Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lassen County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues with medium priority
OHV grant funding for Sheriff's Department
The Sheriff's Office secured $23,880 from the state OHV grant program for deputy and sergeant overtime, training, and equipment to patrol off-highway vehicle areas. Supervisors also asked staff to look into future funding for patrolling hiking trails, possibly using e-bikes.
Herlong Recreation and Park District formation
Herlong could get its own recreation and park district. The Board was asked to start the LAFCo application process, which would include a plan for services and a five-year financial plan.
Water transfer to Southern California
The board wants to oppose a plan to transfer Sacramento Valley water south, arguing it should recharge Lassen-area groundwater instead.
Ambulance service and EOA contract
SEMSA's ambulance contract runs through May 30, and a new entity backed by Plumas District Hospital is lined up to take over. The board got a status report on the RFP and transition.
El Niño local emergency declaration
Supervisors declared a local emergency before any flooding, hoping to speed permits and qualify for grants if a wet winter brings debris flows and clogged culverts.
Travel Stop tax revenue agreements
Resident Jim Barry raised concerns about the proposed 24-hour truck stop near Susanville: traffic through the Skyline/36 intersection, security and human trafficking risk, 7,000–9,000 gallons of water use per day, and noise and light impacts for Sierra Road residents.
Wildlife overcrossing on Highway 395
The Lassen County Transportation Commission is leading a $6 million, fully grant-funded effort to build wildlife crossings; Red Rock has become problematic due to BLM delays, so Bass Hill may be designed instead to 65% engineering by March.
Senior lunch program expansion
After four years, Meals on Wheels and senior congregate lunches resumed this week — supervisors and social services staff were visibly emotional about it.
Standish-Buntingville Road project close-out
The road rehab is done — the board approved the Notice of Completion so the county can collect state reimbursement and avoid losing money already spent.
Public Health records contract renewal
Public Health hired Metopio Inc. to build a three-year Community Health Improvement Plan; supervisors noted the prison population skews the county's health statistics, including high suicide and overdose rates.