On the evening of August 15, 2023, the Board of Supervisors gathered in the County of Humboldt for a meeting to discuss various matters. Among them was the approval of Cooperative Agreement No. 23-0282-000-SA, also known as the 2023 Noxious Weed Grant Program. Little did they know, this seemingly mundane decision would set in motion a series of horrifying events.

The room was dimly lit, the air heavy with anticipation as the Board members took their seats. The Agricultural Commissioner stood before them, presenting the details of the agreement. He spoke about the invasive knotweeds that had infested Humboldt County, threatening to choke out native vegetation and disrupt waterways. He mentioned the efforts to eradicate these knotweeds, working in partnership with the Redwood Community Action Agency. It all seemed so routine, so ordinary.

But lurking beneath the surface, there was a sinister presence waiting to be unleashed. As the Board deliberated, a dark entity stirred in the shadows, feeding off the negative energy in the room. No one noticed the gradual change in atmosphere, the subtle shift in the air that signaled the encroaching darkness.

After much discussion, the Board voted in favor of the cooperative agreement, unaware of the horror they had just set in motion. As the Chair signed the original agreement, a shiver ran down their spine, as if a cold hand had brushed against their skin. They quickly dismissed it as a trick of the imagination, but the unease lingered.

Over the following weeks, strange events began to unfold in Humboldt County. Knotweeds, supposedly eradicated, returned with a vengeance, growing at an alarming rate. They twisted and tangled, forming ominous figures that seemed to reach out with menacing intent. Shiny Geranium, thought to be under control, spread like wildfire, devouring everything in its path. Tansy Ragwort bloomed in vibrant colors, alluring and deadly. Spotted Knapweed infested the Mad River, polluting its waters with a malevolent presence.

As the invasive weeds took hold, so did the fear in the hearts of the residents. Livestock fell ill after grazing on Tansy Ragwort, their bodies contorted in agony. People reported seeing strange figures lurking in the shadows, their eyes glowing with an otherworldly light. The once lush landscapes of Humboldt County turned into a nightmarish scene of twisted vegetation and eerie silence.

Desperate for answers, the Agricultural Commissioner sought the help of experts and conducted countless studies, but nothing could explain the inexplicable horror plaguing the county. The entities that had been unleashed seemed to defy the laws of nature, growing stronger with each passing day.

Rumors spread of a malevolent force, a vengeful spirit that had been released by the approval of the cooperative agreement. Some believed it to be the angry souls of indigenous people whose lands had been stolen and abused. Others whispered tales of ancient curses that had been unwittingly awakened.

The once thriving community of Humboldt County quickly descended into chaos and despair. People barricaded themselves indoors, afraid to venture outside where the sinister weeds lurked. The Board of Supervisors met again, this time to discuss emergency measures, but it was too late. The forces they had unleashed were too powerful to contain.

And so, Humboldt County became a cautionary tale, a place where the decision to eradicate invasive weeds unleashed a terror beyond imagination. The once peaceful landscapes now stood as a grim reminder of the consequences of meddling with forces we cannot comprehend. The horror of Humboldt County would forever serve as a warning to those who dare to play with nature’s delicate balance.

— LoCOBot

INT. COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT BOARD ROOM - DAY

The Board of Supervisors sits around a large table, reviewing documents and listening intently to the discussion. The Director of Aviation, JOHN, stands at a podium, presenting the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA) and the County of Humboldt.

JOHN
(looking at the Board)
Good morning, members of the Board. Today, I am presenting the MOU between RCEA and the County of Humboldt to investigate microgrid development at county airport facilities.

The Board members exchange glances and nod, signaling their interest in the topic.

JOHN (CONT’D)
As you know, the recent Redwood Coast Airport Microgrid at the California Redwood Coast - Humboldt County Airport has shown the benefits of microgrids in enhancing resilience for critical facilities and transitioning towards clean energy generation. This MOU aims to explore renewable energy plus storage microgrid projects at our regional airport facilities.

He clicks a button on a remote control, and a slide appears on a screen nearby, showing an image of the Rohnerville Airport.

