the process that will no longer allow the State to take Vehicle License Fees ( VLF)
in the coming years. The VLF will help tremendously in assuring more road repair in
future years. The City and the County are trying to come together on a plan for voting in
a ½ cent tax increase to be used exclusively for roads in the City and County. Sometimes
the citizens of a city must tighten the belt and look forward not just look at the here and
now!
Code enforcement is a very important part of keeping the City looking good and keeping
the City clean. It has been a real challenge for the City as budget restraints in the past
few years narrowed the Code Enforcement Officers down to a number lower than
optimum for proper enforcement. The number of Officers is now going up so the process
of code enforcement should be back on track soon. Along with code enforcement is the
other side of the coin, planning enforcement. The Planning Department is also stretched
thin at this time but appears to be on the mend. One of the things the City needs is a code
enforcer to go through the City on a regular basis and check out the street light situation.
This has not been done on a regular basis for awhile now.
The City has a General Plan, actually a 20 Year Plan, and updates the plan annually.
Because the City keeps on top of this 20 Year Plan City growth is taking place at a proper
rate and as planned. According to Grand Jury sources over 150 new businesses have
come into the City over the last four years. A wonderful new Town Center Shopping
area is planned at 24th and “ M” streets as well as a great walkable part of the City located
at 21st and “ R” streets. Downtown continues to become more people and business
friendly. “ Old Town Kern” ( the east- side of the City) has a beautification program going
on and the citizens on the east side of town are making vast inroads towards this end.
The pride of the City is showing in all different areas of the City of Bakersfield.
The policy of the City is not to control population growth. Instead, the City responds to
such growth in whatever way is deemed necessary for the health and safety of the
citizens. In order to provide adequate schooling, school officials consult with developers
in the area to seek the purchase of land for schools needed in the future.
Bakersfield is experiencing a growth of approximately 13,000 people per year. Building
permits in the City have gone from 5,000 to 6,000 per year to 11,000 this past year. The
down side of this rosy picture is the contractors are so busy with construction that it is
difficult to find local contractors to bid on new construction. A $ 50- 60 million dollar
expansion of the west- side sewage treatment plant will take approximately 14 months to
implement and four years to build. Part of the 20 Year Plan includes an agriculture
policy in which ways of removing existing agricultural land is compatible with the
continued growth of agricultural crops elsewhere.
Traffic congestion is a definite problem on City streets. Some of the roads in the City are
State roads, such as Rosedale Highway. This poses a problem as it is up to the State to
widen or correct problems on State Highways. It may seem as if the City Fathers don’t
pay attention to the problems at hand. Not true! Hands are tied and the City must bow to
State mandates on many of the issues confronting City motorists. Funding problems arise
from the same issue. The State must allocate State funds in order for State roads to be
upgraded. The City receives funding from an allocation of sales tax revenue, gas tax
receipts, and federal funds for certain projects. The funds may be used for the
maintenance of streets and roads if so deemed.
Fire and police protection is always on the minds of the City. The funds needed for
hiring more officers and fireman may come from the new monies received from the
“ Rabobank Arena” name change. However, the City Council must make educated
decisions after all the needs of the City are laid out before the Council. It is not an easy
call to know just where to jump “ when the flames are licking at your backside!” The
desired ratio for police officers is 1.3 for every 1,000 people. Currently the staffing ratio
is 1.17.
Another hot topic is neighborhood swimming pools. As much as the citizens of
Bakersfield would like to keep things as they used to be it is time to realize that life styles
have changed. Many more private homes have pools and spas which equates to less of
the population using neighborhood pools. If the pool is not used to the optimum the City
loses money. The new McMurtrey Center is a great asset to the City but does not meet
all the needs of the lower and middle- class citizen. Price structure must be re- addressed
and people friendly hours set. As with any new entity trial and error will be needed to
find the right fit. It must be remembered the pool is here for the people, not to raise
money for the City. Like many amenities in the City revenue is not always the first
priority. Citizen’s needs are first and foremost!
It should be known that red light cameras were not put in place for City revenue. The
City receives very little of the overall price of a ticket for running a red light.
Approximately $ 18.00 - $ 40.00 is all the City receives. The rest of the monies go to the
company Red Flex, for maintenance and to the courts for processing. The red light
cameras are put in place because of safety issues. As the City continues to grow and the
population continues to explode, more and more people are on the road. More and more
people equate to more and more red light runners. Sit on any busy street corner in the
City and watch the drivers try to beat the light. Red light running is a great source of
concern for all citizens of the City. The citizens of Bakersfield need to slow down and
live a better life. The school zone signs posted for slowing traffic are constantly being
ignored. Children and adults are at peril. Remember traffic rules are for all of the
people, not just a chosen few.
One of Bakersfield’s biggest problems is not having a seat on LAFCO ( Local Agency
Formation Commission). Having a seat on LAFCO makes sense as Bakersfield is the
most populated city of the 11 incorporated cities in the County and has not yet been given
a seat on the LAFCO board. The problem should be addressed as soon as possible. When
addressing growth, development, and annexation, Bakersfield is left “ hanging out to dry”,
so to speak. The City still has many small “ islands” within the City not annexed. This is
not good for the overall growth of the City but until the citizens of the “ islands” agree to
incorporation the “ islands” will exist. Bakersfield also needs more than one seat on Kern
COG ( Kern Council of Governments) as a Joint Powers Committee is very important to
local government.
During the “ good times” when the stock market was at an all time high, the City elected
to substantially improve the pension program for employees. In doing so, however, the
City failed to take into account that a drop in the market was always a possibility and that
to proceed with caution is always prudent. When the market did drop, the City was stuck
with pension costs the City could ill afford.
The City’s Worker’s Compensation program is self- funded. After a recent actuarial
study was performed, it was discovered that the fund was $ 8.6 million dollars under-funded.
The funds to provide for the costs, along with the pension fund increase and the
State revenue shortfall, created havoc on the City’s General Fund Budget.
Overall the Cities and Joint Powers Committee commends the City Staff and City
Council for working hard to serve the City of Bakersfield’s citizens in the best possible
way.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. The City and County of Kern need to make Code Enforcement Laws seamless.
This would enable future annexation to become a very simple process. Code
Enforcement positions should also be increased.
2. The City should publish a new planning map showing Bakersfield’s growth each
year. This map should be in a place easily accessible to citizens of the City.
3. The City should follow through on the plan to hold an election to levy a ½ cent
sales tax increase to generate revenue for the improvement of streets and roads.
To be successful with this election however, the City must assure the citizens that
the money generated will be used strictly for the purpose for which it is raised and
then make sure that the money generated is used properly. NOTE: If the tax is
not passed the City cannot receive matching funds or State grants. A Citizen
Oversight Committee is strongly recommended.
4. With ever increasing population growth it is imperative that a constant monitoring
of the City’s infrastructure be maintained. Water supply, sewage disposal
systems, and the construction of streets and roads are just a few of the needed
services that must be maintained. If basic tax revenues prove to be inadequate,
then the levy of impact fees on new construction, etc. may need to be revised
upwards.
5. The City’s pension costs for employees is extremely costly. Employees are now
able to retire at a fairly young age and receive full retirement benefits and then
many seek employment from another employer to double the employee’s income.
The City should revisit the pension plan and make revisions that will lessen the
burden on taxpayers and bring the pension program more in line with other public
agencies and private entities.
6. An actuarial study of the Worker’s Compensation Fund revealed an $ 8.6 million
dollar shortfall. The General Fund is obligated to meet the obligation in as much
as the City is self- insured. Such a large shortfall seems to justify that the City
review the claim process with the goal being to verify the legitimacy of each
claim. Also, it seems prudent to review each accident to insure that the City’s
safety program is adequate and is being adhered to as planned.
7. As a result of State revenue shortfalls several staff positions were vacated during
the past year. Due to the instability of State revenues each individual department
of the City should make an ongoing analysis of expenditures in hopes of reducing
costs. Doing the analysis would insure that employee layoffs would only take
place as a last resort.
8. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Bakersfield
post a copy of this report and response as required where it will be available for
public review.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury reports and responses can be
accessed at the County Libraries and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED
WITHIN 60 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301
Board of Supervisors
Response to Grand Jury
CITY OF BAKERSFIELD, CITY OF CALIFORNIA CITY,
CITY OF RIDGECREST
RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATIONS
City of Bakersfield
The City and the County work closely together to promote consistency in building standards, road
construction, and land use. Code enforcement is among the areas on which the City and the
County confer.
City of California City
With the transfer of all court related functions to the State, the County no longer determines the
location of court facilities. The County is in negotiations with the State Administrative Office of
the Courts on the transfer of existing court facilities to the State. The State is responsible for
locating, funding, and constructing future court facilities.
The Public Health Department has in the past held child health and immunization clinics in
California City. These clinics are no longer scheduled because of a lack of attendance from the
community. For example, at the last immunization clinic, only one person attended; at the last
child health clinic, there was zero attendance. Flu vaccination clinics are, however, well attended
and are held annually, with the exception of last year due to the vaccine shortage.
Urgent care clinics throughout the County are provided by either for- profit or non- profit entities.
The rationale for recommending that the County establish a highway maintenance yard is
unknown. However, should the County determine the need for an additional yard in the East
Kern area, California City would be considered.
Public Resources Code § 40057 provides that each jurisdiction ( city, county) is responsible for
managing the waste generated by its citizens. The County assists all cities with solid waste
disposal by providing a system of disposal sites throughout the County. The Mojave- Rosamond
sanitary landfill is located 19 miles from California City, a distance no greater than the distance
for Bakersfield residents to travel, or the cities of Arvin, Delano, Maricopa, and McFarland. The
County also provides hazardous household waste ( HHW) disposal services and has established a
permanent HHW facility at the Mojave Airport.
The Arts Council of Kern is a non- profit organization that is not affiliated with County
government.
City of Ridgecrest
The teen court program is administered and operated by a non- profit organization with privately
secured funds ( donations). Unfortunately, the Ridgecrest program was unable to achieve the level
of donations needed to operate an effective teen court program.
POLGJClTIESB
CITY OF CALIFORNIA CITY
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury
visited the City of California City, on February 1, 2005, pursuant to Penal Code Section
925. a.
PROCESS:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee met with the new City Manager and numerous
other members of the City Staff. The Committee also reviewed current and past City
minutes and agendas, previous Grand Jury reports, budgets, and newspaper articles
relating to the City of California City before visiting the City. The Cities and Joint
Powers Committee was treated to an extensive tour around a large area of California
City. The tour was led by the Human Resource Manager and the City Clerk. It opened
the eyes of the Committee to the great strides the City has made since the last visit and
the needs still not being met.
BACKGROUND:
Starting as a dream of a developer in 1958 and incorporated as a General Law city in
1965, California City is the third largest city in land area in California. Encompassing a
204 square mile area of land the City has growth potential for many years to come. The
City has approximately 11,400 people calling California City home. There is a large
prison in the City which houses mostly illegal aliens awaiting deportment. The Prison
serves as a large job base for the City.
California City was once part of the original 165 miles of the Twenty Mule Team Trail in
the 1880’ s. This trail cut through the desert from Death Valley to Mojave allowing the
hauling of loads of borax to the railhead. From there the borax and other goods were
distributed throughout the country.
Many outdoor activities are available to those who seek adventure. Fishing, hunting,
rafting, and more is available just minutes away in the surrounding mountains and
streams. Many enthusiasts come from miles away to participate in the skydiving and
glider rides offered at the City airport. Many others come for the hot air balloon festival
and small plane adventures.
Every long weekend, Thanksgiving in particular, you will find as many as 65,000 off-roaders
converging on the City of California City. The area is off- road friendly and in
fact the Police Department and the Fire Department have set up a special task force to
address this issue. The Command Center is set up at Borax Bill Park on those weekends
out in the desert and the operation is called DIRT ( Desert Interactive Response Team).
Most of the members of this team make themselves available in case of accidents or in
case the off- roaders need directions or help in any way. As part of this task force the City
has safety vehicles including the Medi- vac helicopter available during these weekends.
Grants help fund this particular program for Fire Department paramedics and the like. It
would take an ambulance as much as 20- 40 minutes in response time but the helicopter
can reach these remote areas in a matter of a few minutes.
FINDINGS:
Hyundai has completed the test track in California City. In order to do this the company
was very specific as to the needs involved. The company had the City annex 29 acres
into the City where the company wanted the track built. The track is built under the high
speed corridor in restricted air space. This allows the company to test any of the new
concept cars without fear of overhead surveillance. In annexing this particular 29 acres
the City allowed a different 29 acres be reclaimed by the County. Therefore, the City of
California City still encompasses 204 square miles of land but with different borders.
The Hyundai facility will generate tax revenue for the City.
The Airport has been undergoing a large refurbishing over the past few years. Many new
businesses are now housed at the Airport since over four and one half million dollars
have been spent to make the Airport more business friendly. Over 6,000 feet of runway
has been resurfaced as well. The Medi- vac helicopter is now housed close to the Airport
rather than at the Fire Department due to noise complaints. The Airport now takes care
of housing light commercial and light industrial business. A complete fuel rehabilitation
has taken place bringing underground fuel tanks to the surface for easier access.
The City continues to build new senior housing projects to meet an ever- growing need.
A new 95 unit project has just been completed. There are approximately 400 senior units
now available and yet there is still a waiting list of over 60 people waiting for senior
housing. The senior housing meets most of the needs of a senior community. New sub-divisions
are going in at a rapid pace. An influx of people from as far away as Lancaster,
Palmdale, and Los Angeles is creating the need for upscale housing. Most homes being
built are in the $ 200- 220 thousand dollar range. Other more expensive homes are being
built also. A new motel is in the works for 2005 as well as a new processing plant being
built on 50 acres of industrial land. The City expects a 14 month build- out. A large
major chain grocery store is still a dream but due to continued growth and new housing
coming in, this dream is closer to being a reality.
The California City Fire Department has one fire station. Within five years there will be
a definite need for more than one station. The Air Ambulance ( Medi- vac) is averaging
33 transports a month which shows the need of this particular piece of equipment. The
helicopter is manned by paramedics. This helps cut crucial response time to bad
accidents and disasters. The Fire Department has three engines, 45 employees, 11 full
time, and the rest part time. This includes seven helicopter operators. The City also
employs a mutual aid agreement with the County and Mojave.
The Police force is increasing. At the moment there are twelve full time officers and two
more in training, soon to join the force. The department has four quad units, a four- wheel
drive Kia, an armored truck, and the DIRT team. The lack of County services in this part
of the county diminishes the ability of law enforcement to do its job properly. A branch
of Courts and juvenile facilities are greatly needed. Much down time is used transporting
juveniles and adults to other areas for booking, etc.
The City has a very unique way of getting necessary tax revenue voted in by the citizens
of the City. The City has a Citizens Advisory Committee that advises council on City
matters and this holds government accountable for its actions. The Citizens Committee
along with most of the City Staff and managers go door to door when a tax increase is up
for vote. The Citizens Committee also holds small group meetings explaining to citizens
attending exactly how the tax increase will be used. The Committee explains in simple,
understandable terms just what the City will do once the tax increase is approved. By
being a “ hands on” City, the citizens of California City have passed the last three tax
increases. The average citizen appreciates the fact that City government explains what is
needed and explains how the tax will be used, putting trust back in government. Many
other small city governments should take the same approach. Because of the tax revenues
being passed the City has had little impact from State budget cuts. The area most
affected by State budget cuts is the employment base. Public Works in particular is
affected. Both the Police Chief and the Fire Chief take turns on patrol. Normally this
would not be the case but both the Police Chief and the Fire Chief are “ hands on people”
and are not afraid to get down in the “ trenches.”
