HomeMy WebLinkAboutM0727811 ,,~
July 27, 1981
RECONVENE; The Board of Supervisors reconvened at 9,0-0 a. m. pursuant to
recess.. Present; Supervisors Dolan, Saraceni, Wheeler and
Chairman Moseley. Cliff 27ickelson, administrative officer,
by Mike Pyeatt, assistant administrative officer; Jim
Johansen, auditor; and Clark A. Nelson, county clerk, by
Cathy Pitts, assistant clerk to the Board. Absent; Supervisor
Lemke
sl-
d
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America
Invocation by Supervisor Saraceni
PUB LTC HEARING: 1981-82 PROPOSED BUDGET AND REVENUE SHARING FINAL USE HEARING
The public hearing on the 1981-82 proposed budget and revenue
sharing final use hearing was held as continued.
Mike Pyeatt, assistant administrative officer, set out the
summary of the budget decisions that were made during the July 17, 1981
hearing. Those reductions were a little over $4 million leaving $1.4
million shortfall. Some of the reductions made at the last hearing were
large scale reductions including the reserve for contingencies, revenue
sharing and the insurance plans. At this point the Board will have to
make the $1.9 million reductions out of $14.3 million of discretionary
funds left.
Jim Johansen, auditor, stated that in order to reduce the
deficit of $1.9 million out of the $14 million there would have to be
cuts of 14 percent out of the remaining budget units. This may not
be possible because of legal requirements and the Board would then have
to go back through the budgets to make the cutbacks. There is no money
included in the budget for the special district augmentation funds. The
Board will be considering this on August 4, 1981. The Board has full
discretion on these funds except for $400,000. It will probably be
Friday or Monday before the final fund balances axe known.
The matter was continued to later in the meeting.
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PUBLIC HEARING: CONSIDERATION ON THE IMPACT OF REQUESTING THE WAIVING OF
THE 10% COUNTY MATCHING FUND REQUIREMENT ON THE L981-82 MENTAL HEALTH
BUDGET PURSUANT TO WELFARE AND INSTITUTIONS CODE SECTION 5705
The public hearing on consideration on the impact of requesting
the waiving of the 10 percent county matching fund requirement on the
1981-82 .Mental Health budget pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code
Section 5705 was held as advertised.
Jim Johansen, auditor, set out the background of the hearing.
SB 633 provided that the county would have to pick up the 10 percent
match of the county Mental Health program. This provides for a waiver
if certain conditions were met by the county and on the application to
the state they could waive the 10 percent match. The Departmenttof
Finance is required by the Legislature to determine the added net cost of
SB 633. The estimated cost to the county relative to SB 633 is $330,000
to $400,,000. This is determined through a formula developed by .the state.
Hearing open to-the public. Appearing: Dr. Magure, mental
health director. Dr. Maguire described the impact if there were not
the $200,000 county money. The reduction is handled by $50,000 reducting
in existing services in four areas and $150,000 increase in medical
revenue brought in by two programs not subject to medical reimbursement.
The four areas of reduction is in the children and adults $34,000, which
was implemented by the movement,~~ostaff from the Childrens Home Society
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into their office, o€fice expenses and supplies.weze reduced $4,000.; the
skilled nurshing €acilities were reduced and. an alternative was .found
which pays an additional $l0 per day over-the basic.medieal care; and the
paying of the board and care operators $400 per month for basic support
of patients not on social security and no private money until they can
be independent or get their social cecurity income. That brought the
$33,000 down to $18,000..
Dr. Maguire advised the Board that he had set up a meeting
th the hospitals relative to the 5150s.
Hearing closed to the public and confined .to the Board.
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On motion of Supervisor Saraceni, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the waiver of the county match application to the state
relative to the Mental Health Department was approved.
PRESENTATION OF SHERIFF'S MANAGEI+IENT STUDY REPORT BY HUGHES, HEISS AND ASSOC.
John Heiss of Hughes, Heiss and Associates set out the focus of
the study done on the Sheriff's Department. They took a~look at the
staffing and all functions within the Sheriff's Department except the
Jail. They looked at the staffing from the prospective of what was
relatively acceptable service levels in California. This was the staffing
of law enforcement agencies. Patrol is the largest operation. The
basic service assumption for the patrol is the split of time for preventive
patrol and time spent responding to calls. The average deputy spends
about one-half of the time on preventive calls. The other one-half
involves calls for service or writing reports. This falls within the
range acceptable as acceptable services.
The other units of services, investigation and communications
they applied a variety of methods. In records they looked at how much
has to be processed. Investigation is impossible to quantify how much
time should be sent on a case. They applied several ways of looking
at these.
Richard Brady, Hughes, Heiss and Associates, took the Board through
the report by chapter. There are six chapters and the first two are
descriptive. These set out the organization and operations of the Sheriff's
Department. The response times are averaged at 20 minutes which is
fairly indicative of sheriff's departments. For serious-type responses
are generally very good at within 10 minutes. The second chapter has a
profile of the current organization in 1980-81 and describes the responsibility
and duties. Chapter 3 refers to the patrol division. The existing number
of deputies closely compares with the number required. The current number
of deputies is 50 or 52 which is about right for the current services level.
The number of sergeant positions are more than adequate for the number of
deputies in the field. One sergeant to six to nine positions is the
normal and Butte County has one to five positions which means the sergeants
are able to play an active role in proacting and responses to calls far services.