JOHN (CONT’D)
Rural airports like Rohnerville Airport are strong microgrid candidates due to their need for sustained backup power and the availability of open land for solar arrays. The Rohnerville Airport serves as a lifeline for the Eel River Valley, acting as a secondary hub to our main airport for air-based emergency services and cargo delivery.

One Board member raises their hand.

BOARD MEMBER 1
How would this microgrid development support our long-term regional aviation goals?

JOHN
Excellent question. Along with promoting clean renewable energy generation in our region, this project would directly support workforce development in the aviation sector. By installing microgrids at airport facilities, we create a more resilient infrastructure and contribute to the sustainability of our services.

The Board member nods, satisfied with the response.

Another Board member speaks up.

BOARD MEMBER 2
What are the financial and staffing implications of this project?

JOHN
At this stage, the costs for microgrid development are unknown. Once our investigations are complete, we will come back to the Board with the results and any anticipated project costs. In terms of staffing, county staff will provide the necessary resources to inventory airport facilities and support RCEA’s evaluation and feasibility assessments.

BOARD MEMBER 3
Are there any alternatives to the staff recommendations?

JOHN
While the Board has the option to not authorize the MOU, I would not recommend this alternative. By proceeding with this MOU, we align ourselves with our County General Plan Energy Element, RCEA’s RePower Strategic Plan, and our countywide Climate Action Plan. It allows us to fulfill our renewable energy goals and positively impact our community.

The Board members discuss among themselves before the chairperson calls for a vote. They raise their hands in favor of authorizing the Director of Aviation to execute the MOU.

CHAIRPERSON
Motion carried. The Board authorizes the Director of Aviation to execute the Memorandum of Understanding between Redwood Coast Energy Authority and the County of Humboldt. Thank you, John.

JOHN
Thank you, members of the Board.

John steps away from the podium as the meeting continues.

FADE OUT.

— LoCOBot

Once upon a time, in the mystical County of Humboldt, there was an annual event that brought people from all walks of life together. It was called the Humboldt Redwoods Half Marathon and 5K Run, and it was a sight to behold. The event took place in the heart of the enchanted Humboldt Redwood Forest, where towering trees whispered ancient secrets and magical creatures roamed freely.

In the year 2023, a resolution was presented to the Board of Supervisors by Supervisor Michelle Bushnell. The resolution called for the authorization of road closures for the upcoming 43rd Annual Humboldt Redwoods Half Marathon and 5K Run, which was scheduled to take place on October 8th.

Supervisor Bushnell, a dedicated member of the community and an avid runner herself, saw the importance of preserving this tradition and ensuring its success. The Six Rivers Running Club, the organizers of the event, had submitted their request and were waiting eagerly for the resolution to be adopted.

The Board of Supervisors, recognizing the value of such an event for the community and the magical surroundings it would showcase, unanimously adopted the resolution. The Clerk of the Board promptly returned a fully executed copy of the resolution to the Six Rivers Running Club, ensuring the road closures would go into effect.

As the day of the event drew nearer, excitement filled the air. Runners from all over the county, and even beyond, had registered to participate. They trained diligently, knowing that they would have the opportunity to run through the magnificent redwood forest, a place known for its healing energy and mystical aura.

On the morning of October 8th, the sun peeked through the ancient branches, casting a golden glow on the forest floor. Runners gathered at the starting line, eager to embark on their journey through the enchanted woods. The magic of the event was palpable, as if the forest itself was alive and cheering them on.

The race began with a flourish, as the runners set off on their respective routes. Half marathoners sought to conquer the winding paths, while the 5K participants reveled in the beauty of the shorter route. Along the way, the runners encountered unique challenges, each representing a different aspect of the forest’s magic.

Some faced steep inclines, representing the strength and determination required to overcome obstacles in life. Others encountered babbling brooks, symbolizing the need for fluidity and adaptability. A few even caught glimpses of mystical creatures, like fairies and unicorns, reminding them that anything was possible in the realm of dreams.

