​LOYALTON CITY COUNCIL met in special session Tuesday, December 27th after the regular meeting of December 20th had been cancelled.
Present were Council members, Brooks Mitchell and Ernie Teague and Mayor Mark Marin. This was Ernie’s last meeting as he was retiring. Pat Whitley was absent due to a doctor’s appointment and John Cussins had resigned his position.
Being his last meeting, Ernie made a statement thanking Kristin and Nancy for running when previously, Loyalton had had to appoint members. He told how half the voters did not vote and called it a “big, big job ahead.”
Jason Christian of Portola approached the Council about the tree mortality with the Loyalton co-generation plant and managing and directing a UC Loyalton initiative, being an advisor for the City. This will be agendized next meeting.
Payment of bills totaling $108,205.91 was approved after City Bookkeeper Kim Lombardi warned of a “very, very thin financial line.” She mentioned a policy of not spending over $200 without approval and adhering to that. She stated “surprise expenses” make it tough.
There was discussion and possible action regarding water and sewer rates which had been frozen five years ago. Brooks Mitchell talked of charges which should be up two percent for each year which would total $38.26 for water and $87.87 for sewer.  Brooks stated Mary Fleming Leslie, RDS Environmental working for the City from Rural Community Assistance Corporation, is working to see what should be charged.
Ernie questioned and was told the money is used for water and sewer. He called it “a very high amount,” and how most, two-thirds or more residents are “very economically challenged” and would have a hard time paying it. 
Brooks told of a problem with the City meeting the fee schedule and the City is losing more and more revenue sources. He said the 2008 loan required a 2% raise every year. 
Ernie stated it was the same issue as four years ago and the “same people won’t pay one cent.” He called it “something drastic” near $400,000 owed in delinquent bills at the trailer park which would not be allowed anywhere else. “Enough is enough,” he stated and said they would kick the can down the road. He said the park will not sell.
‘

THREE PLANNING COMMISSION APPOINTMENTS were made during the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting held in Loyalton on Tuesday, December 20th. Two of the current members’ terms expire on December 31st and one was a vacancy. The Board received six timely applicants: Jenna Endres of Calpine, Liz Fisher of Downieville, Janet Baldridge of Calpine, Sharon Dobija of Sierra City, Michael Miller of Alleghany, and Michael Filippini of Loyalton. 
Board Chair Lee Adams stated Sharon Dobija withdrew her application, so there were five applicants. Supervisor Scott Schlefstein made the motion to reappoint Liz Fisher, who would like to “continue working in a place to be part of a healthy, thriving community and county,” and appoint Mike Filippini, who has “a background in public administration and education that I think provides me with skills and insights that would be useful,” and Jenna Endres who believes “land use decisions are an important part of protecting our County’s quality of life and believe my professional experience can make a positive impact on Sierra County.” 
Supervisor Paul Roen was concerned about Endres, MPA, AICP, Senior Planner in Town of Truckee Community Development Department, formerly Senior Planner, Building and Safety Division Santa Barbara County Planning and Development, being a full-time 
Planner with the City of Truckee. County Counsel stated there would be no conflict of interest as long as Endres wasn’t employed in Sierra County as a Planner. 
Motion passed for Fisher and Filippini, but failed for Endres with Supervisor Peter Huebner, Chair Adams and Supervisor Roen voting no. Supervisor Roen made the motion to appoint Janet Baldridge, whose “30 years living in the Tahoe region has made me very aware of what can happen to an area without strong, directed and controlled growth.” 
Baldridge was appointed with Supervisor Jim Beard voting no.

​DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION regarding the status of the Loyalton Mobile Home Park was made at the Sierra County Board of Supervisors’ meeting held in Loyalton on Tuesday, December 20th. Sierra County Auditor Van Maddox stated the Park did not sell at auction. He received an email from the State that said it is looking at revoking the permit but won’t have anything definite until the middle of January. 
Maddox wasn’t sure what the process would be. Supervisor Paul Roen was hoping for some relocation opportunities with the State closing it and not the County. 
County Counsel said there was a possibility of some relocation funding, which is a benefit with the State taking the lead.  Maddox stated, how fast they move will be the question, and added that the County should go forward with the code violations, so the State is clear on all the problems. He concluded by saying at least they are starting and at that point he will be back to the Board about selling it not as a trailer park. 
Supervisor Scott Schlefstein wanted the public aware that the State of California is the only entity that can revoke the permit. He added the State is in complete control and Sierra County has no control over it. Board Chair Lee Adams thought maybe they should contact Assemblyman Dahle and Senator Gaines to move this forward. 
Maddox hoped he would have something more by the next meeting in Loyalton. 
Sierra County Planning Director Tim Beals said they have 80% completion of inventory on the land use issues on the property. He stated there were building permit issues, land use issues and illegal dumping. Beals said he tried to engage the City of Loyalton and they have not responded. He felt the task would be done by the next board meeting. 

SACRAMENTO – Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. today announced the appointment of Yvette Durant to a judgeship in the Sierra County Superior Court.

Durant, 51, of Truckee, has served as a commissioner at the Nevada County Superior Court since 2011. She was a sole practitioner from 1999 to 2011 and an associate at Tonon and Associates in 1999. Durant was an associate at Ashbaugh Beal from 1991 to 1993. She earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Washington School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. She fills the vacancy created by the death of Judge John P. Kennelly. Durant is a Democrat.

The compensation for this position is $191,612.

Wow, talk about "cut to the chase" interesting - just plug in your county, and the # of working adults + non working children to see if you could afford to live, with a full time minimum wage job...  It's all spelled out...
Russell 




http://www.latimes.com/visuals/graphics/la-me-g-california-new-minimum-wage-20160328-htmlstory.html

PETA WARNS SIERRA COUNTY RESIDENTS: ANIMALS WILL DIE DURING SEVERE WEATHER
Leaving Animals Outside in Freezing Temperatures Is a Deadly Criminal Act
 
Sierra County, Calif. — Every year, PETA receives thousands of complaints about people who leave animals outside in the cold. Cold temperatures and inclement weather spell extra hardship for "backyard dogs," who often go without adequate food, water, shelter, or veterinary care. Although they have fur coats, dogs and other animals can still suffer from deadly frostbite and exposure, and they can become dehydrated when water sources freeze. That's why PETA is working with law-enforcement officials across the country to get charges filed against people who illegally leave their animals outside to die or to shiver and ache in the cold all day and night.
 
As your area prepares for strong winds, heavy snowfall, and bitter temperatures, will you please share the following information with your audience now and throughout the winter in order to help protect animals?


·       Keep animals indoors. This is absolutely critical when it comes to puppies and kittens, elderly animals, small animals, and dogs with short hair, including pointers, beagles, pit bulls, Rottweilers, and Doberman pinschers. Short-haired animals will also benefit from a warm sweater or a coat on walks. Don't allow your cat or dog to roam outdoors. During cold weather, cats sometimes climb under the hoods of cars to be near warm engines and are badly injured or killed when the car is started.
·       Wipe off your dogs' or cats' legs, feet, and stomachs after they come in from the snow. Salt and other chemicals can make them sick if ingested. You should also increase animals' food rations during cold weather because they burn more calories in an effort to stay warm.
·       Keep an eye out for stray animals. Take unidentified animals indoors until you can find their guardians, or take them to an animal shelter. If strays are skittish or otherwise unapproachable, provide food and water and call your local humane society for assistance in trapping them and getting them indoors.
·       If you see animals left outside without shelter from the elements, please notify authorities. For information on what constitutes adequate shelter, click here.
·       During extreme cold weather, birds and other animals may have trouble finding food and water. Offer rations to wildlife who are caught in storms or whiteouts by spreading birdseed on the ground. Provide access to liquid water by filling a heavy water bowl and breaking the surface ice twice a day. Remember to remove the food once the weather improves, in order to encourage the animals to move on to warmer areas.
 

