Maureen Mulheren

The Mo You Know

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March 2023 Update

Posted on May 8, 2023 at 4:25 PM Comments comments (2285)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor.

 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and read about some of the topics that I work on, as always reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

March 1, 2023

 

I have a regular meeting with the Mayor and City Manager for the City of Ukiah the first Wednesday of the month. Topics vary based on need, if you have questions let me know or visit the City of Ukiah website.

 

The CSAC Rural Caucus meeting focused on water availability throughout the State and the concerns about dam removal during a time when water storage would seem a necessity for water security.

 

I met with the City of Ukiah Human Resources Director to discuss the MSWMA Personnel.

 

LAFCO Agenda Review with the Executive Director. I chair several boards which often means discussing upcoming agendas with the Directors. Adding this as information as to the work that County Supervisors due in the month.

 

I had a meeting with the Mendocino Cannabis Director and Chief Planner about the LJGAP Grant to receive an update.

 

When members of the Board bring an item forward there is often staff coordination, in order to bring my cannabis tax item forward I worked with several departments and on March 1st I had a meeting with Chamise Cubbison and Cheyanne Gordon to talk about the process of bringing the item forward and the workload impact on the department.

 

 

 

March 2, 2023

 

At the regularly scheduled Emergency Medical Care Committee Meeting – Discussion regarding the presentation that was made to the BOS for continued funding for the $1,000,000 in PG&E Funding for the start up of an ambulance JPA. Fire Districts are calling for the completion of the JPA however there isn’t a position at the County that is currently working full time on this project so they are getting through it as quickly as they can. Director Emery is working with the LMSA and using the AP Triton study to try and get to a resolution.

 

Coastal Valley EMS updates about policies. Still working with Calfire and Coastal Valley to complete the CAD Project, just need to finalize the contract.

 

The Tax Sharing Ad Hoc had a meeting with the City representatives, negotiations about a Master Tax Sharing Agreement are currently ongoing and we meet at least monthly and sometimes multiple times a month.

 

 

March 3, 2023

 

While MSWMA has been without a Director I have been doing more direct work with the staff, including signing checks etc.

 

Special BHAB meeting to discuss Mental Health Services Act Funding Priorities. The Boards inputs of funding priorities included transportation, Tribal Government, homelessness, Behavioral Health Court, Collaboration, Education & Training, Rapid Re-Housing, Children’s & Youth Services, Evidece-based services, community coordination, communication, critical incident debriefing, re-entry program, active shooter response, dual diagnosis, etc.

 

At the monthly Parks Ad Hoc meeting we discussed the upcoming fees update, an online reservation system, the Parks Matrix, Clean California Local Grant Program, partnering with Visit Mendocino on marketing, and an update on the Low Gap Trail Maintenance by the Ukiah Valley Trail Group, the Mill Creek Park Per Capita Grant, Bower Park Updates and the Indian Creek Caretaker.

 

 

March 5, 2023

 

On Sunday we celebrated the Women’s History Event, this year the theme was “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories” and the winners were Dot Brovarney, Sarah Reith and Ellen Weed. For more information visit the Ukiah Daily Journal website.

 

 

March 6, 2023

 

Mendocino LAFCO named as Chair, approved the out of agency service agreements between the City of Ukiah and the Ukiah Valley Sanitation District for wastewater services north of the City of Ukiah and various other areas.

 

 

March 8, 2023

 

Special Board Meeting – Emergency Dec for winter storms

 

Meet with Chamise and Cheyanne regarding Cannabis Business Tax item

 

 

March 9, 2023

 

Meet at Sonoma Water re Potter Valley Project and Russian River Confluence and how I can add my support

 

 

At the EDFC Meeting three businesses received funding and we had an update about the website.

 

 

March 13, 2023

 

I had a meeting re Organic Waste Recycling Methods/Processes with General Services. I was provided with the worksheet that showed how much more time was anticipated to implement the organic waste recycling program. The information provided showed the expense for the containers and the custodians very clearly and I agree that $11,214 for containers is reasonable. However, I don’t think that we need to add an additional 30 minutes per day to do this task, if it takes that long I think we should figure out a way to balance other items in the workload in order to accomplish the mixed waste task, adding $100,000+ for the budget annually seems unnecessary. The Directive can be cleared and the expense will be discussed during the Budget approval process.

 

Discussion re new courthouse with Janelle Rau, Steve Dunicliff, Shannon Riley from the City of Ukiah and Kim Turner from the Courts. We set up a regular meeting so that we (the County, can plan strategically for when the Courthouse relocates, and the City of Ukiah is interested in being an active participant due to the changes that will occur Downtown.)

 

 

March 14, 2023

 

Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Meeting

 

Approval of the appointees serving on the various Boards and Committees, we couldn’t do this work without volunteers so thank you so much for your service. We approved a grant writing contract for grant writing services, the County of Mendocino has missed out on many grant program opportunities because of lack of capacity this is an important step forward to bringing more funding in to the County. Submitted a grant application for the Carl Moyer Program for Air Quality for $200,000. There were several adjustments to the salary classifications for the Sheriff’s Office, Payroll and Nursing to encourage more applicants and staff retention. $4.5 million in funds for corrective/preventative road maintenance in the Philo and Elk area.

 

 

March 15, 2023

 

MMIWP Agenda Item meeting with Hopland Band of Pomo Indians, Mendocino County Missing Murdered and Indigenous Women and Persons, and Consolidated Tribal Health to talk about the agenda item for MMWIP day and what we can do to support native community members.

 

Cannabis Department Check in

 

At the West Center Board Meeting we received a report from Carrie Rogers and Audrey Taylor about creating a Business-Friendly Environment and Capacity Building for Economic Development. See attached presentation

 

 

March 16, 2023

 

Visit Mendocino Update on programs

 

Homeless Conversation about outcomes and challenges

 

County Parks Ad Hoc and Visit Mendocino met to discuss opportunities for Visit Mendocino to partner with the County on advertising of our parks, to create signage and way finding to match the new branding and successes that have worked with other partnerships.

 

 

March 17, 2023

 

Workforce Alliance of the North Bay received a report about the Regional and Local Plan and a dashboard update. (See attached)

 

I attended the Historic Plaque dedication at Better Homes and Gardens Realty

 

Meet at Black Oak Coffee with Cannabis Cultivators about permitting system

 

 

March 19, 2023

 

Community Walk – Leprechaun Leap

 

 

March 20, 2023

 

New Hire Orientation – Board Welcome

 

NACO Arts and Culture Meeting

 

First 5 Commission – at the First 5 meeting we reviewed and update the budget and approved a bilingual bonus policy for staff.

 

 

March 21, 2023

 

Discussion re Potter Valley Hydroelectric Facility with PG&E and gate opening due to seismic concerns at Scott dam. This is very concerning to both the environmental community and those that rely on water further downstream.

 

Internal Tax Sharing Meeting

 

 

March 22, 2023

 

I attended the DEI Training at the Behavioral Health Center with Department heads

 

LAFCO Executive Committee Meeting to discuss the upcoming budget

 

 

March 23, 2023

 

MSWMA meeting to discuss the City of Ukiah taking over the agency as the General Manager and Ukiah Waste Solutions becoming the service provider.

 

Tax Sharing Ad Hoc meeting with the Cities

 

IWPC Special Meeting to discuss whom the members of the Russian River Water Forum should be, I will be the alternate with McGourty taking the lead from the County

 

 

 

March 24, 2023

 

Meet re Skunk Train and the future Great Redwood Trail

 

Meet re Cannabis permitting streamlining

 

 

March 25, 2023

 

Congratulations to Mendocino College on their Anniversary Celebration

 

 

March 27, 2023

 

GGC Meeting 832 Active AG Numbers (Applications for the Cannabis Program), 4Leaf Contract has been on Boarded and will be trained on 3/28-29, 2023. DCC Meeting on Friday, streamlining of the environmental to the State with the Appendix G going to the State would be the

 

LJAGP funds could be used for an EIR that would be to the benefit of the State by the extension of the provisional permits for a year while that process is under way. The State would look at the Humboldt model with site specific review. Direct grants would likely be on hold for now, but the funds could be used for the environmental review and the contract planners. What the streamlining looks like will depend on what the Board decides they want to take out of or leave in the ordinance.

 

 

Mendocino County Food Policy Council to discuss 2023 priorities and how to recruit more members to be active in keeping local food local

 

 

March 28, 2023

 

Board of Supervisors Meeting

 

Authorize a joint venture with the City of Ukiah for potential conversion of the Ukiah Low Gap Regional Park Tennis Courts to Pickleball courts, place a ballot measure on the March 5, 2024 Ballot to extend the collection of an abandoned vehicle abatement fee, receive an update from EKI Environment and Water and set priority water projects, Resolution to approve the addendum to the previously adopted mitigated negative declaration to provide clarity on the tree removal prohibition, clean up outdated Directives.

 

 

 

 

March 29, 2023

 

Russian River Confluence meeting to discuss tourism opportunities and collaboration with Sonoma County

 

 

March 30, 2023

 

MSWMA Special Meeting was scheduled but we did not have a quorum

 

Redwood Region RISE meeting

 

RCRC Legislative Platform call in

 

 

March 31, 2023

 

Discussion re New Courthouse with Adventist Health and the shift to Downtown and the impact to the area near Hospital Drive

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events.

 

 

Thank you so much for reading and following along with my role as the Second District Supervisor for the County of Mendocino. If you have questions or comments on these topics or others, please don’t hesitate to reach out. [email protected] or text my cell phone at 707-391-3664 to set up a meeting.

February 2023 Update

Posted on April 6, 2023 at 2:55 PM Comments comments (379)

 

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor. 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events. 

 

February 1, 2023 

Meet with the City of Ukiah -the first Wednesday of the month I meet with the city manager and deputy city manager of the City Of Ukiah. Topics include homelessness, traffic, improvements, and upcoming events and important topics. City Of Ukiah recently received a grant for some traffic signal improvements on Perkins, goby and Main Street, those projects are expected to be incorporated in the next fiscal year for circulation improvements. 

 

At the Stepping Up Committee we discussed the most productive use of this meeting time and received a report out from Naphcare. 

 

February 2, 2023

Meet with the Grassroots Institute Re the funds from the PG&E account for Climate Resiliency. 

 

Update meeting with McGourty, Antle and Pauli re DWR grants and studies that are ongoing for the water resources from the Scott and VanArsedale dams. 

 

February 3, 2023 

Attended the regularly scheduled MCAFD meeting in Anderson Valley, discuss storms, Ambulance JPA and building permits. 