The Parks and Recreation Department is fully funded by special tax. There are programs
for youth, adults, and senior citizens. There is a sports center, a swimming pool ( lessons
are offered during the swim season), an adult volleyball league, a tech center for both
youth and adults, three parks, a golf course, a three hole putting green, and much more.
The golf course is lighted for night- time use as well. The Arts Council is up and running
but still needs a boost from the County in order to become the viable vibrant program the
City wants and needs.
The waste- water plant is being expanded. No traditional impact fees are collected by the
City. There again the special taxes collected take care of infrastructure and the like.
California City has over two hundred miles of roads to keep up and this is a huge
undertaking. New construction makes sure new streets are in place as well as sewer lines
and utility needs. The theft of street signs is still a problem and will be until all areas of
the City are more heavily populated.
The new high school is composed of modular buildings, at this time being staged on
private property just outside of airport property. When it all comes together this will be a
beautiful addition to the City and a much needed addition to the school system.
California City has an excellent “ can do” attitude that other cities could take to heart.
This “ can do” spirit is a very healthy way of taking care of business.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The County of Kern needs to address the lack of services not available in California City.
Some needed services are as follows:
1. A branch of Superior Court for both adults and juvenile offenders.
2. A branch of the Health Department.
3. An Urgent Care Clinic.
4. A highway maintenance yard.
5. A County Refuse system.
6. The County Arts Council should consider coming along side of the Arts
Council now in place for California City.
California City needs to continue pursuing a full time grant writer. The City uses grants
for a number of projects. Many hours are spent pursuing grants by many different people.
A full time grant writer would eliminate this problem.
A large unfinished concrete block building sits on property near the airport and has for
the last few years. The City needs to actively pursue all avenues necessary to bring in
another business or entity to complete this building and make it a viable place of business
for the airport property and the City.
California City should post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it would
be available for public reviewing.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be
accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED:
WITHIN 60 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301
" In God We Trust"
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor-
Larry Adams
Vice Mayor-
Bill Dempsey
Councilwoman-
Ginger Bailey
Councilman-
Mike Edmiston
Councilman-
Nicholas Lessenevitch
City Clerk-
Helen Dennis
City Treasurer-
Wendell Vining
City Manager-
Jack Stewart
April 14, 2005
Daniel L. Williams, Chairperson
Cities & Joint Powers Committee
Kern County Grand Jury
1415 Truxtun Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Re: Response to the Grand Jury Final Report, City of California City,
dated March 8, 2005
Dear Mr. Williams:
Enclosed please find the response to the Grand Jury Cities Committee on their
findings in California City. We appreciate the diligence of the Committee
members in their investigation while in our city, and welcome them back at
any time. There are some " fine- tuning" responses which we feel should
become part of the published report for 2005, and submit them accordingly.
Thank you again for taking the time to visit with us, and allow us to show you
our city.
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City
of California City, on February .1, 2005, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a.
FINDINGS:
Paragraph one:".. . . The company had the City annex 29 acres into the City where the company
wanted the track built…"
Response: The annexation was a decision made by the City with the concurrence of the Board of
Supervisors and the Local Agency Formation Commission ( LAFCO), because of the opportunities
that were being communicated to the city from outside sources who were interested in locating
within city limits, but close to Hwy. 58. The City actually annexed 29 Sections of land, of which
Hyundai requested seven of the sections to build their facility. In turn the city released 29 Sections of
land back to Kern County.
Paragraph Two: ". .. A complete fuel rehabilitation has taken place bringing underground fuel tanks
to the surface for easier access.
Response: The report may wish to read " A complete rehabilitation of the Airport Fuel Farm will
take place this summer which will remove underground fuel tanks which pose future potential
environmental issues, and replace them with above- ground tanks. A grant has been secured to
provide $ 400,000 in funding through the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement
Program to enhance the current system. "
Paragraph five: " At the moment there are twelve full time officers and two
more in training, soon to join the force."
Response: This should be corrected to " the police department has twelve officers total with two
officers . in training. "
Paragraph five: " The lack of County services in this part of the county diminishes the ability of law
enforcement to do its job properly: A branch of Courts and juvenile facilities are greatly needed."
Response: Additionally, the lack of county services in California City creates a financial burden on
the city, but the police department continues to do their job properly with limited resources.
Paragraph Nine of Findings: " the new high school is composed of modular buildings, at this time
being staged on private property just outside of airport property."
Response: The buildings are being staged on property within the airport boundaries to
reduce storage costs and enhance security of the buildings while awaiting site
preparation.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
The County of Kern needs to address the lack of services not available in California City.
Some needed services are as follows:
1. A branch of Superior Court for both adults and juvenile offenders.
2. A branch of the Health Department
3. An Urgent Care Clinic.
4. A highway maintenance yard.
5. A County Refuse system.
6. The County Arts Council should consider coming along side of the Arts Council
now in place for California City.
Response: County response and action is needed. Per the Chief of Police Linda
Lunsford, she wished to add that the specific lack of a branch of courts and Juvenile
facilities create a great deal of expense for the city, but the Police Department continues
to do their work properly with limited funds.
Regarding the County Arts Council, our local arts organization reports that they ( Arts
Council of Kern) have been extremely helpful in assisting the local Arts Commission to
become established; including a visit to the Commission during their regular meeting, to
offer advice and assistance in coming under their umbrella in the County of Kern.
California City needs to continue pursuing a full time grant writer. The City uses grants
for a number of projects. Many hours are spent pursuing grants by many different people.
A full time grant writer would eliminate this problem.
Response: The City has restructured operations to include a central grant coordinator.
This will enhance of grant funding opportunities.
A large unfinished concrete block building sits on property near the airport and has for
the last few years. The City needs to actively pursue all avenues necessary to bring in
another business or entity to complete this building and make it a viable place of business
for the airport property, and the City.
Response: The city is working with several interested parties for the utilization of these
buildings.
California City should post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it would
be available for public reviewing.
Response: This report and responses will be on file in the City Clerk's office.
Board of Supervisors
Response to Grand Jury
CITY OF BAKERSFIELD, CITY OF CALIFORNIA CITY,
CITY OF RIDGECREST
RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATIONS
City of Bakersfield
The City and the County work closely together to promote consistency in building standards, road
construction, and land use. Code enforcement is among the areas on which the City and the
County confer.
City of California City
With the transfer of all court related functions to the State, the County no longer determines the
location of court facilities. The County is in negotiations with the State Administrative Office of
the Courts on the transfer of existing court facilities to the State. The State is responsible for
locating, funding, and constructing future court facilities.
The Public Health Department has in the past held child health and immunization clinics in
California City. These clinics are no longer scheduled because of a lack of attendance from the
community. For example, at the last immunization clinic, only one person attended; at the last
child health clinic, there was zero attendance. Flu vaccination clinics are, however, well attended
and are held annually, with the exception of last year due to the vaccine shortage.
Urgent care clinics throughout the County are provided by either for- profit or non- profit entities.
The rationale for recommending that the County establish a highway maintenance yard is
unknown. However, should the County determine the need for an additional yard in the East
Kern area, California City would be considered.
Public Resources Code § 40057 provides that each jurisdiction ( city, county) is responsible for
managing the waste generated by its citizens. The County assists all cities with solid waste
disposal by providing a system of disposal sites throughout the County. The Mojave- Rosamond
sanitary landfill is located 19 miles from California City, a distance no greater than the distance
for Bakersfield residents to travel, or the cities of Arvin, Delano, Maricopa, and McFarland. The
County also provides hazardous household waste ( HHW) disposal services and has established a
permanent HHW facility at the Mojave Airport.
The Arts Council of Kern is a non- profit organization that is not affiliated with County
government.
City of Ridgecrest
The teen court program is administered and operated by a non- profit organization with privately
secured funds ( donations). Unfortunately, the Ridgecrest program was unable to achieve the level
of donations needed to operate an effective teen court program.
POLGJClTIESB
CITY OF DELANO
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury
visited the City of Delano on September 16, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a.
PROCESS:
Members of the Cities and Joint Powers Committee toured the City of Delano and met
with the City Manager, Mayor, Chief of Police, and other staff members. The Committee
reviewed the current City budget, City Council agendas, and previous Grand Jury Final
Reports and responses. The Committee also reviewed various media publications
relating to the City of Delano.
BACKGROUND:
Delano started out in 1870 as a Southern Pacific railhead surrounded by farms. In 1915
Delano was incorporated as a General Law City. The City of Delano remains as the
second most populated city in Kern County and has maintained its agricultural heritage.
Agriculture remains the big business in Delano, but Sears Logistics Services, North Kern
State Prison, and Delano Family Motors round out the top four businesses in the City. It
is most often referred to as the “ International City” because of its community ability to
celebrate everyone’s diverse culture.
Industry is also having a positive impact upon the City. The City presently has a
population of 43,181 and is continuing to grow approximately 3% a year. Included in the
total population are approximately 5,582 inmates of the California Correctional Facility.
The average household income in Delano is $ 28,143. The average housing cost is
$ 100,000.
FINDINGS:
· The Delano City Council voted to place a measure on the November ballot which
would levy a half- cent extra sales tax within City limits if passed. The City is hoping
to generate an extra $ 1.2 million a year for the next 10 years from the tax. The
money would go into the City’s general fund which helps pay for everything from
street repair to emergency services. The tax would expire after 10 years.
· The City will be spending $ 1.2 million on Schuster Road in Delano. The road will be
widened, curbs and gutters installed, water and sewer systems updated, and the storm
drain extended to make the road more useful for current and future industrial
developments in the area. Currently a Sears distribution center and Paramount Citrus
facility are the primary users, but City officials are hoping to attract more industry to
the area. Construction is scheduled to begin before the end of the year and will last
about six months.
· The City Council has put in place new development impact fees. The fee for building
a new home in Delano will be $ 9,090 per house. The old fees were $ 5,150 per house
and went to pay for the water, sewer and governmental facilities, storm drain
maintenance, and police and fire services. The new impact fees include charges for
park facilities and street maintenance.
· The City wide operation budget for fiscal year 2004- 2005 totals $ 31,115,786, an
increase of $ 2,979,696 or 10% of the previous year’s budget. The City has proposed
adding eight new personnel with an additional cost of $ 445,024, including liability
insurance, to cope with the increased level of services brought about by growth in the
City, and to replace personnel who were cut in prior periods.
· The City of Delano contracts with a private firm to manage their code enforcement
program. During the first year of operation 422 citations were issued of which 236
are already in compliance. The City has a web- site which will allow citizens to file
code violation complaints and to find out what the code requirements are.
· Delano is the host city for two State prisons, one of which is operating now and the
other will be opening soon. It is expected the prison staff will be approximately 2,700
employees when both prisons are in full operation.
· A new transit station is scheduled for opening in November 2004. The station was
funded with a $ 1.5 million grant. This along with a new streetscape project, which
was funded with another $ 1.5 million grant, has made a significant improvement in
the downtown area.
· Bakersfield College will be starting construction on a new college campus in Delano
in October 2004.
· A new Home Depot store is scheduled for opening in November 2004. It is expected
approximately 150 full time employees will be hired.
· A proposal to build a new Wal- Mart store at the north end of town in Tulare County
is at a standstill. Delano wants the store to be in Delano city limits. No further talks
are scheduled at this time.
· The City has procured a $ 400,000 grant to build a soccer field and softball complex
on City land next to the airport.
· The City will be opening a 23,300 sq. ft. skate park in October 2004. Street repair is
a concern and the City administration is placing a half cent sales tax initiative on the
November ballot to address this issue. A recent survey indicates that the initiative
will pass.
· The City has applied for a $ 2.5 million grant to build a gymnasium which will
accommodate programs such as physical fitness, boxing, and dancing etc.
· The senior citizen nutrition program has been very successful and continues to do
well.
· A 2,000 unit housing project is in progress. The price range will about $ 130,000 -
$ 160,000 per unit.
· The police department can now book prisoners on site by way of a satellite system.
No transporting of prisoners is required.
· Delano has issued $ 33 million in new construction permits for the past year.
· The City presently has two fire stations. Two more stations are needed because of
continued growth.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. The City of Delano should exhaust every option to convince Wal- Mart to locate in the
City limits. An ideal location would be in the same area where the new Home Depot
is presently located.
2. The City staff should continue its aggressive efforts to revitalize the City with
economic development. The grant money that has been received is being used very
wisely.
3. If the ballot measure to increase sales taxes is approved the expenditure of these funds
should be closely monitored to insure that the money is used for the purpose for
which it was raised, namely for the improvement of streets and roads.
4. The City should continue its efforts to attract retail and industrial economic
development for its citizens. With the new prison population additional demands
from citizens is inevitable.
5. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Delano post a
copy of this report and response as required where it will be available for public
review.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury reports and responses can be
accessed at the county libraries and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site;
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED:
WITHIN 90 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSIFLD, CA 93301
CITY OF MARICOPA
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury
visited the City of Maricopa on October 5, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a.
PROCESS:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee met with the Administrator and Mayor of
Maricopa for the annual visit to the City. The Committee reviewed the reports of the last
two Grand Juries and reviewed agendas, budgets, and minutes of the City Council
meetings. Newspaper articles and last year’s Grand Jury recommendations were also
scrutinized.
BACKGROUND:
Maricopa started the oil boom with the “ Lakeview Gusher”. In fact Maricopa was
established well before Taft ever came into being. The City was incorporated in July of
1911. At one time the City boasted over 20,000 residents. Since those grand days of oil
and exploration the City has shrunk down to approximately 1,100 residents.
Maricopa has a City Council consisting of five members. Each year the council elects a
Mayor from among their ranks. Each council member has a four- year term. This City is
a general law city as are most cities in Kern County. These city council members receive
no pay for their time in office. Three council seats are up for possible change this
election year.
FINDINGS:
Since the last visit of last year’s Grand Jury the State has really thrown Maricopa a curve.
Approximately $ 30,000 to $ 40,000 of revenue has been taken by the State. For a small
town already strapped by small tax revenue and little growth this has virtually halted
progress for allowing the City to grow. Because of the shortfall of funds the City
Manager has opted to voluntarily reduce his work- days to just one day a week. The City
offices themselves stay open four days a week instead of five. There are two full time
employees.
Maricopa has a very low unemployment rate. Oil field workers and self- employed
individuals make up the bulk of the labor force. Agriculture workers are also very
prevalent. A lot of citrus growing is taking place east of the City and a Citrus Processing
Plant is being built to accommodate this citrus growth.
Maricopa basically has a one street downtown section. This section of town has been
allowed to deteriorate due to lack of funds and lack of pride in these old historic
buildings. One old building was recently razed after fire damage.
Although the City itself does not have a grant writer KernCOG and other agencies help
them apply when necessary. As most grants require matching funds the City must be
very circumspect as they do not have monies to be used in this way.
Fire protection for the City is provided by Kern County Fire Department. Kern County
Sheriff’s department working out of the Taft sub- station furnishes police protection.
