Eureka, California – The Humboldt County Civil Grand Jury has released a series of six reports this month, highlighting significant findings regarding various county facilities. As the county’s independent oversight body, the jury indicated progress in multiple areas, notably in the realm of inmate voting and addressing chronic staffing shortages.
One of the most remarkable revelations involved the unprecedented participation of inmates in voting during the November 2024 election. The jury reported that 74 inmates voted, a substantial increase from the one or two participants in previous years. According to the report, this shift was made possible through collaborative efforts between county correctional deputies and the Office of Elections, which improved the voting process for inmates.
Jurors noted that specialized arrangements, including the provision of transportation to the Office of Elections, were crucial. An area within the facility was also outfitted with privacy screens to ensure a discreet voting experience. The report commended these advancements and urged the development of an official elections manual for the jail to further enhance the process.
In another report focused on the county’s pension liabilities, the jury affirmed that a pension policy initiated in the mid-2010s is being adhered to. Initially addressing a deficit of approximately $232 million in 2015, the policy now mandates that 2% of payroll costs be deposited annually into a trust fund. By early this year, the trust balance reached over $13 million, composed of county contributions and accrued interest. However, the jury emphasized the need for greater transparency regarding these liabilities, which currently exceed $378 million.
As the jury assessed facilities across the county, they noted persistent issues affecting their functionality. For instance, the Eel River Fire Camp, operated by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, was noted for its dedicated staff and well-maintained environment. However, the jury recommended developing more housing for employees, as the remote location has made staff recruitment challenging.
The report also revisited the Sempervirens Psychiatric Health Facility, the only locked inpatient psychiatric hospital within 300 miles. Despite receiving $43.5 million for a complete rebuild, jurors highlighted ongoing issues like leaking roofs that render portions of the facility unusable and contribute to staff burnout.
Similarly, the condition of the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Coroner’s Office remains a concern, particularly regarding the aging facilities and lack of privacy for families during sensitive identifications. The report reiterated previous recommendations for refurbishing the autopsy room and improving the evidence room’s security features.
The county’s animal shelter also came under scrutiny, with reports of leaking roofs affecting operations. Despite commendable efforts by shelter staff to provide for the animals, the jury expressed that delayed roof repairs could exacerbate existing issues.
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors is expected to respond to these findings officially within 90 days. Melanie McCavour, the jury’s foreperson, hinted at more extensive reports to come in the following week.
In light of the county’s budget constraints, the grand jury has called for community support to sustain its operations. They are also seeking new members to join their ranks.
For those interested in voicing concerns about government inefficiencies, the jury has provided a form on its official website.
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