Parks Ad Hoc is meeting monthly, we discussed the upcoming fees updates, how to partner with different agencies, a marketing partnership with Visit Mendocino and received updates on Capital Projects. 

 

February 5, 2023 

Veterans Day Parade Planning Meeting

 

February 6, 2023

Internal Tax Sharing Meeting 

Meet with Barry from Mendo Grasslands and Yokayo Ranch around cannabis concerns. 

 

February 7, 2023

Board of Supervisors Meeting

Presentation regarding the Mendocino County Emergency Services Agency and the work being done as well as updates regarding projects approved for PG&E funding.  The JPA is getting closer but there are still reports to review and the legal documents to prepare, but it is moving forward.

 

February 8, 2023 

 

 

February 13, 2023 

Attend virtual meeting 2023 E.R. Brown Symposium: Addressing Gun Violence as a Public Health Epidemic

Meet with Bruce Wilson about the Workforce Alliance of the North Bay 

 

February 14, 2023 

Tax Sharing meeting with the Cities

 

February 15, 2023

Present at the Realtor Caravan in Ukiah 

Meet with Community Foundation re IHSS Trust - Workers can use existing programs to help with emergency funds. 

 

February 16, 2023 

Great Redwood Trail Agency – receive a report from the Director and update on the Master Plan Process. https://greatredwoodtrailplan.org/

 

LAFCO Policies and Procedures meeting

 

February 17, 2023

Meet with new planning commissioner

Ukiah Courthouse meeting 

Meet with the Sheriff 

 

February 21, 2023

Lake Mendocino Meeting  regarding summer recreation opportunities

 

February 22, 2023

Behavioral Health Advisory Board selected Denise Gordy to work with the Crisis Intervention Team and Perri Keller to work on the RFP for Substance use Services. 

 

Measure B Oversight Board – Behavioral Health applied for a grant for the PHF and if any money is received it would be turned back over to the Measure B funds for other community uses 

 

Meetings re MSWMA and Cannabis Amnesty 

 

February 23, 2023 

Closed Session Department Head Reviews

 

February 24, 2023

Meet with Fish and Game Commissioner

Meet with developer

 

February 26, 2023 

Cannabis Town Hall 

 

February 27, 2023

General Government Committee- Receive Cannabis Departmental update, discuss (LJAGP) Budget Amendment, discuss Cannabis Business Tax initiative

 

First 5 Mendocino

The importance of the culture of your agency, inclusivity. Working on getting more active on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Limiting Flavored Tobacco is having a budget impact on First Five budget. Raise and Shine has been having a lot of activity, working on improving the First 5 space as people are stopping in to see if there are resources for them. HOPE Training (Health, Outcomes for Positive Experiences) has launched and is available for local agencies. Will be adding Agendas and Minutes in Spanish and having a Zoom caption in Spanish for more inclusion.

 

West Center Board Orientation 

 

February 28, 2023

Board of Supervisors appointed various individuals to boards and committees as we do every month, Proclamations for Black/African American History Month and Women’s History Month, approve an agreement with 4Leaf for cannabis contract planning. Provide funding for homelessness services to Mendocino County Youth Project, Unity Village and Manzanita Services.

 

I had a meeting with members of SEIU to discuss wages, processes and housing. 

 

Thank you so much for reading and following along with my role as the Second District Supervisor for the County of Mendocino. If you have questions or comments on these topics or others, please don’t hesitate to reach out. [email protected] or text my cell phone at 707-391-3664 to set up a meeting. 

 

 

January 2023 Update

Posted on March 22, 2023 at 12:35 AM Comments comments (72)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor.

 

 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events.

 

 

 

January 3, 2023

 

Swearing in for newly elected Mendocino County officials. Sheriff Matt Kendall, Clerk/Recorder/Registrar Katrina Bartolomei, MCOE Nicole Glentzer, Supervisor John Haschak (not present but sworn in privately Supervisor Ted Williams)

 

 

 

January 4, 2023

 

On the first Wednesday of the month I meet with City of Ukiah City Manager to discuss any issues that affect both the County and the City of Ukiah. We cover topics from City project updates to health and human services with the County. If you have any questions please let me know, and I can share or find out.

 

Supervisor Gjerde and I had an internal tax sharing meeting

 

 

 

January 5, 2023

 

I did a walk through of the Public Health/Behavioral Health Dora Street Facility with General Services. There were many office vacancies and equipment in storage that needs to be disseminated to the public or surplus sold. When the Space Needs Assessment Part II comes forward I hope it has some useful recommendations.

 

 

 

January 6, 2023

 

I had a meet up with Neil Davis at Black Oak about volunteer program and partnership with the City of Ukiah

 

 

 

January 9, 2023

 

LAFCO Regular Meeting

 

LAFCO Executive Meeting

 

 

 

Internal Tax Sharing Meeting

 

 

 

January 10, 2023

 

I know that you can all read the agenda for meetings but I wanted to take highlight a few things that were discussed. The County spends money on a variety of contracts, here are some of them from the January 10, 2023 meeting. Funding for NaphCare Medical Health Services in the Jail was issued for the term 1/1/23-12/31/25, Laytonville Head Start to provide a Family Resource Center from 1/16/23-12/31/24, funding to the CDC for a Rapid Rehousing Program, Funding through the Housing and Homelessness Program through 12/31/2027, funding for Housing Navigation and Maintenance Program. We recognized January as Positive Parenting Awareness Month. Glenn McGourty was named the County Chair and I was named Vice-Chair. We also received our Assignments and Ad-Hocs, these are my assignments: CSAC (Alternate), Golden State Finance Association (Alternate), Golden State Connect Authority (Alternate), National Association of Counties (NACO) (Alternate), Great Redwood Trail Agency, Rural County Representatives of California (Alternate), Behavioral Health Advisory Board, First 5 Mendocino, Inland Water and Power Commission (Alternate), Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), Mendocino Solid Waste Management Authority, Economic Development and Finance Committee, West Company, Eel-Russian River Committee, Solid Waste Hearing Board, North Bay - North Coast Broadband Consortium Oversight Committee (Alternate), General Government Committee, Russian River Watershed Association, Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency, Workforce Alliance of the North Bay, Mendocino County Resource Advisory Committee (Alternate), Mendocino Transit Authority (Alternate), North Coast Resource Conservation & Development Area Council (Alternate), Policy Council on Children and Youth Public Safety Advisory Board (Alternate). We approved the MOU with the Mendocino County Probation Employees Association. We had an update on the costs of the new Jail Building going up by $1.4 million.

 

 

 

 

 

January 11, 2023

 

This year the Board of Supervisors will be having an additional closed session on Wednesdays in order to be back in Chambers more timely on Tuesdays. I hope this turns out to be a more efficient way to conduct this business.

 

 

 

I had a meeting about the Great Redwood Trail and the potential for Mendocino projects

 

 

 

I attended the Ukiah Women in Business Vision Board meeting

 

 

 

January 17, 2023

 

Special District Ballot Count with LAFCO Executive Director

 

 

 

January 18, 2023

 

Internal Tax Sharing meeting

 

 

 

January 20, 2023

 

Ukiah Walks planning meeting to update the placards that guide the Ukiah Walks. For more information about the Ukiah Walks you can visit UkiahValleyTrailGroup.Org

 

I had a meeting with a constituent about Human Resources and some ideas for improvement.

 

I had a meeting with the West Center about rejoining that Board.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 23, 2023

 

General Government Committee continued the Legislative Platform to the February GGC meeting to allow more time for the cannabis items to be updated. Applications for LJAGP will be open 2/17/23 if the Board approved the documents at a meeting beforehand. A public meeting with explanations and Q&A will be after the Board approval. This grant funding shall be used for CEQA documents and projects that may need more than one building season so the grant can be extended for 18 months. You can use this funding source to complete your Appendix G documents as part of the CEQA piece of funding. The contract for application services will go directly to the Board instead of coming back to the GGC. We had a robust conversation about the questions and comments from stakeholders about the LJAGP grant and the progress of the document. We also reminded everyone that your application will be reviewed in order of your state renewal, so make sure you check the Cannabis Department reports to check what month you should hear back.

 

 

 

First 5 Mendocino – Took a trip to the Capitol to do a similar resolution to the one we did in the Board Chambers to highlight the important work that they do for kids under 5. They got to talk about Triple P and alternative funding options and the declining support of revenue from the State. The team has been working with our local tribes and Public Health to continue and create new programs and seek additional funding, of particular interest they want to increase instances of prenatal sign ups for home visiting programs.

 

 

 

January 24, 2023

 

Board of Supervisors Meeting:

 

Celebration of Eddie Ceccarelli resident of Willits for her 115th birthday. Unfortunately, we had to declare an emergency at the Creekside RV Park, the State Water Board has declared a boil water order. County staff has been on site and will continue to be to assist the residents in finding new places to take their trailers when there is a temporary bridge installed.

 

There was an unveiling of the new CEO Report and feedback from the board. It will be my desire to see each Department submitting a brief summary every month and will have the expectation that the Departments use this resource to communicate with the public. Elected officials are also encouraged to submit the summary to the CEO so that it can be published. Reached agreement with two more bargaining units. The Auditor was able to close last fiscal year, thank you to everyone on the team for rallying to support Ms Cubbison and we look forward to creating more streamline processes for the future. Direct the Department of Transportation to work with LAFCO for a Benefit Pilot Zone for evacuation for the Sherwood Road Area in Willits. Receive update regarding the Wildlife Exclusionary Program.

 

 

 

January 25, 2023

 

I attended the Brown Act/Ethics Training as required every two years.

 

I joined the Russian River Confluence meeting to hear an update from Sonoma County on the project.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

January 26, 2023

 

The Countywide Oversight Board Met and approved the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedules and Administrative Budgets for the Cities of Ukiah, Willits and Fort Bragg.

 

 

 

I visited with the River Church on Brush Street to talk about the flooding and pedestrian safety.

 

 

 

January 27, 2023

 

Meet with Dr Miller re RFP for Measure B and updates on local subcontractors

 

 

 

January 30, 2023

 

Mendocino County Food Policy Council Meeting had an update from Amber Fisette from DOT about the Mixed Waste Organics legislation.

 

 

 

Thank you so much for reading and following along with my role as the Second District Supervisor for the County of Mendocino. If you have questions or comments on these topics or others, please don’t hesitate to reach out. [email protected] or text my cell phone at 707-391-3664 to set up a meeting. See less

Comments

 

 

 

December 2022 Update

Posted on March 22, 2023 at 12:30 AM Comments comments (58)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor.

 

 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events.