Even though Maricopa is a small town drug trafficking is still a major concern for the
City. A medical clinic is available in Taft. All other medical needs are taken to
Bakersfield.
The Senior Center is utilized as much as any small town Senior Center. Bingo games,
potlucks, weddings, and receptions are all held there. The City Council meetings are also
held in the Senior Center building. The City is in the process of making park
improvements with a grant they received last year.
The sewer problem, which has plagued the City for years, may soon be addressed.
KernCOG along with a Community Development Block Grant ( CDBG) has just signed a
contract with Maricopa to upgrade the sewer ponds and the sewer system. By doing this
upgrade the City will have a better chance of more growth in the years to come.
There are currently two schools taking care of the education needs of over 400 children,
K- 12th grades. Manufactured homes are popping up day by day especially on oil
properties.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
1. The City of Maricopa needs to exhaust every avenue of applying for funding that
will allow for the continued improvement of the City’s infrastructure.
2. The City needs to solicit funds from private corporations to be used to renovate
some of the old dilapidated buildings for historical preservation.
3. The City might consider contacting the Historical Society and see if they would
be able to designate some of these buildings as historical sites and therefore open
the doors for this type of funding.
4. The City of Maricopa is on the designated route between Bakersfield and the
Coast. Some of these buildings could be made into antique stores or little
boutiques. This type of store would appeal to those coming and going to the
Coast and could be a great source of revenue for the City.
5. The City needs to work closely with KernCOG and other like agencies to improve
and upgrade the little town of Maricopa in order to keep the town viable. Once
again the Grand Jury recommends that the City pursue a “ Downtown
Association” to work on these areas of concern.
6. All in all the City of Maricopa is a great little City just waiting to happen. Take
pride in all that you can offer and all you can do to continue to grow!
7. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Maricopa
post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it will be available for
public reviewing.
Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can
be accessed at the County Library and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site:
www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury
RESPONSE REQUIRED:
WITHIN 90 DAYS
TO PRESIDING JUDGE
KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE
BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301
March 23, 2005
Honorable Lee P. Felice
Presiding Judge
Kern County Superior Court
1415 Truxtun Avenue
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Dear Judge Felice:
This letter is in response to the Final Report and recommendations from the Cities and
Joint Powers Committee of the Kern County Grand Jury concerning the City of
Maricopa.
The report and recommendations have been posted for public review. The City Council
placed this matter on their regular agenda March 23, 2005 to hear and act on any input
from our citizens and to publicly formulate a response to the good work of the
Committee. The result of this process is that the City Council:
1. Commends the Committee for its work and accuracy in analyzing the
conditions that exist in Maricopa.
2. We will continue to seek funding for infrastructure improvements in
Maricopa and for the renovation and preservation of some of our antiquated
buildings that have historical value.
3. We will work with our historical organization towards establishing and
acceptable process to designate which buildings might qualify as a historical
site and therefore eligible for certain funding opportunities.
4. The City lis in complete agreement that it is strategically located for
businesses that market to travelers. Antique stores, arts and crafts boutiques,
specialty foods are the types of businesses that come to mind.
5. For a couple of years the Kern County Grand Jury, through its work, has
assisted in fostering stronger alliances between County Agencies and the City
of Maricopa. This has resulted in taking some very positive steps toward
addressing the inadequacies of our antiquated roads and sewer systems. We
shall continue our efforts to strengthen these and other relationships that will
contribute to cooperative actions in improving the City of Maricopa.
6. The Maricopa Chamber of Commerce is a small group of citizens and
business people who serve as a " downtown association". The City Council
will work with the Chamber organization towards aligning some common
goals to improve and upgrade Maricopa and make the City more viable from
both a residential and business perspective.
Please let us know should you need to contact us for any reason regarding the report and
our response.
CITY OF MCFARLAND
PURPOSE OF INQUIRY:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury
visited the City of McFarland on September 2, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code Section
925. a.
PROCESS:
The Cities and Joint Powers Committee has reviewed past reports, read articles and
newspaper accounts regarding McFarland. The Committee has also reviewed agendas,
budgets, and minutes of
Click tabs to swap between content that is broken into logical sections.
Description
| Rating | |
| Title | Kern County Grand Jury final report |
| Subject | California. Grand Jury (Kern County)--Periodicals.; Kern County (Calif.)--Politics and government--Periodicals. |
| Description | Description based on: 2001/2002; title from opening screen of PDF.; Harvested from the web on 2/16/07 |
| Creator | California. Grand Jury (Kern County) |
| Publisher | Kern County Grand Jury] |
| Type | Text |
| Identifier | http://digitalarchive.oclc.org/request?id%3Doclcnum%3A144565677; http://www.co.kern.ca.us/grandjury/reports.asp |
| Language | eng |
| Format-Extent | 1 web site : digital, PDF files. |
| Relation-Requires | Mode of access: Internet.; System requirements: Adobe Acrobat Reader. |
| Transcript | Final Report Table of Contents Front Cover: County of Kern Cities and Communities ( hard copy only) Inside Front Cover: County of Kern 2004 Olympian Medalists ( hard copy only) Inside Back Cover: Scaled Composites- Spaceship One ( hard copy only) Back Outside Cover: California Map and Facts About Kern County ( hard copy only) Grand Jury Photo .................................................................................................................. i 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury ................................................................................... ii Table of Contents .................................................................................................................. iii Grand Juror Oath ................................................................................................................. viii 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Organization and Committees Chart …………… ix Presiding Judges ( hard copy only) ........................................................................................... x Support Staff ( hard copy only) ................................................................................................. xi Foreperson Photo .................................................................................................................. xii Foreperson Letter To Judge ................................................................................................. xiii Grand Jury Officers Photo .................................................................................................. xv Administration and Audit Committee Art Contest Drawing by Viridiana Herrera ( hard copy only) .................................. xvi Administration and Audit Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ............. xvii Mission Statement ...................................................................................................... 1 Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant ....................................................................... 2 Environmental Health Department Animal Control Division .............................. 4 Response ( Web site only) Kern County Department of Child Support Services............................................. 8 Response ............................................................................................................. 11 Kern County Emergency Management Services..................................................... 12 Response ( Web site only) Art Contest Drawing by Maribel Echeverria ( hard copy only) ................................ 16 Cities and Joint Powers Committee Art Contest Drawing by Jeremy Terrazas ( hard copy only) ...................................... 17 Cities and Joint Powers Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ................ 18 Mission Statement ...................................................................................................... 19 City of Arvin ............................................................................................................... 20 Response ( Web site only) City of Bakersfield...................................................................................................... 24 Response ( Web site only) City of California City ............................................................................................... 29 Response .............................................................................................................. 33 City of Delano ............................................................................................................. 37 Response .............................................................................................................. 41 City of Maricopa......................................................................................................... 45 Response .............................................................................................................. 48 City of McFarland ...................................................................................................... 50 Response .............................................................................................................. 53 City of Ridgecrest ....................................................................................................... 56 Response ........................................................................................................... 60 City of Shafter.......................................................................................................... 62 City of Taft ............................................................................................................... 65 Special Purpose Vehicle Photo ( hard copy only) ............................................. 69 Response ........................................................................................................... 70 City of Tehachapi .................................................................................................... 77 City of Wasco ........................................................................................................... 81 Response ........................................................................................................... 84 Art Contest Drawing by Lilia Saldivar ( hard copy only) ....................................... 86 Continuity and Tracking Committee Art Contest Drawing by Ernesto Silva ( hard copy only) ........................................ 87 Continuity and Tracking Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ............ 88 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 89 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Tracking Reports ..................................... 90 County Services and Special Districts Committee Art Contest Drawing by Ivan Alarez ( hard copy only) ........................................... 93 County Services and Special Districts Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) … 94 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 95 Delano Mosquito Abatement District .................................................................... 96 Response ........................................................................................................... 98 Indian Wells Valley Airport District ..................................................................... 101 Indian Wells Valley Water District ....................................................................... 103 Response ........................................................................................................... 104 Kern- Tulare & Rag Gulch Water District............................................................ 106 Response ( Web site only) North Bakersfield Recreation & Park District..................................................... 109 North Kern Cemetery District ............................................................................... 112 Response ( Web site only) North of the River Municipal Water District ....................................................... 114 Tehachapi Cummings County Water District ..................................................... 116 Tehachapi Valley Recreation and Parks District ................................................. 119 Edit Committee Art Contest Drawing by Larry Clayton ( hard copy only) ...................................... 121 Edit Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ............................................... 122 Mission Statement .................................................................................................. 123 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports Tracking Reports ............ 124 Health, Education, and Social Services Committee Art Contest Drawing by Manuel Sanchez ( hard copy only) ................................... 127 Health, Education, and Social Services Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) … 128 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 129 Adult Education And Other Special Schools In Kern County............................ 130 Biosolid Use In Kern County.................................................................................. 133 Response ( Web site only) Disaster Preparedness and Safety at Kern County High Schools....................... 137 Kern County School Districts Trustees’ Compensation ...................................... 143 Response - Beardsley School District.................................................... 148 Response - Lakeside Union School District.......................................... 149 Response - Lost Hills Union School District ........................................ 150 Response - Sierra Sands Unified School District................................. 151 Response - Wasco Union High School District .................................... 153 Response - West Side Regional Occupational Program ..................... 154 Response - General Shafter ............................................. ( Web site only) Response - Fairfax School District................................... ( Web site only) Response - Buttonwillow Union School District ............ ( Web site only) Response - Edison ............................................................. ( Web site only) Response - Elk Hills Elementary ..................................... ( Web site only) Response - Semitropic ...................................................... ( Web site only) Response - Mojave Unified School District .................... ( Web site only) Response - McKittrick School District ............................ ( Web site only) Response - KC Superintendent Of Schools ................... ( Web site only) Response - Panama- Buena Vista Union School District ( Web site only) Response - Maple School District .................................... ( Web site only) Response - Norris .............................................................. ( Web site only) Response - Rosedale Union School District..................... ( Web site only) Response - Maricopa Unified School District ................ ( Web site only) Response - Wasco Union High School District .............. ( Web site only) Response - Richland School District ............................... ( Web site only) Response - Kern High School District ............................ ( Web site only) Response - Vineland School District................................ ( Web site only) Response - Bakersfield City School District.................... ( Web site only) Response - Arvin Union School District .......................... ( Web site only) Response - Southern Kern Unified School District ........ ( Web site only) Response - Di Giorgio Elementary School District ........ ( Web site only) Response - Standard School District ............................... ( Web site only) Response - Greenfield Union School District.................. ( Web site only) Response - Taft City School District................................ ( Web site only) Response - Belridge Elementary School District ........... ( Web site only) Response - McFarland Unified School District .............. ( Web site only) Response - Blake School District...................................... ( Web site only) Response - So. Fork Union School District ..................... ( Web site only) Response - Delano Joint Union High School District..... ( Web site only) Response - Taft High School District............................... ( Web site only) Response - Delano Union School District ........................ ( Web site only) Response - Tehachapi Unified School District................ ( Web site only) Response - No Kern Vocational Training Center........... ( Web site only) Response - Rio Bravo- Greeley Union School District.... ( Web site only) Response - Midway School District ................................. ( Web site only) Response - Fruitvale School District................................ ( Web site only) Response - East Kern ROP............................................... ( Web site only) Response - Muroc Joint Unified School District............. ( Web site only) Response - El Tejon Unified School District ................... ( Web site only) Response - Kernville Union Elementary School District ( Web site only) Response - Linns Valley - Poso Flat School ................... ( Web site only) Response - Pond Union Elementary School District ..... ( Web site only) Kern High School District Police Department...................................................... 155 Kern Medical Center............................................................................................... 157 Response .................................................................................................. 161 Law and Justice Committee Art Contest Drawing by Diana Damian ( hard copy only) ...................................... 163 Law and Justice Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) .......................... 164 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 165 Alliance Against Family Violence and Sexual Assault......................................... 166 Arvin Police Department ........................................................................................ 169 Bakersfield Police Department............................................................................... 172 Bear Valley Police Department .............................................................................. 175 Response ( Web site only) California City Police Department ........................................................................ 177 Response ........................................................................................................... 180 California Correctional Institution Tehachapi..................................................... 182 Response ........................................................................................................... 185 Camp Erwin Owen.................................................................................................. 187 City of Taft Police Department .............................................................................. 190 Delano Police Department ...................................................................................... 192 Response ........................................................................................................... 196 Gang Intervention and Supression Team ............................................................. 200 James G. Bowles Juvenile Hall............................................................................... 202 Response ........................................................................................................... 204 Kern County Fire Department Arson Unit........................................................... 206 Kern County Probation Department Adult Services........................................... 208 Kern County Probation Department Victim/ Witness Program ......................... 210 Response ........................................................................................................... 212 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Central Receiving Facility ......................... 