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The California Highway Patrol (CHP) wants all motorists on the roadways to drive safely during their travel this holiday season.  As part of its upcoming Maximum Enforcement Period (MEP), the CHP reminds motorists to buckle up, avoid distracted driving, designate a sober driver, and always travel at a safe speed for conditions. 


The CHP Christmas MEP will begin at 6:01 p.m. on Friday, December 23, and will end at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, December 26.  Although the focus of this MEP is on speed enforcement, officers will also be looking for distracted drivers and those who are not buckled up.  In addition, officers and drug recognition experts will be looking for all signs of impaired driving as well as assisting motorists wherever needed.


“The Christmas holiday is a wonderful time of year for family and friends to get together and enjoy lasting memories.  The CHP wants all motorists to slow down and arrive safely at their destination,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow.


During the 2015 Christmas MEP, 35 people died on California’s roadways.  Among the
12 people who died in the CHP’s jurisdiction, 50 percent were not wearing seat belts.  Wearing a seat belt is the single most effective thing you can do to protect yourself in the event of a traffic collision.  During last year’s MEP period, the CHP made 700 arrests for driving under the influence. 


The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) calls impaired driving an immediate crisis in the United States.  The NHTSA reports that 35,092 people were killed in motor vehicle collisions in 2015, ending a five-decade trend of declining fatalities.  Research shows almost one in three fatalities involved impaired drivers or speeding. 


“Making wise decisions, such as wearing your seat belt, traveling at a safe speed, and designating a sober driver, will help improve your safety on the roadways,” Commissioner Farrow emphasized.  “These choices could save your life or the life of someone you love.”


The mission of the CHP is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.
###

By Jon Coupal
President of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
Once upon a time we called them “public servants.” Today, most taxpayers struggle to keep a straight face when this term is used to describe the well-paid, elite who govern us.
In a state where the median per capita income is just over $30,000, Gov. Brown, legislators and other state elected officials will celebrate the holidays with a four percent pay raise. The California Citizens Compensation Commission, whose members are appointed by the governor, decided the improved economy and healthy state budget justified the raise. California lawmakers, who were already the most generously paid in all 50 states, will now receive $104,115, earning them $14,774 more per year than the next highest. Of course, this does not count the additional $176 per day in “walking around money,” living expenses lawmakers receive for every day the Legislature is in session, amounting to an average of $34,000.
The governor, too, is now the highest paid at $190,100 — Pennsylvania’s governor is actually slated to make $723 more, but Gov. Tom Wolf does not accept the salary.
Do Californians pay their governor, the top executive of a state government responsible to nearly 40 million constituents, enough? The fact that there is never a shortage of candidates for this job is an indication that the pay is sufficient. So, the question arises, why do many government employees receive more than the governor?
At the local level, most cities have as their chief executive, a city manager. Of 479 cities – out a total of 482 – reporting to the state controller, 279 are paid more than the governor. Of these, 24 receive over $300,000 annually.
For some cities, paying their top administrator a high salary seems to be a matter of vanity. Councilmembers, who approve generous compensation, will take the position that their city deserves a highly-paid manager, the same way some car buyers justify the purchase of a luxury vehicle. Just as the neighbors may be impressed by the new Mercedes, neighboring cities will be impressed with their city’s ability to overpay the help. This, of course, puts pressure on surrounding cities to keep up with the Joneses.
While some city hall insiders will argue that higher pay is justified by a larger population, there seems to be no actual correlation.
Escondido, California’s most generous city, has been compensating its manager $413,000 annually to serve a population of 151,000. In slightly larger Palmdale, the manager receives $138,000 to look after 160,000 residents. And then there is Garden Grove with a population of 177,000 where the city manager gets $89,000.
A few years ago, the city manager in Bell went to prison for illegally compensating himself $800,000 per year. However, although it may not be illegal, the city of Vernon stands out as a candidate for the most profligate in the state. Its top executive is paid more than $328,000. The city’s population is only 210, which means that each resident is responsible for over $1,560 to compensate the manager. (The rumor that Vernon’s top executive insists on being called “Your Majesty” could not be verified.) Another small city, Gustine in Merced County, with a population of 5,482 gets the award for most frugal. It pays its city manager $909 annually.
While there are other areas of government employee compensation that beg examination, the range of pay for city managers seems to be the most irrational.
Still, none of these local administrators is close to the state’s top salary of $3.35 million. But since the program generates the revenue to pay UCLA football coach Jim Mora, he is more likely to be criticized for his record more than his salary.