 

 

 

December 1, 2022

 

Meet with Visit Mendocino and constituents for a conversation about Air B&B

 

Emergency Medical Care Committee – JPA discussions are progressing now that documentation has been received from a majority of the parties

 

 

 

December 2, 2022

 

BOS/MCAFD in Anderson Valley to discuss local fire and EMS issues including when the Measure P tax funds will be received by the departments, ongoing challenges receiving permitting information, etc

 

 

 

December 6, 2022

 

At our BOS Meeting we received an update from Assemblymember Jim Wood and approved side letter agreements with the SEIU1021, County of Mendocino Management Association, Department Head Association and Teamsters 856 (Probation, Public Attorneys)

 

 

 

December 7, 2022

 

Meet with City of Ukiah re updates on projects related to homelessness, the recruitment for the new Police Chief and commissions and committees including appointing a City Council Member to the Library Advisory Board a role I continued to serve after my term on the Council but a Council member will take over that role after the new year.

 

Tax Sharing conversations continue we had an internal meeting with DOT about what a tax sharing agreement and annexation might look like for the budget and workload for our local roads.

 

I attended the outgoing Mayors Reception at the City of Ukiah to offer congratulations on the retirement of outgoing Mayor Jim Brown.

 

 

 

December 8, 2022

 

I had a meeting at the General Services Agency to learn more about their role and discuss the space needs analysis and what next steps the Board can look at to reduce liability and deferred maintenance

 

 

 

December 9, 2022

 

Tax Sharing conversation Internal meeting with Undersheriff Brewster from the Sheriffs Office to discuss how an annexation would impact the Sheriffs Office call time and resources

 

 

 

I attended a meeting about the “Ukiah Walks” and a plan to update the tiles. The project will need to wait until spring but if you are interested you can find the maps on UkiahValleyTrails.Org

 

I attended an internal Broadband Planning meeting to discuss strategies for 2023 and how County IT should be positioned in the conversations at the State

 

 

 

December 12, 2022

 

The General Government Committee discussed the Legislative Platform and Cannabis.

 

 

 

December 13, 2022

 

At the Board of Supervisors Meeting we approved agreements with SEIU1021 and the Management Association. We honored our team members with 15-40 Years of Service with the County and cleared referrals from ad hocs and directives.

 

 

 

 

 

December 14, 2022

 

I attended the Ukiah Main Street Program Meeting to find out about events and economic development in Downtown Ukiah

 

I had Meeting with HR to discuss the challenges I faced when submitting a test application through the only portal.

 

 

 

December 15, 2022

 

The tax sharing conversations continue with Supervisor Gjerde and myself and the CEOs office and fiscal staff.

 

I attended the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance End of the Year Event where volunteers received recognition and we received a report about the events of 2022 and the focus of 2023.

 

 

 

December 16, 2022

 

We had a meeting of the Workforce Alliance of the North Bay, we previewed the new app to help job seekers.

 

As the Great Redwood Trail Agency Master Plan has started, I have had several interviews with the consultants to talk about the section in Ukiah and what next steps to Redwood Valley and Hopland could look like.

 

I attended the Mendocino County Farm Bureau Open House

 

 

 

December 19, 2022

 

I was named the Interim Chair of LAFCO today, we approved the MSR (Municipal Sphere Review) and SOI (Sphere of Influence) for the City of Ukiah and Ukiah Valley Sanitation District

 

Great Redwood Trail Closed Session

 

I attended the First 5 Commission Meeting as the alternate representative.

 

I was able to ride along with staff from the City of Ukiah to present the Let It Glow awards to houses that decorated their houses with lights for the holidays.

 

 

 

December 20, 2022

 

Each year I do Food Drive for the Ukiah Food Bank for my birthday in June and at Christmas. So I went to about a dozen houses and gathered non-perishable items from their porch to donate to the food bank.

 

It was my honor to go to LAFCO to sign the Resolutions that we approved on Monday.

 

 

 

December 21, 2022

 

The ad hoc had another meeting about Tax Sharing with the City Managers

 

 

 

December 22, 2022

 

I attended a virtual meeting of the Women of NACO

 

 

 

 

 

2022 Recap

 

Supervisor Mulheren Board Assignments:

 

Golden State Finance Association (Alternate)

 

Golden State Connect Authority (Alternate)

 

National Association of Counties (NACO) (Alternate)

 

North Coast Railroad Authority – Turned in to Great Redwood Trail Agency

 

Rural County Representatives of California (Alternate)

 

Behavioral Health Advisory Board

 

First 5 Mendocino (Alternate)

 

Inland Water and Power Commission (Alternate)

 

Local Agency formation Commission (LAFCO)

 

Mendocino Solid Waste Mgmt Auth

 

Mendocino Transit Authority

 

North Coast Resource Partnership (Alternate)

 

North Bay - North Coast Broadband Consortium Oversight Committee (Alternate)

 

Public Safety Advisory Board (Alternate)

 

General Government Committee

 

Russian River Watershed Association

 

Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability Agency

 

Workforce Alliance of the North Bay

 

 

 

29 Board of Supervisors Meetings with 31,720 pages of agendas

 

 

 

The following is a list of some of my favorite things that happened in 2022.

 

Funds expensed so far for the PG&E Settlement include 17 MCSO patrol cars, funding directly to 22 fire agencies, Fire Training Structures, funding to the Mendocino County Fire Safe Council and Coastal Valley EMS, Funding to Country roads in the area of the 2017 fires and support for IT and Planning &Building Services.

 

Measure P passed thanks to the voters our Fire Departments will have an additional source of funds.

 

The Board voted to increase the minimum wage of Mendocino County Employees to $17.42

 

Through LAFCO we were able to approve the UVSD and City MSR and SOI updates

 

The Crisis Residential Treatment Facility is officially open, and the Psychiatric Health Facility is under design build.

 

We were able to find additional funding to build a new wing of the County jail.

 

And I participated in the creation of an Overdose pilot program with Behavioral Health and Public Safety.

 

 

 

Thank you so much for reading and following along with my role as the Second District Supervisor for the County of Mendocino. See less

Comments

 

 

 

November 2022 Update

Posted on March 22, 2023 at 12:25 AM Comments comments (65)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor.

 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events.

 

 

November 1, 2022

 

Board of Supervisors Meeting topics discussed: Tree Mortality Ordinance, Direction of water projects in each of the five districts for the full agenda please visit MendocinoCounty.Org

 

 

November 2, 2022

 

As always the first Wednesday of the month I have a Second District Meeting with City of Ukiah and the Mayor.

 

At the Stepping Up meeting we discussed meeting less frequently in 2023 as things seemed to be flowing quite smoothly now.

 

 

November 3, 2022

 

I had a walk and talk on the Great Redwood Trail with a constituent. Have questions? We don’t have to have a virtual meeting we can take a walk as well. Just text me at 707-391-3664 or email me at [email protected] to set up a time

 

I attended the NACO Breakout Group

 

I had a meeting with Beth Salomone from the Russian River Flood Control District to catch up on local water issues.

 

 

 

November 4, 2022

 

MCAFD – Measure P update; Need to show how the individual districts will benefit. Discussion of how will the Fire Agencies be impacted by the Great Redwood Trail, JPA for ambulance services waiting for documentation and will meet after Thanksgiving to continue the conversation.

 

Attended the NACO High Performance Leadership Academy

 

Attended the Native American Heritage Day in Pomo Plaza at Mendocino College

November 5, 2022

 

I had the opportunity to Volunteer at Taste Mendocino a tourist destination event where people were able to come taste local beverages and foods. It was great to see all of the people visiting our community and enjoying what we have to offer

 

 

November 6, 2022

 

I was a volunteer judge for the Sips, Eats & Sweets event for CASA. I think this is my 6th year. It’s so great to see this organization get such great community support. You can check out what CASA does on their website and consider volunteering: http://mendocinocasa.org/volunteer/

 

 

November 7, 2022

 

LAFCO – We received the second workshop for the City of Ukiah and Ukiah Valley Sanitation District MSR (Municipal Service Review) and SOI (Sphere of Influence). The City and UVSD are proposing the same SOI and have an agreement to continue to work on efforts to ensure that consolidation and annexation do not harm either agency. Tax sharing is going to play a critical role in these annexations in the future, the committee is actively discussing possible locations to make sure there is a plan for services. The workshop was heavily coordinated by all three agencies LAFCO, the City of Ukiah and Ukiah Valley Sanitation District.

 

 

To read the full agenda packet from LAFCO please visit: https://www.mendolafco.org/files/804fa90d6/2022-11- 07+Agenda+Packet+November+Regular+Meeting.pdf)

 

 

To read the City of Ukiah General Plan Update website please visit: https://ukiah2040.com

 

 

November 8, 2022

 

BOS Meeting to review the full agenda please visit MendocinoCounty.org

 

 

November 9, 2022

 

I did a Radio Interview on KZYX with Karen Ottoboni its called TKO at 9am. Here is the link if you want to listen: https://jukebox.kzyx.org/index.mob.php

 

Immediately after the radio interview I went to Laytonville for the Chiefs Meeting

 

 

November 14, 2022 – November 18, 2022

 

I attended the CSAC Meeting in Anaheim here are some of my rough notes from the sessions that I attended.

 

CSAC - Women’s Leadership Meeting; election of two new Co-Chairs. Discussion of a Women’s Leadership CSAC Institute class specifically for women in County Leadership positions. Finding employees when there is no housing is an issue that’s rising to the top for many of the Counties. I brought up questions about annexation and tax sharing and asked anyone going through the process to please contact me.

 

CSAC Workshop: Water Summit & Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources (AENR) Committee Meeting: Working Together Towards Solutions – coalition building and innovation a requirement in our current times. We can’t rely on snow fall and rain. It’s either drought or flood and we have to be prepared . Unfunded mandates

 

At the CSAC meeting I attended the grants meeting

 

Opening meeting: Homelessness has to be a priority along with all of the other things that will be voted on. Accountability, roles and responsibilities and sustainable funding for all levels of government on homelessness are the only way we can succeed.

 

Breakfast meeting Executive Credentialed

Government and finance committee – Brown Act Legislative Update from the Orange County Counsel; disruption, remote teleconference, hybrid meetings should either continue or not member can only miss three meetings and there has to be an emergency circumstance or just cause as as provided by legislature

 

Health and Human Services- First 5 can expect to have a 15-20% decline in revenue due To tobacco settlement funds and the passage of Prop 31. There needs to be a committee to talk about alternative funding sources

 

Care Court – only 9,000-12,000 people would meet the criteria. People in active addiction as their primary mental health barrier do not qualify.

