LAKEPORT— The Board of Supervisors held their weekly meeting on Tuesday, approving the annual Sheriff’s military equipment report as well as hearing updates from the North Bay Workforce Alliance and the economic development department.
Ben Rickelman, Deputy County Administrative Officer, discussed the economic development funding opportunities and business development in Lake County. These funding opportunities include broadband and an updated communications master plan. The federal funding available for these projects closes in September, while other projects like the installation of electric vehicle charging stations would provide the county with tax credits and also a hotel attraction strategy.
Rickelman also discussed Community Economic Resilience Funds (CERF). Lake County is a part of the Redwood Region Rise and according to Rickelman each region has a dedicated $26.5 million for the four counties in each region to disperse.
Supervisors agreed that they will participate in any way they can in order to position themselves to receive as much of that CERF funding as possible. District 3 Supervisor Eddie Crandell also mentioned the hotel attraction strategy and his gratitude for the Code Enforcement department’s work which enables this plan. Crandell said, “With hotels, people will come if they see more of an appealing area rather than some of the situations we have.”
The county also heard from Sheriff Robert Howe alongside Lt. Luke Bingham, who explained their military equipment budget. Bingham noted that the fiscal impact of the military budget, including maintenance and training, approached $20,000. New equipment this year includes a box truck used for S.W.A.T team members and their transportation. The board approved this report unanimously (with Moke Simon absent).
Bruce Wilson, the Executive Director of Workforce North Bay presented a report to the board regarding the local workforce, how it compares to neighboring counties, and what the county can do to foster the growth of their workforce. Wilson addressed a “comprehensive talent alignment strategy” which includes “matching current workforce with job openings in the near term, providing on ramps and bridges to high quality career pathways”, and “aligning certificate and degree programs with industry needs.” In utilizing these strategies, Wilson illustrated the top jobs in demand which are led by the healthcare industry and a need for nurses, followed by increased positions in local government. Wilson also mentioned the increase of the workforce here in Lake County, whereas neighboring Napa County is experiencing a decrease due to a number of circumstances including the increasing costs of living.
Presenting with Wilson Victoria Polido, the Lake County Supervisor for various programs, specifically discussed programs available to aid the county in these goals. Career Point is one of these programs, providing pathways to work by collaborating with other agencies in order to help an individual achieve their career goals, starting with education and training.
Polido noted, “We do provide everyone with one on one job search assistance, understanding what they are looking for and how to meet that goal.” The program focuses on different certificates with a goal of obtaining gainful employment within six months. Polido also introduced a new app called CareerPoint North Bay, available through the Google Play or Apple App Store which streamlines appointment making, workshops, and job boards. The program is also currently hiring up to 30 individuals for storm clean up from the harsh winter storms. This funding was made possible by a storm grant. Polido said, “We’re constantly looking for grants that help our industries grow and bring people to the workforce.”
Supervisors responded with mild skepticism with District 2 Bruno Sabatier correcting some of the data presented stating “More than 30 percent of our community has a high school diploma, that is not a good number.” Sabatier also agreed that the focus is on introducing more healthcare educational opportunities beginning at a high school level. District 4 Supervisor Michael Green noted the disparities faced by Lake County. “The biggest job growth in this report is minimum wage jobs,” said Green, adding. “What good is it to have an 18 percent growth pattern for a job that doesn’t turn 30k a year, who can live off that?” No action was taken.
For more information including minutes and video please visit lakecountyca.gov.