They found there should be 52 positions in the patrol division.
Chapter 4 deals with the communications center. After looking
the calls within a 24 hour period, they found that seven to eight
patchers were adequate. There is a need to add one or two dispatcher
itions to those currently authorized.
Chapter 4 also deals with the investigations division. Much
that investigators do is difficult to quantify. They used the ratio
of the investigators to the total sworn staffing, which works out to
10 to 12 percent. They also looked at the open cases. The average is
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15 to 20 cases per-investigator. Butte County is in the lower third of
the agencies with eases per investigators. This means that two investigators
could be removed. The caseloads are twice that in-Chico as in Oroville,
Paradise and Gridley. He felt the distributions should. be changed to
make it more equitable. He would recommend that the two positions either
6.e placed on the patrol staff, which they have indicated is about two
positions short, or on expanding the vice and narcotics unit.
In the Services Division they have the opportunity-to test the
workload anaylsis. They have _experienced~substantial staffing reductions.
The Service Division is not going to be able to work with the number
of personnel without replacement of the CETA positions. There are three
and one-half positions they are recommended be replaced: one keypunch
operator and two statistical clerks, either a clerk to assist or a
serving deputy, an assistant property clerk be taken on for a limited
period to take care of the back work. There is property .from the 1930s
and 1940s. It is a problem for the Sheriff's Department. He felt it would
take about a one-half time person about one year to complete. After that
period the work should be evaluated on the incoming property.
Mr. Helss gave his conclusions about what they would do in
the department. In terms of patrol, he felt the service level was an
acceptable service level. They supported. that kind of service level.
If the patrol division is cut this would be a policy decision:. It has
an impact on the .response time. He would say that the response times,
considering this is a rural area, are good now. It is hard to justify
the Gridley and Paradise substations. They would eliminate two
substations, thereby freeing about four deputy positions. He would probably
take the position to close the offices maintaining the Chieo substation
and maybe having part-time services in the substations which would mean
little in terms of cutbacks in services.
He would staff communications-with seven to eight people. In
eduction of staffing of records is going to result in a breakdown of
the organization. One option to the Board might want to consider is deferring
or doing something different in the Service Division in the property. They
could defer the entire automated property system and simply eliminate that
program. It does not have a major law enforcement impact and does have
an impact on the internal program. It was discussed briefly in the
report to cut back one narcotics position. They felt that after looking
at what these people are doing that it would be hard to cut back from
two to one positions. This is a team action. He felt the county should
trim back investigation and keep the vice and narcotics officers. The
time spent in briefing is less than in other departments.
Supervisor Dolan had concerns with the analysis of patrol
division staffing and in the descriptions about the length of time to
respond to community calls, backup to officers, vacation house checks,
time taken writing reports, arrests and serving civil papers.!•
This indicates that much of the service level is the policy decision
of the Board. The report does not give any value to each of the services
being rendered.
i4r. Heiss set out how some of the studies were done on
preventive patrols. Kansas City did a study and after three or four
years they decided there were no significant changes. That has been
refuted by a number of other reports. There is no definitive study that
says what the value is in terms of repressing crime. House checks is
a service that people accord a value to. He felt that the department
followed accepted policies with regarding to responding to calls.
In terms of value it is probably apolitical decision. The writing
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of reports is a little higher than in other agencies. The hours for
writing reports is not unusual.
Supervisor Dolan asked if there was any alternative to using
sown personnel for serving civil papters.
Mr. Brady felt this was built into the-paten 1 system. It would
be difficult to have nonsowrn people serving civil papers. The swing and
night shift of the patrol section do most of the serving of civil papers.
He did not think the Board could eliminate the use of sworn people serving
civil papers. They could not compare the Sheriff's Department with
a couple of years ago because of the change in the record keeping system.
Mr. Reiss stated that the reason for the increase in the number
of sergeants per man was because of the team concept. He supported this
concept. Given the way the teams are set up the sergeants have an
important role. If the number of sergeants are reduced the team concept
would go out the window. ..
Supervisor Wheeler did not feel that energy costs, transportation
and travel and utilities had been covered in the report. Maybe the county
could make a savings in the types of vehicles used. She realized this
must be a management decision.
Mr. Reiss did not feel the county could have any changes in
the patrol mileage. The other transportation has to do with prisoner
transportation. The last item is the vehicle type. This would be a
decision between .big and small. He felt that when they looked at the
current resident deputies it was pretty tough to justify them. The work
is not there. It is a policy decision.
Mr. Brady felt that the anly way the resident deputy concept
would work would be if the policy decision was made looking at the
opportunities to use class one reserve deputies living in-those area
who could resond on a call basis.
Mr. Reiss set out what they menat by variable shifts as opposed
to constants. This means that there would be more staffing on swing shift
than during the morning shift. This would depend on the demands.for calls.
Supervisor Wheeler stated she would like to sit down with
Administration from the Sheriff and the consultants and discuss the
proposal that was made. She spoke with Supervisor Lemke yesterday
and he is concerned about the fact the Sheriff is proposing the closure
of the upper ridge substation. He would like to see that substation
transferred to the upper ridge. She felt that before a major decision
was made the Board should address the information from Supervisor Lemke.
RECESS: 10:10. a. m.