 

 

November 21, 2022

 

Update with Neil Davis from the City of Ukiah on Day of Giving game plan Meeting with Ukiah re Annexation and Tax Sharing

 

 

November 22, 2022

 

Attended a Tax sharing internal meeting with County staff and Supervisor Gjerde

 

 

November 24, 2022

 

Every Thursday I have a note in my calendar to post job announcements on socials. We have many open positions and I would love to see them filled. You can follow me on Instagram and Facebook at @mo4mendo

 

 

November 25, 2022

 

My oldest daughter Kasie and my granddaughter Teagan and I spent some time spreading holiday cheer with the candy cane poles on State Street.

 

 

November 28, 2022

 

I attended the second Mendocino County Food Policy meeting. This is an opportunity to revive an initiative to ensure more access to local food. Please let me know if you are interested in this and I will send you an email of the most recent agenda (it doesn’t yet have a current website).

 

 

November 29, 2022

 

I was grateful to represent the County of Mendocino for the Giving Tuesday Initiative. I worked with community volunteers and we cleaned up trash in the Orr Creek and Doolan Creek corridors. I commented that in my role as Supervisor I love the policy work but there is also something inspiring of getting out and getting your hands dirty, side by side with the community and see the work right before your eyes. I’ve included some pictures at the end of the report.

 

I attended a virtual meeting titled; Hybrid Working:Workplace Culture & Accessibility Best Practice’s for Local Governments. We’ve learned over the last few years that Hybrid and work from home can work for some local government positions and its important to balance those positions with those that can’t for equity.

 

 

November 30, 2022

 

I met with the consultants for the Great Redwood Trail to have an Informational Meeting. As you know the Master Planning for the Great Redwood Trail has officially kicked off and there is a consultant team in charge of planning. There is also a new website where you can provide feedback. Here is the link: https://greatredwoodtrailplan.org

 


 

October 2022 Update

Posted on March 22, 2023 at 12:10 AM Comments comments (99)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor.

 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

October 1, 2022

 

I went to Willits to do a Clean-up in Brooktrails at Dogwood Terrace. There weren’t any large trailers, so I worked to haul out three pick up loads of bagged to the transfer station.

 

 

October 3, 2022

 

Meet with a constituent about upcoming cannabis agenda items. I don’t usually reference meeting with constituents, but I wanted to use this as a reminder that I am available to help navigate department concerns or questions if you need assistance.

 

 

MSWMA site visit with Mayor Brown and the City of Ukiah staff and C&S Waste to determine what the needs of the location would be for a new contractor.

 

 

October 4, 2022

 

Board of Supervisors Meeting

 

The Board of Supervisors received a report from the Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Regarding Status Report of Activities Related to the Mental Health Treatment Act Citizen's Oversight Committee Projects and Programs. The Measure B Committee has approved several projects with taxpayer dollars related to Mental Health including the Behavioral Health Regional Training Center, the Crisis Residential Treatment Facility, NAMI Mendocino has taken on the role of informing the community about Mental Health/Overdose and stigma reduction. Fort Bragg Crisis Respite: RCS was provided access to the new facility this last week. The RCS construction crew is underway on the remodeling of the office to create a place for the Crisis Respite Program, the Medication Support Program, the Crisis Outpatient Program and the Adult Mental Health Outpatient Program. Remodeling is expected to take approximately 8 to 12 weeks. The Mobile Crisis Response Team Pilot - Three full time staff responding seven days a week 8 am - 6:30 pm, Sunday-Wednesday 8 am – 8 pm. o FY 22-23 YTD Call Responses: 175 o Call responses September 2022: 37 Mental Health Treatment Act Audit - The audits for periods 7/1/2019 – 6/30/2020, 7/1/2020 – 6/30/2021, and 7/1/2021 – 6/30/2022 were completed. A copy was provided to the Measure B Committee and was also included in the Measure B June 22nd agenda materials. The Mendocino County Auditor-Controller is expected to attend the next Measure B meeting to provide an overview and explain the audit results. Psychiatric Health Facility – Nacht & Lewis, AECOM, and county staff have been meeting regularly on the demolition, design, construction, and programming requirements for the Psychiatric Health Facility at Whitmore Lane.

 

The Board voted unanimously to approve an agreement with Public Risk Innovations, Solutions and Management (PRISM) Joint Powers Association for membership in the PRISMHealth Program for the purpose of purchasing fully funded healthcare plans and membership in the PRISM Employee Benefits Program for the purpose of purchasing a self-funded dental program and other fully insured programs and insurances for employees and their eligible dependents, estimated to be $17,894,807 in calendar year 2023, effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2025; allow automatic annual renewals thereafter until such time as the Board directs the Chief Executive Officer or Designee to withdraw from the pool; and authorize Chair to sign same. This is a conversation that has gone back and forth with previous Boards and Unions over the years that the County had a self-funded Health Insurance Program. This change will help keep a consistent cost for both the employees and the County for Health Insurance.

 

Per Board Direction Planning and Building will bring forward recommendations regarding tiny homes in Mendocino County.

 

 

 

October 5, 2022

 

Mendocino County Second District Supervisor and Mayor Brown meeting with the City manager. Each month I meet with the City of Ukiah team members and the Mayor to discuss any cross jurisdictional issues.

 

 

Discuss the Developer Fee Proposal that the Ukiah Unified School District will be voting on with Deb Kubin, UUSD Finance Representative, Supervisor Glenn McGourty and Tyler Nelson a UUSD Board Member.

 

 

I attended the Stepping Up Meeting with Behavioral Health Staff, Jail Staff and Mental Health Contractors to work to smooth the process for mental health patients being released from the jail.

 

 

The Tax Sharing Ad Hoc met with the Executive Office to discuss a possible allocation of property, sales tax and TOT. There are more scenarios that need to be accounted for before a plan is brought forward to the Board.

 

 

October 6, 2022

 

I had the honor this week of volunteering to judge the Ukiah High School Homecoming. Those kids worked so hard and it’s a great opportunity to learn team work and time management responsibility.

 

 

This is my last month of the NACO Leadership program. It has been challenging to find time to do the course work but its also been very enlightening to learn about my leadership style and how to incorporate that in to the County.

 

 

RCRC Legislation Call-In Session

 

 

October 8, 2022

 

I met at the Willits Justice Center with Supervisor Haschak and Elora Babbini from the Mendocino Cannabis Department to discuss what the layout of the department would look like at the WJC.

 

 

October 12, 2022

 

I attended the Ukiah Main Street Program meeting, for Downtown promotions in the City of Ukiah.

 

 

I attended the Visit Mendocino Wellness Meeting to learn more about how Visit Mendocino is incorporating our wellness businesses in to their marketing campaigns.

 

 

RRWA/RWQB Lunch Meeting Update; As the Chair for the Russian River Watershed Association I meet regularly with the Vice-Chair and staff of West Yost and the Regional Water Quality Control Board. At our lunch meeting we had a discussion of the current event calendar and relative updates. Andy let us know that there will be a revamp of the carbon-free gardening program which will include Spanish videos in advance of the February event. I want to encourage a remote location in Mendocino County if its hybrid as many of the people that are interested may not be able to join from their homes. We discussed how important it is that all of the Russian River conversations between the Confluence, the Water Users Forum and the Watershed Association are cohesive.

 

 

October 13, 2022

 

I met with IT to do a Dell All in One training for the new computers in chambers.

 

 

October 14, 2022

 

I had the opportunity to attend the Yokayo School Career Day to speak about my journey from Insurance Agent to City Council Member and Board of Supervisor.

 

 

October 15, 2022

 

On Saturday morning I was up bright and early to assist with Pumpkin Fest Vendor Load In. I love this event and happy to carry on this tradition

 

I attended the Redwood Valley Calpella Fire Appreciation BBQ

 

 

October 16, 2022

 

I worked the ID and Ticket table at the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance wine and beer garden at the Pumpkin Fest

 

 

October 17, 2022

 

The General Government Committee met for the first time re Cannabis. This provided a less formal opportunity with more time for the cannabis community to be heard and discuss policy decisions.

 

 

October 18, 2022

 

At the Board of Supervisors Meeting we voted to “temporarily close” Dogwood Terrace. We had the Cannabis appeals discussion, and discussed dead and dying trees.

 

 

October 19 – 21, 2022

 

I attended the CALafco in Newport Beach. This was a great opportunity to learn about LAFCO and upcoming legislative changes.

 

 

October 24, 2022

 

I attended the First 5 Commission Meeting as the Boards alternate. We received an update on branding and projects.

 

 

October 25, 2022

 

Meet with constituent to discuss challenges with the Planning and Building Department. I don’t usually reference meeting with constituents, but I wanted to use this as a reminder that I am available to help navigate department concerns or questions if you need assistance.

 

 

I met with some community members about the Potter Valley Project and the need for public education to inform the Board of Supervisors and community about how this water source affects both Mendocino and Sonoma County.

 

 

 

October 26, 2022

 

The Behavioral Health Committee met in Willits. Hybrid Meeting planned for Ukiah in November. Contracts with the ASO have been reviewed with the Contracts committee.

 

Directors Report from Dr Miller that new staff for behavioral health and substance use is being added regularly. Draft Architect review of the PHF Facility

 

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events.

September 2022 Update

Posted on October 26, 2022 at 2:45 PM Comments comments (4605)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor. 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

September 1st, 2022

At the Emergency Medical Care Committee Meeting there was a discussion of the progress of the JPA, we are still waiting for some data from local providers to move forward as well as an update on the Hospital Preparedness Program for Covid, Monkey Pox and any Heat Emergency. 

 

I had a meeting of the Professional Development Academy and we talked about our own personal Rules of Leadership. Here are a couple of my key takeaways; “Be Trustworthy. Be Dependable. Be Authentic. Be Engaged. Help Others Flourish. Use abundance language. “ I’m happy to share my experiences with this program to encourage our team members to join Leadership initiatives. As a Supervisor part of our role does involve continued education and development. 

 

September 2nd, 2022

I met with Jim Brown about Mendo Recycle and our possible next steps. The Board has engaged a consultant to work on process for being able to move the agency (MSWMA) forward. 

 

MCAFD Steering Committee and BOS Ad Hoc meeting 

This is an opportunity for Supervisor Williams and I to meet with stakeholders from the Fire Districts to discuss challenges that the departments are having regarding funding, training or Government interactions. It’s a valuable opportunity to keep our lines of communication open. 

