The Lake County Board of Supervisors–getting a report on what the public thinks about water quality in Clear Lake. The County Water Department commissioned a study this summer, asking their feelings about water quality–and how much support it should get. 7000 surveys went out–809 came back. Most who replied felt there are issues with runoff and illegal dumping, and that the water was a lot cleaner 200 years ago. The survey also asked residents if they would support a fee on their property tax to pay for clean water activities and better stormwater management. The question asked about a $9.75 fee and a higher fee of $22.50. 82 percent said they were ok with paying an extra nine bucks–while 60 percent would t mind the higher fee. Others, though, responded that taxes were too high as it is. Supervisors say they’ll continue outreach to make residents aware of the lake’s water quality–and ways to protect it.
Ukiah residents have shared their ideas about how the city should spend grant money for recreation in the Valley. The city held a meeting to get that input this week–and residents had a lot of suggestions on what to do with the money. Among the most popular trails, places for a picnic, river access, and swimming. Dog Parks and sports fields were also among the suggestions. State Proposition 4, passed last year, will provide billions to communities over the next few years. To get grants, communities have to show they considered public opinions about what the money would be used for.
An “A” for patient Safety for a Mendocino County Hospital, from a group that tracks safety at hospitals around the country. The Leapfrog Group ranks healthcare facilities on preventable errors, accidents, injuries, and infection and advocates for improving patient safety. The group says Adventist Health Ukiah Valley is one of 8 regional hospitals to get an “A” for safety. 10 others received lesser grades, none lower than a C. Leapfrog puts out its report twice a year. Adventist Health has worked up from a” C” to a “B” to the straight “A’s” in the most recent reports. Clearlake, Sutter Lakeside Hospital, Adventist Health Howard Memorial in Willits, and Adventist Health Mendocino Coast in Fort Bragg were not graded
Californians seem to be cutting back on food budgets. A survey from the Public Policy Institute of California finds that one in three residents statewide reports spending less this year because of rising prices. That number is higher among low-income people–about half say they’re spending less at the grocery store. The same survey says 70 percent of those asked think California will face serious financial challenges heading into 2026–but more than 75 percent say their own financial situation is at least somewhat satisfactory.