RECONVEI3E: 10:15 a.m.
BUDGET REVIEW
Consideration of departmental budgets regarding cost reductions
of discretionary funds held at this time.
Sheriff's bud et
Sheriff Gilliek asked if the Board-was satisfied with the
report that was given by-the consultants.. He had sent information to the
Board regarding his budget. He was asked to make a 20 percent cut. In
making the 13 percent cut, he would have to lay off 29
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Sheriff Gillick set .out the mandated.services.he.inust perform.
He is responsible ,for-the jail, he must serve all civil papers, responsible
for records and identification bureau, investigation-and. patrol. He is
mandated to preserve the peace. He felt that the present staff was doing
the responsibilities and if there were any reduction his ability to
accomplish his responsibilities would. be hampered.' He hoped the Board
would consider .the mandatory requirements of the Sheriff and-the recent
survey and agree that the. department is~basically at minimum staffing
and hoped the Board would stand by the report so he could fulfill his
responsibilities. The tean concept has cut down at least 30 percent.
He believed in perventive patrol.
Supervisor Wheeler liked Sheriff Gillick's proposal about
zones of benefit for police protection.
Sheriff Gillick felt it was important to have backup officers
for the family 415 calls. There are more officers killed on the family.
415 calls than anything else. He did not fee that the response times
were bad. The sergeants do a great deal of the backup work. The sergeant
is the first line supervisor and is the mast important man if they are in
the field.
Supervisor Wheeler felt there had been a great deal of controversy
created over this issue versus another issue. and direct responses to
individuals of the Board. She felt this needs to be clarified. The Board
has not made any decision with regard to the Sheriff`s Department. The
Board asked the Sheriff to analyze his depaxtment. She was not advocating
reduction in emergency services in Butte County as a individual member
of the Board.
Capt. Mick Grey set out the proposed budgetary cuts from the
Sheriff's Department per the direction of the Board. This had been
submitted to the Board in the memo. By eliminating the three substations
and layoff of three lieutenants and three clerks there would be areduction
of $210,000. The cost of operating the buildings for the three substations
would be approximately $40,000 annually. These two items would. be a cost
savings of $1/4 million per year. He felt the buildings could be used
', by the officers to work on the cases or make reports thereby saving
traveling to Oroville for this work. By elimination of the vacant position
of investigator in Paradise this would cause an impact on the Chico unit.
', By elimination of the two deputies in investigation in Oroville this
would reduce the number of cases that are followed up. They would not
** ' then need the vehicles. They would also reduce the marijuana eradication
', program. They could puC off the capital outlays for one or two years.
They would have to eliminate the purchase of flashlights and the purchase
of a logging reported for the communications system. They would eliminate
the resident deputies in Forest ttanch and Cohasset which would require
a deputy from the valley to answer calls. This would reduce the service
', in Chico. They would eliminate four wheel drive vehicles. They would
', reduce the narcotics program by 80 percent with the elimination of one
sergeant. Elimination of mobile radioes for the jail division would
be proposed. They would reduce travel and transportation $2,000 for
investigation. There would be 13 deputies from patrol layed off for a
savings of $390,000. That could greatly impact the level of service that
', is currently provided.
Capt. Grey set out how the current team concept works. There
are currently. five officers in the north county and five in the south
county. They are committed to two deputies in Paradise for safety
purposes.. That leaves three deputies in the valley. if 13 .deputies were
reduced that would drop the number of deputies per shift to seven. This
would leave three and one-half ~or,;ahe north county and three and one--half
for the south area. There are times when it is necessary to send a
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deputy to Concow, leather ~a11s or ~'orhestown.. .They have to send one
officer. He had problems with. sending one of~icez. This would mean that
many o,~ the calls answered in the urban areas of Chico and Oroville would
be answered by one officer'. He felt this was unreasonable-and the risk
factor was greatly increased. There are fourteen deputies in patrol and
four deputies in investigation. Any drop below the fourteen deputies would
have an effect on services. He set out the length of time it takes to
have a person on patrol after they have been hired. The are proposing to
take two deputies out of investigation and put 'them into patrol without
laying off any deputies.
Supervisor Wheeler did not think the Board had inferred there was
not management to handle the Sheriff's Department. She felt the report
gave the Board a great deal of information on levels of services. It is
true, they will be able to resolve the problems.
Sheriff Gillick felt that Capt. Grey had given a good report
to the Board about the deputies that would have to go if the cut is
implemented. They hired these people in good faith. It-would be
almost impossible to give the same level of service if these geople are
layed off. It is up to the Board to say what level of service they want
to furnish.
Supervisor Dolan believed in open communications. She hoged it
was very clear to the people, because it is clear to the Board, Administration
and the Auditor, that if the Board had any other choice, they would not
be requesting departmental analysis of where they could reduce expenditures.
The Board began deliberations with a $6 million deficit because of decisions
made in the last two or three years that put the county in the position
they are in now. The Board is not doing this because they want to reduce
the library services, cutting admininstrative support, and purchasing
functions because they want to make cuts. The Board has to put the county
on a sound financial situation. She received calls that if the substations
were closed, the people would be left without police protection and if
the Board does not balance the budget the whole county has a problem.