 

September 3rd, 2022

On Saturday I attended a Suicide Awareness event put on by Behavioral Health and Recovery Services in the Alex Thomas Plaza in Ukiah. The team did a beautiful job of using multi-colored bags with candles in them to represent the community members that we have lost in Mendocino County over the last few years.

 

September 5th, 2022

I attended the Labor Day Picnic to show support for our Union employees and celebrate all of those that do the work in Mendocino County. 

 

September 6th, 2022

We had a Special BOS meeting to adopt Bylaws and a resolution for the Mendocino County Public Facilities Corporation and appointing the CEO, Secretary and Treasurer. 

 

September 7th, 2022

At the beginning of the month, I meet with the City of Ukiah City Manager and Mayor. 

We discussed illegal camping, the current construction projects. 

 

September 8th, 2022

I am the alternate for the UVBGSA Board, I listened in to the meeting on the 8th

 

September 9th, 2022

I had the honor of judging the Chili Cook Off which is a fundraiser for the Ukiah Boys and Girls Club. There was a great turn out for this years event and the community really enjoyed a chance to get back together. 

 

September 10th  

I attended a community cleanup of an illegal household trash dump on Dogwood Terrace in Brooktrails, organized by City of Willits City Council Member Greta Kanne.

 

When I came back to Ukiah, I visited the Ukiah Recovery Centers Annual event “Recovery in the Park”. This year our community and their families came together to celebrate a collective 217 of years of sobriety. Please visit their website at https://www.fordstreet.org/

 

September 11th , 2022

I had the chance to Volunteer for Big Earl’s BBQ on Patriots Day. We served local military, and public safety folks a great lunch. It's always an honor to participate in this event.  

I attended the Mendocino Women’s Political Coalition annual meeting.  

 

September 12th, 2022

At our LAFCO meeting we had a joint presentation workshop on the Ukiah Valley Sanitation District and City of Ukiah Joint Participation Agreement. 

 

September 13th

At our Board meeting we discussed the Grand Jury responses, and Approved MOU’s with the Deputy Sheriff’s Association and the Confidential Employees Bargaining units. 

 

September 14th, 2022

RCRC Conference in Napa

 

September 15th, 2022

RCRC Conference in Napa

 

September 16th, 2022

RCRC Conference in Napa

 

September 17th, 2022

This Saturday was the California Statewide Coastal Clean-up which we celebrate inland as well.  For several years I have cleaned up under the future “Courthouse Drive” bridge on Perkins Street. I had several folks that sleep on our streets help me clean up the heavy stuff before the community came and we were able to clean up the rest of the depot site. It was a successful clean for all of the sites. 

 

September 18th

I attended the Fiesta de indepencia event at the Alex Rorbaugh Center in Ukiah 

 

September 19th

At the Great Redwood Trail Agency Meeting in Healdsburg we received a presentation by the consultant about the Master Plan Process for the Great Redwood Trail. 

I met with a constituent about issues and concerns that the Fish and Game Commission will be sharing during public comment at a future meeting. 

 

September 20th

We had a regularly schedule Board meeting to discuss the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, discussed Staff Vacancies over 18 months and heard the Space Needs Assessment. 

 

September 21st

I was asked to attend the City of Ukiah Leadership Academy lunch and learn as a local leader. I talked about why I ran for City Council and what it's like being a Supervisor and my goals for the future of the County. 

 

September 22nd

I had a meeting with someone interested in serving in my Planning Commission seat. 

 

I had the opportunity to meet and discuss what the potential options are for the Palace Hotel and the benefits to the community. I know this has been discussed before but its still very exciting to think about the possible benefits to the Ukiah Valley, it would great to see the sale of the building to a new owner with the vision to finally move this project forward. 

 

I listened in on the Substance Use Disorder Quarterly Meeting. Its great that the service providers can meet to discuss who is doing what so they can coordinate and send people to the appropriate resources. 

 

September 24th

My daughter and I joined the community at the Suicide Prevention Walk presented by the Pinoleville Band of Pomo Indians.

 

September 25th

I Volunteered at the fair in Anderson Valley. It was hot but great to get out and talk to the community. 

 

September 26th

I attended the virtual National Association of Counties Arts and Culture Commission.

I attended the Candidate forum in Ukiah to share the information about how the funds from Measure P, if approved by voters, would be allocated. 

 

September 27th

I was invited to attend a walking Moai at Live Oak. Unfortunately, there were not a lot of the residents that were able to join us, but I was able to take a walk with some of the staff of Live Oak and team members from the Blue Zones Project to talk about the built environment and how the project is going. 

Members of State Assembly Member Jim Wood’s office were in town to visit the Live Oak project as a District tour of all the Homekey projects.  Throughout the State Live Oak has become a model for these types of projects due to the good work of our team in building a project that sets the residents up for success. 

 

 

September 28th

Attended the regularly scheduled meeting of the Behavioral Health Advisory Board, some ability to staff up is improving.

I attended the Measure B Committee virtually, where much of the discussion revolved around whether or not to fund the Ukiah Recovery Center proposal for Sober Living Beds at their treatment center. Ultimately the Board voted to go through an RFP Process which Dr Miller is working on.

 

 

 

September 30th

On Friday night I attended a meeting of the revived Mendocino County Food Policy Council. I look forward to sharing more about the local sourcing and health and wellness benefits of local food. 

 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events. 

 

Maureen Mulheren

501 Low Gap Road

Ukiah, CA  95482

707-391-3664 cell

[email protected]

August 2022 Update

Posted on October 26, 2022 at 2:45 PM Comments comments (911)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor. 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

8/1/22 

This year I am working through the NACO High Performance Leadership Academy and on August 1st we had our kick off event. This is roughly 8 hours a week of additional work plus two additional meetings per week. 

 

8/2/22 

At our BOS Meeting we discussed the drought ad hoc and what to do with the Water Agency and received an update about the jail expansion and an opportunity to fund the Ukiah Recovery Center with additional sober living beds for those people that are living in residential treatment. You can watch the meeting and review the minutes here: https://mendocino.legistar.com/MeetingDetail.aspx?ID=922558&GUID=CF08164B-0138-4923-A35A-ACDC501CA24C&Options=info|&Search=

 

8/3/22

At the beginning of the month I meet with the City of Ukiah City Manager and Mayor. In August we discussed a vehicle abatement project with All-In-One, camping on Orr Creek and the current streets projects within the City of Ukiah. 

 

8/4/22 

Every Thursday morning I start my day with a zoom meeting I call Coffee and Conversation. During this meeting we talk about everything from roads to homelessness.  

In the afternoon I attended my first NACO Leadership Breakout Group. 

 

8/5/22 

I had a meeting about Opioids and the programs that Adventist Health has with MaryAnne Cox. We discussed the need to raise awareness of the programs that are currently offered in Mendocino County and see if there are any gaps in services how we would fund those. 

BOS MCAFD Steering Committee discussed the upcoming Measure P campaign, and the viability of the program to continue in its current form as some of the districts are not actively participating. 

I attended a virtual NACO Live Event where the folks across the country in the leadership program meet to talk about the weeks work and our individual break out meetings. 

 

 

8/8/22 

I attended a meeting with Beth Salomone the ED of the Russian River Flood Control District and Supervisor McGourty and CEO Antle to discuss the current state of the Russian River and it looks like the Russian River Water Users are looking to have a collaborative effort moving forward between Mendocino and Sonoma County. I hope that there are more updates soon, right now it seems to be working through some of our various boards to come up with a workable document for the agencies to consider. Water doesn’t know County or District boundaries and all of our water is shared water. 

 

8/10/22

I attended the Ukiah Main Street Program Meeting to discuss the Downtown business district in Ukiah and what events are upcoming. 

I had a meeting with Auditor – Treasurer – Tax Collector Chamise Cubbison to find out what the needs are in the department and how the Board could work with her department to create improvements in transparency and reporting. 

 

8/11/22

Each Thursday morning I start my day with a meeting called Coffee and Conversation on Zoom. This is an open meeting for the community to come and talk to me about whatever is on their minds. 

I attended the Reentry Stakeholders Coalition. This group is attended by the Mendocino County Jail, the Inmate Coordinator, representatives from the Courts, the Public Defenders office and drug treatment program representatives. They review a case and talk about the challenges and what could be done in the future. One of the challenges that I will discuss from this meeting is that often when people are released from jail they don’t have a cell phone so the inmate coordinators or treatment service providers have no way to reach them. I plan to research this and see how we can make sure we can contact people that are interested in treatment so we can get them in to services. 

I attended the NACO Leadership program Breakout session where we discussed how to change your organization with positive intentions. 

 

8/12/22 

I am still interested in the Ukiah Recovery Center Expansion so I attended a meeting to discuss what partners can do to assist URC in their efforts. 

Friday afternoons are for the NACO Live event. This is part of the Leadership course that I am attending. Did you know that one of the Principles of Office for the Board of Supervisors is to be responsible for professional growth and participate in workshops, conferences and trainings? 

I attended the Ribbon Cutting for the grand reopening of Observatory Park in Ukiah. There is much excitement about the renewed interest in the park and its interpretive signage. http://cityofukiah.com/observatory-park/

 

 

8/15/22 

At our regular meeting of the Great Redwood Trail Agency we approved the financials and received an update from Karyn Gear, Interim Director. Staff is reviewing the budget to see if there are additional funds coming in from the State and will bring that to the next meeting, need to audit the former NCRA this is a priority, working on a fresh website for the GRTA Alta Planning has been selected as the consultant and we are waiting for contracts to be signed to be able to move forward with the community engagement plan. 

 

8/16/22

At our BOS Meeting we received a presentation about Disaster Preparedness and how to sign up for Mendo Ready, received a presentation of the 2021 Behavioral Health report. If you would like to watch the whole video please go to YouTube:Mendocino County Video 

 

8/17/22

At the RCRC &GSFA meeting we received an update about Wildfire and Forest Stewardship and a California Public Utilities update, reviewed the Strategic Plan and discussed the upcoming Annual Meeting. 

Supervisor Gjerde and I met with County staff and representatives from the cities of Willits and Ukiah about the Tax Sharing Committee. There are still more details to work out about the agreement but we are moving forward with review of some possible scenarios with data from HDL we should receive that update next month.

 

8/18/22

I started my Thursday with my Coffee and Conversation meeting mostly discussing homelessness and some of the challenges being faced in the new apartment buildings on Oak and Brush in Ukiah. 

I attended a meeting about Homelessness with a local community group and Bekkie Emery, Supervisor Haschak, and Megan Van Sant from the County Social Services Department. We discussed some of the challenges that face local businesses and what could be done differently in mendocino County. 