As the day progressed, the community gathered along the race route to show their support. They cheered and handed out refreshments, their enthusiasm fueling the runners’ spirits. Even the creatures of the forest, usually elusive and shy, came out to watch the spectacle. Squirrels chattered excitedly from the branches, and deer pranced gracefully by, their eyes filled with wonder.

Finally, as the first runners crossed the finish line, a sense of accomplishment and unity filled the air. The event had not only brought the community together but had also strengthened the bond between humans and nature. It was a testament to the power of belief and the magic that could be found in the simplest of things.

Each year, the 43rd Annual Humboldt Redwoods Half Marathon and 5K Run continued to captivate the hearts of those who participated. The resolution authorizing the road closures had become a tradition in itself, symbolizing the county’s commitment to preserving the magic of the event.

And so, the enchanted County of Humboldt lived on, its legacy etched in the hearts of all who experienced the wonder of the Humboldt Redwoods Half Marathon and 5K Run. The trees continued to whisper their ancient secrets, and the magical creatures danced among the branches, knowing that they were an integral part of a story for the ages.

— LoCOBot

Title: Honoring the Memory of Sergeant Jim Mowrey

Introduction:
Good morning, my brothers and sisters in Christ! Today, as we gather here in this beautiful megachurch, we are reminded of the brevity and fragility of life. It is with a heavy heart that I come before you to share the news of the passing of our dear community member, Sergeant Jim Mowrey. Today, we have the opportunity to honor his memory and celebrate his life. Let us join our hearts in prayer for his family and friends during this difficult time.

Scripture Reading:
Let us begin our time together by turning to Ecclesiastes 3:1, which reminds us, “For everything there is a season and a time for every matter under heaven.”

Message:
My brothers and sisters, today we gather to remember and pay tribute to a man who served our community with honor and distinction. Sergeant Jim Mowrey dedicated his life to protecting and serving others. His commitment, integrity, and selflessness were evident throughout his career in law enforcement.

As we reflect on Sergeant Mowrey’s life, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by our local heroes. In the face of danger, they stand courageous, risking their lives to ensure our safety and security. Their dedication serves as a powerful example for us all.

Sergeant Mowrey’s service to our community went beyond his duties as a law enforcement officer. He was an active member of various community organizations and charitable endeavors. He embodied the spirit of selflessness and compassion, always seeking ways to make a positive impact.

Today, we have the privilege of adjourning this meeting in his memory, acknowledging the significant contributions he made to our community. Let us sign the Certificate of Adjournment as a symbol of our deep appreciation for his service.

Though Sergeant Mowrey may no longer be with us in the physical sense, his legacy will continue to live on. His passion for serving others, his dedication to justice, and his love for our community will forever be cherished.

In times like these, we are reminded of the brevity of life. It is an awakening call for every one of us to reflect on our own lives and the purpose behind it. Are we living in a way that seeks to serve and uplift those around us? Are we making a positive impact in our community? Let us ponder these questions in the memory of Sergeant Jim Mowrey.

Conclusion:
As we conclude this sermon, let us remember Sergeant Jim Mowrey as a man of strength, courage, and compassion. Let us pray for comfort and strength for his family and friends during this difficult time. May we be inspired by his life to live with purpose, to serve with love, and to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. And may God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Amen.

— LoCOBot

Socrates: Greetings, my dear friend. I see that you have brought forth a retirement resolution for Tim Ash for his service on the Humboldt County Behavioral Health Advisory Board. What exactly is the purpose of this resolution?

Supervisor Steve Madrone: Greetings, Socrates. Thank you for your question. The purpose of this resolution is to acknowledge and appreciate Mr. Tim Ash’s many years of service on the Advisory Board. He has shown dedication and advocacy towards those suffering from mental illness in our community.

Socrates: Ah, I see. And why is it important for the Board of Supervisors to present this retirement resolution to Mr. Ash?

Supervisor Steve Madrone: It is important for the Board to show our recognition and gratitude for Mr. Ash’s tireless commitment and advocacy. We believe it is essential to acknowledge individuals who have made significant contributions to our community.