213 Response ........................................................................................................... 215 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Headquarters .............................................. 216 Response ........................................................................................................... 218 Kern County Sheriff’s Department K- 9 Unit ....................................................... 220 Response ........................................................................................................ 223 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Lamont Substation ..................................... 225 Response ( Web site only) Kern County Sheriff’s Department Lerdo Detention Facility ............................ 229 Response ........................................................................................................... 241 Kern County Sheriff’s Department Taft Substation ........................................... 246 Response ( Web site only) Kern County Sheriff’s Department Wasco Substation........................................ 250 Kern County Sheriff’s Property Room ................................................................. 252 Response .......................................................................................................... 254 Larry J. Rhoades Kern Crossroads Facility ......................................................... 256 Response ........................................................................................................... 258 Larry J. Rhoades Kern Crossroads Facility ( Re- visit) ........................................ 259 Response ........................................................................................................... 260 McFarland Correction Facility .............................................................................. 261 North Kern State Prison Delano I.......................................................................... 263 Report Drawing ( hard copy only) ..................................................................... 267 Response ........................................................................................................... 268 North Kern State Prison Delano II ........................................................................ 270 Report Photo ( hard copy only) .......................................................................... 271 Report Drawing ( hard copy only) ..................................................................... 272 Shafter Community Correctional Facility ............................................................ 273 Response ( hard copy only) ................................................................................. 276 Shafter Police Department ..................................................................................... 278 Taft Community Correctional Facility.................................................................. 280 Wasco State Prison Reception Center ................................................................... 282 Art Contest Drawing by Irma Hernandez ( hard copy only) .................................. 284 Library Committee Art Contest Drawing by Andrew Horn ( hard copy only) ....................................... 285 Library Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ......................................... 286 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 287 Art Contest Drawing by Allison Mello ( hard copy only) ........................................ 288 Public Relations Committee Art Contest Drawing by Michael Jimenez ( hard copy only) .................................. 289 Public Relations Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) .......................... 290 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 291 Grand Jury Awareness Week Proclamation Award ( hard copy only) .................. 293 Grand Jury Public Awareness Award Program ( hard copy only) ........................ 294 Grand Jury Graphic Arts Contest Flyer ( hard copy only) ..................................... 295 Art Contest Winning Drawings Art Contest Grand Prize Winner – Christopher Gainey ( hard copy only) ...... 296 Art Contest First Runner- Up – Silvia Cuevas ( hard copy only) ....................... 297 Art Contest Second Runner- Up – Raul Lora ( hard copy only) ......................... 298 Grand Jury Training/ Guest Speakers ( hard copy only) ......................................... 299 Law Day Workshop ( hard copy only) ....................................................................... 301 Grand Jury Information Brochure ( hard copy only) .............................................. 303 Recruitment Committee Art Contest Drawing by Sandra Christensen ( hard copy only) ............................. 305 Recruitment Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ................................. 306 Mission Statement .................................................................................................. 307 Public Presentations ( hard copy only) ...................................................................... 308 Ad Hoc County Contract Procedures Committee Art Contest Drawing by Eric Martinez ( hard copy only) ....................................... 309 Ad Hoc Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ......................................... 310 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 311 County Contract Procedures.................................................................................. 312 Response – Auditor- Controller- County Clerk ............................................. 318 Response - Kern County Board of Supervisors........................................... 319 Art Contest Drawing by Maira Munoz ( hard copy only) ....................................... 320 Ad Hoc Clinica Sierra Vista Committee Art Contest Drawing by Daniel Gonzalez ( hard copy only) ................................... 321 Ad Hoc Committee Photo and Names ( hard copy only) ......................................... 322 Mission Statement ................................................................................................... 323 Clinica Sierra Vista ................................................................................................. 324 Response – Kern County Board of Supervisors ............................................ 330 Response - Clinica Sierra Vista....................................................................... 331 Art Contest Drawing by Paul Ortiz Perez ( hard copy only) .................................. 332 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Also served: Gladys M. Neary Name Terms Served City Nominating Judge Anderson R. Ross 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Robert Tafoya Arnold, Fred W. 2004- 2005 Frazier Park Robert Tafoya Duffel, Patricia L. 2001- 2002, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Charles P. McNutt Evenson, Fred E. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace Florence, Donald C. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Gary T. Friedman Garretson, Ervin E. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace Gosling, Elizabeth A. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Gary T. Friedman Harrison, Leone J. 2004- 2005 Taft Kenneth C. Twisselman Herrick, Robert E. 1999- 2000, 2000- 2001, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Kenneth C. Twisselman Hill, Donald D. 1991- 1992, 1997- 1998, 2000- 2001, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Frank A. Hoover Jefferson, Robert B. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace Kline, Patrice S. 2001- 2002, 2002- 2003, 2004- 2005 Tehachapi Arthur E. Wallace Mainland, John C. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Jon E. Stuebbe Mendes, Reba M. 2002- 2003, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace Noce, Anthony W. 2001- 2002, 2003- 2004, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield John I. Kelly Troxel, Gordon F. 2002- 2003, 2004- 2005 Delano Sidney P. Chase Wells, Ethel V. 1995- 1996, 1999- 2000, 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Arthur E. Wallace Williams, Daniel L. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield Kenneth C. Twisselman Woessner, Richard L. 2004- 2005 Bakersfield John I. Kelly GRAND JUROR’S OATH “ I do solemnly swear ( affirm) that I will support the Constitution of the United States and of the State of California, and all laws made pursuant to and in conformity therewith, will diligently inquire into, and true presentment make, of all public offenses against the people of this state, committed or triable within this county, of which the grand jury shall have or can obtain legal evidence. Further, I will not disclose any evidence brought before the grand jury, nor anything which I or any other grand juror may say, nor the manner in which I or any other grand juror may have voted on any matter - before the grand jury. I will keep the charge that will be given to me by the court.” Section 911, Penal Code, Amended June 2, 1983) 2004- 2005 KERN COUNTY GRAND JURY ORGANIZATION AND COMMITTEES CHART OFFICERS: Elizabeth A. Gosling - Foreperson Donald D. Hill – Foreperson Pro Tem Patrice S. Kline, Recording Secretary Reba M. Mendes and John E. Garretson – Sergeant- at- Arms Ethel V. Wells – Parliamentarian COMMITTEES: Administration & Audit Law & Justice Finance, audits, and administration concerns Investigates criminal justice agencies R. Ross Anderson – Chairperson Donald C. Florence - Chairperson Robert E. Herrick John E. Garretson Donald D. Hill Patrice S. Kline Ethel V. Wells Richard L. Woessner Cities & Joint Powers Library Cities and Joint Powers Agency Reviews Organizes research material Daniel L. Williams – Chairperson Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson Patricia L. Duffel Donald D. Hill Fred E. Evenson Richard L. Woessner Continuity & Tracking Public Relations Maintains contact with Board of Supervisors, tracks Informs the public of the Grand Jury and its mission reports, formats final report book Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson Fred W. Arnold - Chairperson Patricia L. Duffel Patrice S. Kline – Tracking Coordinator Anthony W. Noce – Editor Final Report Book Recruitment County Services & Special Districts Aids the Court in recruiting the subsequent Grand Jury Reviews Special Districts and County Services Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson Reba M. Mendes – Chairperson Patrice S. Kline Robert B. Jefferson Ethel V. Wells Ad Hoc – County Contract Procedures Special Investigation Edit Anthony W. Noce – Chairperson Format and grammatical review of final reports and jury correspondence Elizabeth A. Gosling John C. Mainland Patrice S. Kline – Chairperson Ethel V. Wells Elizabeth A. Gosling Reba M. Mendes Ad Hoc – Clinica Sierra Vista Special Investigation Health, Education, and Social Services R. Ross Anderson – Chairperson Monitors health, education, and social services agencies Fred E. Evenson Gordon F. Troxel – Chairperson Elizabeth A. Gosling Fred W. Arnold Robert E. Herrick Leone J. Harrison Donald D. Hill John C. Mainland John C. Mainland June 22, 2005 The Honorable Lee P. Felice Presiding Judge of the Superior Court 1415 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 Dear Judge Felice: In compliance with Penal Code Section 933( a) of the California Penal Code, the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury presents its final report of investigations undertaken and completed by Grand Jury members. Each report received the approval of the Grand Jury as required by Section 916 of the California Penal Code. What a year!!!!!!!!!!!! Nineteen people from all areas of the County who had applied and been nominated by one of the Superior Court Judges began in July 2004 a journey of community service to the County which has increased our knowledge of County and City workings, and broadened our knowledge of how great and huge Kern County really is. These nineteen people, losing a few and gaining others, developed into a cohesive unit during the course of the year and undertook the task of monitoring public agencies, special districts, non- profit organizations, and investigating citizen’s complaints. Their various background and perspective, which each member brought to the Jury, made this Final Report both objective and positive. Our appreciation goes out to Mr. Bernard Barmann, County Counsel, who gave us such valuable advice and direction; to Mr. Mike Yraceburn, District Attorney’s Office, and his Deputies who provided excellent training and information during the Indictments, and to Lillie Davis, Superior Court liaison to the Grand Jury, for her patience and assistance in making this year run smoothly. On February 23, 2005, a Grand Jury Appreciation Day was held by the Liberty Bell and high school Art winners from throughout the County were recognized for their participation in an art contest which has added greatly to our Final Report. Recognition was also given to the various newspapers in the area who have printed our Final Reports as they have been released. Kern County is the only County in the State of California which releases each Report as it is completed. Agencies are then able to respond to those reports and most of those responses are then included in the Final Report. This year the Grand Jury requested and received training throughout the year by heads of Departments, Mayors, and other officials which added immensely to our knowledge of how County and Cities function. We express our sincere appreciation to these Department Heads and other officials for their time. This Grand Jury has completed over 61 Final Reports this year. That has involved over 22,000 hours served voluntarily by this Jury. We have driven or been driven from Ridgecrest to the east to Taft to the west. Each juror contributes about 1100 hours each year in an effort to provide an overview of agencies. So, anyone who is interested in serving on the Kern County Grand Jury certainly needs stamina because it does involve a lot of hard work!!!!!!!!!! My congratulations to the Law and Justice Committee consisting of four individuals who have visited every prison jail facility, Sheriff’s substations, Probation Department divisions, Alliance on Family Violence, and many other legal facilities in the County. They have filed 31 reports this year. A great deal of time and research goes into completing a Final Report. My committees are required to review highly complicated background information and they are to be complemented for the vast amount of work they have done this year. My thanks to Chief Dennis Thompson and the Kern County Fire Department for their gracious willingness in providing transportation for the entire Grand Jury for several of our trips throughout the County. In all of our contacts with the Fire Department, all of the employees have been very competent, well trained, responsible people. The County should be proud of that Department and Chief Thompson. This has been a very rewarding and interesting year for me as the Foreperson. I greatly appreciate the Superior Court’s confidence in choosing me as the Foreperson. It has been my privilege to have worked with such a great group of citizens of Kern County. Sincerely, Elizabeth A. Gosling, Foreperson 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury Grand Jury Officers Elizabeth A. Gosling Don Hill Foreperson Foreperson Pro Tem Patrice Kline Ethel Wells Recording Secretary Parliamentarian John Garretson Reba Mendes Sgt- at- Arms Asst. Sgt- at- Arms MISSION STATEMENT ADMINISTRATION & AUDIT COMMITTEE The Administration and Audit committee is responsible for reviewing and overseeing County Departments in their management, performance, and execution of fiscal responsibilities to the County of Kern taxpayer. The Committee investigates complaints from citizens who allege managerial or fiscal irresponsibility of nonprofit corporations who receive money and grants from the County of Kern in addition to the County Departments. Also an extensive amount of time was spent assisting other Grand Jury Committees with managerial and fiscal matters. The following pages reflect many hours of interviews, reading, discussion, researching, and writings to compile as accurate a view as possible of the County functions that the Committee addressed. The reports cannot capture all the peripheral sources and effort that individuals made to help the Committee understand and appreciate the “ whole picture” of local government and where each department contributes to the success of the County as a whole. While other Kern County operations could have also been high- lighted in these reports, time did not permit the kind of in- depth review and analysis that would be necessary in order to present a balanced view of all Kern County operations. The Committee’s mission has been to improve working conditions, financial accountability, and better management for the benefit and gain of the County, its employees, and the taxpayers. BEAR MOUNTAIN CO- GENERATION PLANT PURPOSE OF INQUIRY The Administration and Audit Committee and the Grand Jury Foreperson of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant on August 26, 2004, pursuant to a recommendation of the 1994- 1995 Kern County Grand Jury. PROCESS: The Administration and Audit Committee and the Grand Jury Foreperson traveled to the Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant. The Plant Vice President met the committee at the gated entrance to the plant and the committee was then escorted to the plant’s operation center. BACKGROUND: There are eight co- generation plants operating in Kern County owned by DPS Juniper, LLC. The Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant is located in the northeast section of Bakersfield, approximately one mile southeast of Alfred Harrell Highway and one and a half miles north of the intersection of State Highway 178 and Fairfax Road. The facility staffs nine full- time employees on a 24/ 7- rotation schedule. After introductions to the Plant Manager and Lead Operator the committee was provided with safety equipment and taken on a tour of the plant. The staff was extremely co- operative and helpful in explaining all operations of the plant. FINDINGS: The 1994- 1995 Kern County Grand Jury recommended that: 1. The City of Bakersfield and the State and Federal agencies monitor the co-generation plants using chemicals and anhydrous ammonia in residential areas. 2. The City of Bakersfield see that the hazardous material used is sufficiently regulated by both state and federal law. 3. The City of Bakersfield require that the above ground steam pipes be clearly marked with paint and lights due to the off- road vehicle and equipment use in the area. 4. The City of Bakersfield require the plant management to monitor the hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide solution, and the tanks holding such chemicals as to avoid accessibility by vehicle traffic. These tanks should be protected against vehicle damage as such damage could pose off- sight consequences or public threat. 