Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Shasta County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Social Services Fund shortfall
The social services department is running a negative cash balance because state and federal funding — including impacts from HR1 federal cuts — has shrunk. The county loaned up to $10 million to keep it afloat, and staff floated voluntary furloughs, overtime cuts, and closing the California Street office.
Opposition to AB 1383 pension legislation
Even though Governor Newsom vetoed AB 1383, the county wants its opposition on record because the bill would have raised pension costs for public employers, including safety employees. Supervisors split 3-2 on whether to send the letter now or gather more law enforcement input first.
County Counsel employment agreement fails
Supervisors failed to renew County Counsel Joseph Larmour's contract for a new four-year term, leaving his current agreement in place until it expires. Dissenting supervisors cited the early timing of the extension and an 18-month severance package.
Attorney retention bonuses
The county will pay $10,000 retention bonuses to attorneys in the DA, Public Defender, and County Counsel offices, funded from interest on general reserves. Supervisor Long also wants multi-year funding and brought a plan for $30,000 bonuses over three years.