Jon Coupal is president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association --


California’s largest grass-roots taxpayer organization, dedicated to the


protection of Proposition 13 and the advancement of taxpayers’ rights.

​

Previously with Sierra Destination Realty in Clio, she has lived and worked in the Plumas County area for 23 years. Juli brings a wealth of local knowledge, experience and market knowledge to the Dickson Graeagle Team.
“I chose Dickson Realty because of its culture, support, superior reputation, as well as the exceptional resources the company offers to both agents and clients alike,” said Thompson. Her background includes office management in local county government with environmental health, real estate sales, marketing and land development. She has successfully worked as a resort and second home specialist throughout Eastern Plumas County for the past four years. 

Juli is a proud grandmother of two and enjoys everything the High Sierras have to offer including fishing, hiking, horseback riding and photography.

The Dickson Graeagle office is located near the intersection of Highways 89 and 70 at 8912 Highway 89, Blairsden, 96103. Juli can be reached at (530) 927-7058 or jthompson@dicksonrealty.com.
About Dickson Realty
Dickson Realty has offices in Caughlin Ranch, Downtown Reno, Sparks, Somersett, Damonte Ranch and Montrêux in Reno/Sparks, Nev., as well as Graeagle, Donner Lake and Truckee, Calif. Dickson Realty is the market leader and has been in business since 1973. For more information, visit dicksonrealty.com.

Several dams full in Shasta, Plumas, Butte, Lassen Counties
 
CHICO, Calif.— Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is cautioning recreationalists near rivers and streams to be aware of higher flows brought on by recent rains and spilling reservoirs.


Most PG&E’s reservoirs haven’t spilled this early in the wet season in years because of ongoing drought conditions, so recreationalists may be caught off guard by the higher water flows downstream. 


Four of PG&E’s six reservoirs along the Pit River are overflowing or expected to be soon, as are four of the six reservoirs along the North Fork Feather River.


Reservoirs spilling or about to spill include the Pit 4, Pit 5, Pit 6 and Pit 7 along the Pit River in Shasta County, and Belden, Rock Creek, Cresta and Poe reservoirs on the North Fork Feather River in Plumas and Butte counties. Mountain Meadows Reservoir in Lassen County and the Grizzly Forebay in Plumas County are also spilling.


It’s not unusual for PG&E ‘s reservoirs to spill during the wettest parts of normal winters, because they tend to have less storage and are located at much higher elevations than state and federal multi-year water storage reservoirs like Shasta Lake and Lake Oroville. PG&E’s reservoirs are designed to capture rain and snowmelt runoff in winter, spring and early summer to generate clean, renewable hydroelectric power.
 
Below are some water safety tips:
 
Water Safety Tips
·         Sudden immersion in cold water can stimulate the “gasp reflex,” causing an involuntary inhalation of air or water. It can even trigger cardiac arrest, temporary paralysis, hypothermia and drowning. When faced with swift water, even the strongest swimmers may be easily overwhelmed.
·         Cold water entering the ear canal can cause vertigo and disorientation. This may confuse swimmers, causing them to venture deeper into the water.
·         Recreating in PG&E canals and flumes is strictly prohibited. Stay out of canals and flumes, which are very dangerous due to slippery sides and fast moving water.

