May 7, 1997

Honorable Judge William L. Gordon
Presiding Judge, Santa Barbara County Superior Court
1100 Anacapa Street
Santa Barbara, CA 93121


Subject: 1996-97 Grand Jury Report - Detention Facilities


The Public Works Department was identified by the Grand Jury as an Affected Agency associated with Finding and Recommendation 2 of the subject Grand Jury Report.

Finding 2: The abandoned building adjacent to the New Cuyama Sheriff's substation is an unnecessary structure. Any abandoned structure has potential to be a danger or an invitation to mischief. Additionally, it is an eyesore and an indication of neglect on a piece of public property.

Public Works Response: The Department agrees with the finding.

Recommendation 2: The Grand Jury concurs with the Director of Public Works in response to the Grand Jury Report of 1992-1993 that this building "should be demolished." (Grand Jury Response, Detention Facilities, May 5, 1993). The Public Works Department should follow up on this decision.

Public Works Response: The recommendation will not be implemented by Public Works. Various Facilities Service divisions were transferred from Public Works to General Services as part of a County reorganization effort in February 1994. It is our understanding that General Services will be implementing the recommendation as expeditiously as possible.


Sincerely,


Phillip M. Demery
Public Works Director