At our regular MSWMA Meeting we had an update on the budget to actuals and progress of getting caught up at the facility. We also discussed possible action in Brooktrails at an illegal trash dump site on Dogwood Terrace, because MSWMA is so short staffed the clean up is going to have to move forward with volunteers. 

I met with DA Eyster for a Tour of his offices and an opportunity to meet some of his staff and he took a moment to sit down and better explain their current workload and how they’ve been doing the last few years during COVID

Weekly NACO Breakout Group

I attended the Cannabis 21+ Mixer for the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance

I attended the Leadership Mendocino Orientation to discuss my experience with the program and answer any questions. 

 

8/19/22

I had a meeting with Sheriff Kendall and Under-Sheriff Brewster re Homelessness and ways that the County departments could collaborate better to have more successful outcomes. 

I attended the NACO Live Event

I attended a meeting of the Mendocino Living Wage Ordinance Ad Hoc. 

 

8/21/22

I had a meeting with a member of the public regarding the Grand Jury Report  re conservatorships. Hearing from the families themselves gives me a better understanding of the concerns that the Grand Jury looked in to. 

 

8/24/22-8/30/22

During the Board Recess I continued to respond to constituent calls and work with the County legal team and Ad Hoc on Grand Jury responses. 

 

8/31/22

I was able to hop in to a Russian River Confluence Meeting and I am looking forward to the roll out of the promotional campaign in September. 

 

This is not an exhaustive list of the meetings and events that I attended and instead is meant to provide an opportunity to remind my colleagues and the public about the projects that I am working on to be able to ask questions about these meetings or events. 

July 2022 Update

Posted on August 18, 2022 at 12:30 AM Comments comments (4231)

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor for the County of Mendocino.

 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

 

July 1, 2022 – At our monthly MCAFD meeting we discussed the proposed Fire Sales Tax Measure, the ambulance JPA process, funding and SB443, discussion about the tracking of permits to Fire Districts from Planning and Building and better coordination between the districts and P&B.

 

 

July 6, 2022 – At the beginning of each month I meet with the City of Ukiah Mayor, City Manager and Deputy City Manager to discuss any issues that affect the County and the City of Ukiah in overlap. The City is currently embarking on several large streets projects including Dora Avenue reconstruction, a major slurry seal (coming in August) and community meetings regarding the Orr Street Bridge. You can read more about that project and provide feedback here: http://cityofukiah.com/orr-street-bridge-and-corridor-study/

 

 

I attended the Dept Head Meeting to hear an update re Planning & Building. They’ve been working to hire more staff and streamline processes. The Bella Vista housing development should be coming to the Planning Commission at the end of summer or this fall. Julia Krog our new Director of Planning and Building is working on providing more information to the public regarding ADU and funding opportunities you can find it on their webpage: https://www.mendocinocounty.org/government/planning-building-services

 

 

July 7, 2022 –I attended a Re-entry stakeholder meeting at the Grace Hudson Museum. This meeting was attended by the Inmate Services Staff, Public Defenders, Judge Pekin, New Life Health and Ukiah Recovery Center as well as someone from Social Services. The discussion was about an inmate that was seeking release from the Mendocino County Jail into a treatment program. The group discussed the best options moving forward and what could potentially be done for an inmate in this particular situation. This is an important exercise in collaboration between all the people that are involved in our justice system to try and achieve the best outcomes for incarcerated individuals.

 

 

I had a meeting with the new Director of the Boys and Girls Club, Kim Mercer. It was nice to have an update on the programming that the Ukiah Boys and Girls Club offers and brainstorm ways to get more attendance. My oldest daughter went to Boys and Girls Club when she was five and learned a lot of relationship building and had a safe place to be while I was working. If you would like to learn more about the Ukiah Boys and Girls Club, please visit their website: https://www.ukiahbgc.org/

 

 

I attended a County Parks meeting with Janelle Rau and Travis Scott from Visit Mendocino to discuss the marketing campaign they have been doing to help Parks and the Museum and to discuss what other options they can provide to assist the County with. We are talking about a collaboration with signage at the parks when they unveil their new branding and logo early next year. They will also continue to send out e-blasts as needed.

 

 

July 8, 2022 - Supervisor Gjerde and I met one more time to discuss bringing forward an agreement about how to fund future water projects if we were not going to bring it to the voters. We were unable to come to an agreement and both submitted separate memos. You can see mine here: https://mendocino.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=5719621&GUID=CC85D2C2-08A0-4898-95DD-35DB053435D3&Options=&Search=

 

 

July 11, 2022 - Staff was able to provide clarification about CSA 3 during the LAFCO meeting specific to the Sherwood Road Pilot Project. If you want to watch the whole meeting, you can tune in here: https://youtu.be/5vssv79U4D4

 

Otherwise here is the action and motion that were voted on.

 

The Commission will continue the Public Hearing and consider a Municipal Service Review (MSR) and Sphere of Influence (SOI) establishment study as required by LAFCo law. The final report includes written determinations on the level and scope of services provided by County Service Area No. 3 (CSA 3). RECOMMENDED ACTIONS: 1) Find the County Service Area No. 3 Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence Study is exempt from CEQA pursuant to 14 CCR §15061(b)(1) & (2), §15306, §15301(c), and §15269(b) & (c) and approve the Notice of Exemption for filing; and 2) Adopt LAFCo Resolution 2021-22-17, approving the County Service Area No. 3 Municipal Service Review and Sphere of Influence Study and establishing a Service Specific Sphere of Influence for CSA 3 that is limited to the future Sherwood Firewise Community Zone of Benefit for road maintenance of emergency access routes and designating an Area of Interest for the Ukiah Eastern Hills, Fire Service Gaps, and Water Service Gaps Study Areas.

 

The motion passed unanimously.

 

 

I had a meeting with Sean White to talk about the City of Ukiah Water Resources and future projects so that I can be updated on where the City is with water. The wells are running efficiently, the existing recycled water projects are running as expected and they are continuing to seek funding for the additional phase of recycled water that would go west from the softball fields, under the freeway and up Low Gap Road to provide recycled water to the schools, cemetery and golf course.

 

 

I went to a meeting about the Great Redwood Trail with California Coastal Conservancy and the City of Ukiah to discuss the existing trail and future plans of the trail by the City of Ukiah and introduce staff to the City staff that works on the grants.

 

 

July 12, 2022 - During the regularly scheduled Board of Supervisors meeting the Board moved forward with the consolidation of the Treasurer – Tax Collector and Auditor – Controller offices to one office, approved placing a ballot initative on the November Ballot to use ¼ of the sunsetting Measure B sales tax to fund Fire Prevention and Protection services by allocating funds to the 21 Fire Districts and Mendocino County Fire Safe Council with its over 50 neighborhood groups. The board also appointed Darcie Antle as the CEO for Mendocino County. Darcie is respected amongst her peers in municipal government and with affiliated agencies to be able to move the County forward during these tough economic times. I was appointed to join an Ad Hoc with Supervisor Williams regarding making sure we have a living wage for our employees and bring forward ideas about how to make that happen. We approved a contract with Cupples Construction for the build out of Phase 2 of Live Oak Apartments.

 

 

July 13, 2022 - I attended the Chief’s Meeting in Mendocino. They discussed the collaborative efforts of a recent coastal rescue and the preparations for the upcoming fire season.

 

I met with Mayor Norvell and attended a Coastal Commission meeting in Fort Bragg.

 

 

July 14, 2022 - I’m going to use this opportunity to remind you that you can check in with me every Thursday morning on Zoom for a meeting that I call Coffee and Conversation. I am online from 7:15am-7:45am to hear your questions or receive feedback.

 

 

July 15, 2022 - The Great Redwood Trail Agency had a very brief special meeting to Delegate Executive Director Authority to Coastal Conservancy Regional Manager Karyn Gear on an Interim basis Pursuant to Joint Powers Agreement by and between GRTA and the State Coastal Conservancy.

 

I was invited by AEDC to attend the CERF Network Planning Meeting. This is a four-county collaborative with Lake, Mendocino, Humboldt and Del Norte Counties. Their goal is to build an equitable and sustainable economy to foster long term economic resilience and transition to carbon neutral economy and produce a regional plan that supports a high-road economy, favors businesses that invest in their workforces, pay living wages and engage in environmentally sustainable business practices. They are currently seeking grant funding for $5 million for economic development over two years.

 

 

July 21, 2022 - I was able to attend the NACO Annual Conference, so the following dates share a very brief summary of the sessions that I attended. I did bring back a lot of literature so if there is something you have questions on, I may be able to provide that to you and as always, I am happy to discuss.

 

I attended the First-time attendee orientation, very helpful to try to juggle the schedule of meetings and events. Environment, Energy and Land Use Policy Steering Committee Meeting discussion re the Waters of the US rulemaking process, the implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and innovations in the energy field. Justice and Public Safety Policy Steering Committee where discussion was had regarding proposed platform changes for increasing funding and technical assistance to local municipalities due to changes in body camera storage and processing, using a locally driven process for Comprehensive Emergency Management, increase funding for the Emergency Management Performance Grant, ensure County involvement in the FEMA Strategic Policy and the creation of a National Standard for Emergency Management Programs, encourage Congress to Fund the Juvenile Justice Delinquency Prevention Incentive Grants for prevention, diversion and secure juvenile justice programs.

 

 

July 22, 2022 - I attended the Programs and Services Committee Meeting;

 

Rural Action Caucus Business Meeting; Naco Arts and Culture Commission Meeting;

 

Becoming an employer of choice: Leveraging Benefits to Attract Talent in a Tight Labor Market and the General Session followed by the NACO 2nd Vice President Candidates Forum.

 

 

July 23, 2022 – Meetings and workshops I attended; Leveraging Community Assets to Promote an Equitable Recovery in Rural America, Protective Leadership in Crisis: Supporting Your Community Through a Disaster, NACo Achievement Awards Luncheon, The Theory and Practice of Economic Development: Then and Now,

 

California Caucus Meeting, Women of NACo Reception and Annual Business Meeting

 

 

July 24, 2022- At this year’s Naco Annual Business Meeting and Election Sonoma County Supervisor James Gore and the resolutions were approved as follows and can be found on the NACo website: https://www.naco.org/advocacy/2022-policy-briefs

 

 

July 25, 2022 – I had the opportunity to attend the New Employee Orientation. It was nice to welcome our new employees to the team and hear which departments they were working in. We have a lot of opportunities right now please take a look at MendocinoCounty.Org/Jobs

 

 

July 26, 2022 – We had a regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Supervisors. We had an update about the Covid-19 Business funding from West Company and their plan to distribute the funds to the community, we received an update about the Measure B Projects and Programs.

