April 2025 Newsletter
“The protection of the public safety is the first responsibility of local government and local officials have an obligation to give priority to the provision of adequate public safety services.” – Constitution of California Art XIII section 35.a.2.”
Measure Z failed, but Measure A passed overwhelmingly which shows the community wants funding directed toward fire, law enforcement, and roads. Furthermore, the community is sick and tired of being threatened by bureaucrats with cuts to libraries, parks and recreation.
Public safety is the foremost responsibility of local government, ensuring services such as Fire, Sheriff’s Office, and District Attorney operate well. According to the California Constitution, local officials are obligated to prioritize the provision of adequate public safety services—and for good reason. These services form the backbone of a safe, functioning community.
Over decades, funding for Law Enforcement has been significantly reduced and Fire services has become more and more expensive as much more fire prevention and suppression is required. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the County was able to leverage one-time grant funds to restore and strengthen public safety operations. I’m proud to have my hand in directing those resources where they were most needed. However, as COVID-related funding comes to an end, we now face growing budget shortfalls—projected at $5.5M in FY 2026, $6.2M in FY 2027, and $8.0M in FY 2028.
With the failure of Measure Z, now is the time to right-size our local government. The new board has given clear direction: maintain funding for core public safety while protecting libraries, parks and recreation—reflecting the values of the community. In response, we’ve implemented 15% budget cuts in non-public safety areas and directed those savings into contingency funds to help soften future shortfalls. Additionally, we are evaluating department head performance to ensure we are operating as efficiently and responsibly as possible. The message is clear: the safety of our residents comes first, and we will protect vital services without resorting to scare tactics or unnecessary closures.
To accomplish this there have been a few changes.
Accountability: Appointed leadership within the organization will be held accountable by the board for clear and concise information on budgets, forecasts and accomplishing the board’s goals.
Right-sizing the organization: Our board has started with 15% cuts, excluding public safety, fire, roads, libraries, parks and rec. This is beginning of a bigger conversation.
Exploring revenue generation options. Our board is actively discussing options. There have already been some fee increases. (Note, fees are only allowed to cover the actual costs incurred by the County – they are not a source of revenue per se.)
Cost Savings: Discussion is underway regarding the best use of cost savings resulting from these cuts. I would like one-time monies not be used for continued operational costs.
Structural Adjustments: Our board is currently exploring and vetting multiple ideas, including cuts, restructures, reorganization, and merging of departments to secure not just one-time 15% cuts but continued savings into the future.
Efficiency in Decision-Making: Our board has been clear that these changes will happen with urgency. We will not allow analysis paralysis.
Bureaucratic Challenges: A common struggle I have experienced and have learned from speaking with supervisors from other counties is the conflict between bureaucracies doing the will of the board versus their own will. This issue is being addressed locally.
Refocusing the CAO Role: The CAO’s primary responsibilities will center on budget trends and projections, collaborating with the finance department, and implementing the board’s directives while ensuring organizational alignment. The board will dedicate more time to this matter once the CAO position is open for permanent appointment.
There has been organizational distrust from past practices and uncertainty about the future. I personally would like to address both.
Actions speak louder than words. My hope is that our actions will rebuild trust. However, at the end of the day, we expect the organization to fulfill its responsibilities. Regarding uncertainty about the future, I understand the anxiety that comes with change, especially since some of these changes have resulted in position cuts and there will be more.
To the community as a whole and to District 3 to which elected me: I have heard you and hear you now. I will continue to work to make your local government work for you.
Budget Cuts
On March 4th, our board approved over $2.5M in budget cuts in the General Fund, reallocating those funds to contingencies (rainy day fund). Law enforcement was excluded from these cuts. However, it’s worth noting that law enforcement voluntarily contributed to the reductions in a way that will not impact personnel or services.
The adjustments included:
- 10 layoffs
- 12.5 eliminated positions
- 3 frozen positions
- 2 new positions added (two part time and one full time, none executive level)
We also postponed certain capital projects to redirect savings toward more urgent needs, such as improvements to the 911 Dispatch Center.
This is just the beginning of cuts and restructuring, which I anticipate will continue over the next few budget cycles. To review the full board presentation, click here: https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/3178819/UPDATED_Mar_4_Mid-Year_Budget_Presentation.pdf
Department Head Evaluations
The Board of Supervisors is becoming more involved in the performance evaluation process of department heads. Previously, evaluations were overseen solely by the CAO, but the Board is taking a more active role in reviewing them. We began with the CAO in January, followed by Community Development Department and County Counsel in March, Probation and Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) in April with additional performance evaluations to come.