5. The 1995- 1996 Grand Jury monitor the co- generation plants near schools and residential areas. The plant has complied with the recommendations of the 1994- 1995 Grand Jury. State and Federal agencies monitor the plant. All pipes are color- coded and chemical tanks are more than adequately protected in the event of any mishap. In the event of a disaster the plant personnel and city/ county fire departments that have access to the plant, are well equipped to handle all emergencies. Safety training is ongoing and the Standard Operating Procedures Manual is revised annually and as needed if evidenced by a particular incident. A direct safety phone system has been installed with Dr. Thorner School, which is located within one mile of the plant. Eight- foot chain- link fencing surrounds the plant and security cameras have been installed that provide more than adequate protection against outside intrusion. The Bear Mountain Plant, although a very small operation, is run efficiently. The plant produces enough energy to supply power to approximately 50,000 homes daily. COMMENTS: The visit to the plant was not only informative but also enlightening as to the purpose and operation of a co- generation plant. RECOMMENDATION: This committee feels that the management and staff of Bear Mountain Co- Generation Plant be commended for their compliance with the recommendations of the 1994- 1995 Grand Jury. This report should be sent to DPS Juniper, LLC, 34759 Lencioni Avenue, Bakersfield, California 93308. Note: Present and Past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca/ grandjury NO RESPONSE REQUIRED ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: Pursuant to Penal Code 925 the Administration and Audit Committee of 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury investigated the Animal Control Division of the Environmental Health Services Department. PROCESS: The Administration and Audit Committee interviewed Department heads of Animal Control Divisions of the County of Kern and Bakersfield City Animal Control. The Committee visited the County Facilities on South Mt. Vernon Avenue and the local Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ( SPCA) Facility. BACKGROUND: Articles and pictures published in The Bakersfield Californian have created considerable interest in animal control. Pictures of abandoned dogs in apparent states of starvation and a barrel of animal bodies after euthanasia have aroused considerable emotion and has resulted in at least two emotional sessions before the Kern County Board of Supervisors. The intent of the investigation is to determine the facts and put the matter in proper perspective. FINDINGS: The Animal Control Division operates an Animal Shelter at 201 South Mt. Vernon Avenue in Bakersfield and also have a smaller facility in Mojave; two facilities are operated under contract, Lake Isabella Animal Shelter ( Kern Valley) and the Ridgecrest Animal Shelter. The Cities of Arvin, Maricopa, Tehachapi, and Delano have contracts with the Animal Control Division for services. However, the contract with Delano has not been used in many months. Delano, Taft, Shafter, and Wasco provide residents with animal control within respective communities. Revenue generated from licensing, redemptions, and adoptions is 30% of Animal Services total budgeted revenue. The facilities at the animal shelter were found to be clean and odor free. Dogs are provided with plastic pads that provide sleeping areas off of the floor of the kennel and are provided with adequate food and water. The City of Bakersfield has its own Animal Control Division which is a Division of the Bakersfield Police Department and contracts for shelter services with the County of Kern. The City has four Animal Control Officers equipped with proper animal control trucks. The Officers respond to over 14,500 calls per year. When not on duty the regular police officers handle calls. The Bakersfield Animal Control Division is in the building stages of a new animal shelter. The shelter will be adjacent to the Kern County Animal Shelter on South Mt. Vernon Avenue. The construction of the new facility will be an advantage to owners of lost animals as animals do not know City or County boundary lines. For several years the City contracted for shelter and licensing with the local SPCA. The contract was terminated on June 30, 2003, and the City then contracted for services from Kern County which is apparently a mutually satisfying arrangement. The SPCA facilities were also visited although being a non- profit organization and not subject to any inspection by the Grand Jury. The shelter is on Gibson Street in Bakersfield and in the past performed in general the same procedures as the County shelter. The shelter on Gibson Street still receives animals from the public. The facility also practices euthanasia. The SPCA had the contract for animal control for the City of Bakersfield and had a “ BROWN GATE” which limited public access to areas that were not ready for the public. Animal Control Division is located at 201 South Mt. Vernon Avenue and is leased from the City of Bakersfield. The lease will expire December 31, 2028. The County of Kern owns the buildings at the location. Both the City of Bakersfield and the Kern County Animal Control operations hold special clinics to assist pet owners in licensing and vaccinating. Animal Control has 38 funded positions. Currently there are three vacant officer positions and three vacant shelter worker positions. The use of volunteers is encouraged but requires staff to train and plan schedules. One of the more emotional issues brought before the Board of Supervisors regarding the Animal Control operation was the “ GREEN GATE” which refers to a gate that separates the adoption facility from the area that is used for lost animals and animals that have been confiscated by law enforcement or are quarantined. The “ GREEN GATE” is a safety issue. The first row of kennels is the area that contains the dogs ready for adoption and is open to the public. The animals in the adoption kennel have been given a “ SAFER” test to determine if an animal is social and non- aggressive. The animals have been spayed or neutered and given necessary vaccinations making animals ready for adoption. Behind the “ GREEN GATE” are the kennels that hold the dogs that are lost or are strays. After visiting the office area people looking for a lost dog may describe the animal and check the recent list of animals brought in by Animal Control Officers. The public does have access to the area but must be escorted by a kennel worker. The current use of the “ GREEN GATE” and a shelter worker allows safe supervision of residents looking for lost animals. The protection of small children in the kennel areas is vital. It would not be wise to allow the public free access to all areas. The current use of the gate to separate the areas is justified and good policy. Also behind the “ GREEN GATE” is an open reception area where animal control trucks unload animals needing to be processed. On occasion an aggressive animal does get loose from Animal Control Officers. Animal control is a social problem and is a much larger problem than most people realize. If all pet owners were responsible, took care of their pets, kept the animals under control, vaccinated, and licensed the problem would be solved. Fifty percent of the animals turned in at the shelter are turned in by owners. For the years of 1998 through 2004 Animal Control Services had a low of 21,732 and a high of 37,744 calls per year. The percentage of animals redeemed ( by owner) fell within 2.93% and 4.28%. The percentage of animals euthanized fell between 73.5% and 90%. To assist owners of lost animals the Animal Control Division now has an updated web site. Animals that are ready for adoption are posted as are lost animals. The site may be accessed at www. co. kern. ca. us/ acd/ COMMENTS: The Board of Supervisors has requested a comprehensive review of the Animal Control Division including administration, shelter operations, field operations, volunteer program, educational programs, and public relations. The Request for Proposal ( RFP) was due on March 15, 2005, with completion on or before June 30, 2005, if possible. The Kern County Grand Jury and Animal Control Division agree with the actions of the Board of Supervisors in regards to the review of the agency. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. Install a concrete pad with a roof for the feeding of large animals in the corrals. 2. Provide the needed Director of Volunteer Services. 3. Remove the “ GREEN SLATS” from the gate thus giving the public the opportunity to visually see what is behind the gate. 4. Continue Public Relation programs that show the positive side of the Animal Control Division. 5. Continue educating the public on being responsible pet owners stressing training, the reasons for vaccinations, importance of spay and neutering, and licensing. 6. Plant sod and maintain the area that is used for prospective animal adopters to interact with animals. 7. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that Animal Control Division post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it will be available for public reviewing. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be accessed at the Kern County Library and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED: WITHIN 90 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 Kern County Board of Supervisors Response to Grand Jury Final Report ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SERVICES ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION Response to Findings: The Board of Supervisors notes that the findings are substantially correct. Response to Recommendations: The Board of Supervisors thanks the Grand Jury for reviewing the operations of the Animal Control Division. The Board of Supervisors directed that a consultant specializing in animal control operations and facilities be secured to provide an intensive review of the Animal Control Division. This consultant is now under contract with the County and the Grand Jury’s report will be provided to the consultant and the Grand Jury’s recommendations will be considered for implementation. POLGJANIMALB KERN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Administration and Audit Committee met with the Kern County Department of Child Support Services on September 14, 2004, to discuss the newspaper article appearing in The Bakersfield Californian on September 9, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code 925. PROCESS: The Committee met with the Director, Child Support Services and the Chief Attorney, Child Support Services, to discuss the report completed by the California Performance Review report released in August 2004. BACKGROUND: The article in the Bakersfield Californian dated September 9, 2004, indicated that Kern County was one of the state’s worst- performing counties and it was suggested that a private company take over the child support operations. The California Performance Review report indicated that Kern County ranked fourth worst out of California’s 58 counties. Kern County was one of seven counties singled out as performing below minimum federal standards. This would result in a loss of monies to the State from the Federal programs. The newspaper article also indicated the possibility of the loss of employment for the Child Support staff. FINDINGS: The Director and Chief Attorney advised that the information used to complete the performance report was based on figures from 2001 data. Information as of 2003 indicates an average collection of approximately 47% of total cases in Kern County. At the time the Child Support Services separated from the District Attorney’s office in December 2001, the percentage was approximately 34% being collected. The Federal average is approximately 45% collections and the State is approximately 47% collection of child support. Kern County has had a change in philosophy since becoming independent from the District Attorney’s Office. The majority of collection is done by wage assignment for which they can collect up to 50% of the earnings of an absent parent. Presently, Kern County is collecting approximately $ 70-$ 72 million and ranks nine to ten in the State. Department of Human Services cases include 26 % to 30% of the total cases being processed by Child Support Services. In regards to the Performance report including Kern in the worst collecting category along with Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Diego, Imperial, Riverside, and Yuba counties, management pointed out that each of these counties have a large migrant population making collection difficult. Child Support Services does not purge cases from their statistics. Cases remain active. There is no mechanism in place for those who might be considered “ uncollectible”. Also, bankruptcy does not include elimination of child support payments. The Kern County Child Support Services employ approximately 285 people including 120 Family Support officers, seven attorneys, and four Paralegals. There are approximately 55,000 cases with each Family Support officer having a caseload of approximately 1,400. Kern County Child Support has been instrumental in completing a program called KIDZ, a case management and accounting system, accomplished with federal and state funds and used by several other counties. These include Imperial, Ventura, Kern, Stanislaus, Yolo, Yuba, Placer, Mendocino, and Butte counties. As of September 2004 improvements to the Kern County system have been great. Management advises that Kern County compares very well to other large counties. Management has recently implemented a Job Source Center in the lobby where a person ordered to pay child support but unemployed can obtain help. The Director indicated this has been very successful. There are approximately 500 visits per month to this office. Management also pointed out a video teleconferencing system used by the Department enabling the Family Support officers to immediately interview an applicant applying at the Department of Human Services via teleconferencing. The telephone receptionists receive approximately 500 calls a day with approximately a three minute wait. Child Support Services repays costs to the County providing public assistance in the amount of approximately $ 2 to $ 3 million a year. Other monies go to the State and Federal governments. In regards to the privatization of Child Support management advised that some states have transferred to that system. Information was provided indicating that that had not been successful. The State does not reward counties for reaching recommended goals as would be required with private companies. The Director advised that although the State administers costs to Child Support, this agency has not cut their budget. The Director is proud of the fact that this agency has done well in managing the budget for the department. COMMENTS: The Committee was impressed with the progress that has been made in the past three years with the collection of child support improving to approximately 47%, slightly above that of the Federal standards. The negative report published in The Bakersfield Californian gave the wrong impression of the accomplishments of this agency and the employees. The Job Resource Room located in the lobby provides excellent opportunity for an individual to obtain employment information. The teleconferencing program saves staff costs by providing access to clients at the Department of Human Services rather than having to send staff to each office. Management and staff should be commended for the excellent work being done both on behalf of the children in Kern County and the County itself. Employees are providing an excellent service to the community. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The Child Support Services department involved should post a copy of this report where it would be available for public reviewing. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury NO RESPONSE REQUIRED Kern County Board of Supervisors Response to Grand Jury Final Report KERN COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF CHILD SUPPORT SERVICES Response to Findings: The Board of Supervisors notes that the findings are substantially correct. Response to Recommendations: The Grand Jury's report will be posted as requested. POLGJCSS KERN COUNTY EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT SERVICES PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: Pursuant to Penal Code sections 925 and 933, the Administration and Audit Committee of the 2004- 2005 Grand Jury selected the Kern County Emergency Management Services as one of the County Departments for oversight review this year. PROCESS: The Administration and Audit Committee members initiated the inquiry by interviewing the Kern County Fire Department Chief ( Director of Emergency Management Services), and a portion of the Emergency Management staff. BACKGROUND: In 1990 an Emergency Management budget was established to separately identify and account for the resources necessary to operate the Emergency Services function of the General Services Division of the County Administrative office. Emergency Management Services is responsible for countywide emergency services planning and disaster preparedness including public information and education. Kern County is the third largest county, in area, in the State with a population of 724,883 as of January 1, 2004. It covers a variety of climates and terrain varying from high desert and wildlands to urban areas. This variety of climates and terrain and the presence of known faults running through the County results in possible occurrences of many types of natural disasters. In addition to these natural disasters technological and man made disasters must be considered possible. The diverse population of the County with the many spoken languages must be considered when dealing with disasters be they natural or man made. In the spring of 2001 the County Administrative Officer upon receipt of a proposal from the County Fire Department recommended to the Board of Supervisors that the Emergency Services function, responsibility, and resources be transferred to the Fire Department. This recommendation was approved by the Board in July 2001. The approval of the transfer allows the County to capitalize on the Fire Department’s professional and technical expertise in planning and emergency preparedness and response. In the aftermath of terrorist attacks on America on September 11, 2001, the Kern County Emergency Services Division has intensified their efforts to prepare the County to meet any eventual disaster and increase public awareness of security measures and terrorism preparedness. FINDINGS: Subsequent to the preliminary meeting with the Fire Department, the Grand Jury was advised that Emergency Management Services would be conducting a Weapons of Mass Destruction ( WMD) Full Scale Exercise ( FSE) and were invited to attend this exercise as observers. The goal of this exercise was to improve the County’s capabilities to respond to a Weapons of Mass Destruction event. Preliminary information revealed that the exercise would have eleven field sites. Grand Jury members were assigned to all but one of these sites. A preliminary briefing was held at the Kern County Department of Public Health conference room and members of the Grand Jury observing the exercise attended this meeting. Grand Jury Observers were required to meet at assigned sites prior to 8: 00 am on the day of the exercise and be prepared to stay for the duration of the exercise, which was expected to end at noon. Following the end of the exercise a debriefing was held and Grand Jurors were advised that comments would be welcomed. These comments were subsequently forwarded to the Kern County Fire Chief. On the Thursday following the exercise the Grand Jury was invited by the Kern County Fire Department to view equipment provided by the Department of Homeland Security at the Fire Department’s Headquarters. Contacts and interviews were made with the following agency personnel at the exercise and equipment viewing: Kern County Fire Department Kern County Sheriff Kern County Administrative Offices Kern County Waste Management Kern County District Engineer Kern County Mental Health Kern County Public Health Kern County Counsel Kern County Emergency Medical Services Kern County Roads Department Kern County Human Services Kern Medical Center Kern County Parks and Recreation Kern County Purchasing Bakersfield City Manager Bakersfield City Fire Department Bakersfield City Police Department State of California Office of Emergency Services Naval Air Weapons Station, China Lake Hall Ambulance Salvation Army American Red Cross Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services Additional interviews were held with the Kern County Fire Chief, a Deputy Chief, the Emergency Services Manager, and the Kern County Administrative Officer. COMMENTS: The Kern County Fire Department has made large strides in restructuring the Emergency Management operations since the transfer of authority from General Services Department and is to be commended for all efforts in providing the County with a capable and experienced Emergency Management Department. All the information received indicates the transition from the Kern County General Services Division to the Kern County Fire Department was performed in a timely manner with very little disruption of any local services. The transfer has resulted in increased capabilities for handling emergencies of all types. It was noted that that there was no involvement by any of the communities located in the Eastern part of Kern County in the emergency exercise. Additionally there was no representation by the Superintendent of Kern County Schools. The Fire Department is also to be commended for the preparation of the many pamphlets relating to disasters and emergencies that have been distributed throughout the County. RECOMMENDATIONS: · An effort to find a permanent site for the Emergency Operations Center should continue to be made as funds become available. · The training programs and emergency management exercises must be continued to provide the necessary expertise for all concerned with emergencies of any type. · An unplanned emergency drill should be conducted at some time in the future to evaluate reactions of various participating agencies. · The Kern County Fire Department and Kern County Board of Supervisors should post a copy of this report where it would be available for public reviewing. