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Home My WebLink About01.19.21 Updated Draft Legislative Platform Documents From:Ring, Brian To:Alpert, Bruce;Bennett, Robin;Clerk of the Board;Connelly, Bill;Cook, Holly;Cook, Robin;Kimmelshue, Tod; Lambert, Steve;Lucero, Debra;McCracken, Shari;Paulsen, Shaina;Pickett, Andy;Ring, Brian;Ritter, Tami; Rodas, Amalia;Sweeney, Kathleen;Teeter, Doug Cc:Pickett, Andy;Snyder, Ashley Subject:Updated Draft Legislative Platform Documents Date:Tuesday, January 19, 2021 1:37:37 PM Attachments:ADM.2021LegPlatforms.4.FedDoc Final.pdf ADM.2021LegPlatforms.3.StateDoc FINAL.docx Good afternoon Board – I had a great conversation with Sup. Kimmelshue last week – covering a number of topics. Thank you for your time Supervisor. With that said – we are recommending one additional edit to both of the documents having to do with reforestation (drafts attached). The changes are noted In the Forest Management section of the federal document (highlighted in RED) - as well as the Forest Management section on page 7 of the State document (also highlighted in RED). If you have any questions – please let me know. Thank you! Brian Ring Assistant Chief Administrative Officer Administration 25 County Center Drive, Oroville, CA 95965 T: State Legislative Platform Strategies to Preserve a Safe, Healthy, and Prosperous Community January 26, 2021 2021 Butte County State Legislative Platform Butte County is a place of natural beauty with countless opportunities for recreation in both rural and urban environments. Many Butte County residents live in one of the five incorporated towns or cities: Biggs, Chico, Gridley, Oroville or Paradise. Butte County government providesservices to residents through 23 diverse departments. Services include law enforcement, fire protection, mental health, behavioral health, public health road maintenance, and building services to name a few. We strive to provide quality service with dignity, integrity and respect while ensuring basic health, safety and protection to our residents. We value initiative and leadership and encourage innovation to increase efficiencies and operations. BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Bill Connelly, District 1 Debra Lucero, District 2 Tami Ritter, District 3 Tod Kimmelshue,District4 Doug Teeter, District 5 CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER Andy Pickett 25 County Center Drive, Suite 200 Oroville, CA 95965 (530) 552-3310 IN COORDINATION WITH Shaw YoderAntwih Schmelzer & Lange 1415 L Street, Suite 1000 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone (916) 446-4656 | Fax (916) 446-4318 syaslpartners.com Page 1 2021 Butte County State Legislative Platform Prosperity for Butte County Disaster Recovery Public Safety Together we stand committed to our Provide reliable law enforcement, community’s recovery. fire and emergency management services. Community Support Land Use and Infrastructure Provide our at-risk populations with the Smart economic expansion, growth, services to overcome challenges related and sustainability are top priorities for to mental health, drug and alcohol Butte County. abuse, and homelessness. Other Governmental Functions Page 2 Other initiatives that broadly impact our communities and residents. 2021 Butte County State Legislative Platform DISASTER RECOVERY ............................................................................................................................................................... 5 PUBLIC SAFETY ........................................................................................................................................................................ 6 Cal-Fire Contract .................................................................................................................................................................................. 6 Emergency Planning, Response, and Recovery ........................................................................................................................ 6 Forest Management Funding.......................................................................................................................................................... 7 Jail Funding .......................................................................................................................................................................................... .. 7 Probation – Use of Third-Party Researchers ............................................................................................................................. 8 Juvenile Justice Realignment........................................................................................................................................................... 8 Vehicle License Fee ............................................................................................................................................................................. 8 COMMUNITY SUPPORT ............................................................................................................................................................ 9 Animal Control ................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Broadband ............................................................................................................................................................................................. . 9 California Children’s Services .......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Cannabis............................................................................................................................................................................................... . 10 Child Support Services ..................................................................................................................................................................... 10 Children, Youth and Families ........................................................................................................................................................ 11 Children’s Health................................................................................................................................................................................ 11 Chronic Disease and Prevention .................................................................................................................................................. 11 Communicable Disease ................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Drug Endangered Children ............................................................................................................................................................ 12 Health Care that is Affordable ...................................................................................................................................................... 13 Health Care Services Via the County Organized Health System ..................................................................................... 13 Housing and Homelessness .......................................................................................................................................................... 14 Housing Rehabilitation .................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Laura’s Law ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 Mental Health Services Act Funding .......................................................................................................................................... 15 Realignment (2011)........................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Seniors and the Disabled ................................................................................................................................................................ 16 Tobacco Control ................................................................................................................................................................................. 16 Welfare and Institutions Code 5150 ........................................................................................................................................... 16 LAND USE AND INFRASTRUCTURE ........................................................................................................................................ 18 Agriculture Issues .............................................................................................................................................................................. 18 Community Services ......................................................................................................................................................................... 18 Drought Response ............................................................................................................................................................................ 18 Page 3 2021 Butte County State Legislative Platform Flood Management and Flood Control .................................................................................................................................... 19 Highway and Other Infrastructure Improvements ........................................................................................................ 19 Housing Needs Plans ....................................................................................................................................................................... 20 Off-Highway Vehicles and Green Sticker Funding ................................................................................................................ 20 Solid Waste .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 21 Solid Waste – Renewable Energy Projects – Conversion Technology ................................................................. 21 Storm Water Permits ........................................................................................................................................................................ 22 Water ................................................................................................................................................................................................. ..... 22 Williamson Act .................................................................................................................................................................................... 23 OTHER GOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS ................................................................................................................................... 24 Accessibility.......................................................................................................................................................................................... 24 Alternative Energy ............................................................................................................................................................................. 24 CalPERS Actuarial Separation of Court Employees ............................................................................................................... 24 Clerk-Recorder .................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Community Choice Aggregation ................................................................................................................................................. 25 Construction Funding, Deferred Maintenance and Inefficient Energy Utilization .................................................... 26 Contracting for Services .................................................................................................................................................................. 26 Election Operations .......................................................................................................................................................................... 26 Electrical Backup ................................................................................................................................................................................ 27 Health Care Insurance Options ................................................................................................................................................ 27 Indian Gaming Special Distribution Fund .......................................................................................................................... 28 Local Revenue Protection ............................................................................................................................................................... 28 Mandates - Timely Payments ........................................................................................................................................................ 28 Marketplace Equity and Consumer Protection .............................................................................................................. 