 

 

July 27, 2022 – There were a lot of updates at the BHAB meeting from Dr Miller, including that the PHF is moving forward with the Architects and that recruitments are ongoing. RQMC presented the current data dashboards and discussed that they are currently recruiting as well and try to stay aligned with the County. Attached to the meeting packet is the schedule for the Mendocino County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) & Quality Improvement Committee (QIC) Stakeholder Forum Schedule for 2022/2023. These meetings will be held throughout the County. Here is the link: https://www.mendocinocounty.org/government/health-and-human-services-agency/mental-health-services/mental-health-board

 

At this month's MTA meeting we discussed the upcoming meeting dates, the capital budget and wage table for Executive Level staff.

 

I was able to attend the tail end of the Russian River Confluence Meeting where we discussed community outreach meetings happening in September.

 

I attended the Clean Up Planning Meeting for the Streets to Creeks clean up in September 17, 2022.

 

 

July 28, 2022 – I attended a virtual Childhood Exploitation meeting by CAHTO Tribe. They were raising awareness about human trafficking and discussing local instances.

 

I met with Josh Metz the consultant hired by West Company to work on Mendocino County Economic Development. We discussed having goals and objectives to bring back to the Board for reporting.

 

 

July 30, 2022 – On Saturday some friends and I cleaned up a section of Orr Creek. It only took us a few hours but again many of the things we were cleaning up were items that were left out on sidewalks for free. I mentioned this in my report last month and would like to have this be part of an upcoming meeting on the impacts of homelessness in our community.

 

 

 

Additional Ad Hoc Info:

 

Tax Sharing Ad Hoc did not meet in June – pending information from consultant

 

expected to meet in August

 

 

Voucher and Adopt-A-Road Ad Hoc didn’t meet in July pending potential changes from MSWMA will regroup after MSWMA Board discussions

 

 

 

As always please feel free to email me at [email protected] or phone me at 707-391-3664 so we can discuss any one of these topics if you need more information. Also don’t forget I have a weekly opportunity to contact me on Zoom at Meeting ID 7079548230 Password LOCAL707 Thursday mornings at 7:15a-7:45a

Monthly Update June 2022

Posted on July 26, 2022 at 2:40 PM Comments comments (1641)

 

Hi, I’m Mo Mulheren the Second District Supervisor. 

 

Each month the Board members submit a written report that updates the other Board members and the community on the work that we are doing. I would also like to use this as an opportunity to share with you all events I’ve attended as well as other updates from our community. Here is a list of pertinent meetings and links so that you can look at websites or videos and of course reach out if you have additional questions.

 

6/1/22 The first Wednesday of the month I meet with the City of Ukiah City Manager and the Mayor to discuss issues that affect the 2nd District. In June we discussed the need to improve the services from Mendo Recycle which is a Board that Mayor Brown and I both sit on. 

 

I attended the Library Strategic Planning Meeting. They are trying to plan for the future community needs as well as discussing ways to improve current services. There was a lot of discussion on ways to get the word out about the services that are currently provided.

 

The Stepping Up Meeting is an initiative to have inmates being release from custody have the best foot forward through mental health, social services and probation coordination. They have been working to develop a one sheet that will provide relevant services to be able to give to inmates when they are released

 

6/2/22

Every Thursday I host a meeting on Zoom called Coffee and Conversation where folks can come and speak about whatever is on their mind. We had conversations about brush mitigation for cannabis cultivators as well as trash and conversations about homelessness and what’re the County outreach teams are focusing. 

 

MendoRecycle or MSWMA is currently undergoing some challenges. I am on an Ad Hoc of that Board with City of Ukiah Mayor Jim Brown so we met with Interim GM Tom Varga to discuss possible next steps. Attempts to recruit a full time GM have not been successful so we are currently reviewing alternative means of providing the services in a way that will meet community expectations.

 

This month I completed my last class with CSAC Leadership Institute called Managing Conflict. I’m grateful for the opportunity to gather with Mendo and Lake employees and new Supervisors to receive these trainings. 

 

100 Women Strong is a community group that offers local non-profits the opportunity to share their story and then receive a generous donation. In June the three non-profits that were presented were Building Bridges, United Disaster Services of Northern California    and Shanel Valley Academy all very worthy causes. Building Bridges serves our homeless community in Mendocino County. Shanel Valley Academy is the new school in Hopland and this quarters recipient of $11,000 was United Disaster Relief Services which provides support to Mendocino County and beyond during times of hardship related to Fire, flood and other emergencies. 

 

6/3/22

Once a month Supervisor Williams and I have been meeting as the MCAFD to work on Fire services issues regarding funding and communication within the County. Our fire services are under resources and I am happy to provide support. Our June meeting focused on the TOT Contracts and issues regarding permits from Planning and Building that some of our smaller departments are experiencing as well as an upcoming BOS agenda item regarding Ambulance service. 

 

After the Fire meeting I headed to the Mendocino Village to watch the screening of Lady Buds. I actually own several copies of this movie and have already watched it. I really wanted to go and hear panel of speakers and to hear from the audience about how the cannabis industry is going. Several speakers that were featured in the movie talked about how they had to pivot their business and one from Humboldt County discussed using her property for hip camp. Distribution, taxes and of course getting through the permitting process were the other hot topics.

 

6/5/22

During COVID I started a birthday tradition of doing a food drive for my Birthday which of course I have continued. Here in Ukiah our food bank is able to leverage donations from the grocery stores and a small budget to make the staples go farther. The food drive is focused on gathering other items such as cake mix and frosting and spices to go along with the staples. If you have the means please consider donations to your local food bank. 

 

6/6/22

At the Mendo LAFCO meeting the commission conducted a public hearing on CSA3 and discussed the upcoming budget and work plan. These meetings are held on Zoom and televised on the Mendocino County Video page on YouTube. 

 

I was invited along with Supervisor McGourty to a meeting by Julie Golden about the Great Redwood Trail expansion to Redwood Valley. Two City of Ukiah employees, about a dozen property owners and Supervisor McGourty by telephone also attended. Supervisor McGourty and I both advocated for expansion of the GRT during our campaigns. Effective July 1 the North Coast Railroad Authority Board will officially become the GRTAgency Board. The explanation of the trail will bring much needed tourism dollars to inland Mendocino County and the majority of that proposed expansion is in the 1st District, because the 2nd District section of the trail is complete I will be participating in these discussions to help share the strengths and challenges and try to balance concerns of the property owners with community benefit. Many Redwood Valley and Lake Mendocino Drive residents that k have spoke. To are excited about the opportunity to be able to commute to work safely on the GRT with their eBikes. 

 

6/7/22

On Tuesday I assisted the Sheriffs Office in identifying the abandoned railroad tracks from Brush to Kunzler Ranch Road as a no trespassing zone. The North Coast Railroad Agency did not have a budget to maintain the area for fire safety and security so it has been fenced off until the trail moves forward. 

 

During our Supervisor Meeting we discussed the County budget which has about a $7 million short fall due to a health insurance plan deficit, lower than expected cannabis tax income and the mandated expansion of our County jail.  

 

6/8/22 

BOS Budget Hearings continued for a second day. The Board was adamant that Department Heads need to identify the reason for vacant positions over 18 months. I personally am concerned that as one of our County’s largest employers the fact that we have so many unfilled position does not look good to future industries that may want to relocate or expand here. Also if the work is being done without those positions filled then we should pay the employees that are doing the work. I look forward to hearing back about these positions as well as receiving a report about health insurance options. Over the time that Mendocino County has self-funded it’s health insurance plans there have been ups and downs where sometimes there was a large increase in rates and sometimes no increase at all depending on the health needs of our employee members. The inconsistency doesn’t leave the BOS many options when we are relying only on our own pool of employees. I will say that this does or at least should encourage this Board and future Boards to emphasize upstream initiatives to make sure our employees are leading healthy and active lifestyles for themselves, their families and their fellow employees. 

 

6/9/22

Every Thursday I have a meeting called Coffee and Convo. This week the topics hadn’t changed much; we talked about cannabis brush mitigation and the disbandment of the homeless encampment on Brush Street. I sought three quotes for an estimate to clean up that site and the only company to respond was the company that the State uses for clean ups and it was a price tag of $291,000, clearly that’s not something Mendocino County can afford so I will seek alternatives. 

 

During our Monthly Parks Ad Hoc we discussed the upcoming budget, Supervisor McGourty and I were able to get the other Supervisors to agree to have the parks budget be a specific line item, get some funds to clean up some of the tree issues that present a liability to the County and we will continue to work with staff to find revenue streams to facilitate keeping these community open spaces available. 

 

I was invited to the Ukiah Recovery Center for a tour. Ukiah Recovery is an inpatient detox and rehabilitation center for misuse of substances. It’s a closed campus so I appreciated the opportunity to receive an update and take a tour. The last time I was there was during the opening when I was on the City Council so it was nice to see that the maintenance and upkeep are doing well and that the kitchen is still going strong. I personally appreciate the work that URC and the team does, if you or a friend/family member are seeking treatment this is a good local option to research. 

 

HHW&Illegal Dumping -MSWMA conversation with Amber and Howard from DOT to discuss alternative ways to use the Mendo Recycle dollars to clean up illegal dumps and still collect the household hazardous waste. This meeting provides me with a historical perspective from the County side that is important as a member of the ad Hoc with City of Ukiah Mayor Jim Brown. 

 

6/10/22 

The people at the Brush Street Encampment were offered one more opportunity to retrieve their possessions under supervision. I met with MCSO and the City of Ukiah on the site during that time to see if the City of Ukiah might be able to help with the clean up for a lot less money. 

 

I spent about 30 minutes on the phone for a Tobacco Survey. The questions were generally about tobacco use impacting my life and the life of those in the community. One thing that I’ve been very vocal about is that we aren’t spending time finding out why kids are using vape or chew etc in the first place. This is that Upstream theory of giving them the tools to handle anxiety and peer pressure before tobacco every plays a role in their lives. We could do a lot better as a community with more resiliency training for our youth. 

 

6/11/22

On Saturday I went to the Mendocino County Museum in Willits for a Reception honoring its founders and showing the current exhibits. Our Museum is a County treasure, please make a commitment to visit once a quarter. 

 

6/13/22

I had a couple of meetings today that were sports related. Supervisor McGourty and I met with some folks that were hoping the County could take over the tennis courts in Redwood Valley. It’s currently under escrow and the County doesn’t have capacity to bring on any other parks facilities. 