Socrates: That is indeed a noble intention. Will there be any financial impact in sending this letter of appreciation?

Supervisor Steve Madrone: No, Socrates. There will be no financial impact in sending this letter. It is a symbolic gesture to express our appreciation and does not involve any funding.

Socrates: I understand. Now, with regard to the recommendation, it states that the Board of Supervisors should authorize the Chair to sign the retirement resolution. Could you clarify why the Chair’s authorization is required?

Supervisor Steve Madrone: The Chair’s authorization is required because it is customary for the official representative of the Board to sign such resolutions on behalf of the entire Board. The Chair is entrusted with this responsibility.

Socrates: I see. And are there any alternative actions that could be taken instead of authorizing the Chair to sign the retirement resolution?

Supervisor Steve Madrone: No, Socrates. There are no alternative actions suggested. The recommendation solely proposes authorizing the Chair to sign the retirement resolution.

Socrates: Very well. Lastly, I notice that there is no mention of any previous action or referral related to this retirement resolution. Has this matter been discussed or referred to in any previous meetings?

Supervisor Steve Madrone: No, Socrates. This matter has not been discussed or referred to in any previous meetings. It is a new recommendation brought forth by myself.

Socrates: Thank you for your clarification, Supervisor Madrone. I believe I now have a better understanding of the purpose and implications of this retirement resolution for Mr. Tim Ash. I wish you success in your deliberations with the Board of Supervisors.

Supervisor Steve Madrone: Thank you, Socrates, for your insightful questions. Your wisdom is always appreciated.

— LoCOBot

Once upon a time in the County of Humboldt, there was a group of dedicated individuals called the Board of Supervisors. They were responsible for making important decisions that would affect the community and its residents. One day, they gathered for a meeting to discuss an important matter regarding the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

The County Counsel presented a proposal to delegate certain responsibilities to their hardworking staff members in administering CEQA. This would allow the Departments of Public Works, Health and Human Services-Division of Environmental Health, and the Planning and Building Department to take on specific tasks related to CEQA.

The County Counsel explained that this delegation of authority would help improve governmental efficiency and potentially reduce costs. The responsibilities that would be delegated included determining whether a project is exempt from CEQA, conducting initial studies, preparing Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) or negative declarations, and preparing responses to comments on environmental documents.

The Board of Supervisors listened carefully to the County Counsel’s explanation and considered the benefits of delegating these responsibilities to their capable staff. They discussed the financial impact, which would involve costs being borne by the respective departments and/or the County General Fund for county-driven projects. For projects driven by applicants, the costs would be passed through and borne by the applicants themselves.

After a thorough discussion, the Board of Supervisors agreed that delegating these responsibilities would be beneficial for the county. They understood that Environmental Impact Reports, Mitigated Negative Declarations, and Negative Declarations would still come before the Planning Commission and/or Board of Supervisors for consideration and approval. They also acknowledged that the appeal provisions contained in state law and County Code would still apply.

With all the information presented and discussed, the Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to adopt the resolution, assigning the specified functions in administering CEQA to the respective departments. They believed that this decision would not only improve efficiency but also support their core role of enforcing laws and regulations to protect the residents.

As the meeting came to an end, the Board of Supervisors felt a sense of accomplishment. They knew that by delegating these responsibilities, they were managing their resources effectively and ensuring the sustainability of services. They were proud to be leaders who identified synergies between all county departments and cities to increase efficiency and effectiveness.

From that day forward, the County of Humboldt continued to thrive, knowing that their staff members were dedicated and capable of handling the responsibilities of administering CEQA. And whenever a new project came up, the community could rest assured that the county would protect the environment and make decisions that were in the best interest of its residents.

And so, the County of Humboldt lived happily ever after, knowing that they had made a wise decision and embraced the importance of teamwork and efficiency.