29 Oroville Facilities, Adequate Reimbursement for Activities Related to Project .............................................. 29 Property Tax Administration.......................................................................................................................................................... 30 Public Facilities – Project Delivery ............................................................................................................................................... 30 Safety and Security ........................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Surcharges (State) Collected by Counties .......................................................................................................................... 31 Page 4 DISASTER RECOVERY Summary of the Issue Over the past five years, the communities of Butte County have experienced several declareddisasters, including a record-setting drought, the Oroville Dam Spillway Failure and related flooding from an “Atmospheric River”, and multiple wildfires including the Wall Fire, the Ponderosa Fire, the Wind Complex Fire, and the Camp Fire, the most destructive wildfire in the nation in the past 100 years. Then, in 2020, more disasters hit. Not only did Butte County respond toits communities and residents through unprecedented public health and economic turmoil caused by the world-wide coronavirus pandemic, but the County was hit with yet another devastating wildfire. The North Complex Fire destroyed 2,300 structures, including over 1,500 homes, and burned approximately 125,000 acres in Butte County. Impacts of these disasters, including unanticipated costs that could go on for years and reduced local revenues in the form of property taxes, sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes, and franchise fees, are only exacerbated as the multiple successive disasters layer upon each other. Funding Support additional federal funding for agencies and programs to aid multiple disaster recovery efforts. Support legislation and regulatory efforts that provide funding and other forms of relief to stabilize local businesses. Support legislation that waives the local share of cost of all emergency response and disaster recovery activities especially for jurisdictions facing multiple disaster recovery efforts. Advocate for funding with minimal cost share for infrastructure projects destroyed, damaged, or impacted by large wildfires. Support legislation to repair roads to pre-disaster condition. Support legislation that funds water quality monitoring in communities impacted by wildfires. Support legislation to fund for end-market solutions for timber and green waste. Support funding for workforce development to aid in recovery efforts. Housingand Survivor Benefits Support funding that assists with expedient construction of diverse housing stock in Northern California. Advocate for funding all displaced individuals from a disaster, including those who lost access to housing due to secondary displacement. Advocate for access to full benefits for all evacuees, survivors, individuals and businesses impacted by disasters. Support legislation that will help more homeowners to access affordable insurance through the California FAIR Plan. Emergency Preparedness Support legislation to repair roads to pre-disaster condition. Support legislation providing funding for governmental services for jurisdictions hosting survivors. Support legislation for funding for end-market solutions for timber and green waste, and water quality monitoring. Contact:Andy Pickett,Chief Administrative Officer, 530-552-3310 Casey Hatcher, Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3336 Page 5 PUBLIC SAFETY Cal-Fire Contract Summary of the Issue Butte County contracts with CAL FIRE to provide personnel to the Butte County Fire Department for countywide fire suppression and emergency response services. While this arrangement proved to be cost-effective in the past for both the County and the State,there are inherent issues that cause fiscal stress in the relationship. The State continues to pass on higher overhead rates every year in the form of a pro-rata Statewide share of costs in addition to the Cal-Fire Admin Fee. The resultant increases in contract payments for fire services are paid from discretionary revenues at the County level. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose legislative or administrative actions that will increase costs borne by theCounty. Contact:Brian Ring, Assistant Chief Administrative Officer,530-552-3311 Emergency Planning, Response, and Recovery Summary of the Issue California counties and their residents are facing more frequent and larger emergencies and disasters each year. These emergencies have stretched the ability of counties like Butte to maintain regularly needed critical services. Also, the recent emergencies have manifested great demand for non-public safety related services, e.g.,much higher needs for mental health crisis and ongoing counseling services. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation that provides funding for local emergency and disaster planning, response, and recovery planning and efforts. Support legislation to broaden eligible mitigation projects and provide mitigation funding Support legislation and funding for expanding and increasing evacuation routesor evacuation pointsespecially for communities with only one way in and out. Support funding for counties to maintain regularly need critical services, and to provide for higher demands on health, social services and behavioral health departments (for example, mental health crisis and ongoing counseling services due to disasters and emergencies). Support legislation that enhances funding to local health departments for public health response efforts and emergency preparedness. Support funding for environmental hazard monitoring and mitigation. Contact:Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer, 530-552-3310 Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Page 6 Forest Management Funding Summary of the Issue Butte County experienced several wildfires during the 2017, 2018 and 2020fire seasons. Fire activity was extreme in part due to the high fuel load and vegetation. Without adequate funding for prevention and resource management these extreme conditions are going to continue. Support policies and regulation that streamline forest management that does not compromise National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation that will increase fire prevention funding in a fair and equitable manner. Support legislation that streamlines NEPA and CEQA requirements regarding forest managementand fuel reductionand the development of evacuation routes. Support funding for adequate disaster evacuation routes. Support legislation and funding for creative measures to mitigatewildfire impacts (enhance fire breaks, Support efforts that assist with more effective forest management, including but not limited to logging, biomass or biocharand reforestation. Formatted: Font color: Red Support legislation to maintain existing fire grants. Support efforts to reform tort law in such as vexatious litigation is curtailed regarding foresting efforts. Contact:Brian Ring, Assistant ChiefAdministrativeOfficer,530-552-3311 Jail Funding Summary of the Issue California has made $2.5 billion available for county jail construction. Funding programs in AB 900 (2007), SB 1022 (2012), SB 863 (2014), and SB844 (2016) are paying for additional or replacement jail facilities in almost every California county, with a required local match.Due to Public Safety Realignment of 2011, the kind of inmate housed in County facility has changed from short term to long term. County jails do nothave space for classes and programs necessary to rehabilitate long terminmates to prepare them for reintegration back in society. Funding for jail construction focuses on creating the right kind of facility, not simply an expansion of the existing facility. The economy overall has driven the cost of materials and labor much higher than previously anticipated, so the existing funds from the State programs are not sufficient for construction. California needs to provide at least one more method of funding to assist counties with the construction of local detention facilities. Requested Action and Strategy Support additional funding for county detention facilitiesthat include space for rehabilitative services. Contact:Kory Honea, Sheriff,530-538-6759 Casey Hatcher,DeputyAdministrative Officer,530-552-3336 Page 7 Probation –Use of Third-PartyResearchers Summary of the Issue Probation departments have a long-standing history of contracting with researchers to evaluate the effectiveness of their programs. Research and evaluation areoften a requirement of State andfederal grant programs. Welfare and Institutions Code (WIC) 827 provides a list of individuals and agencies that may access confidential juvenile case records. Third party researchers are not included in the WIC827 list. WIC787 allows access to “sealed records” by researchers if the court is satisfied that the project includes a methodology for the protection of confidentiality. The inability to use third party researchers restricts the ability to pursue certain grant opportunities and effectively implement evidence-based programs and practices. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto amend code to allow third party researchers access to confidential case records to evaluate program effectiveness and meet grant requirements. Contact:Wayne Barley, Chief Probation Officer,530-538-7664 Juvenile Justice Realignment Summary of the Issue The state legislature, in passing SB-823 is shifting the responsibility for the housing and programming of youth who have been adjudicatedof serious offenses as defined within 707(b) W&I Code, back to the counties.SB 823was passed in the final hours of the last legislative session, with accelerated timelines and limited initial funding.Probation Departments across the State of California are now developing plans to house these youth locally. Requested Action and Strategy Support clean-up legislation to amend the various provisions of SB-823 which could prove financially detrimental to the county’s ability to adequately plan for this new population. Contact:Wayne Barley, Chief Probation Officer,530-538-7664 Vehicle License Fee Summary of the Issue In 2009, the State passed legislation increasing Vehicle License Fees (VLF) from 0.65% of the purchase price to 1.15% of purchase price. Of that increase, 0.15% was dedicated to support a range of local public safety programs that were formerly supported by the State General Fund. Local programs included the Citizens’ Option for Public Safety (COPS), Rural and Small County Sheriffs Assistance Grants, and various intervention and prevention services for juvenile offenders. The increased VLF went away on June 30, 2011, reducing funding again for these vital local criminal justice programs. Requested Action and Strategy Protect funding for local law enforcement efforts and support legislation to provide funding to rural areas. Contact:Kory Honea, Sheriff, 530-538-6759 Mike Ramsey, District Attorney, 530-538-7411 Page 8 COMMUNITY SUPPORT Animal Control Summary of the Issue Each year almost one million unwanted and abandoned cats and dogs are born in California. Encouraging the spaying and neutering of cats and dogs is a reasonable, proven-effective,and necessary means to greatly reduce the number of unwanted animals. Furthermore, local governments are responsible for the surveillance, prevention,and control of animal rabies in California. This is achieved through local animal vaccinations and licensing programs, stray animal control, animal bite reporting, investigation,and animal isolation along with public education. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation that enhances the ability of county animal controllers to provide cost effective and humane animal control services. Support evidence based programs for animal care. Contact:Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Broadband Summary of the Issue In light of COVID-19, it has become even more apparent that access to the internet is not a luxury, but a necessity that enables individuals to access work, healthcare, and education. The more rural parts of California need continuous funding and reforms to the California Advanced Services Fund (CASF) program to help close the digital divide and meet the connectivity needs of Californians, both during this unprecedented pandemic and for decades to come. Requested Action and Strategy Support funding for public telecommunications, radio, and broadband infrastructure and technology, including advancements to increase the redundancy of public safety communications. Seek support for broadband funding for rural communities. Support legislation and policies that maintain local control of the deployment of telecommunication technologies. Support programs that expand the use of GIS and GPS technologies for community and emergency response planning. Contact:Andy Pickett,Chief Administrative Officer, 530-552-3310 California Children’s Services Summary of the Issue The California Children’s Services (CCS) program provides diagnostic and treatment services, medical case management, and physical and occupational therapy services to children under the age of 21 with CCS-eligible medical conditions. The CCS program is administered as a partnership between county health departments and the California Department of Health Care Services.The growth in CCS caseloads and program costs has steadily increased over time. This increase places demands on the service delivery side (particularly due to a decreasing pool of specialists and/or therapists and because County staff must review each case in order to authorize services) and on the financing of the program. Page 9 Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation to streamline funding and program complexities of the California Children’s Services (CCS) program in order to meet the demands of the complex medical care and treatment needs for children in California with certain physically disabling conditions. Monitor the CCS program and seek protections against increased county program costs. Oppose any efforts to require counties to provide funding for the CCS program beyond the Maintenance of Effort (MOE). Contact:Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Cannabis Summary of the Issue Local agencies still face many impacts from the cultivation and distribution of cannabis including the potential effects on the environment by cultivation (i.e., excessive water usage, uncontrolled pesticide use, and erosion); the creation of public and private nuisances due to strong odors; the heightened risk of electrical fires by indoor grows; negative health impacts, includingthose related to unregulated edible cannabis products; and safety concerns created by a high value crop or retailer inventory. Regulation at the local level is more effective as the potential impacts of cannabis vary broadly depending upon the geography and urban versus rural nature of counties and cities throughout California. Uncertainty in State legislation needs to be addressed to help guide local jurisdictions balance various interests. Requested Action and Strategy Support a Statewide regulatory scheme for adult use cannabis that ensures counties can set regulatory standards based on local needs and prioritiesand the rights of cannabis users. Support legislation which studies the impacts of cannabis use and legalization on public health, particularly epidemiological surveillance of youth and adult cannabis use and the impacts of use on infant and youth brain development. Support regulations that address transactional limits on the purchase of edibles, beverages and other consumable products infused with THC. Advocate for efforts to increase education, youth prevention, environmental prevention strategies (e.g.: retail availability, retailer overconcentration), responsible adult use, and drugged driving prevention. Contact: Casey Hatcher,Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3336 Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Child Support Services Summary of the Issue The County broadly supports legislation that fully funds State and local child support agencies (LCSAs) and legislation that expands local control. The County values flexibility in program operations and greater access to tools and information. With these values, the County believes it can find more innovative and effective ways to support parents in meeting their obligations. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation that fully funds State and LCSA’s program costs. Support legislation that improves the effectiveness of LCSAs in establishing, enforcing, and Page 10 collecting child support orders. Support legislation that provides for flexibility in program operations, such as a “no wrong door” approach. This would allow forinnovative and inclusive policies that expand interagency communication and support across agencies providing services to recipients. Support legislation that provides access to appropriate tools and information to LCSAs and the clients they serve. For LCSAs, this means keeping and bolstering the SLMS (State Licensing Match System), expanding interagency data sharing, and securing digital court reporting procedures. Contact: Sean Farrell, Director-Child Support Services,530-552-4200 Children,Youth and Families Summary of the Issue Many children suffer from adverse childhood experiences. These can be singular or myriad; undetected and untreated they can have effects that unfortunately last lifetimes. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation and budget efforts that support children, youth, and families, including restoring and expanding quality childcare and preschool opportunities, homeless youth, promoting safety for all children, and mental and developmental health prevention and early intervention activities. Advocate for dedicated funding streams for child abuse and youth violence prevention efforts. Contact:Shelby Boston, Director-Department of Employment and Social Services, 530-538-7891 Scott Kennelly, Behavioral Health Director, 530-891-2857 Danette York, Public Health Director, 530-552-3820 Children’s Health Summary of the Issue Enhanced funding is needed for programs within Public Health that support youth development including but not limited to California Children’s Services (CCS), First 5 and Home Visitation programs. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto enhance the health and early growth experiences of California’s youth. Contact:Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Chronic Disease and Prevention Summary of the Issue Chronic diseases in California, such as heart disease, cancer, lung disease, stroke, diabetes,and asthma, continue to plague our communities in ever largernumbers, particularly in low-income communities and communities of color. In addition, 40.7% of youth in California ages 12-17 are overweight. Children who are overweight increase their risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus, asthma, and orthopedic problems. Finally, the growing number of people experiencing food shortages, insecurity,and hunger concurrent with the reduction in social assistance programs, has gradually become recognized as a public health concern. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation thataddresses the prevention of chronic disease and promotion of wellness. Support a dedicated funding stream to fund preventive health services or activities that improve Page 11 community health outcomes. Support legislation and funding that encourages the inclusion of health in all policies and consideration of public health impacts in the design and planning of healthy communities. Contact:Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Communicable Disease Summary of the Issue The control of infectious disease, through immunizations, surveillance, disease investigation, laboratory testing, and response activities has long been a fundamental and statutorily required responsibility assigned to local government public health agencies. However, resources to support these essential activities have been insufficient for years. Preventing and controlling communicable diseases such as sexually transmitted diseases, seasonal influenza, vaccine preventable diseases such as measles and pertussis, hepatitis,HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis remain ongoing challenges for local health departments. In addition, new and re-emerging infectious diseases, including pandemic influenza, multi-drug resistant tuberculosis, West Nile Virus, Methicillin-resistant StaphylococcusAureus (MRSA), Meningococcal Disease, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Ebola, Valley Fever, Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), Zika, Dengue, and Chikungunya have increased the need to build capacity. COVID-19Response In 2020, the worldexperienced a global pandemic of the highly contagious coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). The first confirmed case in the state was announced on January 26, 2020. The first confirmed case in Butte County was announced on March 21, 2020. Local Health Departments have been mobilized since early 2020 for response efforts. The size and scope of the outbreak continues to strain the capacity of local health departments to respond effectively. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation thatincreases theflexibility of funding and resources directed at building the capacity of local public health departments to prevent, track and trace, test, vaccinate, and otherwise combat and control communicable diseasessuch as COVID-19. Support legislation that continues the funding support to local health departments to respond to COVID-19and other significant public health challenges. Oppose legislationto reduce funding streams which would further erode counties’ abilities to protect public health. Support successful evidence based programs. Contact:Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Drug Endangered Children Summary of the Issue The Drug Endangered Children (DEC) Program started in Butte County in 1993 and has been a model throughout the country. On average 200-300 children are removed from drug endangered living conditions each year. In drug raids prior to DEC, children at the scene—which was their home and included drugs, violence, chemical exposure, and filth—were not cared for as a priority. DEC involves personnel at the scene with the sole priority to remove the children safely and render immediate assessment and services. The DEC Team includes personnel from law enforcement, social services, the District Attorney’s Office, medical services,and the Fire Department. All personnel assigned to the DEC Team require special and exceptional training. Page 12 Children removed from drug endangeredhomes have been found to have serious respiratory problems, delayed development, malnutrition, injuries from abuse and lack of medical treatment, emotional trauma,and damaged internal organs. DEC provides interdisciplinary assessment, immediate services, referrals for specialist care and case management to ensure ongoing care and treatment. Requested Action and Strategy Explore options for the State to fund the DEC program including providing a means of reimbursing County staff to periodically train personnel in other counties with respect to DEC procedures and processes. Contact: Mike Ramsey, District Attorney,530-538-7411 Health Carethat is Affordable Summary of the Issue People need affordable and effective health care. However, from accessing preventative care to being able to handle costs associated with catastrophic health events, many Butte County residents still struggle. Requested Action and Strategy Support ongoing and new efforts related to increasing the number of insured persons and to providing and expanding primary care services and public health prevention services and activities that do not have an adverse financial impact to the County. Examples of impactsmay include unfunded or underfunded mandates, or reallocation of existing County funding that result in an increased General Fund obligation. Support legislation whichincreaseshealthcare options for all who are in need. Contact:Shelby Boston, Director-Department of Employment and Social Services, 530-538-7891 Scott Kennelly, Behavioral Health Director, 530-891-2857 Health Care Services Via the County Organized Health System Summary of the Issue For many years, Butte County and its residents have been stymied from contracting for better and more reliable high quality Medi-Cal services. This has been due to a contractual relationship through the State that forced Butte County into a regional model of managed care delivery rather than the flexibility ofa County Organized Health System (COHS)model, many of which operate in California very effectively. Butte County and other counties in Northern California would benefit greatly from being able to become members of the Partnership HealthPlan of California (PHC). PHC is a non-profit COHSthat contracts with the State to administer Medi-Cal benefits through local care providers to ensure Medi-Cal recipients have access to high-quality comprehensive cost-effective health care. PHC provides quality health care to over 560,000 lives. Beginning in Solano County in 1994, PHC now provides services to 14 Northern California counties -Del Norte, Humboldt, Lake, Lassen, Marin, Mendocino, Modoc, Napa, Shasta, Siskiyou, Solano, Sonoma, Trinity, and Yolo Requested Action and Strategy Support efforts with the State Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) related to allowing counties such as Butte to become members of PHC through new request for proposal processes. If regulatory efforts fail, support legislative actions to allow Butte County participation in the PHC. Page 13 Contact:Danette York, Public Health Director, 530-552-3820 Housing and Homelessness Summary of the Issue The affordability and availability of housing is atacrisis levelin California and the impacts of the Camp Fire exacerbating the problem in Butte County. The housing issue is not only a crisis in its own right, but also a driver of California’s homelessness problem. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation to fund diverse and affordable housing. Support legislation to fund programs to move the homeless into sustainable long-term housing. Support legislation that is evidence based on “harm reduction” and “housing first” program. Contact: Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer, 530-552-3310 Shelby Boston, Director-Department of Employment and Social Services, 530-538-7891 HousingRehabilitation Summary of the Issue To assist in bringing the housing stock in the unincorporated area of the County up to current health and safety standards, the County offers a housing rehabilitation loan program for qualifying low and moderate-income property owners. Assistance is provided to homeowners in the form of small grants or low interest loans. The program is typically funded through grants obtained through the State Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the State HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), as well as payments and payoffs from existing loan recipients. Due to a reduction in the amount of available funding from CDBG, HOME, and other State grant programs, and the level of competition for the funds that do exist, it has been difficult for the County to secure the amount of grant funds necessary to respond to requests for assistance from County property owners. The types of improvements needed range from roof repair, to heating, to failed septic systems, to adequate cooking facilities. Requested Actionand Strategy Support legislationto provide adequate and equitable funding to local jurisdictions for housing rehabilitation. Contact: Casey Hatcher, Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3336 Laura’s Law Summary of the Issue AB1976 (Eggman) was enacted in 2020, which will increase pressure on counties to add Laura’s Law teams to their workforce. No additional funding was provided to help counties set up these programs. While counties can “opt out” through the Board of Supervisors the pressure for County Directors to adopt Laura’s Law has been intense. Funding is essential for any county considering Laura’s Law programs, otherwise the establishmentof such programs may come at the expense of other behavioral health programs. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation whichprovidesadequatefunding to those counties that implement Laura’s Law programs. Contact: Scott Kennelly, Behavioral Health Director,530-891-2857 Page 14 Mental Health Services Act Funding Summary of the Issue The Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) placed a 1 percent tax on personal income in excess of $1 million to fund mental health services in California counties. In FY 2018-19MHSA provided approximately $11 million for Butte County Department of Behavioral Health services. TheAct was intended solely for counties to provide direct services to severely mentally ill clients, both youth and adult, as well as fund prevention and early intervention programming aimed at reducing serious mental illness. In 2016, for the first time, the State Legislature voted to take 7 percent of funds collected and designated for counties each year under the MHSA to fund a bond for a housing/homeless initiative. Since that time, MHSA funding has been considered for other types of projects and Statewide initiatives. While this initiative has merit, it has opened the door for MHSA funds to be considered for other projects that would divert important local funding to Statewide issues at the discretion of the legislature. MHSA was intended for local jurisdictions to increase and enhance mental health services. Any potential legislative action rerouting these dollars for special projects leaves counties with uncertainty of sustainability of programming, and potentially reducing effective local initiatives. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose further reductions of MHSA funding at the Statewide level to counties by the Legislature for special projects (housing, workforce education, etc.). Allow counties greater flexibility to utilize MHSAfunds for client care based on community and stakeholder input. Contact: Scott Kennelly, Behavioral Health Director,530-891-2857 Realignment(2011) Summary of the Issue In the 2011 Legislative session, the State Legislature transferred responsibility for providing many public services from State government to counties and other local governments. The transferred responsibilities included law enforcement and public safety services, care for abused and neglected seniors and children, mental health and substance abuse recovery programs, and monitoring and detaining specified felony offenders. Though funding is provided for the realigned programs, it may not be sufficient to implement all programs fully, especially the realignment of felony offenders. Requested Action and Strategy Advocate for full funding of realigned programs and a local funding allocation formula that provides a fair share to cover realigned programs in Butte County. Support legislation to prohibit the State from passing any new law or regulation that imposes additional costs on local governments to provide services unless the State provides a source of State funding to pay the additional costs. Contact:Casey Hatcher, Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3336 Page 15 Seniors and the Disabled Summary of the Issue For too long, the State has failed to produce a workable, long-term solution to California’s aging population. Recently, work has been doneon a Master Plan for Aging. It is now time to properly fund and implement strategies to ensure that the elderly and infirm in our State can lead productive lives. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislative, administrative and budgetary efforts that seek to maintain active and healthy independence for seniors and the disabled, including affordable housing,funding,and other support for those who are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness. Support funding forcomprehensive, integrated assistance for individuals with disabilities and seniors. Support legislation to increase skilled nursing facilities that are willing to accept dually diagnosed seniors with comorbid medical and mental health conditions. Contact:Shelby Boston, Director-Department of Employment and Social Services, 530-538-7891 Scott Kennelly, Behavioral Health Director, 530-891-2857 Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Tobacco Control Summary of the Issue Each year, more than 35,000 Californians die due to tobacco-related illnesses. The use of electronic smoking (vaping) devices, and other smokeless tobacco products, has been on the rise throughout the country, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that the use of electronic cigarettes by U.S. youth (middle and high school students) has more than doubled in recent years. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation to prevent or reduce the use of tobacco products. Support legislation to reduce second-hand smoke exposure in our youth and communities. Support legislation to prevent youth access to all tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices and flavored tobacco products. Oppose legislation to exempt electronic nicotine delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes, from current tobacco control laws and regulations. Support legislation to mitigate community level harms for disproportionately impacted communities. Contact:Danette York, Director-Public Health, 530-552-3820 Welfare and Institutions Code 5150 Summary of the Issue Welfare and Institutions Code 5150 et seq has provided a confusing and at times conflicting set of codes to provide for involuntary detainment and evaluation of individuals who are at immediate risk of harm due to a mental illness. While SB 364 was signed into law in 2013, clarifying a few points of contention, there continue to be challenges to the process and resources related to involuntary detention and treatment of individuals with mental illness. SB 82, the Investment in Mental Health Wellness Act of 2013 has also provided for short term funding to improve the crisis outreach and response system in the State. However positive this attention to mental health response to persons in crisis has been, there are continuing Page 16 concerns related to an insufficient number of psychiatric hospital beds, inadequate funding for locked placements (IMD’s), and emergency departments struggling to work with psychiatric patients while awaiting placement. Compounding these issues are refusals of many psychiatric inpatient units who have capacity (open beds) to accept patients who are considered “too acute” or “treatment resistant”. California is currently participating in a Federal demonstration project (sponsored under the Affordable Care Act and spearheaded by Senator Matsui in Sacramento and Contra Costa) to showthe clinical and fiscal benefits of short-term emergency inpatient psychiatric care for individuals who receive these services in free- standing psychiatric hospitals that have more than 16 beds. Counties currently pay the entire cost when residents are served in these facilities which make up most inpatient beds in the State. This regulation, enacted in 1965, has not kept up with the modernization of inpatient psychiatric care and should be modified so that these services are eligible for Medicaid reimbursement when provided in licensed, Medicaid eligible, psychiatric hospitals that are greater than 16 beds. Simply put, there are not enough inpatient psychiatric beds available statewide. In addition,the number of inpatient “med psych” facilities are extremely rare. Butte County hasan aging population who are experiencing more medical issues that are comorbid with their psychiatric issues. These clients represent the most challenging clients to place when on 5150s. Public health facilities (PHFs)are forbidden from taking any of these clients (on oxygen, ambulation issues, open wounds, etc.). As a result,multiple clients languish in emergency roomsawaiting placement. There are no incentives for entities to build new psychiatric facilities especially ones that can take clients with medical issues who need psychiatric stabilization. To complicate things, a number of counties refuse to authorize placement/hospitalization of their County clients if they are hospitalized in another County. This forces the host County to assume the oversight and placement of another counties’client in order to help them get outofthe emergency room in which they are placed. Requested Action and Strategy Advocate for enough funding to improve access and continued care for individuals in crises. Address resource issues related to unengaged individuals who come to the attention of law enforcement either through homelessness or criminal behavior due to untreated mental illness or alcohol and drug abuse, including the need for transitional housing. Continue to support legislation to further clarify the 5150 statute, including increased flexibility regarding the 5150 timeline when inpatient beds are not available. Support State legislation to modify Federal Medicaid regulations, Title42, CFR, §35.1009/1010 (known as the “Institute of Mental Disease \[IMD\] Exclusion”) that prohibits federal reimbursement for mental health treatment in psychiatric inpatient facilities that have more than 16 beds. Support legislation that prohibits psychiatric hospitals from refusing treating individuals when there is capacity at their facility. Support State funding for the development of regional med-psych and psychiatric facilities to assist individuals with severe mental illness. Contact: Scott Kennelly, Behavioral Health Director,530-891-2857 Page 17 LAND USE AND INFRASTRUCTURE Agriculture Issues Summary of the Issue Agriculture is one of the primary economic drivers in Butte County. Reductions in funding and services for crop protection resources and pest management strategies would negatively impact our agricultural businesses and local economy. Requested Action and Strategy Support efforts to prevent the introduction and potential spread of invasive pests and diseases harmful to agriculture,including State funding of pest prevention program activities. Support efforts to secure continuous funding to control invasive noxious or non-native weeds. Support proposals that maintain or increase funding for pesticide regulatory activities to protect the safety of workers, the public, and the environment, including funding for education, outreach, and compliance assessment activities related to the safe use ofpesticides. Support legislation and funding that supports and keeps agricultural businesses viable. Contact: Louie B. Mendoza, Jr., Agricultural Commissioner/Director of Weights and Measures, 530-552-4100 Community Services Summary of the Issue State funding for public libraries and other community services has been eliminatedover the years. The County has backfilled these lost State dollars with County General Fund dollars; funding that is needed for other local priorities. Requested Action and Strategy Support full funding for library programs including, but not limited to,adult literacy and technological enhancements to support public learning. Contact: Narinder Sufi, Library Director,530-538-7240 Drought Response Summary of the Issue California experienceddrought conditions of historic proportions over the pastdecade. Butte County, through its Drought Preparedness and Mitigation Plan and the Office of Emergency Management, has identified local drought impacts and taken steps to mitigate and/or secure resources as they arise. The primary impacts are expected to be to individual and small community water supply wells. Broad economic impacts may occur from surface water cutbacks and changes to the reservoir operations of Lake Oroville. In cases of long-term droughts, the impact to water supply reliability and the local economy will increase substantially. State assistance should include funding to mitigate the local impacts of the drought. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation that will assist Butte County in addressing localized drought impacts. Support legislation that will protect the local agricultural economy and local water supply needs. Page 18 Support legislation that protects all water users (agricultural and urban users). Contact: Paul Gosselin, Water and Resource ConservationDirector,530-552-3590 Cindi Dunsmoor, Emergency Management Officer,530-552-3333 Flood Management and Flood Control Summary of the Issue Levees in Butte County need upgrading, repair, and maintenance to meet Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) accreditation and State certification requirements. To address the requirements by FEMA and the Central Valley Flood Protection Board, funding is needed for flood management strategies to mitigate the impacts of severe rain events. Examples of areas in need of funding include much of the Chico Urban Area, along the Feather River, Butte Creek, Palermo, Cherokee Canal, Mud Creed,and the Rock Creek/Keefer Slough area. If flood protection does not meet FEMA accreditation and State certification requirements, many residents in the south County and the Chico Urban Area will face increasing annual costs for flood insurance,as well as stricter developmentregulations. Requested Action and Strategy Pursue budget action and/or legislation to provide access to funding for the improvement, repair and maintenance of levees and flood control projects in Northern California. Continue to advocate for inclusion of local water quality and flood control projects in Butte County to be funded from voter-approved bonds. Support programs and funding to prepare and mitigate areas more prone to seasonal flooding. Contact:Joshua Pack, Director of Public Works, 530-538-7681 Radley Ott, Assistant Director-Public Works, 530-538-7681 Highway and Other Infrastructure Improvements Summary of the Issue Reliable, safe, and modern public infrastructure is vital to the economic development of the County. Upgrading and maintaining our local roads, water supplies, and wastewater infrastructure not only helps the County provide basic services to residents, but also provides the foundation for future economic growth and business development. From the Butte County line to Highway 162 in Oroville, Highway 70 has seen numerous fatalities since 1992. Between 2003 and 2009 there were 286 collisions recorded on Highway 70 between Oroville and Marysville, based upon data available from the Highway Patrol. From January 1, 2017 there have been 22 fatalities due to automobile collisions, which occurred on this section of the highway. This critical trade and travel corridor connects Butte County with Yuba, Sutter, and the Greater Sacramento Valley. Additional improvements are needed for the safety of those traveling Highway 70. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation and funding for infrastructure improvement opportunities. Support the Butte County Association of Governments (BCAG) and CalTransin their efforts to secure funding for Highway improvements. Support CSAC efforts to fund necessary road upgrades and repairs. Support funding for regional rail system traveling through Butte County. Page 19 Contact:Joshua Pack, Director of Public Works,530-538-7681 HousingNeeds Plans Summary of the Issue State law requires the Department of Housing and Community Development and councils of governments/metropolitan planning organizations to prepare a Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) Plan to allocate a share of the regional housing need to each city and county. These allocation plans do not adequately recognize the limited availability of necessary public infrastructure in unincorporated portions of counties, particularly community sewer systems, community water systems, and public transportation. Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plans conflict with efforts to develop and implement the Sustainable Communities Strategy required by Government Code §65080 et seq, resulting in counties being unable to take advantage of streamlining in the California Environmental Quality Act and being at a disadvantage in transportation funding decisions in the Regional Transportation Plan process. With the changes in the 2017 Housing Bills, jurisdictions that fail to meet their Regional Housing Needs Allocation are penalized with the loss of discretionary approval over housing projects. This presents challenges for rural counties that do not have the infrastructure in place for high-density residential developments.Also,recent legislation pertaining to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) should be revisited to allow more local control over ADUs, especially with respect to setbacks and depending on lot sizes. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation to require the Department of Housing and Community Development and councils of government/metropolitan planning organizations to consider availability of necessary infrastructure and the Sustainable Community Strategy in the preparation of Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) Plans or pursue a process to exempt counties that are members of the Rural County Representatives of California from the requirement for Regional Housing Needs Allocation Plans. Support legislation that provides funding for rural counties to assist with the development of diverse housing options (affordable, market rate, etc.). Support legislation allowing flexibility in RHNA requirements for areas affected by severe wildfires. Support more local control over ADUs, especially with respect to setbacks and depending on lot sizes. Contact: Paula Daneluk, Development Services Director,530-552-3642 Off-Highway Vehicles and Green Sticker Funding Summary of the Issue Green Sticker funds are collected from Off Highway Vehicles (OHV’s) and used by various State agencies to operate the OHV program with the remaining going to grants to enhance OHV opportunities throughout the State. There have been attempts to use Green Sticker funds for programs not related to the OHV program. OHV opportunities typically helpsupport rural business by purchasing fuel and other supplies. Requested Action and Strategy Protect Green Sticker funding for OHV program use only. Require the U. S. Forest Service to partner with local non-profits or governmental agencies to Page 20 apply for green sticker funding. Contact:Joshua Pack, Director of Public Works,530-538-7681 Solid Waste Summary of the Issue In the County’s experience, the State Legislature passes bills that ban certain products from disposal without having a plan to finance the diversion of such products from disposal. What results is that the County becomes responsible for the costs through its Waste and Recycling Facility and those costs are passed on to consumers through the gate fees that support the Facility.Currently, the County’s Waste Management Division spends approximately $700,000 per year to manage household hazardous and other prohibited waste properly. In addition, costs of solid waste regulatory compliance are disproportionately high California’s rural areas. Requested Action and Strategy Support Statewide planning for convenient identification and recovery of all material and products banned from California landfill disposal or requiring separate handling or processing and producer responsibility for financingand arranging for the collection and recycling of their products at end-of- life. Support the proper disposal of prohibited waste through programs that place the cost of compliance on manufacturers. Support efforts to ensure that costs of complying with regulations are commensurate with environmental and public health risks and reimbursed by the State. Contact: Joshua Pack, Director of Public Works,530-538-7681 Solid Waste –Renewable Energy Projects –Conversion Technology Summary of the Issue State mandates require local jurisdictions to increase waste diversion and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. New technology can be effective in helping jurisdictions achieve mandates, but there are many obstacles preventing the development of facilities utilizing new conversion technologies. Obstacles include lack of proper definitions for new technologies, improper placement in CalRecycle’s hierarchy of waste handling priorities, unclear permitting pathways, inability to qualify as a renewable energy project and inability for a conversion technology facility to qualify for diversion credits. Currently, it is not feasible to implement new, green technologies either due to the cost or an inability to qualify for financial incentives, or compliance programs. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation and regulations that would establish a clear pathway to encourage the development of conversion technologies; including clarification of the definition of conversion technologies and ensuring they qualify for appropriate renewable energy project status, financial and other incentives for producing renewable energy, reducing landfill disposal, and producing low carbon fuels. Support efforts to grow markets for renewables, especially those that createjobs in California. Support efforts that assist with more effective forest management(including but not limited to biomass or biochar). Page 21 Oppose any increase in the State’s tipping fee that only supports State functions and/or does not offset local costs Contact:Joshua Pack, Director of Public Works,530-538-7681 Storm Water Permits Summary of the Issue California’s Regional Water QualityBoard has adopted changes to its Industrial and Municipal General Storm Water Permits. In the opinion of a broad coalition of stakeholders, including the Rural County Representatives of California and the California State Association of Counties, the changes are above and beyond what the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency mandates and will result in hundreds of millions of dollars in additional costs to applicants with no proven environmental benefits. Requested Action and Strategy Support efforts by CSAC to create a new funding method for local agencies to finance storm water management and flood control projects. Contact:Joshua Pack,Director of Public Works,530-538--7681 Radley Ott, Assistant Director-Public Works,530-538-7681 Water Summary of the Issue Protecting and sustaining groundwater and surface water is critical for Butte County communities, agriculture, economy,and environment. Complying with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act and maintaining local decision-making will ensure that groundwater is sustained for future generations. Projects to increase natural groundwater recharge and local water supply reliability will require policy, technical and financial support. Local efforts for groundwater sustainability and water supply reliability face challenges from State legislative and regulatory actions that would change county police powers, land use authority, water management and well permitting authority. Other actions by the State of California might reduce local surface water supplies, impact Lake Oroville and result in other deleterious socioeconomic impacts. Requested Action and Strategy Support actions that promote natural groundwater recharge, protection of area of origin water rights, existing water right priorities, and local control over water management. Support implementation of the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act including providing State financial assistance and preservation of County land use, water management and well permitting authorities. Identify and advocate for project funding through water bonds and other opportunities that will benefit Butte County through the Northern Sacramento Valley Integrated and Upper Feather River Regional Water Management planning efforts. Support funding that assists with providing adequate water supplyand sewer systems for rural and underprivileged communities. Contact:Paul Gosselin, Water and Resource Conservation Director,530-552-3590 Page 22 Williamson Act Summary of the Issue The Williamson Act, also knownas the California Land Conservation Act of 1965, authorizes a city or county to enter into contracts with owners of land devoted to agricultural use. Existing law sets forth procedures for reimbursing counties for property tax revenues not received as a result of these contracts and appropriates State General Fund monies for this purpose. Existing law for the 2008-09 Fiscal year and each year since, essentially eliminated the reimbursement. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation that would restore full funding of the Williamson Act. Contact:Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer, 530-552-3310 Page 23 OTHER GOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS Accessibility Summary of the Issue Eliminating barriers to services for citizens and employees is necessary. However, funding levels do not support the necessary modifications to facilities, public right of way access or to policies and procedures that citizens and employees need. In addition, funding for the training of public employees in assisting with accommodations does not exist. Requested Action and Strategy Pursue funding necessary to improve accessibility in both public facilities and public rights of way / access routes. Pursue funding to train public employees on improving access to services by everyone. Contact:Benjamin Matrary,County Architect, 530-552-3491 Sheri Waters, Human Resources Director,530-552-3565 Joshua Pack, Director of Public Works,530-538-7681 Alternative Energy Summary of the Issue When the County completed the solar array installation on theOrovilleGovernment Campusin 2004, it was the fourth largest in the nation at the time. The array powers portions of the main administration building, the main jail,and other facilities on the Oroville government campus. In addition to $1 million in County funds, the project included $4.2 million in the form of a PG&E Grant and $3.2 million from a low interest loan from the California Energy Commission. The planned second phase thus far lacks funds. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto provide funding in the form of grants or low-cost loans to local jurisdictions for the design and installation of alternative energy production including solar. Contact: Grant Hunsicker, General Services Director,530-552-3471 CalPERS Actuarial Separation of Court Employees Summary of the Issue In 2000, SB 2140 enacted the Trial Court Employment Protection and Governance Act, which requires a trial court and county to participate under a joint Public Employee Retirement System (PERS)contract if the trial court is located within a county that contracts with PERS for retirement benefits. This results in pooled assets and liabilities, a single employer contribution rate, and a single benefit package. Recent changes in required reporting under GASB 68 and CalPERS’ separation of normal cost and required contributions against accrued liabilities made this unsustainable. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto separate assets and liabilities of contracting counties from those of trial courts andworking with PERS staff on a common understanding of county and court liabilities. Contact:Meegan Jessee, Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3312 Page 24 Clerk-Recorder Summary of the Issue The County supports increased technology provided for in legislation, however, ensuring that securities keep up with the mandates is a challenge. Verifying identity using remote technology may result in increased costs,with no offsetting revenue. Preserving Butte County history in a formal and professional manner without specific funding is a challenge. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto protect all vital and official records against fraud, while ensuring their availability to authorized users. Support greater flexibility in the use of electronic recording for real property records that include appropriate precautions to protect consumers and homeowners against fraud. Oppose the addition of State fees to recordings where no clear nexus is drawn between the instrument and the proposed use of funds. Support grant funding for the preservation and storage of county archives. Support legislation to allow for vital records to be opened after 75 years. Contact: Candace Grubbs, Clerk-Recorder,530-552-3401 Community Choice Aggregation Summary of the Issue Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), authorized by AB117, allows local governments to pool their electricity load to purchase and/or develop power on behalf of their residents, businesses, and municipal accounts. CCA allows local governments to become an energy purveyor and to purchase electrical energy on the wholesale market from any source. CCA is a supply model that works in partnership with the existing utility, which continues to deliver power, maintain the grid, provide consolidated billing, and provide other customerservices. The County, theCity of Chicoand the City of Orovilleare currently in the process of launching a CCA in this region called Butte Choice Energy. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose legislation that would restrict CCA formation, establish an opt-in only program, or add additional fees/increase current feesor surcharges to which an Investor Owned Utility is not subject. Support legislationto protect local governments’ right to participate in, or establish, community choice aggregation programs. Contact:Brian Ring, Assistant Chief Administrative Officer,530-552-3311 Page 25 Construction Funding, Deferred Maintenance,and Inefficient Energy Utilization Summary of the Issue The County owns and operates programs from a wide variety of public facilities ranging from administrative offices to fire stations, libraries, veteran halls,and public community centers. Unfortunately, the average age of County facilities is nearly 50 years old with millions of dollars in deferred maintenance, inefficient building components and accessibility. Funding for facilities related projects is often required to construct new facilities to accommodate State and federal mandated responsibilities. Local revenue sources are not sufficient to minimize unplanned service interruptions to the publicorfully modernize existing County facilities. In addition, Zero Net Energy (ZNE) requirements defined by the California Public Utilities Commission are costly to implement. Requested Actionand Strategy Support efforts to provide funding for building facility condition assessments and to address deferred maintenance in County owned and operated facilities, included but not limited to, the Veterans Memorial Park. Support efforts to provide funding to local jurisdictions to modernize dated facilities with energy related upgrades. Funding for community facilities throughout the County, including but not limited to fire stations, libraries, veteran halls,and public community centers. Contact:Grant Hunsicker, General Services Director,530-552-3471 Contracting for Services Summary of the Issue AB 1250 (2017) would have established burdensome contract/procurement requirements for counties including an extensive cost/benefit analysis prior to contracting for professional and personal services. This analysis would be costly to perform and delay the delivery of services (healthcare, social services, mental health services, public safety services) to citizens. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose legislation like AB 1250 that adds costs and delays to the delivery of services to county citizens. Contact:Grant Hunsicker, General Services Director,530-552-3471 Election Operations Summary of the Issue Increasing rules and regulations at the State level regarding elections are costing local jurisdictions. New election technology approvedby the Federal government are not allowed to be used in California, which further increases the costs of elections, restricts services to voters, and negatively impacts the discretionary resources available to all local governments to fund local programs such as law enforcement, fire and emergency services, and libraries. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose legislation and administrative actions that increase the local cost of elections. Oppose legislation that does not lead to improvements in the election process. Page 26 Support legislationto allow counties to fully utilize federally approved voting systems and upgrades within California. Oppose legislation that increases local costs or administrative burdens where funding is not provided. Support legislation allowing vote centers to be open 4daysor less and allow the County to locate vote centers in locations that suit the County’s needs. Contact: Candace Grubbs, Clerk-Recorder,530-552-3401 Electrical Backup Summary of the Issue When originally constructed, the few County facilities that include generator backup for electrical service were designedto withstand power outages that spanned hours and that typically occurred during winter months. Now, with planned and un-planned power outages that span days and in hot summer months, the need for backup electrical services is much different. Most County programs cannot sit idle without electricity for several days in a row and existing generators must incorporate cooling functions excluded in the original design. Also, there is a critical need for redundant and alternative methods of communicating during outages. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislation and funding for the design, construction,and maintenance of sufficient electrical service backup systems for County facilities. Pursue funding for alternative and redundant communication methods. Contact:Grant Hunsicker, General Services Director,530-552-3471 Health Care InsuranceOptions Summary of the Issue The County currently contracts with California Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) for the provision of employee health insurance. In previousyears, PERS has implemented significant health insurance premium increases, especially for the Northern California region. The County has requested rate setting and utilization information to better understand the extraordinary increases, and PERS claims it is unable to provide the requested information due to prohibition by State law. The County believes aggregate data should be available to contracting agencies toanalyze health care utilization trends and to allow contracting agencies to seek other options on the market. Lack of aggregate data makes it impossible for contracting agencies to launch effective, targeted wellness programs that could positively impact future utilization and premiums, as well as seek quotes from other providers. Without utilization data, any quotes the County receives are estimates at best, and pure conjecture at the worst. Absent firm quotes, the County cannot make informed decisions regarding otheroptions. Requested Action and Strategy Continue advocacy efforts to compel PERS to release aggregate data and information for each contracting agencies, including legislative efforts to modify the Government Code, where applicable. Contact:Meegan Jessee, Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3312 Sheri Waters, Human Resources Director,530-552-3565 Page 27 Indian Gaming Special DistributionFund Summary of the Issue The Indian Gaming State Distribution Fund (SDF) was established in 1999 as a mechanism by which Tribes operating more than 200 gaming machines would contribute a percentage of net win dollars to address the impacts of gaming. Some of these funds were designated for local government agencies to mitigate the local impacts of gaming. Overthe years Butte County has designated these funds primarily for public safety functions. SDF funds had been decreasing for years, primarily due to the State renegotiating compacts with Tribes to have the percentage of net win dollars bypass the SDF and go directly to the State. In 2014, all mitigation funds from the SDF to local government ended. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto restore funding for mitigating local impacts ofgaming. Support provisions to increase local autonomy in howfunds arespent. Contact: Brian Ring, Deputy Administrative Officer,530-552-3311 Local RevenueProtection Summary of the Issue The State has chosen in the past to use local County resources to balance its budget. Historical efforts have included suspension of Proposition 1A and Proposition 42 -two initiatives that were approved by the voters to safeguard local property tax revenues and transportation monies from being used to balance the State Budget. In 2010, California voters passed Proposition 22, which protects gas tax funds from being taken by the State, further narrowing the State’s options for balancing its budget, as well as Proposition 26, which reduces the State’s ability to adopt new fees and revenues. The State is left with few options for reducing its gap between on-going expenditures and revenues, which puts local County resources further at risk. Local resources are the primary funding source for public safety programs at the County level. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose any effort by the State to borrow, defer, or take local discretionary revenue. Oppose the redirecting of existing revenues and/or the creation of additional unfunded mandates. Support legislationto generate new intergovernmental revenue and/or enhance existing revenue and reimbursement levels. Contact:Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer,530-552-3310 Mandates-Timely Payments Summary of the Issue Butte County provides a variety of public services on behalf of the State and federal governments including, but not limited to, mental health, elections, social services, and roads. During the Great Recession, the State delayed payment of millions in State and federal funds to counties. When the State delays payment, the County hasdifficulty meeting all its obligations, delaying payments to vendors (ranging from landlords to supply stores to childcareproviders to non-profit agencies providing services); contractors; and ultimately employees. The State has historically tended to pass cash flow problems on to counties. Althoughthings have improved dramatically since the Great Recession, there are insufficient Page 28 protections in place to shield counties in the event of another significantdownturn. Requested Action and Strategy Advocate for payment of remaining SB 90 claims and oppose actions to eliminate, delay or reduce payments to counties. Contact:Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer,530-552-3310 Marketplace Equity and ConsumerProtection Summary of the Issue Weights and Measures programs are used to verify the accuracy ofweighing and measuring devices. These programs are critical in providing protection for consumer and are partially funded by device registration fees. Weights and Measuresset standards andenforce uniform procedures to verifyweight, volume, length or count, ensuring that consumers get the quantity that they pay for and that businesses sell the quantity that they advertise. This authoritywill sunset January 1, 2022. Requested Action and Strategy Support legislationto enhance inspection of alternative motor fuel devices. Protect local authority for device registration fees. Support legislation that establishes funding for quantity control and package inspection programs. Contact: Louie B. Mendoza, Jr., Agricultural Commissioner/Director of Weights and Measures, 530-552-4100 Oroville Facilities, Adequate Reimbursement for Activities Related to Project Summary of the Issue Butte County has been the host jurisdiction to the California Department of Water Resources’ (DWR) Oroville Facilities for over 50 years and during that time Butte County taxpayers have subsidizedDWR’s operation of the facilities. To date, the State has not properly compensated the residents of Butte County for costs incurred by the County providing services supporting the construction and operation of the Oroville facilities. The County and its residents lose between $3.6 -$8.3 million in property taxesas the State is not required to pay property taxes on the 41,000 acres of land associated with the Project. Also, the County incurs an average annual cost(50-year period)of $9.7million per year for local law enforcement, criminal justice, road maintenance, and fire and emergency response related to the facilities withno reimbursement fromDWR. In February 2017,both the primary and emergency spillways failed, resulting in the evacuation of over 180,000 people downstream from the facilities and significant social, economic, and environmental impacts to the communities and the County. For over 13years, DWR has sought renewal of its license for the facilities through the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC); there is no estimate as to when this might happen. DWR generatesrevenue and inexpensive power from these facilities for the benefit of itself and others outside of Butte County.The County believes thata new license should be issuedthat addresses all local costs associated with the project, safety concerns and recreation concerns. Page 29 Requested Action and Strategy Hold Department of Water Resources accountable for deliverables promised associated with the Project. Explore all opportunities for resolution of this issue, including, but not limited to, provision of lower cost water and electricity for the residents and businesses in Butte County, payment in lieu of taxes and reimbursement of costs associated with services provided to the Oroville facilities. Support a new license process with DWR that addresses local costs associated with the project, safety concerns and recreation concerns. Contact: Andy Pickett,ChiefAdministrativeOfficer,530-552-3310 Property Tax Administration Summary of the Issue The County is responsible for all property tax administration activities, including apportionment and distribution of funds to all taxing agencies. The County recovers less than half of the more than $2.5 million annual cost of property tax administration because schools are included in the calculation but exempted from collection. This exemption costs the County over $2.8 million dollars every year, funds that could otherwise be spent on county services, including libraries, fire, and police protection. Requested Action and Strategy Advocate for fuller funding of Property Tax Administration costs, with schools or the State on behalf of the schools, paying a reasonable share of the cost to assess, collect, and distribute taxes. Contact:Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer, 530-552-3310 Public Facilities –Project Delivery Summary of the Issue Public Contract Code 22162(a) allows entities other than local government to utilize the Design –Build project delivery method for infrastructure and communications projects. Local governments are forced to utilize the Design –Bid –Build project delivery method in these cases, which is less effective for complicated projects. Requested Action and Strategy Support modifications to legislation in two ways: Allow the use of Design-Build project delivery method for infrastructure and communications projectsand allow merit shop training programs. Contact:Grant Hunsicker, General Services Director, 530-552-3471 Safety and Security Summary of the Issue The traditional role of organization safety effortshas changed dramatically over the past few years and requires a much heavier emphasis on security than needed previously. Local agencies must adapt to the safety and security challenges of today by developing specific procedures and providing staff training. Page 30 Requested Action and Strategy Pursue funding for security-related analysis, facility modifications, and staff training focused on personal safety and security. Contact:Grant Hunsicker, General Services Director,530-552-3471 Surcharges (State) Collected by Counties Summary of the Issue There is a growing trend by State agencies to add an administrative surcharge to local fee-based programs. This practice places additional hardships on local businesses and gives the appearance that the County is charging higher fees. There are existing State surcharges on local fees related to land use, agriculture, and recording of documents, to name a few. Not all State surcharges provide for the administrative costs incurred by counties to collect the fees on the State’s behalf. Requested Action and Strategy Oppose legislation that places a State surcharge on local fee-based programs and requires counties to act as collection agencies for the State. For mandated surcharges, support full funding by the State forthe administrative overhead the County incurs for collecting the fees. Contact:Andy Pickett, Chief Administrative Officer,530-552-3310 Page 31 BUTTE COUNTY, CA 2021 REGIONAL FEDERAL LEGISLATIVE PLATOFRM Approved January , 2021 Photo Credit: ExploreButteCounty.com. BUTTE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Bill Connelly District 1 Debra Lucero District 2 Tami Ritter District 3 Tod Kimmelshue District 4 Doug Teeter District 5 Andy Pickett Chief Administrative Officer BCAG BOARD OF DIRECTORS Bill Connelly Open Butte County City of Biggs Debra Lucero Open Butte County City of Chico Tami Ritter Open Butte County City of Gridley Tod Kimmelshue Open Butte County City of Oroville Doug Teeter Open Butte County Town of Paradise Jon Clark Executive Director OVERVIEW Over the last several years, the communities of Butte County have experienced multiple declared federal disasters including droughts, floods, fires, and pandemics. Through all of this, the County continued to provide essential services to our residents including unfailing law enforcement and fire protection; supportive mental health, behavioral health, and public health services; dependable infrastructure construction and maintenance; and reliable building and community services. The large number of survivors and the need to provide housing in jurisdictions outside of the burn areas has led to populations in cities within Butte County growing to sizes not anticipated for another 10 years. While recovering from the disastrous events that are beyond our control remains one of the CountyÓs top priorities, ensuring we continue to provide the essential services our residents rely on remains critical. Through the Regional Federal Legislative Platform, the County will advocate for federal assistance in five major areas, including: Photo Credit: Butte County Photo Credit: Butte County Photo Credit: ExploreButteCounty.com. Community Support Disaster RecoveryPublic Safey Provide our residents the Commit to the mitigation, Provide reliable law resources they need to preparaion, and recovery of enforcement, fire, and overcome challenges. our communities before and emergency management after natural disasters.services. Photo Credit: ExploreButteCounty.com. Photo Credit: Butte County Association of Governments Land Use and Other Governmental InfrastructureFunctions Support smart economic growth Support our communities as and reliable infrastructure.a whole. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform MAP OF BUTTE COUNTY 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform DISASTER RECOVERY Over the past five years, the communities of Butte County have experienced several declared federal disasters, including a record-setting drought, the Oroville Dam Spillway Failure and related flooding from an ÐAtmospheric RiverÑ, and multiple wildfires including the Wall Fire, the Ponderosa Fire, the Wind Complex Fire, and the Camp Fire, the most destructive wildfire in the nation in the past 100 years. Then, in 2020, more disasters hit. Not only did Butte County respond to its communities and residents through unprecedented public health and economic turmoil caused by the world-wide coronavirus pandemic, but the County was hit with yet another devastating wildfire. The North Complex Fire destroyed 2,300 structures, including over 1,500 homes, and burned approximately 125,000 acres in Butte County. Impacts of these disasters, including unanticipated costs that could go on for years and reduced local revenues in the form of property taxes, sales taxes, transient occupancy taxes, and franchise fees, are only exacerbated as the multiple successive disasters layer upon each other. Disaster Funding ¤Support additonal federal funding for agencies and programs to aid disaster recovery. ¤Support all legislation that waives the local share of cost of emergency response and disaster recovery activities. ¤Advocate for funding with minimal cost share for infrastructure projects destroyed, damaged, or impacted by natural disasters. ¤Support changes to the 2020 Census to account for the impacts of disaster events residing in alternate where residents are temporarily locations to ensure federal funding is not lost. ¤Advocate for allocation of economic stimulus and disaster relief funding related to the coronavirus pandemic directly to local governments, small businesses, community organizations, and special districts. ¤Advocate for access to coronavirus relief funding for all local governments, regardless of size and population. ¤Advocate for the use of coronavirus relief and econmic stimulus funding for the loss of revenue caused by the pandemic. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform DISASTER RECOVERY Housing and Survivor Benefits ¤Support funding that assists with expedient construction of diverse housing stock in Northern California. those ¤Advocate for funding for all displaced individuals, including who lost access to housing due to secondary displacement. ¤Advocate for access to full benefits for all evacuees, survivors, individuals, and businesses impacted by declared disasters. ¤Support legislation and policies that allow survivers and other residdents to rebuild homes safely while also maintaining access to affordable and fair homeowners' insurance. Recovery and Response ¤Support legislation to repair roads to pre-disaster condition. ¤Support legislation that funds water quality monitoring in communities impacted by wildfires, flooding, or other natural disasters. and ¤Support legislation to fund end-market solutions for timber greenwaste. ¤Support funding to assist citizens with post traumatic stress disorder and other mental related illnesses stemming from the numerous disasters hitting our region. to ¤Support policies that require federal fire firghting agencies coordinate directly with state and local fire fighting agencies to collectively respond to wildfire events in a coordinated manner. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform PUBLIC SAFETY Butte County endeavors to provide safe communities for its residents. To this end, the County focuses on ensuring that all communities are protected from public safety threats and have access to critical safety services. We also strive to ensure we support our residents in their everyday lives by providing reliable law enforcement, fire and emergency management services. Forest Management Support federal assistance for improved forest management and fuel reduction, including fire breaks, logging, biomass, biocharand other creative solutions. Pursue legislative and regulatory changes to address tree mortality on federal lands. Support legislation and policies that assist local and state agencies in establishing fire mitigation activities, protocols, and programs. Wild Fire Protection and Prevention Monitor and track federal assistance opportunities for wildfire protection and prevention programs. Support funding for the expansion of necessary evacuation routes throughout the County. Support new emerging technologies that assist emergency managers with key decision making tools. Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Planning Support legislation that provides funding for local emergency and disaster planning, response, and recovery planning and efforts. Support legislation to broaden eligible mitigation projects and provide mitigation funding Support legislation and funding for expanding and increasing evacuation routes or evacuation points, especially for communities with only one way in and out. Support funding for counties to maintain regularly needed critical services and to provide for higher demands on health, social services, and behavioral health departments in the aftermath of emergencies. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform PUBLIC SAFETY Public Safety Facilities, Equipment, and Personnel Support funding for construction and rehabilitation of public safety facilities, including but not limited to: the jail, evidence storage, morgue, a forensic computer center, new Probation facility and fire stations. Pursue funding for public safety equipment, technology, training, and personnel. Incarceration Impacts Support full funding for states and counties of costs associated with incarcerating undocumented aliens for the federal government. Oppose legislation which imposes adverse actions for incarcerated undocumented individuals. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform COMMUNITY SUPPORT One of Butte County's goals is to ensure the way of life our residents love so much is not impacted by the challenges of today or the changes of tomorrow. We strive to ensure our residents have access to safe and affordable housing and are supported by a robust local economy and workforce. Butte County understands that many of our residents, including our youth, face a variety of challenges related to mental health, drug and alcohol abuse, homelessness, and gangs. The County strives to provide our populations in high risk with the services they need to overcome these challenges. Housing Support programs and funding to provide housing and support services for all populations. Support programs that provide for diverse housing, including but not limited to affordable, market rate, transitional, and treatment based housing. Support services for individuals who are experiencing homelessness. Support programs that connect housing to transportation, employment centers and educational institutions. Health and Well Being Support affordable health care for all individuals. Monitor key provisions of the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act related to County programs. Support mental health, drug, and alcohol services for the County's adult and youth populations in high risk environments. Support funding for regional mental health facilities. Advocate for funding of senior care and service programs including those authorized under the Elder Care Act. Support child welfare and child support programs that benefit the physical, mental, and financial well-being of children, including those in foster care. Pursue funding for juvenile justice programs for the County's youth in high risk situations. ¤Pursue funding for staff and operations of the Drug Endangered Children Program. ¤Support funding for the development of regional med-psych and psychiatric facilities to assist individuals with severe mental illness. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform COMMUNITY SUPPORT Economic and Workforce Development Support federal tax incentive programs that encourage private investment in public facilities and projects. Support existing, comprehensive programs and pursue additional funding for workforce and economic development, and infrastructure improvements to serve business development and expansion in the County. National Flood Insurance Program Monitor legislation pertaining to FEMA flood zone mapping and the reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Support policies that ensure the NFIP remains affordable for citizens and businesses. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform LAND USE AND INFRASTRUCTURE Smart economic expansion, growth, and sustainability are priorities for Butte County. The County strives to enhance the local economy to support our residents today while providing them with new opportunities for the future. Regional planning provides a strategy that will lead to prosperity within the region for all local jurisdictions and helps provide for organized future growth and the public services that will need to be established to accommodate that growth. Upgrading and maintaining our roads, water supply, flood, and wastewater infrastructure not only helps the County provide basic services to our current residents, but it helps provide the foundation for future economic growth and business development. A large portion of Butte County is either located in the regulatory floodplain or is protected by public flood protection infrastructure. To ensure that residents remain protected, the status of the CountyÓs flood control infrastructure remains a top priority. Transportation Support funding for improvements to the Highway 70 corridor to enhance economic development and public safety. Support funding and programs for the maintenance and construction of local roads and transportation infrastructure, including emergency evacuation routesand a rail system that travels through our region. Support funding for the maintenance of the right of way of local roads to keep free of fire fuel sources. Support funding for maintenance of hall roads due to tree and debris removal from the fires. Water Support funding and programs that improve wastewater infrastructure projects throughout the County. Support funding for water supply infrastructure projects and programs that naturally increase the reliability and efficiency of the County's groundwater and surface water supplies. Support funding for projects and programs that naturally recharge of our basins. Support the preservation of water rights, area of origin, and local control of land use and water management. Flood Issues Support the Sutter-Butte Flood Control Agency's effortrs to complete the construction of the West Feather River Levee Improvement Project. Support funding for the development of projects identified in the Mid-Upper Sacramento River Regional Flood Management Plan. Engage with Corps of Engineers on certifcation and matinenance of levees througout the County. Support programs and funding to prepare and mitigate areas prone to seasonal flooding. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform LAND USE AND INFRASTRUCTURE Planning Support approval and implementation of the Butte Regional Conservation Plan. Support funding for projects and programs included in the Northern Sacramento Valley and Upper Feather River Integreated Regional Water Management Plan. Support policies and regulations that streamline federal regulatory and environmental processes to expedite delivery of planning and construction projects in a way that does not compromise environmental laws. New License Process for the Oroville Project Engage the congressional delegation, relevant congressional committees, and the Administration supporting a new license process of the Oroville Project which addresses reimbursement of local costs associated with providing services to the Oroville Project, safety concerns, and recreation concerns as well as lost property tax revenue. Public Facilities, Parks, Museums, and Libraries Support funding for veteran facilities and programs including veterans memorial halls, 900 Esplanade, and the Veterans Memorial Park. Support funding for community facilities and programs throughout the County including parks, libraries, community centers, government support buildings, a new Emergency Operations Center, a new County Jail, and the County fairgrounds. Public Access to Federal Lands Support polices that preserve and enhance public access to federal lands for diverse purposes, such as off-road vehicle use, general recreational activites, wood cutting, dispersed camping and grazing rights. Support establishment of evacuation routes on federal lands. Support uniformity of rule application across national forests. Support least restrictive, versus most restrictive, rules to protect endangered species. Agriculture ¤Oppose federal regulations and legislation that negatively impact the agricultural industry in Butte County. Support additional funding and track regulations for the detection and control of various invasive pests harmful to agriculture in California. Support changes to the National Flood Insurance Program that create regulatory relief for agricultural areas and rural communities located in the floodplain. Marijuana/Cannabis Related Issues Monitor and track legislation and policy related to commercial marijuana/cannabis activities and cultivation for personal use. Support federal policies that provide direction to federal agencies and local governments on the regulation of land use and environmental impacts associated with commercial marijuana/cannabis activities, including cultivation. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform OTHER GOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS Butte County is also engaged in several other initiatives that have broad impacts to our communities and residents. Climate Change Impacts ¤Support legislation that will provide emergency economic assistance to Butte County to address localized drought impacts. ¤Oppose legislation that would result in changes to water right priorities and/or weakening of environmental standards in the Delta. ¤Support funding for forest management and wildfire prevention. Communications and Broadband ¤Support funding for public telecommunications, radio, and broadband infrastructure and technology, including advancments to increase theredundancy of public safety communications. ¤Seek support for broadband funding for rural communities. ¤Support legislation and policies that maintain local control of the deployment of telecommunication technologies. ¤Support programs that expand the use of GIS and GPS technologies for community and emergency response planning. Tribal Issues ¤Monitor and track policy initiatives and legislation pertaining to casino development on tribal lands. ¤In order to address critical problems in the existing fee-to-trust process, support legislation to better define the roles of Congress and the executive branch, establish clear and specific congressional trust acquisition standards, and create a more transparent process. Election Reform ¤Monitor and track legislation pertaining to local election regulations and processes. ¤Support federal initiatives that provide funding for reform and to the election process. equipment that bring efficiencies 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform OTHER GOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS Cybersecurity ¤Support funding and programs for cybersecrurity services, training, and equipment. Protection of Local Revenue ¤Oppose any federal effort to borrow, defer, or take local discretionary revenue. ¤Oppose the redirecting of existing revenues and/or the creation of additional unfunded mandates. ¤Support efforts to generate new intergovernmental revenue and/or enhance existing revenue and reimbursement levels. ¤Support programs and initiatives that offset the loss of revenue on publically managed lands including the Secure Rural Schools and Payment In Lieu of Taxes programs. 2021 Butte County Regional Federal Legislative Platform