Plumas County Supervisors Discuss Housing Crisis and Approve Grant for Sheriff's Office Training

The Plumas County Board of Supervisors convened on September 2, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including housing, public safety funding, and public health initiatives. The meeting began with a discussion on the ongoing housing crisis in the county, highlighting the need for a comprehensive housing study. A board member proposed exploring the feasibility of a short-term rental ordinance, emphasizing the impact of such rentals on long-term workforce housing availability. The county has secured a community development block grant to conduct a housing study over the next nine months, which aims to assess the effects of short-term rentals on the housing market.

Following the housing discussion, the board addressed a grant application from the Plumas County Sheriff's Office. Sheriff Chad Herman presented a request to apply for and administer a Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) totaling $14,732. The funding will be used for training dispatchers and staff in crisis negotiation and incident response, as well as for purchasing necessary equipment. The board unanimously approved the grant application, noting that it would not impact the general fund.

The meeting also included a proposal from the Public Health Agency to temporarily adjust its hours of operation for a mandatory staff training day. The agency plans to close from 8:30 AM to 1 PM on September 22, 2025, to facilitate professional development. The board supported this initiative, recognizing the importance of workforce training in enhancing public health services.

Additionally, the board ratified an agreement with Hurst Brooks and Espinosa LLC to advocate for Plumas County before the state legislature. This contract, effective July 1, 2025, is set at a maximum of $30,000 and aims to ensure that rural voices are represented in legislative discussions. The board expressed confidence in the firm's capabilities, citing their experience with small counties.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing housing challenges, enhancing public safety training, and improving public health services through strategic initiatives and partnerships. The next steps include the implementation of the housing study and continued collaboration with advocacy partners to represent the county's interests effectively.