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses Can be accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 90 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 MISSION STATEMENT CITIES AND JOINT POWERS COMMITTEE The Cities and Joint Powers Committee visited each of the eleven incorporated Cities of Kern County in an effort to provide innovative ways to provide growth and prosperity and to improve the quality of life for all citizens. The Committee’s efforts were devoted to providing an outsider review of the operations and the administrative and fiscal management of the Cities’ affairs. Recommendations were thoroughly evaluated to insure the recommendations would not only be beneficial, but worth the effort put forth by the Cities in implementing them. Each of the Cities face unique challenges but each has shown a sense of unity in meeting the challenges. However, population growth seemed to be the topic of each visit, and created concern about housing development, streets and roads, police and fire protection, crime, etc. The majority of the Cities visited have been hampered in achieving set goals due to State shortfalls in funding. With continuing funding problems, Cities have had to lay off staff, reduce services, and rework plans for the future. It was a rewarding experience to visit each of the Cities and get a first hand view of the operations and how the Cities are meeting the challenges that are being faced. The eleven incorporated Cities visited this year are: Arvin Ridgecrest Bakersfield Taft Delano Tehachapi Maricopa Wasco McFarland Shafter City of California City CITY OF ARVIN PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City of Arvin on March 22, 2005, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a. PROCESS: Members of the Committee met with a number of administrative staff and the Arvin Police Chief. The Committee also read numerous newspaper articles, minutes, agendas, and financial reports. BACKGROUND: The sleepy little City of Arvin sits nestled in the foothills southeast of Bakersfield. The City has been in existence for many years but was incorporated in 1960 as a General Law City. Arvin is an agricultural area with two well known farms, Grimmway and Humbolt located in the City. Arvin was named after an early pioneer, Arvin Richardson. Richardson lived in a home near DiGiorgio Park. One of Arvin’s well known claims to fame is the fact that the City sits on the White Wolf Grade earthquake fault. After the tremendous earthquake of 1952 the foothills east of Arvin shifted at least three feet, straight up! Arvin is also known for almost being buried in dust during the infamous dust storm of December 1977. Pictures of Arvin under the miles high dust cloud were shown throughout the world. FINDINGS: Arvin has been in a state of flux for a number of years. Controversy has dogged the political scene and members of the City Council. The citizens finally spoke and a new Mayor and two new Council members are in place. The new Council members and the Mayor are still becoming acclimated to the highly charged atmosphere left behind. The Mayor receives a stipend of $ 900.00 per month for doing the Mayor’s job. The Council members are eligible for $ 300.00 per month. The Mayor is considered a Council Member also and could collect the extra $ 300.00 on top of the $ 900.00. However, the new Mayor has opted not to do so. The Council members and the Mayor also receive a $ 150.00 allowance for electronics upkeep; cell phones, phone pagers, computers, etc. The Council members also receive as part of the job a $ 3,000.00 stipend to spend on computers, cell phones, pagers, and such needed for the job. The items go with the Council members when the term is up, usually a four year term. Each Council member is allowed a $ 95.00 per diem per day for use of private vehicles for working trips around the County and out. Mileage is provided also. All trips are to be cleared ahead of time. Even though the above mentioned compensation package is permissible by law it seems excessive when comparing the package to other cities such as the City of Bakersfield whose council members are compensated only $ 100.00 per month plus a small stipend for mileage. The Police Chief was interim Police Chief for 1 ½ years before becoming full time Police Chief. The Police Chief is still bucking controversy from the Police union but hopes better working relations will soon be established. The Chief is looking to putting together a possible Police Commission Advisory Group to work along side of law enforcement. Another option for better relations to be established is to have one person put in place as a News Media Spokesperson for the Police Department and the City. Having a person in place as a liaison would eliminate misunderstandings cropping up in newscasts. The Police Chief is open to suggestions on how to better the City and Police Department. The City is currently in compliance with State laws as per the California Water Regulatory Board guidelines. The City receives water from the Arvin Community Service District, a separate entity from the City. Down the road more room will be needed for wastewater disposal and the City is working on a plan to address the problem. More land may become available soon and a company is already coming along side to take the wastewater problem and run with it. Arvin citizens and management realize the need for having a full time Code Enforcement person in place. Hopefully the need will be addressed very soon. Having a full time Code Enforcement person will help in areas not in compliance under City code. Carports thrown together and not permitted, cars parked up on lawns, garbage cans knocked over and garbage strewn about, etc. must be addressed soon in order for the City to be in compliance and for the overall aesthetic look of the City. So many new areas of construction are being built and the areas not up to code look very tacky and are seen as a blight on the City. New construction of affordable housing is moving right along. Beautiful homes in the 2,000- 2,400 sq. ft. area are being built South and East of town. The homes are in the affordable price range of $ 150,000.00 - $ 200,000.00. Homes like the homes mentioned would sell for up to $ 300,000 or more in the Bakersfield City area. People are moving in from the Ventura/ Oxnard area and the Moorpark area quite rapidly. It only makes sense to sell a small home in the L. A. area and move to Arvin to a much better quality of home and atmosphere and still be able to put money away. The commute for people still working in L. A. is not that bad considering the perks of living in the town of Arvin away from the hustle and bustle of L. A. A review of the financial picture for the City of Arvin reveals some rather disturbing trends. For example, the general fund ending balance on June 20, 2003 was $ 1,678,491.00. On June 30, 2004, the balance in the fund was $ 1,024,522.00 which represents a 39% decrease. The projected balance in the fund for June 30, 2005, is $ 540,012.00 which translates into an additional 53% decrease! Not included in the current year budget, however, is an expected payment of approximately $ 300,000.00 in vehicle license fees, of which the City just recently became aware. If the revenue materializes, it certainly would be a welcome relief. Without the revenue, however, the total City budget ( inclusive of all funds) reveals deficit spending in the amount of $ 726,330.00 for the current year. COMMENTS: As a result of State shortfalls in funding levels cities have continued to suffer financially. Tough financial decisions have had to be made to accommodate the unfortunate circumstances. It appears, however, that in Arvin’s case the budget adjustments that may have been made did not cut the flow of red ink as the resources have continued to shrink substantially at least over the past two years. Arvin is commended for continuing to move forward and leaving the past where the past belongs. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. An in- depth analysis of revenues and expenditures of all funds should be made to determine what actions need to be taken to stem the tide of deficit spending in Arvin’s City Budget. 2. Arvin should continue to pursue governmental grants wherever possible to maintain an adequate revenue base which will allow the City to remain afloat. 3. In lieu of the City’s financial situation, the Arvin City council members should seriously reconsider the decision of setting the compensation package to the maximum as allowed by law. Reconsidering the decision would show that the council members have the City at heart and are not in office for personal gain. 4. Arvin should designate one person to be a public relations spokesperson. Having a spokesperson would allow the City to speak with one voice so as to eliminate conflicting statements regarding City affairs. 5. The City should actively pursue a Police Commission Advisory Group to work along side of law enforcement. 6. The City should hire a full time Code Enforcement person as soon as possible in order to keep code enforcement up to date. 7. Arvin City officials and staff should continue to keep a positive attitude and a positive front to the community. Arvin has much to offer and the more positive picture put forth to the public the better. 8. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Arvin post a copy of this report and response as required where it will be available for public review. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury reports and responses can be accessed at the County Libraries and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED RESPOND WITHIN 60 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 July 19, 2005 Honorable Lee P. Felice Presiding Judge Kern County Superior Court 1415 Truxton Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 Re Official Response to Grand Jury Report on the City of Arvin Honorable Judge Felice; Please thank the Grand Jury and Staff for taking time to visit our City and to report on their visit. I am pleased that their visit was pleasant and that they were treated in a professional manner by our administrative and management team. It is clear from the report that our City via the new elected officials and management team is making progress to insure that the City is run in an efficient manner and that clarity and open government is present in the City of Arvin. We expect major growth in the City and it is imperative that professional administration is responsive to the needs of the new and current residents of our great City of Arvin. I want to clarify some facts and bring to your attention some statements that need revision in order to enhance the quality of the report that has been written by the Grand Jury about our City. It is our intention to work with the Grand Jury and to have an open door policy for all external entities that may want to learn more about the workings of our City government. First, I was made aware that we have 48 hours to make correction upon receipt of the preliminary report and before it is made public. However, I have reviewed the initial notification correspondence to our City Manager and there is no information regarding this option. If we had been notified of this option the City could have provided additional or updated information that would clarify any misunderstandings and erroneous statements from appearing in a final report. Our finance Director, David Powell, provided all the information he was requested but since he was not told what the Grand Jury was looking for he did not go further than to provide the requested information. I am confident he and the City Manager would have suggested and delivered additional information to clarify some of the misunderstandings regarding our financial situation and other matters covered in the Grand Jury Report if they had been made aware what the Grand Jury's goal was regarding specific financial matters. Page 2 Grand Jury Response Additionally, I suggest that copies of the Grand Jury be individually addressed to the Mayor and Council Members. If we are to be individually held liable for responding to its content, then we should be individually notified. I am aware that correspondence to our City Clerk can be considered legal notification to the City but I think it would be a courtesy. The first example of this is that the current City Manager, Enrique Medina Ochoa, upon taking office made an administrative decision to lower the daily stipend to $ 50 from the $ 95 approved by the previous City Manager/ City Attorney, Arnoldo Beltran. The current policy provides for a travel stipend for travel outside of the City of Arvin of $ 10.00 for breakfast, $ 15.00 for lunch and $ 25.00 for dinner. Parking and other fees that are expended by the City traveler are reimbursed upon presentation of appropriate receipts. Second, the City of Bakersfield compensation is erroneously stated in the report and should not be compared to Arvin since the size of the Cities are considerably different and the time required of elected officials is without the aide of assigned support staff in the City of Arvin. The Mayor of Bakersfield receives $ 2,000.00 per month and receives a Council stipend of $ 100.00 per month since he is a member of the Council. The Council Members and the Mayor in Bakersfield get at $ 433.00 car allowance and there is no car allowance provided to elected officials in Arvin. The City of Arvin Mayor receives $ 900.00 per month per state statute and adopted resolution. As a Council Member he is also entitled to an additional $ 300.00 but he had not opted not to take that benefit. All other Council Members do receive that amount. Third, the Police Chief was Interim Chief for ½ year from January to June of 2004 prior to be appointed Police Chief. The City will work to insure that only one person officially speaks for the City and the Police Department. Financially the City is now working with a balanced budget. The City of Arvin had a $ 600K plus deficit when the current City Manager and Financial Director were initially employed in May of 2003. The following year of 2004 the budget deficit was reduced to $ 400K plus. In 2005, via cost saving measures such as employment lay- offs, frugal spending, and vacancy savings while conjunctively seeking external funds, we expected a $ 200,000 plus deficit. However, the City solicited and received various grants and greater tax receipts then projected and this FY20004- 05 the financial numbers reflect revenues exceeding expenses by approximately $ 50,000. This means that the General Fund has a balance on June 30, 2005 of well over One Million Dollars. The budget is balanced and the City of Arvin is no longer operating under a deficit mode. Page 3 Grand Jury Response The following will address the recommendations individually. 1. This fiscal year the City of Arvin will have a balanced budget with no deficit. The City administration will continue to take actions to stem the tide of deficit spending. 2. Arvin continues to pursue external funding sources. The current administration has revived the Arvin Redevelopment Agency. The agency is pursuing funds via bonds or notes that will supplement programs that will enhance the economic and aesthetic vitality of the City. Page 3 Grand Jury Report Response 3. No Council Member is taking advantage of all the benefits provided for salary and support services. The current Council Members do not seem to have personal gain in mind. 4. Arvin will dedicate a media spokesperson to deal with public relations matters. At this time the Mayor and City Manager are the primary media representatives. 5. Arvin will pursue the selection of a Police Commission Advisory Group. The City will be hosting a Neighborhood Academy for Leadership and this will lead to the identification and training of potential advisory members who can serve on cities advisory organizations. 6. The City will pursue the hiring of a Code Enforcement Officer. A firm has also been recommended by one of the Council Members to this work at no cost to the City. The management team of the City is currently looking at this possibility. 7. Arvin City Officials will promote a positive image for the City based on internal efforts to educate all employees regarding the bright future of the City. 8. The City of Arvin will post a copy of this report for public viewing. Please feel to call me or our administrative staff to update or clarify any questions regarding the management of our great City of Arvin. CITY OF BAKERSFIELD PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury began City of Bakersfield visits on September 30, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code 925. a. Subsequent visits with different department heads were arranged during the remaining months of 2004 into 2005. PROCESS: Members of the Committee met with several members of the City Staff on the first visit held. After determining that the Committee wished to make an in- depth report on Bakersfield this year, the Committee set up a number of meetings with department heads, the Mayor, and a City Council member. The Committee also perused budget reports, agenda and meeting minutes, Grand Jury reports from previous years, and a number of newspaper articles generated throughout the year. BACKGROUND: There but for a major flood Bakersfield could have been known as “ Bohnasfield” or even “ Woodysfield”. The first permanent home, built at 24th and P streets in what was then known as Kern Island, was built in 1860 by Christian Bohna. Mr. Bohna was a corn farmer and used to average 110 bushels of corn per acre. One of the daughters married Dr. Sparrell Woody in 1861 and the families combined their efforts in the corn business. A major flooding occurred in 1863 that resulted in major damage to the corn crops but left the home still standing. A discouraged Christian Bohna sold the property to a stranger in town, Colonel Thomas Baker, for the sum of $ 200.00. The Woody family moved up the hill to the Linn’s Valley/ Glennville area and the Bohna family left for Oregon. Colonel Baker was very accommodating to visitors coming through the valley and allowed them to rest their wagons and animals in Baker’s fields, thus the name change from Kern Island to Bakersfield. The City was first incorporated in 1873. Three years later the town dis- incorporated. In 1898 the City again incorporated and in 1910 the City of Kern, formerly the Town of Sumner ( now known as East Bakersfield/ Old Town Kern), annexed to the City of Bakersfield. The City of Bakersfield is a Charter City, one of two in Kern County. Other little known facts about Bakersfield: the City colors are blue and gold; the City bird is the Western Robin; the City flower is the Miss Bakersfield Camellia. The City of Bakersfield has two Sister Cities in Japan and now one in Mexico. FINDINGS: The City of Bakersfield has a population of over 221,000 people and covers more than 110 square miles. Needless to say the potholes and street problems are still first and foremost in many citizen’s minds. According to the Roads Department the City is doing the best job possible with the resources available. Possibly the new name change for the former “ Centennial Garden”, now known as “ Rabobank Arena”, and the monies acquired during the name change will generate the impetus for major road repairs to take place. As any city knows the wheels of progress tend to grind slowly. Bakersfield has set in motion the process that will no longer allow the State to take Vehicle License Fees ( VLF) in the coming years. The VLF will help tremendously in assuring more road repair in future years. The City and the County are trying to come together on a plan for voting in a ½ cent tax increase to be used exclusively for roads in the City and County. Sometimes the citizens of a city must tighten the belt and look forward not just look at the here and now! Code enforcement is a very important part of keeping the City looking good and keeping the City clean. It has been a real challenge for the City as budget restraints in the past few years narrowed the Code Enforcement Officers down to a number lower than optimum for proper enforcement. The number of Officers is now going up so the process of code enforcement should be back on track soon. Along with code enforcement is the other side of the coin, planning enforcement. The Planning Department is also stretched thin at this time but appears to be on the mend. One of the things the City needs is a code enforcer to go through the City on a regular basis and check out the street light situation. This has not been done on a regular basis for awhile now. The City has a General Plan, actually a 20 Year Plan, and updates the plan annually. Because the City keeps on top of this 20 Year Plan City growth is taking place at a proper rate and as planned. According to Grand Jury sources over 150 new businesses have come into the City over the last four years. A wonderful new Town Center Shopping area is planned at 24th and “ M” streets as well as a great walkable part of the City located at 21st and “ R” streets. Downtown continues to become more people and business friendly. “ Old Town Kern” ( the east- side of the City) has a beautification program going on and the citizens on the east side of town are making vast inroads towards this end. The pride of the City is showing in all different areas of the City of Bakersfield. The policy of the City is not to control population growth. Instead, the City responds to such growth in whatever way is deemed necessary for the health and safety of the citizens. In order to provide adequate schooling, school officials consult with developers in the area to seek the purchase of land for schools needed in the future. Bakersfield is experiencing a growth of approximately 13,000 people per year. Building permits in the City have gone from 5,000 to 6,000 per year to 11,000 this past year. The down side of this rosy picture is the contractors are so busy with construction that it is difficult to find local contractors to bid on new construction. A $ 50- 60 million dollar expansion of the west- side sewage treatment plant will take approximately 14 months to implement and four years to build. Part of the 20 Year Plan includes an agriculture policy in which ways of removing existing agricultural land is compatible with the continued growth of agricultural crops elsewhere. Traffic congestion is a definite problem on City streets. Some of the roads in the City are State roads, such as Rosedale Highway. This poses a problem as it is up to the State to widen or correct problems on State Highways. It may seem as if the City Fathers don’t pay attention to the problems at hand. Not true! Hands are tied and the City must bow to State mandates on many of the issues confronting City motorists. Funding problems arise from the same issue. The