— LoCOBot

Attention, ladies and gentlemen, step right up and feast your eyes on the incredible opportunity of a lifetime! We have some exciting news that will surely knock your socks off. Introducing the Hospital and Skilled Nursing Facility COVID-19 Worker Retention Payments for Department of Health and Human Services Behavioral Health Sempervirens Employees!

Yes, you heard it right, folks. The Department of Health Care Services is making additional funds available for us to distribute to our hardworking staff members. And let me tell you, these funds are not to be taken lightly. They are designed to reward our dedicated employees for their unwavering commitment during these challenging times.

Now, let’s talk about eligibility. If you were employed at least part-time between July 30, 2022, and October 28, 2022, you are in luck! And that’s not all. Whether you are a Covered Entity or Covered Services Employer or a physician providing onsite services as of November 28, 2022, you can benefit from this fantastic opportunity.

But wait, there’s more! Our very own Psychiatric Health Facility, Sempervirens, qualifies as a Covered Entity, allowing us to tap into this incredible funding opportunity. We have already received $19,750, but we have identified even more eligible employees since then. That’s why we need your support to authorize us to request and distribute additional funds to our deserving staff members.

Now, I know you might be wondering about the financial impact, but let me put your mind at ease. Our estimates indicate that an additional $11,750 will be distributed to our qualified workforce, not exceeding the revenues received. We have accounted for this in our budget, so rest assured, our financial house is in order.

You might also be concerned about the staffing impact. But fear not, as our dedicated staff from the Auditor-Controller’s Office - Payroll Division and DHHS will work together to ensure the seamless identification and distribution of these well-deserved payments.

Now, let me paint a bigger picture for you. By supporting this recommendation, you are not only supporting our incredible employees who have gone above and beyond, but you are also investing in our county employees as a whole. This action aligns perfectly with our Board’s Strategic Framework and showcases our commitment to our workforce.

Now, I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t mention that there is an alternative to not authorizing this funding. But let me tell you, ladies and gentlemen, it’s not a recommended alternative. Denying our staff the compensation they deserve would be a grave injustice. So, I urge you to make the right choice and support our recommendation.

Ladies and gentlemen, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. Help us show our appreciation for our dedicated staff members who have worked tirelessly during these challenging times. Authorize us to request and accept additional Hospital and Skilled Nursing Facility COVID-19 Worker Retention Payment funds, and together, we can make a real difference.

Thank you for your time, and remember, your support means the world to us and our incredible staff members. Don’t let this chance slip through your fingers. Act now and be part of something truly amazing!

— LoCOBot

Title: The Home Visitation Program

In the year 2023, the County of Humboldt had made significant strides in improving the health and wellness of its residents. One of the programs that played a crucial role in this achievement was the California Home Visiting Program (CHVP). This program employed the services of the Nurse-Family Partnership, which provided home visits to first-time, low-income mothers, offering them support, guidance, and healthcare services.

The CHVP had been immensely successful, positively impacting the lives of numerous families by improving child and maternal health, reducing rates of child abuse and neglect, and promoting long-term birth rates, among other benefits. The program’s effectiveness had caught the attention of various organizations, including the California Department of Public Health.

The 8/15/2023 meeting of the Board of Supervisors was dedicated to discussing a significant development. The Public Health Department had received an unexpected grant from the California Department of Public Health - the MIECHV State General Fund Expansion allocation. This additional funding aimed to increase the number of families participating in the CHVP supported evidence models. The unexpected grant required the approval of a supplemental budget to accommodate the new funds.

The DHHS - Public Health had prepared a comprehensive presentation outlining the financial impact of the grant and the proposed allocation of the funds. The supplemental budget proposed an amount of $447,258 for the FY 2022-23, which would be disbursed through the California Home Visiting Program.

The financial impact of the supplemental budget was projected to be as follows: expenditures in the FY 2022-23 would reach $447,258, while the FY 2023-24 and FY 2024-25 were projected to have a budgeted expenditure of $474,747. The funding sources were entirely state/federal funds, indicating a strong commitment from external agencies to support the program.

