Jamie Bax

This strategic plan for the Madera County Library outlines a community-driven future, aiming to strengthen communities by providing places for everyone to connect, learn, and grow, ultimately envisioning the library at the center of a thriving and connected community. The plan focuses on four key areas: increasing programs and services for Teens and Young Adults, enhancing services for Rural and Spanish-Speaking Communities, improving the library's Website and Online Presence, and establishing library locations as Community Resource Hubs.

The meeting commenced with public comment during which several IHSS (In-Home Supportive Services) providers and residents voiced concerns regarding the necessity of fair and livable wages for caregivers, emphasizing the critical nature of their work in providing dignity and support to vulnerable populations, including those with Alzheimer's or cancer. Speakers highlighted that current compensation levels hinder recruitment and retention, negatively impacting essential care services within Madera County, and advocated for a contract that reflects the professional skill required. Following public comment, two attendees requested recognition for community members: one in memory of a long-time resident and former corrections officer, and another recognizing a local director's work related to the Eastern Madera County Fire Safe Council and an impending grant application. The board then proceeded to the consent calendar, which included an appointment for the Valley Air Pollution Control District, and concluded with a motion to approve the consent items.

The meeting opened with an announcement recognizing the local museum for receiving awards as the best museum, best place to volunteer, and third place in attraction in the Central Valley. This achievement was noted as a victory for the entire community, with plans to organize staff to qualify for future improvement grants. A significant agenda item involved the approval of a contract for the Avenue 12 project, spanning 800 linear feet east of Riverwalk Boulevard to Road 40. This contract, costing $2,213,535.90 and funded by road impact fees, includes roadway widening, a raised center median, and two permanent traffic signals. If approved, construction was slated to begin mid-June and last approximately 18 months. The contract was approved by a 5-0 roll call vote.

The meeting included a close session to discuss labor negotiations, an existing litigation matter, real property negotiations, and public employee discipline. The board also recognized the retirement of two fire captains, Bryant Camarena and Craig Wag, for their years of service to the Madera County Fire Department. There was also a presentation by the Madera County Historical Society to promote their upcoming Christmas Gayla and holiday viewings, as well as announcements of holiday events by Animal Services, including free adoptions and vaccine clinics.

The meeting included a review of the consent calendar, which contained only the minutes for approval. The board addressed a hearing for core projects, where a motion was made and seconded to accept the withdrawal of the applicant. Another hearing was addressed, and a motion was made to deny the hearing due to lack of appearance. The board discussed the stipulation of excess value, noting that there were none. A request was made to cancel the May 1 assessment appeals board meeting and conduct the next meeting on August 7, which was approved. The meeting was then adjourned.