During the presentation made this morning, she heard that the location
of the substation has little to do with police protection. The Board
requested 20 percent recommendations to get the county on a sound
financial basis. If there are some complaints about the-Board members
and department heads, it should be aired here.
Capt. Wood felt that the people should have a right to
ow what would happen with the cuts. Their office is not trying to
ggest that the cuts should be made. The Board has to look at the level
service. He felt the survey was well prepared. The workloads in
1 four areas are something that goes along with the sign of the times.
e reason some of the people have been placed-into investigation is for
aining purposes and they will be rotated out.
Supervisor Wheeler stated she would like to be on a committee
consider the zones of benefit and placing the matter on the ballot. She
t they needed to look and anal~zze possibly contracting with. other
al entities for local law enforcement. She felt that with Proposition 13
t there should be coordinated law enforcmtent and-fire services with
cities and the county. She felt that the county should plan for
future with zones of benefit because as the level of service increases
does personnel. The biggest cast to government 'is emergency services.
Chairman Moseley stated that this Board has taken criticism
those that probably should have been done three years ago. Administration
ed the Board that this would happen. Supervisor Winston brought
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out that staf£TseemsJto have the ability to come up and-meet the demands
and go that extra pule. She felt that was what they were going to find now.
She felt they would be able to do a little bit more.
Capt. Bruce Albert spoke regarding the jail operations. The Board
of Corrections did a staffing analysis on the jail operations. They
recommended the estabiistxment of the post position and hiring of additional
people. They have-done that. In the past couple of months, he had done
an analysis of the workload and the recommendations from the Board of
Corrections. They haveznade the determination that there is a need fox
three other floor officers. -One of the jobs in the jail is to protect
the Sheriff, county and Board as individuals. In order to do that, they
have to document from the beginning to the end. It is a time consuming
manual operation. He recommended that three more housing rover positions be
added at a cost of $72,000 per year. If they took the intake position and
made that a clerical position, they could have three officers with a
$31,000 savings. It is impossible for the senior jailer to do the intake.
Three clerks are much more cost effective than three jailers.
Open to the gublic. Appearing:
1. Beth Metzker. Ms. Metzker stated that she heard that
the Board had ordered a 20 percent reduction in all departments. on Thursday
evening: Within 20 working hours they were able to get 3,390 signatures
from people on a petition. She read the petition at this time. The
petitions were submitted at this time.
Supervisor Wheeler suggested that maybe this issue should be
placed on the ballot. There could be 1/2~ increase in the sales tax
to be used for the Sheriff's Department.
Chairman Mgseley did not feel they were that far off in
resolving the problem. Everyone has to be made responsible. There are
things that can be cut. When Paradise incorporated and the county lost
22,000 people, nothing happened and-the Sheriff's Department was given
an increase in deputies. Other things have come up on the management of
the department. Some people can get a lot more for the money.
Ms. Metzker felt that the energy costs for the Sheriff's
Department would be increased if the deputies had to travel to Oroville
and back to the sites they are working at. There would also be the cost
to the deputies to travel from their homes to Oroville. She would
support placing this matter on the ballot.
2;.. Tom Lawson, representing Butte:County`Law Enforcement-
Of€icers Association. Mr. Lawson expresed his support for the position
taken by Sheriff Gillick and opposed the cutbacks. The position of the
association is that any cutbacks will be'placing the citizens in jeopardy
and making unsafe working conditions above and beyond the call of duty.
The association further contends that the recent management survey
should be adhered to by the Board. To propose cutbacks is to throw away
$15,000. He believed the Board realized the manpower shortage when they
agreed to hire 27 positions. It appears the Board is considering cutting
for other intersts.
RECESS: 11:20. a.m.
RECONVENE: 11:32 a.m.
3. Bob Duffy, Inskip. Mr. Duffy felt-that. the Sheriff's
patrol was very important tb him. The taxpayers expect the Board to
provide the basic public savety services that are needed. What needs
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to be decided is-what level of services we need in golice and fire
protection. Generally in surveys it is figured-that there would be one
deputy for eyery.1,000.population. He felt it was necessary to
reorganize to allow for keeping patrolmen in the field. There are too
many upper eschelon people. The county-has to maintain the patrol level
so the taxpayers feel then can $o out of their homes and-walk up the
street. The taxpayers are not going to stand for 32 patrolmen for
16Q0 square miles of county. There are many people in Butte County
who do not receive anything for their taxes. The Board was untruthfull
to the taxpayers when xleasure B was defeated when the Board made promises
to hire 27 deputies and only hired 15 deputies.- Government exists for
three things: police, fire and adequate roads. Goverment was never
established for welfare, parks, libraries and arts councils.. It was
established for public protection. He did not feel-that the team
concept was that great. It does not work on the ridge.
~+. Charles Scull, Sierra Del Oro Homeowners Association. Mr.
Scull was aware of the problems facing the Board. Reduction in the patrol
fource would be unacceptable. The people must take care of things themselves
if possible. Their area has a neighborhood watch. He felt the response
times were very adequate.
5. Mark Cooker. Mr. Cooker stated that he was growing almond
trees and there were five police that went into his house to bust him
for growing the almonds. He did not want to cut police protection.
He felt that Proposition 13 cut taxes and was saying that people will
have to get up and to some of the services themselves. He felt the
Board could cut their budget a little.