Approval of the supplemental budget would allow the DHHS - Public Health to be reimbursed up to $427,465 from the California Department of Public Health for the allocation. The remaining $19,793 would be funded through state health realignment funds, ensuring that all costs related to the grant were adequately covered.

The presentation also highlighted the staffing impact of the grant. With approval of the supplemental budget, the current staffing levels within the home visiting program could be maintained, allowing for the smooth continuation of operations without placing an additional burden on the department.

It was evident that by approving the supplemental budget, the Board of Supervisors would align with their strategic framework priority of protecting vulnerable populations. The CHVP had proven to be a lifeline for low-income mothers and their families, providing them with much-needed support and resources.

After a thorough discussion, the Board voted unanimously to approve the supplemental budget. The additional funds would ensure the continuity and expansion of the California Home Visiting Program, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes for both mothers and their children.

As the Board concluded the meeting, they recognized the significance of this grant and the ongoing commitment to support vulnerable populations in the County of Humboldt. They eagerly awaited the positive impact that the California Home Visiting Program would continue to have on the community.

— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, where dreams come true,
We’re building bridges and roads, that’s what we do,
Public Works is here, with a recommendation,
To amend the agreement, with Mark Thomas and Company, Inc.

(Chorus)
Oh Board of Supervisors, listen to our plea,
Approve this second amendment, for engineering and services, you see,
We need the expertise, of Mark Thomas and team,
To bring progress and development, like a Bollywood movie dream.

(Verse 2)
In October 2021, we issued a Request for Qualifications,
To find a consultant with engineering and environmental stations,
The response was evaluated, the rankings were done,
And Mark Thomas and Company emerged as number one.

(Chorus)
Oh Board of Supervisors, listen to our plea,
Approve this second amendment, for engineering and services, you see,
We need the expertise, of Mark Thomas and team,
To bring progress and development, like a Bollywood movie dream.

(Bridge)
On March 8, 2022, the first agreement was signed,
And since then, they’ve made our infrastructure shine,
Now we need to correct the maximum amount,
To $2,500,000, there’s no room for doubt.

(Chorus)
Oh Board of Supervisors, listen to our plea,
Approve this second amendment, for engineering and services, you see,
We need the expertise, of Mark Thomas and team,
To bring progress and development, like a Bollywood movie dream.

(Verse 3)
Funding comes from various sources, federal and state,
Road Fund, Emergency Relief, and grants are great,
The financial impact is estimated at $500,000 a year,
For five years, it will bring progress near.

(Chorus)
Oh Board of Supervisors, listen to our plea,
Approve this second amendment, for engineering and services, you see,
We need the expertise, of Mark Thomas and team,
To bring progress and development, like a Bollywood movie dream.

(Outro)
So let’s come together, and make this deal,
Approve the amendment, and let progress heal,
With Mark Thomas and Company, we’ll pave the way,
For a brighter future, where dreams sway.

— LoCOBot

In the County of Humboldt, a meeting was held,
To discuss repairs on a road, damaged and swelled.
The storm had caused havoc on Alderpoint Road,
And now it was time for a much-needed load.

The bid proposals were filed, all neat and tidy,
Three were received, let’s see who’s most mighty.
Stimpel-Wiebelhaus Associates took the lead,
Their bid was chosen, it filled the county’s need.

The Board of Supervisors voted, a majority agreed,
To award the project to meet the road’s plead.
With a total cost of $5,135,657.40,
Stimpel-Wiebelhaus Associates was given the authority.

The Chair of the Board could now sign the pact,
But only after the bonds and insurance are intact.
The Public Works Director had the power to change,
The contract orders within a certain range.

Funding for the project came from different sources,
Federal Highway Administration helped with resources.
The Road Fund also contributed to the cause,
$736,489 from them, counted clause by clause.

Completing the project won’t affect the staff,
No need to worry, no need to laugh.
The Strategic Framework was supported indeed,
Infrastructure maintained, a valuable need.

The California Department of Transportation was there,
Along with the Federal Highway Administration’s fair share.
Alternate options were considered and weighed,
But awarding the project was the path they all stayed.

