Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Benito County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
New budget and emergency management leadership positions
The county has struggled for a year to fill its top budget job, so it's boosting pay ~25% and retitling the position to chief budget officer. It's also adding a deputy director of emergency services to better prep for storms, fires, and earthquakes — and to recover overdue disaster reimbursements.
Declining recorder's fee and property tax revenue
High interest rates are slowing real estate sales, cutting recording fees and likely reducing property transfer tax revenue countywide. Recordings are down to about 17-30 per day.
$500,000 Emergency Fund From Disaster Reserves
The CEO asked for quick access to reserves so contracts can start immediately; the board amended its motion to set aside $500,000, with ratification documents due back the following week and fuller funding discussion at the September 28 budget meeting.
County vehicle leasing program
A 2015 six-vehicle pilot with Enterprise quietly grew to 33 vehicles with no board approval or required cost analysis. The board wants a leasing-vs-buying study and will consider local dealers and NACo procurement.
County Leadership Performance Evaluations
The Board privately evaluated both the County Executive Officer and the County Counsel. State law lets personnel evaluations stay confidential, so residents won't learn how those reviews went unless there's a personnel action later.
SB 707 Brown Act changes, translation and public access
Commissioners complained they're still getting hefty agendas on Fridays despite a rule requiring Wednesday delivery, and warned they'll continue items "out of protest" unless internal deadlines move up.
Federal Budget Impacts (HR-1)
A look at how the federal budget law (HR-1) could hit local revenue and services, against a backdrop of rising federal deficits and funding uncertainty for counties.
Retiree Health Care Obligations (OPEB)
A presentation on the county's retiree health care liabilities and its prefunding trust. Keeping up with the recommended contributions protects both retirees' benefits and the county's long-term finances.
GHAD budget and reserve adequacy for Ridgemark
The Geologic Hazard Abatement District's $133,906 budget passed, funded by a $45 annual increase per Ridgemark Promontory home. Supervisors flagged that thin reserves — roughly $300,000 — wouldn't cover major slope repairs if a bad winter hits.
County travel policy tightening
A new policy requiring CEO review of every staff travel request passed 3-2. Supporters call it fiscal discipline during a budget crunch; dissenters say it overloads the CEO and micromanages department heads.
2025 General Plan and Housing Element annual reports
Both state-mandated reports moved forward to the Board of Supervisors, documenting 2025 progress — including 106 finalized housing units and homelessness programs — that keeps the county eligible for state grants.