Roads: A Persistent Challenge with Strategic Solutions
We know that road conditions are a big concern for people in Tuolumne County. The county is responsible for about 608 miles of roads, with 544 miles being paved. Many of these roads were built years ago by putting asphalt straight onto dirt, without the right foundation. This causes the roads to break down faster. In 2022, a report showed that our roads had an average Pavement Condition Index (PCI) of 24, which is considered “very poor.” Since then, we’ve made some progress.
Fixing roads is expensive—rebuilding one mile can cost about $1M, and even just putting a new layer on top costs around $300,000 per mile. With so many miles in poor condition, it would take a huge amount of money over many years to fix them all, and is only possible with help from the state. But realistically, that level of state funding isn’t going to come, even though it should be a priority.
Our Public Works Director, Blossom Scott-Heim, is working on smart, one-time spending ideas that can save money in the long run. These plans are focused on using our limited resources wisely and finding sustainable ways to improve our roads. More to come on this topic soon.
Constitution and Civil Liberties Resolution for All
A recent attack in Jamestown involved a man allegedly being beaten for being gay. Following this incident, our board faced immense pressure to take a stand against hate crimes (February
4, 2025). Any decent person stands against hate crimes as do I. At the initial meeting, I made it clear that I would not support any resolution labeling it as a hate crime until the criminal investigation was completed, charges were formally filed, and due process had taken place. Working in law enforcement and using common sense, I know facts must drive the conversation, not emotions.
Nothing changed between that meeting and the March 4, 2025, meeting, when Supervisor Campbell backed by Supervisor Brandon presented a resolution condemning hate crime.
While some may argue that the resolution presented March 4th was unrelated to that specific case, the timing makes it clear that it was. Had a similar, board crafted resolution been introduced at an appropriate time had hate crime charges been filed, I believe it would have received unanimous board support for the idea—but this was not that time.
Finally, a member of the public questioned my values. My response is simple: my values are reflected in my actions, which speak louder than their words or resolution. I have led the charge to make the largest investments in law enforcement that this county has seen in decades. Why? Because I value the safety and security of our community, as guaranteed by the California Constitution. Our top priority should be public safety by fully funding law enforcement—ensuring someone answers the phone when you call 911 and deputies are on the streets to respond when crimes occur and that our District Attorney has the resources to prosecute offenders. At the conclusion of that discussion, I introduced a resolution affirming constitutional rights and civil liberties, which was passed with a 3-2 vote.
Potential Hate Crime Investigation Concluded
On April 17, 2025, the investigation into the potential hate crime in Jamestown concluded with this statement by Sheriff David Vasquez
“We will not be recommending that the District Attorney move forward with the hate crime enhancement, due to the fact that we cannot meet the elements of that crime, and based on the totality of the circumstances and the information that has been recovered.”
Sheriff Vasquez further stated that a primary reason the hate crime enhancement in the assault could not be proven was that all individuals involved in the incident had deleted information from their cell phones, computers, or tablets—including the contents of a dating app called Sniffles, which is primarily used by gay men seeking relationships.
While the investigation into the alleged hate crime was underway, I conducted my own investigation and gathered data from the District Attorney and Sheriff’s Department—focusing on the vulnerable populations of Tuolumne County. This mirrors a similar effort I led in 2022 regarding the “Status of the Youth.” You can find the memo here: https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/1265087/2022_BOS_Presentation_on_Youth_in_Tuolumne_County_Memo.pdf Tuolumne County Memo and the presentation here: https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/1265091/2022_BOS_Presentation_on_Youth_in_Tuolumne_County.pdf
As Board Chair, my goal in 2022, was to highlight vulnerable populations—especially children—and to effect change in how we serve and protect them. Unfortunately, that presentation was both the first and the last as there was no political or budgetary support from the majority of the board at that time.
With the recent outcry of people not feeling safe and the data collected which shows a need to better serve and project our vulnerable populations, a resolution will be presented on April 22, 2025, to acknowledge these critical issues and offer solutions. I hope that all who attended the February 4th and March 4th meetings will return to support the resolution for our vulnerable populations.