​CHP  REPORT:
On December 18, 2016 shortly before 2:20 a.m., a male driver was driving a 2008 Audi northbound on US-395 north of mile post marker 395 LAS 7.50. At the same time a male driver was driving a 2002 Chevrolet southbound on US-395 approaching the Audi. For reasons yet to be determined, the driver of the Audi allowed the Audi to cross over the solid double yellow lines of US-395 into the path of the southbound Chevrolet. A portion f the front of the Audi collided with a portion of the front of the Chevrolet. Both vehicles were severely damaged during this collision, resulting in fatal injuries to four individuals. One individual was flown by Regional Emergency Medical Services Authority (REMSA) Care Flight to Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno, Nevada for treatment.
This collision is being investigated by officers from The California Highway Patrol Quincy Area. Employees from the California Department of Transportation (CalTrans), Lassen County Sheriff’s Office, REMSA, Sierra Valley Volunteer Fire Department, Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District, Nevada Highway Patrol and Washoe County Animal Control responded to the scene of this collision to provide assistance.
The California Highway Patrol Quincy Area thanks all of the individuals from the many agencies who responded to the scene and provided invaluable assistance. Our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of thos involved in this tragic collision.
 
On December 16, 2016 Patrick Bonnett, 63 of Portola was driving his 1997 Dodge pickup truck at approximately 3:44 p.m. northbound on US-395 in the #1 lane at 55-60 mph. The roadway was icy and Bonnett lost control and the Dodge spun in a counter clockwise direction and traveled in a northwesterly direction as it left the west road edge. The Dodge rolled over and came to rest on its roof, facing west within the center divide of US-395. Bonnett had to be extradited from the vehicle by fire and medical personnel due to the extreme damage to the passenger compartment from the collision. Bonnett was transported to Renown Medical Center with spinal fractures.

William Hall (73) Portola.  Loaded firearm in vehicle.  One year probation, fine $700.
 
Civillo Mallari Jr. (58) Union City.  Driving while suspended.  Three years probation, fine $1469.
 
Susan Burnett (50) American Canyon.  Driving with a blood alcohol level of .08 or above.  Three years probation, two days jail, fine $2400, and must attend alcohol school.
 
Steven Bonavita (51) Sierraville.  Driving while suspended.  Three years probation, two days jail, and a fine $1469.
 
Shane Perkins (43) Oroville.  Perkins pled guilty to felon residential (first degree) burglary for burglarizing a remote vacation cabin. His sentencing is scheduled for January 24.
 
Valerie Robertson (59) Loyalton.  Robertson was sentenced after pleading guilty to felony preparation of false evidence to be submitted to a court when she was caught in possession of frozen urine which she intended to use to defeat a probation test for drugs.  She was also convicted of possession of methamphetamine.  Robertson was put on four years probation, served 195 days in jail, fined $2410, and ordered to attend and successfully complete drug court. 
 
Jonathan Kimpson (28) Loyalton.  Sentenced to three years probation, 117 days in jail and must complete drug court for possession of methamphetamine.
 

 
 
Shannon Brandes (48) Portola.  Driving under the influence with a prior conviction. She was placed on five years probation, served ten days jail, fined $2500, and ordered to attend alcohol school. 
 
Brandon Morrow (31) Loylaton / Reno.  Sentenced for violation of probation.  He was placed on felony probation for assault on a peace officer causing injury when he attacked former sheriff John Evans who was attempting to arrest Morrow on a warrant.  He was also convicted of being under the influence of methamphetamine.  Four years state prison.
 
Drew Kinzie (36) Downieville.  Kinzie pled guilty to felony false imprisonment during the involvement of a domestic violence matter.  He will be formerly sentenced on January 11, and he remains in jail in lieu of $50,000 bail.  

