Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in San Benito County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in taxes budget
MEG Labor Imposition and County Fiscal Crisis
County management employees (MEG) are fighting the county's push to eliminate paid FLSA time during contract negotiations. Five employees told the board they routinely work unpaid extra hours, and MEG's president cited county figures showing members donated about $295,000 worth of uncompensated time last fiscal year.
Environmental health fee increases sent back for more input
Fees for restaurant inspections, septic, wells, and food permits haven't gone up since 2014, leaving the program about 37.7% short on costs. Staff proposed phased increases over 3, 5, or 7 years, but with only a 6% survey response from businesses, supervisors want more outreach before voting — delays cost the county realignment dollars in the meantime.
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.