Supervisors seek update on public defender workload after contract shifts; county says negotiations active

Supervisor Starkey asked the board Tuesday to direct staff to return with a plan addressing workload and staffing in the county's public defender office after several departures and contract shifts.

Starkey said Del Norte has lost multiple public defenders recently and noted that George Mavris, previously under contract on Pelican Bay work, is moving to the district attorney's office. “What I would like is to hear an update from staff with regard to how are we sharing that workload given the vacancies,” Starkey said, requesting a report at the next meeting.

County counsel and staff said negotiations are ongoing and that some Pelican Bay contract coverage and public defender work are being managed under existing agreements. County counsel advised the board that it was “premature” to report detailed outcomes while contract talks remain active.

There was disagreement in the public record about whether Mavris had been taking overflow felony cases under the public defender contract. County counsel clarified Mavris had a Pelican Bay contract and private clients; staff said remaining contracts are in force and that active negotiations are underway to adjust coverage.

Supervisor Starkey urged the board to receive a status update after negotiations conclude so the board and the public can assess any caseload or access-to-counsel risks. Staff agreed to provide an update once negotiations reach a point where there is solid information to share.

No formal board action was taken Tuesday; the board asked staff to report back when contract negotiations allow.