Measure Z Funding Decisions Spark Debate at Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting

Measure Z Funding Decisions Spark Debate at Citizens Advisory Committee Meeting

Humboldt County residents eager to see how Measure Z funds are allocated received an update at the March 6th meeting of the Citizens Advisory Committee on Measure Z Expenditures. The meeting, attended by key officials including Sheriff William Honsal, representatives from various police and fire departments, and the Public Defender, focused heavily on applications for funding, sparking discussion about priorities and equitable distribution of resources.

The committee began by unanimously approving the minutes from their February 27th meeting. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public comment, where representatives from various agencies presented their cases for Measure Z funding. The Fortuna Police Department, represented by Lieutenant Matthew Eberhart, requested funding for enhanced safety equipment, emphasizing the crucial role of School Resource Officers (SROs) in preventing potential school shootings, citing a recent incident as an example. Chief J. Pinney of the Rio Dell Police Department advocated for funding a Community Service Officer (CSO) position, highlighting the department's high call volume and the need for proactive policing. The Humboldt County Fire Chiefs Association, represented by Chief Rick Nicholson of the Redway Volunteer Fire Department, emphasized the need for equipment funding to serve the entire county, stressing that the requested funds were for equipment, not salaries. They also discussed contingency plans in case Measure Z funding is reduced.

Other applicants included the Bear River Band of the Rohnerville Rancheria, requesting OES staffing, and the Public Defenders office, seeking funding for an additional misdemeanor attorney to address a high caseload. County Administrative Officer Ishia Hayes highlighted the contributions of larger cities to Measure Z funds and their funding requests. Chair Tami Trent acknowledged the difficult decisions facing the committee and the need to serve the entire county, emphasizing the county-wide reach of the SRO program and the drug task force.

One key decision emerged from the meeting: the committee unanimously voted to remove the Rio Dell Police Departments dispatch application from consideration while agreeing to reconsider their application for OES staffing at a revised level. This decision reflects the committees careful consideration of the various applications and the need to prioritize based on available resources and public safety needs.

The committee also heard from the Humboldt County Fire Chiefs Association regarding Octobers Fire Prevention Month, announcing planned school visits to conduct fire safety education. The committee will continue reviewing applications, with a future discussion planned on the $400,000 reserve fund. Ultimately, the Board of Supervisors will make the final decision on funding allocations.

For more information on Measure Z and the Citizens Advisory Committee, including agendas and minutes, visit https://humboldtgov.org/1968/Measure-Z-Citizens-Advisory-Committe. Future meeting dates and details will be posted on the website.