State must allocate State funds in order for State roads to be upgraded. The City receives funding from an allocation of sales tax revenue, gas tax receipts, and federal funds for certain projects. The funds may be used for the maintenance of streets and roads if so deemed. Fire and police protection is always on the minds of the City. The funds needed for hiring more officers and fireman may come from the new monies received from the “ Rabobank Arena” name change. However, the City Council must make educated decisions after all the needs of the City are laid out before the Council. It is not an easy call to know just where to jump “ when the flames are licking at your backside!” The desired ratio for police officers is 1.3 for every 1,000 people. Currently the staffing ratio is 1.17. Another hot topic is neighborhood swimming pools. As much as the citizens of Bakersfield would like to keep things as they used to be it is time to realize that life styles have changed. Many more private homes have pools and spas which equates to less of the population using neighborhood pools. If the pool is not used to the optimum the City loses money. The new McMurtrey Center is a great asset to the City but does not meet all the needs of the lower and middle- class citizen. Price structure must be re- addressed and people friendly hours set. As with any new entity trial and error will be needed to find the right fit. It must be remembered the pool is here for the people, not to raise money for the City. Like many amenities in the City revenue is not always the first priority. Citizen’s needs are first and foremost! It should be known that red light cameras were not put in place for City revenue. The City receives very little of the overall price of a ticket for running a red light. Approximately $ 18.00 - $ 40.00 is all the City receives. The rest of the monies go to the company Red Flex, for maintenance and to the courts for processing. The red light cameras are put in place because of safety issues. As the City continues to grow and the population continues to explode, more and more people are on the road. More and more people equate to more and more red light runners. Sit on any busy street corner in the City and watch the drivers try to beat the light. Red light running is a great source of concern for all citizens of the City. The citizens of Bakersfield need to slow down and live a better life. The school zone signs posted for slowing traffic are constantly being ignored. Children and adults are at peril. Remember traffic rules are for all of the people, not just a chosen few. One of Bakersfield’s biggest problems is not having a seat on LAFCO ( Local Agency Formation Commission). Having a seat on LAFCO makes sense as Bakersfield is the most populated city of the 11 incorporated cities in the County and has not yet been given a seat on the LAFCO board. The problem should be addressed as soon as possible. When addressing growth, development, and annexation, Bakersfield is left “ hanging out to dry”, so to speak. The City still has many small “ islands” within the City not annexed. This is not good for the overall growth of the City but until the citizens of the “ islands” agree to incorporation the “ islands” will exist. Bakersfield also needs more than one seat on Kern COG ( Kern Council of Governments) as a Joint Powers Committee is very important to local government. During the “ good times” when the stock market was at an all time high, the City elected to substantially improve the pension program for employees. In doing so, however, the City failed to take into account that a drop in the market was always a possibility and that to proceed with caution is always prudent. When the market did drop, the City was stuck with pension costs the City could ill afford. The City’s Worker’s Compensation program is self- funded. After a recent actuarial study was performed, it was discovered that the fund was $ 8.6 million dollars under-funded. The funds to provide for the costs, along with the pension fund increase and the State revenue shortfall, created havoc on the City’s General Fund Budget. Overall the Cities and Joint Powers Committee commends the City Staff and City Council for working hard to serve the City of Bakersfield’s citizens in the best possible way. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The City and County of Kern need to make Code Enforcement Laws seamless. This would enable future annexation to become a very simple process. Code Enforcement positions should also be increased. 2. The City should publish a new planning map showing Bakersfield’s growth each year. This map should be in a place easily accessible to citizens of the City. 3. The City should follow through on the plan to hold an election to levy a ½ cent sales tax increase to generate revenue for the improvement of streets and roads. To be successful with this election however, the City must assure the citizens that the money generated will be used strictly for the purpose for which it is raised and then make sure that the money generated is used properly. NOTE: If the tax is not passed the City cannot receive matching funds or State grants. A Citizen Oversight Committee is strongly recommended. 4. With ever increasing population growth it is imperative that a constant monitoring of the City’s infrastructure be maintained. Water supply, sewage disposal systems, and the construction of streets and roads are just a few of the needed services that must be maintained. If basic tax revenues prove to be inadequate, then the levy of impact fees on new construction, etc. may need to be revised upwards. 5. The City’s pension costs for employees is extremely costly. Employees are now able to retire at a fairly young age and receive full retirement benefits and then many seek employment from another employer to double the employee’s income. The City should revisit the pension plan and make revisions that will lessen the burden on taxpayers and bring the pension program more in line with other public agencies and private entities. 6. An actuarial study of the Worker’s Compensation Fund revealed an $ 8.6 million dollar shortfall. The General Fund is obligated to meet the obligation in as much as the City is self- insured. Such a large shortfall seems to justify that the City review the claim process with the goal being to verify the legitimacy of each claim. Also, it seems prudent to review each accident to insure that the City’s safety program is adequate and is being adhered to as planned. 7. As a result of State revenue shortfalls several staff positions were vacated during the past year. Due to the instability of State revenues each individual department of the City should make an ongoing analysis of expenditures in hopes of reducing costs. Doing the analysis would insure that employee layoffs would only take place as a last resort. 8. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Bakersfield post a copy of this report and response as required where it will be available for public review. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury reports and responses can be accessed at the County Libraries and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED WITHIN 60 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 Board of Supervisors Response to Grand Jury CITY OF BAKERSFIELD, CITY OF CALIFORNIA CITY, CITY OF RIDGECREST RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATIONS City of Bakersfield The City and the County work closely together to promote consistency in building standards, road construction, and land use. Code enforcement is among the areas on which the City and the County confer. City of California City With the transfer of all court related functions to the State, the County no longer determines the location of court facilities. The County is in negotiations with the State Administrative Office of the Courts on the transfer of existing court facilities to the State. The State is responsible for locating, funding, and constructing future court facilities. The Public Health Department has in the past held child health and immunization clinics in California City. These clinics are no longer scheduled because of a lack of attendance from the community. For example, at the last immunization clinic, only one person attended; at the last child health clinic, there was zero attendance. Flu vaccination clinics are, however, well attended and are held annually, with the exception of last year due to the vaccine shortage. Urgent care clinics throughout the County are provided by either for- profit or non- profit entities. The rationale for recommending that the County establish a highway maintenance yard is unknown. However, should the County determine the need for an additional yard in the East Kern area, California City would be considered. Public Resources Code § 40057 provides that each jurisdiction ( city, county) is responsible for managing the waste generated by its citizens. The County assists all cities with solid waste disposal by providing a system of disposal sites throughout the County. The Mojave- Rosamond sanitary landfill is located 19 miles from California City, a distance no greater than the distance for Bakersfield residents to travel, or the cities of Arvin, Delano, Maricopa, and McFarland. The County also provides hazardous household waste ( HHW) disposal services and has established a permanent HHW facility at the Mojave Airport. The Arts Council of Kern is a non- profit organization that is not affiliated with County government. City of Ridgecrest The teen court program is administered and operated by a non- profit organization with privately secured funds ( donations). Unfortunately, the Ridgecrest program was unable to achieve the level of donations needed to operate an effective teen court program. POLGJClTIESB CITY OF CALIFORNIA CITY PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City of California City, on February 1, 2005, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a. PROCESS: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee met with the new City Manager and numerous other members of the City Staff. The Committee also reviewed current and past City minutes and agendas, previous Grand Jury reports, budgets, and newspaper articles relating to the City of California City before visiting the City. The Cities and Joint Powers Committee was treated to an extensive tour around a large area of California City. The tour was led by the Human Resource Manager and the City Clerk. It opened the eyes of the Committee to the great strides the City has made since the last visit and the needs still not being met. BACKGROUND: Starting as a dream of a developer in 1958 and incorporated as a General Law city in 1965, California City is the third largest city in land area in California. Encompassing a 204 square mile area of land the City has growth potential for many years to come. The City has approximately 11,400 people calling California City home. There is a large prison in the City which houses mostly illegal aliens awaiting deportment. The Prison serves as a large job base for the City. California City was once part of the original 165 miles of the Twenty Mule Team Trail in the 1880’ s. This trail cut through the desert from Death Valley to Mojave allowing the hauling of loads of borax to the railhead. From there the borax and other goods were distributed throughout the country. Many outdoor activities are available to those who seek adventure. Fishing, hunting, rafting, and more is available just minutes away in the surrounding mountains and streams. Many enthusiasts come from miles away to participate in the skydiving and glider rides offered at the City airport. Many others come for the hot air balloon festival and small plane adventures. Every long weekend, Thanksgiving in particular, you will find as many as 65,000 off-roaders converging on the City of California City. The area is off- road friendly and in fact the Police Department and the Fire Department have set up a special task force to address this issue. The Command Center is set up at Borax Bill Park on those weekends out in the desert and the operation is called DIRT ( Desert Interactive Response Team). Most of the members of this team make themselves available in case of accidents or in case the off- roaders need directions or help in any way. As part of this task force the City has safety vehicles including the Medi- vac helicopter available during these weekends. Grants help fund this particular program for Fire Department paramedics and the like. It would take an ambulance as much as 20- 40 minutes in response time but the helicopter can reach these remote areas in a matter of a few minutes. FINDINGS: Hyundai has completed the test track in California City. In order to do this the company was very specific as to the needs involved. The company had the City annex 29 acres into the City where the company wanted the track built. The track is built under the high speed corridor in restricted air space. This allows the company to test any of the new concept cars without fear of overhead surveillance. In annexing this particular 29 acres the City allowed a different 29 acres be reclaimed by the County. Therefore, the City of California City still encompasses 204 square miles of land but with different borders. The Hyundai facility will generate tax revenue for the City. The Airport has been undergoing a large refurbishing over the past few years. Many new businesses are now housed at the Airport since over four and one half million dollars have been spent to make the Airport more business friendly. Over 6,000 feet of runway has been resurfaced as well. The Medi- vac helicopter is now housed close to the Airport rather than at the Fire Department due to noise complaints. The Airport now takes care of housing light commercial and light industrial business. A complete fuel rehabilitation has taken place bringing underground fuel tanks to the surface for easier access. The City continues to build new senior housing projects to meet an ever- growing need. A new 95 unit project has just been completed. There are approximately 400 senior units now available and yet there is still a waiting list of over 60 people waiting for senior housing. The senior housing meets most of the needs of a senior community. New sub-divisions are going in at a rapid pace. An influx of people from as far away as Lancaster, Palmdale, and Los Angeles is creating the need for upscale housing. Most homes being built are in the $ 200- 220 thousand dollar range. Other more expensive homes are being built also. A new motel is in the works for 2005 as well as a new processing plant being built on 50 acres of industrial land. The City expects a 14 month build- out. A large major chain grocery store is still a dream but due to continued growth and new housing coming in, this dream is closer to being a reality. The California City Fire Department has one fire station. Within five years there will be a definite need for more than one station. The Air Ambulance ( Medi- vac) is averaging 33 transports a month which shows the need of this particular piece of equipment. The helicopter is manned by paramedics. This helps cut crucial response time to bad accidents and disasters. The Fire Department has three engines, 45 employees, 11 full time, and the rest part time. This includes seven helicopter operators. The City also employs a mutual aid agreement with the County and Mojave. The Police force is increasing. At the moment there are twelve full time officers and two more in training, soon to join the force. The department has four quad units, a four- wheel drive Kia, an armored truck, and the DIRT team. The lack of County services in this part of the county diminishes the ability of law enforcement to do its job properly. A branch of Courts and juvenile facilities are greatly needed. Much down time is used transporting juveniles and adults to other areas for booking, etc. The City has a very unique way of getting necessary tax revenue voted in by the citizens of the City. The City has a Citizens Advisory Committee that advises council on City matters and this holds government accountable for its actions. The Citizens Committee along with most of the City Staff and managers go door to door when a tax increase is up for vote. The Citizens Committee also holds small group meetings explaining to citizens attending exactly how the tax increase will be used. The Committee explains in simple, understandable terms just what the City will do once the tax increase is approved. By being a “ hands on” City, the citizens of California City have passed the last three tax increases. The average citizen appreciates the fact that City government explains what is needed and explains how the tax will be used, putting trust back in government. Many other small city governments should take the same approach. Because of the tax revenues being passed the City has had little impact from State budget cuts. The area most affected by State budget cuts is the employment base. Public Works in particular is affected. Both the Police Chief and the Fire Chief take turns on patrol. Normally this would not be the case but both the Police Chief and the Fire Chief are “ hands on people” and are not afraid to get down in the “ trenches.” The Parks and Recreation Department is fully funded by special tax. There are programs for youth, adults, and senior citizens. There is a sports center, a swimming pool ( lessons are offered during the swim season), an adult volleyball league, a tech center for both youth and adults, three parks, a golf course, a three hole putting green, and much more. The golf course is lighted for night- time use as well. The Arts Council is up and running but still needs a boost from the County in order to become the viable vibrant program the City wants and needs. The waste- water plant is being expanded. No traditional impact fees are collected by the City. There again the special taxes collected take care of infrastructure and the like. California City has over two hundred miles of roads to keep up and this is a huge undertaking. New construction makes sure new streets are in place as well as sewer lines and utility needs. The theft of street signs is still a problem and will be until all areas of the City are more heavily populated. The new high school is composed of modular buildings, at this time being staged on private property just outside of airport property. When it all comes together this will be a beautiful addition to the City and a much needed addition to the school system. California City has an excellent “ can do” attitude that other cities could take to heart. This “ can do” spirit is a very healthy way of taking care of business. RECOMMENDATIONS: The County of Kern needs to address the lack of services not available in California City. Some needed services are as follows: 1. A branch of Superior Court for both adults and juvenile offenders. 2. A branch of the Health Department. 3. An Urgent Care Clinic. 4. A highway maintenance yard. 5. A County Refuse system. 6. The County Arts Council should consider coming along side of the Arts Council now in place for California City. California City needs to continue pursuing a full time grant writer. The City uses grants for a number of projects. Many hours are spent pursuing grants by many different people. A full time grant writer would eliminate this problem. A large unfinished concrete block building sits on property near the airport and has for the last few years. The City needs to actively pursue all avenues necessary to bring in another business or entity to complete this building and make it a viable place of business for the airport property and the City. California City should post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it would be available for public reviewing. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be accessed at the County Library and on the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED: WITHIN 60 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 " In God We Trust" CITY COUNCIL Mayor- Larry Adams Vice Mayor- Bill Dempsey Councilwoman- Ginger Bailey Councilman- Mike Edmiston Councilman- Nicholas Lessenevitch City Clerk- Helen Dennis City Treasurer- Wendell Vining City Manager- Jack Stewart April 14, 2005 Daniel L. Williams, Chairperson Cities & Joint Powers Committee Kern County Grand Jury 1415 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 Re: Response to the Grand Jury Final Report, City of California City, dated March 8, 2005 Dear Mr. Williams: Enclosed please find the response to the Grand Jury Cities Committee on their findings in California City. We appreciate the diligence of the Committee members in their investigation while in our city, and welcome them back at any time. There are some " fine- tuning" responses which we feel should become part of the published report for 2005, and submit them accordingly. Thank you again for taking the time to visit with us, and allow us to show you our city. PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City of California City, on February .1, 2005, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a. FINDINGS: Paragraph one:".. . . The company had the City annex 29 acres into the City where the company wanted the track built…" Response: The annexation was a decision made by the City with the concurrence of the Board of Supervisors and the Local Agency Formation Commission ( LAFCO), because of the opportunities that were being communicated to the city from outside sources who were interested in locating within city limits, but close to Hwy. 58. The City actually annexed 29 Sections of land, of which Hyundai requested seven of the sections to build their facility. In turn the city released 29 Sections of land back to Kern County. Paragraph Two: ". .. A complete fuel rehabilitation has taken place bringing underground fuel tanks to the surface for easier access. Response: The report may wish to read " A complete rehabilitation of the Airport Fuel Farm will take place this summer which will remove underground fuel tanks which pose future potential environmental issues, and replace them with above- ground tanks. A grant has been secured to provide $ 400,000 in funding through the Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program to enhance the current system. " Paragraph five: " At the moment there are twelve full time officers and two more in training, soon to join the force." Response: This should be corrected to " the police department has twelve officers total with two officers . in training. " Paragraph five: " The lack of County services in this part of the county diminishes the ability of law enforcement to do its job properly: A branch of Courts and juvenile facilities are greatly needed." Response: Additionally, the lack of county services in California City creates a financial burden on the city, but the police department continues to do their job properly with limited resources. Paragraph Nine of Findings: " the new high school is composed of modular buildings, at this time being staged on private property just outside of airport property." Response: The buildings are being staged on property within the airport boundaries to reduce storage costs and enhance security of the buildings while awaiting site preparation. RECOMMENDATIONS: The County of Kern needs to address the lack of services not available in California City. Some needed services are as follows: 1. A branch of Superior Court for both adults and juvenile offenders. 2. A branch of the Health Department 3. An Urgent Care Clinic. 4. A highway maintenance yard. 5. A County Refuse system. 6. The County Arts Council should consider coming along side of the Arts Council now in place for California City. Response: County response and action is needed. Per the Chief of Police Linda Lunsford, she wished to add that the specific lack of a branch of courts and Juvenile facilities create a great deal of expense for the city, but the Police Department continues to do their work properly with limited funds. Regarding the County Arts Council, our local arts organization reports that they ( Arts Council of Kern) have been extremely helpful in assisting the local Arts Commission to become established; including a visit to the Commission during their regular meeting, to offer advice and assistance in coming under their umbrella in the County of Kern. California City needs to continue pursuing a full time grant writer. The City uses grants for a number of projects. Many hours are spent pursuing grants by many different people. A full time grant writer would eliminate this problem. Response: The City has restructured operations to include a central grant coordinator. This will enhance of grant funding opportunities. A large unfinished concrete block building sits on property near the airport and has for the last few years. The City needs to actively pursue all avenues necessary to bring in another business or entity to complete this building and make it a viable place of business for the airport property, and the City. Response: The city is working with several interested parties for the utilization of these buildings. California City should post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it would be available for public reviewing. Response: This report and responses will be on file in the City Clerk's office. Board of Supervisors Response to Grand Jury CITY OF BAKERSFIELD, CITY OF CALIFORNIA CITY, CITY OF RIDGECREST RESPONSE TO RECOMMENDATIONS City of Bakersfield The City and the County work closely together to promote consistency in building standards, road construction, and land use. Code enforcement is among the areas on which the City and the County confer. City of California City With the transfer of all court related functions to the State, the County no longer determines the location of court facilities. The County is in negotiations with the State Administrative Office of the Courts on the transfer of existing court facilities to the State. The State is responsible for locating, funding, and constructing future court facilities. The Public Health Department has in the past held child health and immunization clinics in California City. These clinics are no longer scheduled because of a lack of attendance from the community. For example, at the last immunization clinic, only one person attended; at the last child health clinic, there was zero attendance. Flu vaccination clinics are, however, well attended and are held annually, with the exception of last year due to the vaccine shortage. Urgent care clinics throughout the County are provided by either for- profit or non- profit entities. The rationale for recommending that the County establish a highway maintenance yard is unknown. However, should the County determine the need for an additional yard in the East Kern area, California City would be considered. Public Resources Code § 40057 provides that each jurisdiction ( city, county) is responsible for managing the waste generated by its citizens. The County assists all cities with solid waste disposal by providing a system of disposal sites throughout the County. The Mojave- Rosamond sanitary landfill is located 19 miles from California City, a distance no greater than the distance for Bakersfield residents to travel, or the cities of Arvin, Delano, Maricopa, and McFarland. The County also provides hazardous household waste ( HHW) disposal services and has established a permanent HHW facility at the Mojave Airport. The Arts Council of Kern is a non- profit organization that is not affiliated with County government. City of Ridgecrest The teen court program is administered and operated by a non- profit organization with privately secured funds ( donations). Unfortunately, the Ridgecrest program was unable to achieve the level of donations needed to operate an effective teen court program. POLGJClTIESB CITY OF DELANO PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City of Delano on September 16, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a. PROCESS: Members of the Cities and Joint Powers Committee toured the City of Delano and met with the City Manager, Mayor, Chief of Police, and other staff members. The Committee reviewed the current City budget, City Council agendas, and previous Grand Jury Final Reports and responses. The Committee also reviewed various media publications relating to the City of Delano. BACKGROUND: Delano started out in 1870 as a Southern Pacific railhead surrounded by farms. In 1915 Delano was incorporated as a General Law City. The City of Delano remains as the second most populated city in Kern County and has maintained its agricultural heritage. Agriculture remains the big business in Delano, but Sears Logistics Services, North Kern State Prison, and Delano Family Motors round out the top four businesses in the City. It is most often referred to as the “ International City” because of its community ability to celebrate everyone’s diverse culture. Industry is also having a positive impact upon the City. The City presently has a population of 43,181 and is continuing to grow approximately 3% a year. Included in the total population are approximately 5,582 inmates of the California Correctional Facility. The average household income in Delano is $ 28,143. The average housing cost is $ 100,000. FINDINGS: · The Delano City Council voted to place a measure on the November ballot which would levy a half- cent extra sales tax within City limits if passed. The City is hoping to generate an extra $ 1.2 million a year for the next 10 years from the tax. The money would go into the City’s general fund which helps pay for everything from street repair to emergency services. The tax would expire after 10 years. · The City will be spending $ 1.2 million on Schuster Road in Delano. The road will be widened, curbs and gutters installed, water and sewer systems updated, and the storm drain extended to make the road more useful for current and future industrial developments in the area. Currently a Sears distribution center and Paramount Citrus facility are the primary users, but City officials are hoping to attract more industry to the area. Construction is scheduled to begin before the end of the year and will last about six months. · The City Council has put in place new development impact fees. The fee for building a new home in Delano will be $ 9,090 per house. The old fees were $ 5,150 per house and went to pay for the water, sewer and governmental facilities, storm drain maintenance, and police and fire services. The new impact fees include charges for park facilities and street maintenance. · The City wide operation budget for fiscal year 2004- 2005 totals $ 31,115,786, an increase of $ 2,979,696 or 10% of the previous year’s budget. The City has proposed adding eight new personnel with an additional cost of $ 445,024, including liability insurance, to cope with the increased level of services brought about by growth in the City, and to replace personnel who were cut in prior periods. · The City of Delano contracts with a private firm to manage their code enforcement program. During the first year of operation 422 citations were issued of which 236 are already in compliance. The City has a web- site which will allow citizens to file code violation complaints and to find out what the code requirements are. · Delano is the host city for two State prisons, one of which is operating now and the other will be opening soon. It is expected the prison staff will be approximately 2,700 employees when both prisons are in full operation. · A new transit station is scheduled for opening in November 2004. The station was funded with a $ 1.5 million grant. This along with a new streetscape project, which was funded with another $ 1.5 million grant, has made a significant improvement in the downtown area. · Bakersfield College will be starting construction on a new college campus in Delano in October 2004. · A new Home Depot store is scheduled for opening in November 2004. It is expected approximately 150 full time employees will be hired. · A proposal to build a new Wal- Mart store at the north end of town in Tulare County is at a standstill. Delano wants the store to be in Delano city limits. No further talks are scheduled at this time. · The City has procured a $ 400,000 grant to build a soccer field and softball complex on City land next to the airport. · The City will be opening a 23,300 sq. ft. skate park in October 2004. Street repair is a concern and the City administration is placing a half cent sales tax initiative on the November ballot to address this issue. A recent survey indicates that the initiative will pass. · The City has applied for a $ 2.5 million grant to build a gymnasium which will accommodate programs such as physical fitness, boxing, and dancing etc. · The senior citizen nutrition program has been very successful and continues to do well. · A 2,000 unit housing project is in progress. The price range will about $ 130,000 - $ 160,000 per unit. · The police department can now book prisoners on site by way of a satellite system. No transporting of prisoners is required. · Delano has issued $ 33 million in new construction permits for the past year. · The City presently has two fire stations. Two more stations are needed because of continued growth. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The City of Delano should exhaust every option to convince Wal- Mart to locate in the City limits. An ideal location would be in the same area where the new Home Depot is presently located. 2. The City staff should continue its aggressive efforts to revitalize the City with economic development. The grant money that has been received is being used very wisely. 3. If the ballot measure to increase sales taxes is approved the expenditure of these funds should be closely monitored to insure that the money is used for the purpose for which it was raised, namely for the improvement of streets and roads. 4. The City should continue its efforts to attract retail and industrial economic development for its citizens. With the new prison population additional demands from citizens is inevitable. 5. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Delano post a copy of this report and response as required where it will be available for public review. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury reports and responses can be accessed at the county libraries and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site; www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED: WITHIN 90 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSIFLD, CA 93301 CITY OF MARICOPA PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City of Maricopa on October 5, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a. PROCESS: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee met with the Administrator and Mayor of Maricopa for the annual visit to the City. The Committee reviewed the reports of the last two Grand Juries and reviewed agendas, budgets, and minutes of the City Council meetings. Newspaper articles and last year’s Grand Jury recommendations were also scrutinized. BACKGROUND: Maricopa started the oil boom with the “ Lakeview Gusher”. In fact Maricopa was established well before Taft ever came into being. The City was incorporated in July of 1911. At one time the City boasted over 20,000 residents. Since those grand days of oil and exploration the City has shrunk down to approximately 1,100 residents. Maricopa has a City Council consisting of five members. Each year the council elects a Mayor from among their ranks. Each council member has a four- year term. This City is a general law city as are most cities in Kern County. These city council members receive no pay for their time in office. Three council seats are up for possible change this election year. FINDINGS: Since the last visit of last year’s Grand Jury the State has really thrown Maricopa a curve. Approximately $ 30,000 to $ 40,000 of revenue has been taken by the State. For a small town already strapped by small tax revenue and little growth this has virtually halted progress for allowing the City to grow. Because of the shortfall of funds the City Manager has opted to voluntarily reduce his work- days to just one day a week. The City offices themselves stay open four days a week instead of five. There are two full time employees. Maricopa has a very low unemployment rate. Oil field workers and self- employed individuals make up the bulk of the labor force. Agriculture workers are also very prevalent. A lot of citrus growing is taking place east of the City and a Citrus Processing Plant is being built to accommodate this citrus growth. Maricopa basically has a one street downtown section. This section of town has been allowed to deteriorate due to lack of funds and lack of pride in these old historic buildings. One old building was recently razed after fire damage. Although the City itself does not have a grant writer KernCOG and other agencies help them apply when necessary. As most grants require matching funds the City must be very circumspect as they do not have monies to be used in this way. Fire protection for the City is provided by Kern County Fire Department. Kern County Sheriff’s department working out of the Taft sub- station furnishes police protection. Even though Maricopa is a small town drug trafficking is still a major concern for the City. A medical clinic is available in Taft. All other medical needs are taken to Bakersfield. The Senior Center is utilized as much as any small town Senior Center. Bingo games, potlucks, weddings, and receptions are all held there. The City Council meetings are also held in the Senior Center building. The City is in the process of making park improvements with a grant they received last year. The sewer problem, which has plagued the City for years, may soon be addressed. KernCOG along with a Community Development Block Grant ( CDBG) has just signed a contract with Maricopa to upgrade the sewer ponds and the sewer system. By doing this upgrade the City will have a better chance of more growth in the years to come. There are currently two schools taking care of the education needs of over 400 children, K- 12th grades. Manufactured homes are popping up day by day especially on oil properties. RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. The City of Maricopa needs to exhaust every avenue of applying for funding that will allow for the continued improvement of the City’s infrastructure. 2. The City needs to solicit funds from private corporations to be used to renovate some of the old dilapidated buildings for historical preservation. 3. The City might consider contacting the Historical Society and see if they would be able to designate some of these buildings as historical sites and therefore open the doors for this type of funding. 4. The City of Maricopa is on the designated route between Bakersfield and the Coast. Some of these buildings could be made into antique stores or little boutiques. This type of store would appeal to those coming and going to the Coast and could be a great source of revenue for the City. 5. The City needs to work closely with KernCOG and other like agencies to improve and upgrade the little town of Maricopa in order to keep the town viable. Once again the Grand Jury recommends that the City pursue a “ Downtown Association” to work on these areas of concern. 6. All in all the City of Maricopa is a great little City just waiting to happen. Take pride in all that you can offer and all you can do to continue to grow! 7. The 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury recommends that the City of Maricopa post a copy of this report and response, if required, where it will be available for public reviewing. Note: Present and past Kern County Grand Jury Final Reports and Responses can be accessed at the County Library and/ or the Kern County Grand Jury web- site: www. co. kern. ca. us/ grandjury RESPONSE REQUIRED: WITHIN 90 DAYS TO PRESIDING JUDGE KERN COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 1415 TRUXTUN AVENUE BAKERSFIELD, CA 93301 March 23, 2005 Honorable Lee P. Felice Presiding Judge Kern County Superior Court 1415 Truxtun Avenue Bakersfield, CA 93301 Dear Judge Felice: This letter is in response to the Final Report and recommendations from the Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the Kern County Grand Jury concerning the City of Maricopa. The report and recommendations have been posted for public review. The City Council placed this matter on their regular agenda March 23, 2005 to hear and act on any input from our citizens and to publicly formulate a response to the good work of the Committee. The result of this process is that the City Council: 1. Commends the Committee for its work and accuracy in analyzing the conditions that exist in Maricopa. 2. We will continue to seek funding for infrastructure improvements in Maricopa and for the renovation and preservation of some of our antiquated buildings that have historical value. 3. We will work with our historical organization towards establishing and acceptable process to designate which buildings might qualify as a historical site and therefore eligible for certain funding opportunities. 4. The City lis in complete agreement that it is strategically located for businesses that market to travelers. Antique stores, arts and crafts boutiques, specialty foods are the types of businesses that come to mind. 5. For a couple of years the Kern County Grand Jury, through its work, has assisted in fostering stronger alliances between County Agencies and the City of Maricopa. This has resulted in taking some very positive steps toward addressing the inadequacies of our antiquated roads and sewer systems. We shall continue our efforts to strengthen these and other relationships that will contribute to cooperative actions in improving the City of Maricopa. 6. The Maricopa Chamber of Commerce is a small group of citizens and business people who serve as a " downtown association". The City Council will work with the Chamber organization towards aligning some common goals to improve and upgrade Maricopa and make the City more viable from both a residential and business perspective. Please let us know should you need to contact us for any reason regarding the report and our response. CITY OF MCFARLAND PURPOSE OF INQUIRY: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee of the 2004- 2005 Kern County Grand Jury visited the City of McFarland on September 2, 2004, pursuant to Penal Code Section 925. a. PROCESS: The Cities and Joint Powers Committee has reviewed past reports, read articles and newspaper accounts regarding McFarland. The Committee has also reviewed agendas, budgets, and minutes of |
| PDI.Date | 2005 |
| PDI.Date.Issued | 2005 |
| PDI.Title | Final Report. 2004-2005. |
| OCLC number | 144565677 |
Tags
Comments
Post a Comment for Kern County Grand Jury final report
Your rating was saved.
you wish to report:
Your comment:
Your Name:
|
|
...