The future of forest management and clean water
I’m incredibly excited to share that on April 15th, our Board approved an agreement with UC Merced to launch a major water monitoring project—a project I’ve proudly spearheaded, with dedicated staff working over the past few years to make it happen. We are finally moving forward to scientifically demonstrate what we’ve long known: investing in forest management is investing in clean water. This project marks a major milestone for Tuolumne County and sends a clear message to Central Valley and Bay Area water users—healthy forests are the foundation of reliable, high-quality water. This is the future of both forest stewardship and water security. A huge thank you to Sean Hembree and Caitlyn Henry for their incredible work on all things water and SERAL. https://legistarweb-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/pdf/3265255/BOS_Memo_WaterSMART.pdf
Tuolumne County Continues to Lead in Forest Management and Partnerships
Tuolumne County continues to lead in forest management and community-based stewardship. With the Master Stewardship Agreement (MSA), the county continues to achieve major milestones through strong partnerships and effective conservation strategies. Key accomplishments in 2024 include treating over 1,500 acres to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. This includes 413 acres in SERAL Phase 2, 614 acres of hand clearing in Rim Phase 3, and 477 acres of site prep in Rim Phase 4.
In addition to fuels reduction, the county completed important survey work to support long-term forest health. This included 17 miles of landline surveys, botanical assessments across 9,173 acres, and archaeological reviews on 8,000 acres. These efforts ensure future projects meet environmental and cultural protection standards. The county is also using new technology like drones and GIS mapping to improve land use planning, fire inspections, and resource tracking.
To support future forest management, Tuolumne County is investing in its workforce. With funding from CALFIRE and applications for more grants, the county is expanding training programs with Motherlode Job Training and Columbia College. Several new positions have been added, including four Forest Operations Specialists, a Program Director, and a GIS Specialist.
Partnerships with tribal groups, federal agencies, and local organizations remain strong, helping projects like Murphy’s Ranch and BLM-Yankee Hill succeed.
A special thank you goes to Caitlin Henry, who has led the county’s Forest Health Program since January. She manages $95M in grants, keeps projects on schedule, and maintains key partnerships. Her leadership has been crucial to the success of these forest initiatives.
Homeless housing and infrastructure
On April 8, 2025, the Board of Supervisors received a comprehensive presentation on the county’s homelessness housing initiatives. While several projects are operational, including Camp Justice and the Soulsbyville Navigation Center, concerns were raised regarding the sustainability of funding, as current operations rely heavily on state and federal grants. We are concerned that promised funds may not materialize, potentially impacting scheduling, openings, and future financial obligations, possibly drawing on the general fund. In response, the Board directed staff to organize a dedicated meeting to thoroughly discuss each project and associated liabilities.
Community Green Waste Diversion Program is going live!
The county is deploying dump trailers, 20- and 30-yard debris boxes, and chippers to efficiently collect and process yard waste starting this summer with a pilot program for some fire-wise communities. Residents will fill heavy-duty reusable yard sacks, which will then be transported by county trucks and solid waste crews to designated disposal sites. The Tuolumne County Sheriff’s DDC Work Crew will handle wood chipping operation on-site, ensuring that large branches and brush are processed before being hauled to a biomass facility. This effort is designed to make green waste disposal easier, more efficient, and accessible for residents while cutting down on illegal dumping and wildfire hazards. Thank you Deborah Reagan and team for all your work on this!
Twain Harte CERT training
This is a great way to ensure that you, your family and your pets are prepared for an emergency if it happens. This 3-day course has proven to be an invaluable tool to our residents. It is a limited class of 20 students, and they already have 11 people signed up. If you are interested, please respond to Twain Harte CERT ASAP.
Citizens Planning Academy
Tuolumne County launched the Citizens Planning Academy on April 7, 2025. This educational initiative is designed to empower community members to actively engage in local land-use, building planning and decision-making. The academy provided participants with valuable insights into the planning process, zoning laws, environmental regulations, housing development, and infrastructure planning.
Attendees are also gaining perspectives from developers and explored how community partnerships contribute to building a sustainable future. The program features interactive sessions that blend presentations, group discussions, and hands-on exercises.
Thank you to Quincy Yaley and the team for your work on this effort.