6. Myron Witker, DeSabla Grange. Mr. Witker did not think
the county had enough deputies. There was talk about abaondoning the
Paradise substation and not affecting patrol services. Where does the
deputy get the car? If the deputy has to go to Oroville and then come
back to Paradise, there would be a great deal of energy expended. He felt
the county should move the substation to the upper ridge. He wondered if
the Board had given any consideration to having a mechanic work on the
vehicles. Most private companies that have four or more cars have a full-
time mechanic to maintain those vehicles.
7. Mary McLaughlin Brush. Ms. Brush asked the Board if they
had any idea of the impact on the morale and efficien-y on services and
safety of deputies who would be left after the other deputies were
eliminated. There would be a great deal of stress added to
their jobs.
8. James A. Dagman, Paradise Pines. Mr. Dagman stated he was
one of about 3,600 property owners in this area with about one-half of
the lots presently occupied. He was in law enforcement for 16 years before
moving to this area. There is a neighborhood watch program in the area.
He felt it was important that people not get involved with the suspect in
the crime but rely on the deputies to handle. The job of deputy does
not only include handling the crime sceen but in have the deputies readly
seen to act as a deferent.
9. Virgil Cockran, Paradise Pines Property Owners Association.
Mr. Cockran stated that when they went with the neighborhood watch program
they were able to get information from the Sheriff's Department for
development of the program. Part of the reason for the neighborhood watch
program was because they requested additional coverage which was not
available to them. They have their own security patrol which is costing
$30,000 to $40,000 per year. The security patrol is unable to perform
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the functions of a deputy. With-the inclusion of additional deputies, they
have seen better coverage in the Pines. After listening to the report
on the Sherif~`s.Department, he felt the department deserved to be
complimented.
10. Glenn Bowman, Palermo. Mr. Bowman stated that he had
been through. three wars and you do not fit a war by reducing the army.
The county may not. be able to afford police protection but they cannot
afford not to have it.
11. Beth Metzker submitted 221.°more signatures'on a petition
bringing the total to 2,611 signatures.
12. Ervin Enurtbonger. Mr. Enurtbonger was afraid to say what
happens if there is not police protection. There will be people who take
the law into their own hands.
RECESS: 12:05p.m.
RECONVENE: 1:39 p.m.
Assessor's budget, page 22
Ed Brown, assessor, stated he had responded to the request for
going over the budget again. He had made an effort just before this time
to reduce administrative costs. Last year he asked for a change in the
supervisoring appraiser to a workex. He suggested that the Board not fund
the dssessment standards officer. This would leave his office pretty
bear as far as administrative personnel. The department has been subsidizing
the county by driving their own cars. Whenever there is incorporation of
cities, redevelopment agencies, the assessor has to do additional work.
The cities and town in this county are subsidized by the county on
assessment work. Each appraiser and auditor-appraiser brought in $167,000
in tax money per employee this year. The clercal.staff is saturated with
work. There are two or three other items where they could possibly make
minor reductions. Many other departments have to-call upon material that
is produced in their department. There is no capital outlay other than
the aerial photographs which are used to discover new taxable property.
The last aerial that was done was in 1975. That is $14,000 that could
be reduced. If the Board wants to cut 20 percent, he suggested that the
Board reduce the appraiser positions until they get to 20 percent keeping
in mind the income that is produced to the county, cities, special districts
and the schools. Erom 1980-81 in which there were 1,028 new parcels, the
new parcels in 1981-82 were 2,401. There was an increase of 4,000 unsecured
parcels. The appraisals cannot be deferred as they were prior to Proposition
13. There were 20,451 value changes this last year.
Discussion of the position of assistant assessor and assessment
standards officer held at this time. Mike Pyeatt, assistant administrative
officer, stated that the position of assistant assessor is in the salary
ordinance and is unfilled and under administrative review.
Mr. Brown advised that the assessment standards officer position
is presently filled. That person would have to be discharged or promoted.
The assistant assessor is the chief appraiser position. The State Board
of Equalization did an assessments practice survey last year and were
critical because he was considering doing away with the assessment
standards officer. He would like to leave the position-but not fill it
so that the state board is not unhappy.
Supervisor Wheeler stated that the Administrative staff had put
together an overview of departments showing-comparison staffing through
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counties of comparable size.- The statement-was written that for statewide
average that ten staff members-should b.e eliminated froau the Assessor`s
Office.
Mr. Brown did not think that was a true report. Butte Oounty
has more parcels. Many of the counties are largely undeveloped.
Modoc County has a high parcel count.- There are 37,OD0 paper subdivision
parcels. The assessor places the same value on all the parcels.
His office is the only department in which the state agency comes in and
looks at the efficiency in the office. He would welcome a comparison
of his office management size to any department in the county. ,r
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the following action-was taken with regard to the Assessor's
budget:
Retain Assessment Standards Officer position. Defund. Delete
$26,676 from salaries and wages, account 11.
Eliminate State Board of Equalization schools required by law
for appraisal staff. Delete $2,625.
Eliminate :14,000 from account 36 for aerial photographs.
Eliminate one appraiser, $21,891, or auditor-appraaser $23,036,
tion from salaries and wages, account 11.
Mr. Brown asked that the Soard authorize him to fill the Assistant
essor position that is open as a result of the elimination of the
essment Standards Officer position. He needs that position since the
rd effectively .eliminated two positions in the Assessor`s Office.