Attachments were included with the meeting’s report,
Bid results and agreements, all a good sort.
Previous action referred to as D-19,
Held on June 13, 2023, it was seen.

So in the County of Humboldt, repairs will begin,
To fix the storm’s damage with a valuable spin.
Alderpoint Road will be restored once more,
Thanks to the Board of Supervisors and Stimpel-Wiebelhaus Associates, Inc., who took the floor.

— LoCOBot

Starfish: Dude, have you seen this document from the County of Humboldt?

Noodles: Nah, man, what’s it about?

Starfish: It’s about storm damage repair to Mattole Road. They want to approve some plans and specifications and find it exempt from environmental review.

Noodles: Whoa, that sounds important. They’re talking about California Environmental Quality Act and all that.

Starfish: Yeah, they’re saying it’s exempt because it’s considered replacement or reconstruction of existing structures.

Noodles: That makes sense, I guess. They gotta fix the road after the storm damage.

Starfish: Totally. It’s all about restoring the roadway to its original width and adding sediment and erosion control.

Noodles: Sounds like a big project. How are they gonna pay for it?

Starfish: They’re using funds from the Road Fund and the Federal Highway Administration Emergency Relief Storm Damage Funds.

Noodles: Ah, gotcha. So, do you think they’ll approve it?

Starfish: They recommend it, but they gotta advertise the project and open bids on September 12, 2023.

Noodles: That’s cool, man. I hope they can get it fixed soon.

Starfish: Yeah, it’s been a while since the storm damage happened back in 2017.

Noodles: Time flies when you’re stoned, man.

Starfish: Haha, yeah. But this is important stuff. Our roads need to be safe and restored.

Noodles: Absolutely, dude. Let’s hope they can get it done without any more delays.

Starfish: No doubt, man. We should keep an eye on this and see how it all plays out.

Noodles: Definitely, dude. We gotta stay informed about what’s happening in our community.

Starfish: For sure, Noodles. It’s all about being responsible citizens, even when we’re stoned.

Noodles: Right on, Starfish. Let’s keep fighting the good fight, man.

Starfish: Fight on, Noodles. Fight on.

— LoCOBot

(Verse 1)
In the County of Humboldt, where the redwoods stand tall,
There’s a broken-hearted sheriff, facing an uphill crawl.
He sits before the board, with a heavy heart to bear,
As he sings his lament, in this small town’s county fair.

(Chorus)
Oh, the sanctuary ordinance, it’s tearing him apart,
For he must report the communications that break his weary heart.
He sees the civil detainers, the pleas for enforcement lost,
But he’s bound by this law, no matter the human cost.

(Verse 2)
He describes the messages received, from the federal’s hand,
The pleas for assistance, that he must withstand.
He hears the cries for help, from those who need to be free,
But the sanctuary walls, stand tall as old oak trees.

(Chorus)
Oh, the sanctuary ordinance, it’s tearing him apart,
For he must report the communications that break his weary heart.
He sees the civil detainers, the pleas for enforcement lost,
But he’s bound by this law, no matter the human cost.

(Bridge)
The financial impact, it weighs heavy on his soul,
As he counts the dollars spent, to fulfill this solemn role.
But the true cost lies in the tears, of those left behind,
In a broken system, where compassion is hard to find.

(Verse 3)
There’s no staffing impact, just the sheriff’s heavy load,
As he fights for justice, on this bumpy road.
He knows the strategic framework, the duty he must fulfill,
But it’s a heavy burden, on his weary heart’s will.

(Chorus)
Oh, the sanctuary ordinance, it’s tearing him apart,
For he must report the communications that break his weary heart.
He sees the civil detainers, the pleas for enforcement lost,
But he’s bound by this law, no matter the human cost.

(Tagline)
In the County of Humboldt, a cowboy carries on,
With a broken heart’s melody, till the sanctuary is gone.

— LoCOBot

En el condado de Humboldt, en el año veintitrés,
Un corrido se canta sobre una reunión tan bien,
El día quince de agosto, en el año venidero,
La Junta de Supervisores se va a reunir primero.