Movement on Pinecrest
For the past six years, our community has experienced the growing impacts of overuse in the Pinecrest Basin—from scattered trash and misrepresented “service dogs” causing disturbances, to illegal parking that has, at times, made it nearly impossible for emergency services to access the area. In response to these ongoing issues and the strain on our natural resources, the Natural Resources Committee presented a set of recommendations to the Board in March.
As a result, the Board approved an ordinance to increase parking fines from $35 to $100 for the first offence and $200 for second offense (with direction to explore even steeper penalties). The Board also provided direction on establishing designated fire lanes and improving signage, as well as initiating conversations with partners, user groups, and local business owners regarding potential metered parking—though it’s important to note that metered parking will not be implemented this season (should a plan be approved).
Lastly, I want to thank the community for their patience. I know these concerns have been voiced for years, and with the Sheriff’s Department now fully staffed, we finally have more resources available to for enforcement moving forward.
Valley Dale
Our board recently approved the Valley Dale affordable housing project, located at 14562 Peaceful Valley Road. Proposed by the Stanislaus Regional Housing Authority, the development will include 56 residential units: 20 three-bedroom, 15 two-bedroom, 18 one-bedroom, and 3 studio apartments. Planned amenities include a community room, kitchen, maintenance area, laundry facilities, and playgrounds.
To address community concerns related to traffic, noise, and aesthetics, the board included several conditions—such as prohibiting street parking, constructing fencing along the northern boundary, and developing a traffic calming plan through the Indian Rock Center.
The project passed with a 3-2 vote. I voted no—not because I oppose affordable housing—but because I requested staff take a closer look at the second ingress/egress route. Currently, the second access point runs through a parking lot. I asked that we evaluate whether it would be feasible to create a dedicated driveway or some form of direct access onto Highway 108. Since this option was not properly explored, I did not support the project as presented. Had the request been taken seriously, thoroughly evaluated, and found to be unfeasible, I would have supported the project with adjustments to the driveway due to the current easement.
OES
Tuolumne County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) is working on several important wildfire safety projects. They’re launching a new system called Genasys to help with zoned evacuations,
making it easier to alert specific areas during emergencies. As required by the state, OES is also creating a backup emergency alert system, called Rave, similar to, but separate from Everbridge.
Thanks to grant funding, the county is moving forward with a home hardening project in the Ponderosa and Mira Monte areas to protect houses from wildfires. Another big project includes clearing brush along 22 miles of roads in high-risk areas like Yankee Hill, Cedar Ridge, and Mi-Wuk Village and offering defensible space services for seniors and low-income residents.
Sara Daniel from OES is leading community outreach, including a public wildfire safety meeting in Columbia on April 29.
Tuolumne County Office of Emergency Services is also hosting a three-part Virtual Wildfire Preparedness Town Hall Series via Zoom on April 28, 29, and 30, 2025, all starting at 6 PM.
- Session I (April 28 – Preparedness): Learn how to sign up for alerts, build a go bag, plan for animals, and understand evacuation terms.
- Session II (April 29 – Prevention): CAL FIRE and OES will discuss defensible space, home hardening, and community-level wildfire prevention.
- Session III (April 30 – Planning for Long-Term Risk Reduction): Hear from partners like USFS and Tuolumne Fire Safe Council on current fuels reduction and mitigation projects (e.g., SERAL, MSA).
Zoom Info: Meeting ID: 872 9731 4391
Passcode: Wildfire
For more info: Call (209) 533-6395
About Easter
Growing up in a Christian household, I drifted after my parents’ divorce and harbored resentment towards religion and God. However, a series of life events led me back to the realization that Jesus is indeed the Son of God.
During college I studied other faiths and lived with a Muslim roommate. Surprisingly, our upbringings were pretty similar. I wondered how could one faith be right while another was wrong? Were our beliefs merely products of our upbringing? Yet amid the similarities across religions, Jesus stood apart. Unlike other religious figures, he didn’t just claim to be a messiah; he died for sinners and rose from the dead, proving his divinity.
The Bible is full of wisdom and narratives lessons, available to everyone regardless of faith. Yet, without Jesus’ resurrection, he would just be another historical figure, with no life-changing power. My search for spiritual truth ended when I truly understood the significance of Jesus’ resurrection. Easter became more than a celebration. It affirms that Jesus Christ is the Son of
God. In him, I found the fulfillment that other religions hint at, but ultimately miss. “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” — John 11:25-26 ESV
Happy Easter
~Anaiah