Mr. Pyeatt stated they had been holding the assistant assessor
osition in administrative review. They had notjplanned on releasing the
osition until after budget session was over. They could release the
osition at this time and the Board could make a decision further down
he line.
iJPERVISOR MOSELEY ABSENT AT THIS TIME
Clerk-Recorder's bud
Recorder's budget, page 176
Clark Nelson, clerk=recorder, stated he would like to talk
t the Recorder's budget first because what happens with the Recorder's
et will have an effect on the Clerk's budget. Mr. Nelson suggested
the Recorder's Office remain open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for
public and telephone calls. The office would be closed and everyone
d go to lunch and come back at 2:00 p.m. to do the homework, mail
indexing into the computer without calls or the public.
UPERVISOR MOSELEY PRESENT AT THIS TIME
This would allow a one-half time position to be moved from
Recorder's Office to the. Clerk's Office.. There should be one or two
1e cross trained between the Re order and Clerk's offices.
Supervisor Wheeler felt this was a good idea.
Chairman Moseley felt this was a good idea not. only for county
but for the person. Page 70.
July 27, 1981
81-
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July 27, 1981
Nor. Nelson stated there would he some problems the first year
with. the public becou1i.ng aware of the time schedule. He would bring
a report b.ack.to tfie Board,at the first o~ the.yeaY on how. this is
proceeding. He would like. to reduce the Recorder's staff to 6-1/2 people
rather than the 7 people listed in the budget. Zt would he a transfer of
one-half position to the Clerk's budget.
Jim Rackerby, personnel director, stated that the personnel
rules refer to the time of the office hours. He would like to take
a look at the proposal before the Board-makes a decision on the hours.
The office may have to have one desk open to accomodate the public.
Mr. Nelson set out the reductions that could also be made in
the Recorder's budget. He would also like to make an addition to the
budget. This relates to the micrographic trust fund. The Recorder is
allowed to collect $1 for every document that is put in a trust fund
to be used for micrographics in order to become more efficient. He
had requested that certain items be placed in the budget and the
Administrative Office felt that the purchases went beyond the scope of
the law. Dan Blackstock issued a legal opinion that allows putting these
items back in the budget. There will be $60,000 in the trust this year.
He would not obtain any equipment until he had received the Board's
approval. This money cannot be put into the General Fund and cannot be
used for any other department.
Jim Johansen, auditor, stated that according to County Counsel's
opinion that upon completion of the conversion to micrographics the fee
can no longer be required. He suggested that the Board might. consider
taking action subject to the Auditor's review of the opinion.
On motion of Supervisor Saraceni, seconded by Supervisor Dolan
and carried, a motion of intent was made to allow the Recorder's Office
to change their hours for the public to 8a.m. to 1 p.m.
On motion of Supervisor Saraceni, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the following action was taken with regard to the Recorder's
budget:
Account 11, salaries and wages. Delete $6,000, 1/2 position
of Clerk I/zz
Account 63", fixed assets. Delete $1,500 for two metal cabinets.
Account 35, office expenses. Delete $500
On motion of Supervisor Wheeler, seconded by Supervisor Saraceni
and carried, the following items were added to the Recorder's budget
subject to the Auditor's review:
Account 63, equipment. Add. the following:
Duplicator - diazo
1?il~i-Processor
Film splicer
Purchase of additional micrographic equipment with approval
of Board of Supervisors to increase efficiency of Recorder'& Office by
becoming less dependent on hand processing and inefficient out-dated
equipment.
.Total purchase approximately $60,00.0
Page 71.
July 27, 1981
SIl-
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_ _ _ _ July 27, 1481_ _ _ _ _ ~ _ ~ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Clerk's budget; pale 40
Mr. Nelson would like to have_to Glerk`s Office open to the
public from 9100 a. m., to 4:00 p.iq. This would allow reducing the Clerk's
budget by one position. The Judges have agreed to.help explain the
position. to the Bar Association and set up a procedure for emergency
service Chat must be rendered during the times the office is closed.
EIe set out the CETA people that had been in the Clerk's Office over the
years. He was asking to delete one of the three positions that were
recommended in the budget. There was a review of the office by the
Judical Council. The office is short of staffing by an unbelieveable
amount according to this study. The Judicial Council would be happy to
come up and make a review of the office.
On motion of Supervisor Wheeler, seconded by Supervisor Saraceni
and carried, a motion of intent was made to have the Clerk's Office
open to the public from 9:00 a. m. to 4:00 p.m. only.
On motion of Supervisor Wheeler, seconded by Supervisor Dolan
and carried, the following action was taken regarding the Clerk's
budget:
Account 11, salaries and wages. Reduce one position, $12,000
Account 11, salaries and wages. Add 1/2 position, $6,000
Total reduction $6,000
Election`s budget, page 30
Mr. Nelson stated there was no way to reduce this budget. Much
of this budget is reimbursement from other districts for elections. The
amount budgeted is about what it has cost for the last two years. There
was a survey done of other counties showing employees and registered
voters. The clerk that was requested is not in the budget and they are
not proposing that the position be added.
No action taken.
Clerk's budget, page 90
Discussion of consent agendas and minutes held at this time.
Mike Pyeatt, assistant administrative officer, stated that a consent agenda
would make the minutes a little briefer. He would like to have the
minutes of one meeting done both ways for the Board's review and consideration.
