UPDATE: The Tehama County Board of Supervisors is set to hold a pivotal meeting on December 9, where urgent topics including wolf management and a new behavioral health campus will be discussed. This meeting also marks the deadline for applications for the now-vacant District 3 seat, with a special session scheduled for December 16 to select a new supervisor.
Residents of District 3 who wish to apply can do so through the county website, tehama.gov. This transition comes amid growing concerns from the community regarding the impact of wolves on local livestock. Ag Extension Director Josh Davy will present a resolution opposing the “presence and introduction of wolves in Tehama County,” reflecting increasing unease over recent wolf sightings.
During the previous meeting, county Agricultural Commissioner Thomas Moss discussed the potential hiring of a trapper from the USDA Wildlife Services program to monitor wolf activity. Although the latest quarterly report from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife did not indicate any livestock deaths attributed to wolves, apprehension persists, especially with collared wolves being tracked near Mineral.
Davy’s resolution cites dwindling deer populations as a concern, suggesting that fewer deer could lead to increased livestock predation by wolves. As this issue escalates, the community is urged to participate by submitting questions for the upcoming interview process regarding the new supervisor.
Additionally, the supervisors will engage in a study session to potentially restructure the roles of public guardian, public administrator, and public conservator within the social services department. The previous public guardian, Melani Kain, whose contract was not renewed, expressed her gratitude to the community during the last meeting and raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the decision-making process.
Currently, Bekkie Emery, the Social Services Director, is serving as the interim public guardian. The agenda will propose a 15% salary increase for Emery to compensate for her expanded responsibilities until a permanent solution is determined.
At 1:30 p.m., the agenda includes a presentation from Kimberly Johnson, CEO of the Shasta County-based ARCH Collaborative, regarding the controversial $200 million True North Behavioral Campus. This campus aims to enhance behavioral health services in the region, funded through state grants anticipated in the spring.
The Shasta County Board of Supervisors has shown mixed support for the project, but discussions suggest that Tehama County may take on the contract, which could bring new jobs and economic opportunities. Johnson’s presentation will clarify the project’s scope and its potential positive impact on Tehama County.
Citizens can attend the supervisors meeting in person at 727 Oak St., Red Bluff, starting at 9 a.m., or participate via phone or video. Full details, including the agenda, are available at tehamacounty.legistar.com.
As these discussions unfold, the decisions made could significantly affect the future of both wildlife management and community health services in Tehama County. Stay tuned for updates as these critical issues develop.
