YREKA, CA – Siskiyou County Administrator Angela Davis came before the Board of Supervisors Tuesday seeking formal direction on how the county should handle requests for warming and cooling centers during extreme weather events, particularly from incorporated cities.
“I am seeking the Board’s direction specifically for those requests that may come forth from an incorporated city,” Davis explained during the meeting. “That could include anything from a location, to staffing, to supplies, to building up, to tearing down. I just would like to have clarity for both those that are requesting, and then for county staff.”
Currently, the county operates under an informal process for city requests, with a typical four-day center operation costing approximately $11,000. While the county’s responsibilities in unincorporated areas are clear, Davis noted the need for formal policies regarding assistance to cities.
The Board discussion revealed significant operational challenges. Supervisor Ray Haupt highlighted geographic barriers: “When Scott Valley needs a warming shelter, you probably can’t get there. Or when Happy Camp has an ice storm, you can’t get there.” Supervisor Jess Harris raised concerns about facility suitability, noting past county buildings required extensive cleanup after use.
A potential solution emerged when discussing staffing requirements. Harris pointed out that the county’s existing homeless liaison officer positions could fulfill the mandatory law enforcement presence requirement. “Isn’t that the whole purpose of funding a homeless liaison officer? This specific instance would be perfect for that, because they’re already a law enforcement official,” Harris noted, referencing the two currently funded positions. “It doesn’t make sense to send social services staff when we’re already funding two city positions that should technically be lined up perfectly for this particular instance.”
Emergency Services Director Bryan Schenone emphasized mandatory safety requirements, including law enforcement presence at all centers. Social Services Director Trish Barbieri clarified that these facilities are temporary warming or cooling centers, not full-service shelters, though they serve both unhoused individuals and residents affected by power outages.
Supervisor Ed Valenzuela advocated for community partnerships: “Let’s get the community involved. Why does it always have to be a county or city [facility]?” Several Board members supported exploring alternative solutions, including mobile warming units and partnerships with local churches.
Following the discussion, Davis confirmed her office will develop a formal plan with clear directives on processes, requirements, and responsibilities for both county staff and requesting cities. The plan will return to the Board for review and adoption, aiming to establish protocols before the next weather emergency strikes this challenging northern California terrain.
BELOW: Complete video of meeting covered several key topics including the introduction of the new IT Director, departmental updates from Community Development, and discussion about warming and cooling shelters.
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