June 2, 2000

The Honorable Richard McAdams

Judge of the Superior Court

701 Ocean Street

Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Dear Judge McAdams:

On behalf of the 1999/2000 Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury, it is my pleasure to submit to you our final report. Its findings and recommendations are a tribute to the efforts of the dedicated men and women who researched the issues and compiled the facts.

This year was somewhat special because eight jurors from the 1998/1999 Grand Jury elected to stay on for a second year. Their leadership enabled the 1999/2000 Grand Jury to organize quickly and get off to a fast start. Throughout the course of the year, the jury’s investigative committees managed a full review schedule of county and city departments, facilities and programs. Significant projects included a countywide study of Water Districts/Departments, a review of School Safety Plans, and a review of the Manabe/Burgstrom annexation. They also addressed more than 20 citizen complaints. The special charge of the 1998/1999 Grand Jury, to investigate youth substance abuse, was continued.

In addition to the Grand Jury activities described above, I had the opportunity to work with the County Alcohol and Drug Program and the Together For Youth/Unidos Para Nuestros Jovenes collaborative on a Policy Panel aimed at limiting youth access to alcohol. Members of our Grand Jury participated with approximately 50 community leaders and concerned citizens in defining and publishing 26 recommendations.

Though too numerous to name individually, the 1999/2000 Grand Jury wishes to thank all the people who cooperated with us in our investigative efforts. Also, we want to thank Chief Assistant County Counsel Deborah Steen for her advice and guidance in the handling of several citizen complaints and complex legal issues.

Finally, I wish to extend my personal thanks to the members of the 1999/2000 Grand Jury for their individual contributions to a very successful year and for this excellent final report.

Respectfully,

Alfred J. Richard

Foreperson