We also met with a group of people that would like to have a pickle ball court and are looking at a County park or City of Ukiah park to do that. Pickle ball is currently a very popular sport. A project like this would need collaborative support front he jurisdictions as well as community sponsors. I look forward to sharing more information and hosting some community meetings regarding future opportunities for our parks. 

 

6/15/22

I went on Mari Rodin’s radio show re sales tax discussion that the Board of Supervisors is having. Her radio show is called Citizen U on KZYX, we discussed the progress of the Measure B funds in the last year and a half, as well as what the fire and water sales tax funds could potentially be used for. 

 

After the radio show I went to Anderson Valley for the MCAFD Fire Meeting, we discussed amongst the Fire District Board appointees what a potential fire tax revenue stream could mean to their departments. There was good conversation and some negotiation amongst the districts and they came up with a percentage  of 40% base funds to each of the 22 fire districts and then 60% divided by population. I am grateful for their work and communication during this process. 

 

Visit Mendocino County is hosting a series of Meet and Greet networking mixers for those in the hospitality industry. Hoteliers, restaurants, breweries, wineries etc were invited to Rivino to discuss how the industry is going and how to move forward after the pandemic. Those that attended were grateful for the marketing support and the opportunity to meet each other to build relationships. 

 

6/16/22

During my Coffee and Conversation this Thursday we talked about how to incentivize and encourage more employability amongst our residents as well as cannabis and homelessness. This is an open meeting every Thursday morning at 7:15a-7:45a

 

During the pandemic I started a meeting where local leaders and business relationships could meet to discuss their needs; this meeting is called Mendo Business & Government Leaders and I’ve continued to host these meetings as a County Supervisor. Dr Coren discussed that Covid cases are up, hospitalizations remain handleable. Some businesses are going back to masks and there was a request for PH to possibly  bring the dashboard back. There were no additional funding announcements besides the grants available through EDFC. 

 

6/16/22

MSMWA FB hazmat will be in Ukiah this month and next month Willits Solid Waste will help it be at the Caspar. DMV Certification of vehicle issue has been resolved thanks to Sally. The team still needs to work on finding replacements for the trucks because of the Air Resources Board CARB Regulations due by the end of year.

 

I went on a tour of new dispensary on South State Street in Ukiah. This will be the same owner as Mountain Mikes pizza and he is looking for local cultivators to stock in the store. It will be a Cookies dispensary which is a large brand that the owner is hoping to draw tourists with. 

 

I went to the Redwood Valley Fire Board Meeting on Thursday night to discuss the potential tax being discussed by the Board of Supervisors. At this time the RV Fire Department has decided not to move forward with a parcel tax and instead focus on the sales tax instead.

 

6/17/22

I met with City of Ukiah parks department at the abandoned railroad on Brush Street at 5am along with a clean up team from MCAVN. We worked to get some of the larger items out of the site as well as propane canisters. MCAVN picked up over 7,000 syringes. The environmental damage that this encampment has done is an important community conversation about making sure encampments aren’t allowed to take hold and grow. I have commented many times on social media that the majority of items in the camp were things that people left for free on the sidewalks and I would love to have a community commitment to either donate items or throw things in the trash so they don’t end up in our creeks. 

 

The Workforce Alliance of the North Bay meets quarterly and serves Mendocino, Napa, Lake and Marin Counties. We met to discuss the upcoming budget and hear reports about career services in each county. The CareerPoint center for Mendocino County is located at 2550 North State Street. 

 

6/19/22

Father’s Day was the first Sunday in the Park. I’m happy to be able to be back volunteering for the Greater Ukiah Business and Tourism Alliance wine and beer booth 

 

 

6/20/22 

The Great Redwood Trail Agency is hiring staff to be able to run the public meetings and launch next steps for the trail agency. The North Coast Railroad Authority officially changes to the Great Redwood Trail Agency on July 1st, 2022. 

 

6/21/22

At our regular meeting of the Board of Supervisors we recognized our employees that have served between 15-40 years, approved Behavioral Health and Recovery Services contracts for our community specialty mental health services for those that are Medi-Cal eligible. 

 

6/22/22

The MSWMA Board had a Special meeting to discuss the findings of the ad hoc on the search for a new General Manager. 

 

 

 

6/23/22

A local citizens group had a meeting about sanctioned homeless encampments at Barra in Redwood Valley. They invited the service providers that manage other encampments and the security of several encampments in Sonoma County. They described the lessons learned from operating these encampments. I attended this meeting to learn what they were sharing about the strengths and challenges. Locally we have a group of our Homeless Continuum of Care that has looked in to encampments in the past but has decided to focus on a housing first model of getting people in to housing. 

 

The Tax Sharing Ad hoc met with the City representatives to discuss possible agreements and next steps between the agencies to evaluate the financial impacts of annexation for our agencies and communities. 

 

The Ukiah Valley Basin Groundwater Sustainability agency met to discuss the upcoming budget, streamflow and groundwater monitoring contracts, and grant opportunities. 

 

6/24/22

On Friday I attended a full day Opioid Summit. This was presented by County Behavioral Health and our partners that serve those with opioid misuse issues. Many of the speakers spoke about harm reduction efforts, catching people upstream, changes with the laws and the need for housing. 

 

As requested by the Board during our 6/21/22 meeting I had a brainstorming session with Gjerde re water funding for our community as it related to my proposal to use a portion of the sunsetting Measure B funds. We were unable to agree on a General Fund funding source that would match the $2 million that would have been brought in if we transitioned that sales tax and asked the voters to approve using it for water. 

 

6/25/22

On Saturday I attended the Mendocino Cannabis Producers Guild Event in Laytonville. I spoke with the cultivators about their concerns with the County permitting system, the amount of taxes that they pay and working with distributors. Some have been able to navigate and work within the systems that they’ve been presented with other have had many hurdles in front of them. I personally am glad that they are continuing their efforts to support the legacy cannabis industry in Mendocino County. 

 

6/27/22

I had a variety of meetings today including a Jail update with Kate Feigin on the new initiatives to reduce recidivism in our jail, a Brush Street Homeless Debriefing with MCSO and the Social Services and Behavioral Health Directors to discuss strengths and challenges of that process, as well as a monthly scheduled check in with Darcie Antle the Interim CEO to go over any concerns that didn’t have an urgent need to be addressed. 

 

6/29/22

I attended a Ukiah Women in Business Planning Meeting. Met with Tom Varga and Ukiah Mayor Jim Brown regarding Tom’s contract with MSWMA. He will continue on in a limited basis while the Board discusses next steps. 

 

6/30/22

No one attended my Coffee and Conversation meeting today but I still hold the space. This is free to anyone to attend and is virtual on Zoom Meeting ID 7079548230 and Password LOCAL707

I attended the RCRC Legislative Call-In session to hear legislative platform updates. 

The Trash Pilot Program Ad Hoc regarding the opportunity to provide trash vouchers to those in our community that might income qualify. We are going to receive a report next month of how many residents this would be able to assist. 

 

In 2019 the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors heard from Chris Brokate and Luca Szabo of Clean River Alliance about incorporating a homeless trash program in Ukiah. At the time there was not Board support to move the item forward. In April of 2021, Supervisors Mulheren and Williams sought Board Support to do community outreach and develop a plan. This would be a self-sustaining humanitarian and environmental effort that allows homeless individuals an opportunity to live with more cleanliness and benefits the entire community of Ukiah. The City of Ukiah, and many homeless service providers had previously acknowledged that homeless trash is a problem in our community causing harm to our waterways and environment. Through a coordinated effort it is possible to create a program in which homeless individuals have a known location to leave bagged trash for pick up. Supervisor Mulheren was asked to bring back a report of specific agencies collaborating, a schedule for pick up and an action plan for the Second District to be used as a pilot program that could then be replicated throughout the County. 

 

This report is an update to the Board of Supervisors from Supervisor Mulheren. 

 

I spent much of 2021 trying to coordinate a regular trash clean up schedule with the homeless service providers that were part of the discussion in 2019. Unfortunately, due to covid and personnel shortages they were not able to engage. At the end of the year, I decided to purchase a truck and start the program on my own.

 

I had a friend help me create a map of known camp locations to have trash staged. The City of Ukiah, County of Mendocino Adopt-A-Road and a private business owner helped supply the trash bags that were used to start the program. The bags were easily identifiable orange trash bags. This was a way to let everyone that was working on the program know that it was trash and not someone’s belongings. Homeless individuals were advised to bag any trash and stage it at the locations on the map and it would be picked up. With support from the City of Ukiah I was able to pick up trash a few times a week. The total that I spent at the transfer station for the six-month pilot was under $500. I also utilized a private dumpster as well as some City of Ukiah dumpsters. The City spent roughly 4 person hrs a week and utilized City dumpsters and the transfer station. 

 

What I want to share about this project is that the majority of people that are living in homeless encampments want to help keep the area clean. I had women that would spend the day gathering trash and bringing it to the staging location. One young man would come and help me load my truck so that I could take it to the transfer station. A really big challenge is that some people that live in encampments are collectors of abandoned items. They will often visit “Free” boxes on the sidewalk and collect those items and take them back to encampment in addition to food and drink packaging I often found shower heads, nightlights, teddy bears etc. I did some outreach to our community to ask if they would be willing to stop putting items out on the sidewalk for free. I didn’t get a positive response; many people think that they are just doing something helpful to their neighbors by leaving these items out. This comes at a huge cost to our community. The one vendor that responded to my request for quotes to clean up the encampment on Brush Street was close to $300,000 a far cry from my transfer station fees and the City crews time. 

 

It is clear to me that having trash staged in a way that it can be regularly picked up doesn’t happen for free, but it is more efficient and less expensive than cleaning up encampments that are disbanded. Through this process I was able to do outreach to our local service providers to talk about the importance of trash collection where we know that people are located. We also discussed the importance of having items returned either for laundering or disposal. What is more complicated are the “Free” boxes or individuals that personally bring items to the encampments. That is an important conversation around the cost of homelessness and the trash in our community. 

 

       The County Homeless Outreach Team has been working with the Ukiah Police Department and Mendocino County Sheriffs Office to create a protocol for encampment disbandment of camps with five persons or more, in the meantime I’d like to continue making sure we can get the trash picked up at various locations. Without the help of the City of Ukiah Parks and Streets crews I would not have been able to keep up on disposing of the quantity of trash at the location of the Brush Street encampment, so I’d like to thank them as well as City Manager Sangiacomo for their efforts in helping keep our community clean. 

 

If there are any communities that would like to know more about this program, please email me at [email protected]

 



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