UPDATE: The Tehama County Board of Supervisors is poised for a pivotal meeting on December 9, where critical issues including local wolf management and a proposed $200 million behavioral health campus will take center stage. This meeting follows a recent hiatus on December 2 and coincides with the closing of applications for the vacant District 3 supervisor seat, a position crucial for local governance.
Residents of District 3 have until December 9 to submit applications via tehama.gov. A special meeting is scheduled for December 16 to interview candidates and select a new supervisor, highlighting the urgency of filling this vacancy. Community members are encouraged to submit questions for the interview process, fostering public engagement in local governance.
The agenda features a significant resolution from Ag Extension Director Josh Davy, aimed at opposing the introduction of wolves in Tehama County. This topic has stirred controversy, with local farmers expressing concerns over livestock safety. At the last meeting, Thomas Moss, the county Agricultural Commissioner, suggested hiring a trapper from the USDA Wildlife Services to monitor wolf activity, emphasizing the ongoing tension surrounding this wildlife management issue.
Although the latest report from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife revealed no confirmed livestock deaths attributed to wolves this year, unsettling wolf sightings near Mineral have left residents anxious. Davy’s resolution will also reference declining deer populations, warning that fewer deer could lead wolves to prey more heavily on livestock.
In addition, the board will discuss restructuring the public guardian, public administrator, and public conservator programs under the social services department. This follows the non-renewal of Melani Kain‘s contract, which has raised questions about transparency and governance within the county. Kain, speaking at the November meeting, expressed gratitude to the community and highlighted the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals in the county.
Currently, Social Services Director Bekkie Emery is serving as the interim public guardian, and the board is considering a 15% salary increase for her to accommodate her expanded responsibilities.
The agenda also includes a presentation by Kimberly Johnson, CEO of the Shasta County-based ARCH Collaborative, regarding the True North Behavioral Campus. This facility is set to be funded through state grants, potentially transforming mental health services in the region. Despite past opposition from some Shasta County supervisors, support for the project has gained traction, with implications for job creation and economic growth in Tehama County.
The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. at the board chambers located at 727 Oak St., Red Bluff. Community members can attend in person or participate via phone or video, ensuring widespread access to these crucial discussions. The full agenda is available online at tehamacounty.legistar.com.
Stay tuned for live updates as these urgent matters unfold, impacting residents across Tehama County.
