Governor Jerry Brown was expected to sign legislation that will reduce the public’s access to government records by allowing local government officials to opt out of provisions of the Public Records Act.  A primary component of the bill will eliminate the requirement for a public agency to respond within 10 days of a formal public records request and deny requests at will, which will reduce the State’s reimbursement to local governments estimated at $20 million a year.
Click here to listen to County CEO Rick Haffey

Major news organizations such as the Los Angeles Times and assembly members have vehemently opposed this proposal and have directed letters, phone calls, and published articles to the Governor urging a veto immediately.  Public outcry has caused a reconsideration of this state action.
Nevada County does not endorse this proposal and will not compromise its unbreakable stance on full transparency, even with the threat of unreimbursed costs.
Click here to listen to County CEO Rick Haffey

Nevada County will continue to expand and provide the public access to a vast range of documents, continue to video stream meetings, and adhere to current legal provisions of the Public Records Act.

The A+ transparency rating held by the County will continue with the adoption of Board Resolution 13-042 which states as a priority objective, the need to “Increase public awareness and civic engagement through educational information programs.”