The minutes could be made briefer and could be from 8 to 10 pages
instead of 25 to 30 pages long.
Supervisor Dolan was all for the consent agendas. She would
like to know the savings of consolidating all the activities in .one office.
Supervisor Wheeler would like to know if it is possible to
remove the Clerk of the Board activities from the Clerk and place that
office directly under the responsibility of the Board.
Mr. Pyeatt advised they were looking into that.- This .might
require a charier change.
RECESS: 3:02 p. m.
RECONVENE: 3:11 p.m.
Page 72.
July 27, 1981
81-
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July 27, 1981
Auditor's budget,, page 10
Jim Johansen, auditor, set out the memo he had sent to the Board
relative to reductions. Proposition 13, AB 8, SB 1.7 and Proposition 4 have
had an impact on governmental accounting and finances. Mr: Johansen set
out the reduction proposal for extra help. By cross training of personnel
they would eliminate most of the extra help: This will mean that some
deadlines will not be met. He could get by without the bookcases. The
elimination of the microfilming operation put the Auditor's Office into
a bind. The reduction in rents and leases of equipment would have no
consequences. He proposed reducing. transportation and travel. This
would eliminate trips to the County Auditor's Association. If he feels
they are important, he will go to the conferences at his own expense.
After these reductions there will be groblems. With layoffs and bumping,
the situation could be much worse than what the office could sustain.
The Auditor's Office has added one position since 1974. They-have increased
the functions within the office. The cost accounting section is not
legally required. That section generates some $300,000 in revenue because
the cost allocation can be charged to the Welfare Department and the same
for CETA. '
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the following reductions were made in the Auditor's
budget:
Account 12, extra help. Deduct $10,000
Account 63, equipment. Deduct $700 for bookcases
Account 39, rents and leases, equipment. Reduce $1,000
Account 43, transportation and travel. Reduce $500
Assessor`s bud et a e 22
On motion of Supervisor Wheeler, seconded by Supervisor Saraceni
and carried, the Assessor was given the latitude of laying off a real
property appraiser or an auditor-appraiser.
Agriculture Commissioner budget, page_170
Joe Bandy, agricultural commissioner, stated there was about
$33,000 from the state pesticide use enforament program that had not
been added to the 1981-82 budget. The Administrative Office originally
reduced his budget by 12 percent of discretionary funding. He had
provided a 5, 10, 15 and 20 percent proposed reductions. Alternative I
of his memo reduces $25,600'i in nonpersonnel reductions. This would
be a 17 percent reduction inYns discretionary funds budget.
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by 5upe'rvisor Wheeler
and carried, the following reductions were made in the Agriculture
Commissioner budget:
Account 63, fixed assets. Reduce $17,500 two vehicles and one
utility body
Account 21, agricultural.. Reduce $8,10.0
Total reduction $25,600
~***
'~ Mr. Sandy set out the contract with the Department of Food and
Agriculture for the Medfly program. This is a separate budget and if
it were combined they would be able to eliminate two positions and
use the Medfly fundinging for the positions. -The $35,711 amount is
for the two staff people for the weed control program. k'or the $53,368
page 73.
July 27, 1981
$1-
S
July 27, 1981
coming in £or the Medfly program there was-two agricultural biologist
positions approved. They could perforia this function by. using the staff
personnel they: already have"instead of funding these two positions. They
would be using the weed control program staff in place of the biologists.
Alternative ~~3 eliminated-the program by 50 percent and could-eliminate
$18,000 from Account 21 instead of the $9,900 listed os the memo. This would
reduce county spraying.-by 50 percent.
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by Supervisor Saraceni
and carried, the following action was taken with-regard to the Agriculture
Commissioner and Medfly budgets:
Account 11, salaries and benefits. Reduce $35,711 by funding
two weed and vertebrate pest control work. positions from Medfly contract
funds and performing contractual obligations with existing staff.
Eliminate Medfly budget (460-003) and combine activities with
Agricultural Department budget (460-001)
Account 63, fixed assets. Reduce $17,500, two vehicles and
one utility body.
Account 21, agricultural. Reduce $18,000 eliminate purchase
of agricultural chemicals.
Total reduction $71,211
Air Pollution Control budget,_page 170
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the following action was taken with regard to the-Air Pollution
Control budget which is apart of the Agriculture Commissioners budget:
Account 11, salaries and wages. Reduce $13,295. reoganization
of unit, effective July 7, 1981 and savings by unfilled positions to
August 1, 1981.
Account 11, salaries and wages. Reduce $10,877. Fill deputy
Air Pollution Control Officer position from within and defer filling of
Air Quality Specialist position until January 1, 1982.
bud
Bettye Blair, planning director, set-out the memo that had
been sent to the Board. She is proposing the closure of the office for
£our or three hours per day. She recommended that the Planning Commission
only meet two weeks a month. As a result of the combination of Planning
and Environmental Review, she recommended an increase in fees. .She
talked about apgeal fees. She felt that with increased fees, the department
should be able to have out of county staff meetings and commission meetings.
She would like this added back in the budget since it was recommended for
removal in her memo. She felt the total savings would be in excess of
$97,000 with the proposed reductions. The original decision package
that had been submitted to the Board before the departments were combined
was to terminate the zoning inspector. If the Board wants more money, she
recommended that this position be cut.
