June 30, 2000
Honorable Frank L. Ochoa
Presiding Judge
Santa Barbara County Superior Court
Santa Barbara, California
Dear Judge Ochoa,
In compliance with California Penal Code, Section 933, the 1999-2000 Grand Jury of Santa Barbara County submits this Final Report. The report includes responses to the 1998-1999 Grand Jury Report as well as eleven current studies.
The Jury, made up of nineteen County residents, took their responsibility very seriously. They approached their mandate with an unbiased attitude and a desire to be thorough, constructive, and realistic. The Jury considered and responded to over 250 letters from concerned citizens. Some of the correspondence resulted in a full investigation. The importance of citizen input cannot be stressed enough. This Jury interviewed over 200 witnesses in its pursuit of the facts.
This publication is produced with an attitude of optimism. After spending the last year immersed in County government, this Jury would like to commend the many dedicated employees in the County. Often the Jury returned from visiting an agency, department, or special district and commented on the valuable contribution employees were making. It is the general consensus that we are very fortunate to live in such a well run County.
This report represents the involvement of the entire Grand Jury and is the result of many hours of investigation by all of the members. I would like to commend them for their tireless work and dedication. As a group the Jury has had a terrific education in how the County operates as well as an opportunity to add value to this wonderful place in which we live. Education that results in service is a most fulfilling endeavor.
The Jury joins me in encouraging other County residents to become involved whether it be in service on the Jury or another process that more intimately includes them in County government.
Respectively submitted,
Sally Corlett, Foreperson
Santa Barbara County Grand Jury