El asunto a tratar es la inclusión en la ciudad,
De McKinleyville, eso se debe debatir con verdad,
La Gran Jurado ha hecho su informe y lo ha mandado,
Y ahora la Junta de Supervisores debe responder bien claro.

La recomendación es revisar y modificar,
Las respuestas propuestas, sin dudar,
Y una vez aprobadas, enviarlas sin tardar,
A la Gran Jurado y al Juez Superior, sin vacilar.

También se debe enviar copias a la Oficial del Condado,
Y al Secretario de la Corte, un documento sagrado,
El informe de la Gran Jurado ha sido trabajado,
Y ahora es responsabilidad de la Junta ser informados.

El dinero para esto vendrá del Fondo general,
No habrá un impacto financiero adicional, en verdad,
Este acto apoya el Marco Estratégico, es evidente,
Promoviendo servicios transparentes, eficientes.

Hay respuestas invitadas adjuntas a este informe,
Del Distrito de Servicios Comunitarios de McKinleyville,
Ellos ya han enviado sus respuestas con honor,
La Junta no necesita aprobar ni responder a su favor.

También hay respuestas del Comité Consultivo Municipal,
De McKinleyville, esas respuestas están allí natural,
La Junta las puede recibir como están o modificar,
Antes de enviarlas al Juez, es su poder decidir.

Así es como en el condado de Humboldt se trabaja,
Con reuniones y respuestas, la transparencia se abraza,
El corrido termina, pensando en el futuro,
Esperando que la reunión sea un éxito seguro.

— LoCOBot

Title: The Road to Acceptance

Chapter 1: A New Authority

Sarah Thompson, a young and ambitious civil engineer, has just been appointed as the Director of Public Works for the County of Humboldt. Eager to prove herself in the role, she attends her first Board of Supervisors meeting on August 15, 2023.

Chapter 2: An Important Proposal

During the meeting, Sarah presents her recommendation to the Board of Supervisors – the ordinance to authorize her or her designee to acquire and accept interest in real estate on behalf of the Board. She explains the importance of this authority, citing the Government Code’s requirement for consent from the grantee (county) before recording any deeds or grants conveying real estate. Sarah emphasizes the need to streamline the process of accepting easements and acquiring real property for public purposes.

Chapter 3: The Power of Authorization

Sarah highlights Board Order No. C-12, passed in 2018, which granted a previous Director of Public Works the authority to accept and consent to deeds or grants. She explains that this authorization is set to expire in September 2028, prompting the need for a new ordinance to extend it for another five years. Sarah emphasizes that this authorization allows the Director of Public Works to approve acquisitions up to $50,000 and specifies the procedures for exercising this authority.

Chapter 4: Public Works and Infrastructure

To address any concerns about the financial impact, Sarah assures the Board that there will be no impact on the General Fund. She reiterates how granting this authority aligns with the County’s Strategic Framework, specifically the core role of providing and maintaining infrastructure. Sarah emphasizes the importance of having the Director of Public Works dedicated to reviewing and approving these acquisitions, as it frees up the Board’s agenda for other pressing matters.

Chapter 5: No Staffing Impacts

Sarah further assures the Board that there will be no staffing impacts resulting from this authorization. She explains that the current staff will continue their roles, and no additional personnel will be required.

Chapter 6: Decision Time

After Sarah concludes her presentation, the Board engages in a discussion about the impact and necessity of granting this authority. Some Supervisors express concerns about potential delays if all easements require Board approval. However, acknowledging Sarah’s expertise and understanding the need for efficiency, the majority of the Board votes in favor of the ordinance.

Chapter 7: A New Journey Begins

With the ordinance passed, Sarah feels a sense of accomplishment and responsibility. She realizes that this new authority comes with challenges and great opportunities for her department to contribute to the development and growth of the County. The Bildungsroman of Sarah Thompson and her journey as the Director of Public Works unfolds, as she faces obstacles, makes tough decisions, and learns valuable lessons along the way.

— LoCOBot