Ms. Blair set out what the apgeal fees would include.-They would
include any appeal that does not come to the Board for a decision. She did
snot believe that the fee-would stop the honest appeal. They are not trying
to use the fee as a deterrent. It would be for-the cost of overhead.
Page 74.
July 27, 19s1
July 27, 1981
81-
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There would be two and one-half employees-laved off. The total reductions
would be $120_,.482. She would .like to-discuss.:-the possible closure of the
office with Mr. Rackerby in as much as the official zoning waps need to
be updated.
On motion of Supervisor C1lieeler, seconded by Saapervi.sor Dolan
and carried, the following reductions were vnade in the Planning Department
budget:
Account 63, fixed assets, Environmental Review. Reduce $2,335
Account 43, transportation and travel, Environmental Review.
Reduce $300
Account 30, maintenance of equipment, Environmental Review.
Reduce $400
Increase use permit, variance and rezone fees. Increase $10,000
and $3,000 (appeal fees).
Account 63, fixed assets, Planning Commission. Reduce $6,500
Reduce $5,400 for microfilming projects.
Account:hl~salaries and benefits, Environmental Review.
Reduce $41,100 for Environmental Review Coordinator.
Account 12, extra help, Environmental Raview. Reduce $4,600
Account 12, extra help, Planning Commission. Reduce $11,300 for
drafting extra help
Account 11, salaries and benefits, Planning Commission. Reduce
$13,148 for typist clerk.
Treasurer-Tax Collector's budget, page 18
Russ Addy, treasurer-tax collector's office, spoke regarding
the memo sent to theBoard relative to reductions. in their office. Cuts
below the proposed $19,458 would serious impair the office. There would
be two additional positions cut to make the 20 percent reduction. Mr.
Morton in his memo set out what the effects of those two positions would
have on the office. They are requesting that the Board consider reducing
the hours open to the public to from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the following reductions were made in the Treasurer-Tax
Collector`s budget:
Account 11, salaries and benefits. Reduce $14,158 by elimination
of account clerk in tax collector section.
Account 12, extra help. Reduce $2,700
Account 14, overtime. Reduce $4,00.00
Account 43, transportation and travel. Reduce $500
Account 63, fixed assets. Reduce $1,700
Total reduction $19,458.00
el's budget, page 28
Del Siemsen, acting county counsel, set out the memo that
Dan Blackstoek had prepared for the proposed budget reductions. The
20 percent reduction would mean one deputy county counsel and one secretary.
They would be faced with putting all the litigation work out with the two
contractors,'which would cost the county more. He suggested that extra
help could be cut. The travel covers the cost for outside courts. There
is no way to say they will not spend more than that amount.
Supervisor Wheeler suggested that an alternative would be to have
the vacant position filled through attitios,and maintain the level of
,attorneys in the office. Page 75.
I July 27, 1981
8i-'
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_____--====July27,-1881==== _______________
No action taken..
cial Court budget; pale 82
Judge Rix stated he had sent the Board a memo .relative to his
artment. There are three alternatives-that covers the consequences.
of these is to,redute the pubhic access to the courts through the
nter and the telephone. He tried to present the proposal in such a
as to not affect revenue coming in. He felt that by a computerized
m of cash register they would be able to collect more fines. The other
ernative is that they will just place civil and small claims low enough
n that they eventually may not get processed. He did not feel the
iputerized easfi register was justified in the Paradise Judicial Court.
ge Rix advised the Board that the Judicial Council has said he needs
;ht clerks in the Oroville Justice Court and two and one-half clerks
the Paradise Justice Court. If hd does not get the additional clerk
will go to the phone message and close the doors. If the warrants
not go out, the county cannot collect for fines.
Discussion of possibly combining the Paradise and Oroville Justice
Courts into one court system held at this time. Judge Rix stated that
the Administrative Office has suggested that the Biggs and Gridley Courts
be combined. He would look into the prospect of combining Paradise and
Oroville Courts.
Gerald Lively, deputy administrative officer, stated that he
as been doing work on this. It seems to indicate a great deal of
onstruction would be necessary. They are also looking at the
ustice court district.
Supervisor Wheeler asked for some statistics from the Judge coordinated
th the Administrative staff.
Mike Pyeatt, deputy administrative officer, advised that there
one position reflected in a salary ordinance that is not reflected
the budget. This would have to be taken care of.
No action taken.
*****
arm and Home Advisor budget, page 280
Jerry Smith, farm advisor, stated he had submitted a 20 percent
eduction package. He recommended deletion of a replacement vehicle.
e recommended deletion of over-night travel in the amount of $973.
n order to get the 20 percent reduction there would have to be a reduction
f staff in the amount of one-half typist clerk position. The loss of
he part-time position will affect the office's ability to serve the
On motion of Supervisor Dolan, seconded by Supervisor Wheeler
and carried, the Farm and Home Advisor budget was reduced as follows:
Account 43, transportation and travel. Reduce $973 for out-of-
county conferences and seminars.
Account 63, fixed assets. Reduce $7,370 (.$6,800 for replacement
vehicle and $570 for shelves)
CESS: The Board recessed at 5:02 p.m. to reconvene on Tuesday, July 28,
1981 at 9:00 a.m.
Page 76.
July 27, 1981