By Nathaniel Sillin
If you're eligible for Medicare, or will be in the coming year, there are a few changes you should know about for 2017.
An increase in the Department of Labor's Consumer Price Index (CPI) means there'll be an increase in Social Security benefits and Medicare Part B premiums. For most recipients the increases almost offset each other, but those who aren't covered by the "hold harmless" provision (about 30 percent of recipients) face a larger Part B premium increase.
These changes, along with several others, will go into effect soon and you should consider how they could affect your budget.
A slight increase in your Social Security benefits. Since 1975, Social Security benefits have an automatic cost-of-living adjustment (COLA). The adjustment depends on the CPI and helps keep your benefits in line with the rising cost of goods.
There wasn't a COLA for 2016 benefits, but there is a .3 percent adjustment for next year. Meaning, you'll get an additional $3 per $1,000 you receive in benefits. The estimated average monthly benefit for all retired workers is expected to increase $5, from $1,355 to $1,360.
Medicare Part B premiums will also rise. The COLA also affects Medicare Part B premiums, the part of Medicare that covers some types of procedures and medical equipment. However, for about 70 percent of Medicare recipients, the Social Security Act's "hold harmless" provision prohibits an increase to Medicare B premiums of more than the previous year's COLA adjustment.
According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, held harmless recipients will pay $109 per month, an increase of $4.10.
If you aren't held harmless, Part B premiums could increase by about 10 percent. The remaining 30 percent of Social Security beneficiaries will have their Part B premium increase by about 10 percent. You could fall into the non-held-harmless group if you:

• Are a new enrollee
• Enrolled in Medicare but don't receive Social Security benefits
• Get billed directly for Medicare Part B
• Receive Medicare and Medicaid benefits and your state Medicaid programs pay your Part B premium
• Are a high-income earner subject to an income-adjusted premium

For the non-held-harmless group, the premium depends on the recipient's (or couple's when filing a joint tax return) adjusted gross income (AGI).

• The lowest monthly premium, for individuals who have an AGI of $85,000 or less ($170,000 for couples), will increase from $121.80 to $134 a month per person.
• On the high end, for recipients with an AGI over $214,000 ($428,000 for couples), the monthly premium will increase from $389.80 to $428.60 per person.

Medicare Part A and B deductibles will also increase. Most people don't have to pay Medicare Part A premiums, but you could still have to pay a deductible or coinsurance for some Part A benefits.

• The deductible for inpatient hospital coverage, which helps cover the first 60 days of care, will increase from $1,288 to $1,316 per benefit period.
• Daily coinsurance for the 61st through 90th day of treatment will increase from $322 to $329.
• Daily coinsurance for day 91 on will rise from $644 to $658.
• Each day past day 90 counts towards your lifetime reserve. You have a maximum of 60 lifetime reserve days; after which you could be responsible for all costs.
• Skilled nursing facility care is completely covered for your first 20 days.
• Daily coinsurance for day 21 to 100 of skilled nursing care will increase to $164.50.
• You could be responsible for all costs beyond day 100.

The Part B annual deductible will also increase, from $166 to $183. Generally, after you've met your deductible, you'll pay 20 percent of Medicare-approved costs for services covered by Part B.
Bottom line: Social Security benefits, Medicare Part B premiums and Part A and B deductibles and coinsurance will increase in 2017. Whether you're held harmless or not, take steps to understand which changes could affect you and alter your budget accordingly.

​LOYALTON MOBILE ESTATES, just outside the City, did not sell, receiving no bids in the most recent public auction.
There are three contiguous parcels and minimum bid was $265,700. The combined total for all  current and delinquent taxes total $412,259.59. 
The breakdown of the back taxes owed:
Solid Waste                       $ 192,328.31
Taxes                                 $   77,734.59
Penalties                            $   17,727.72
Interest                               $ 114,141.69
Costs/Tax Sale Costs         $   14,623.50
In addition, Loyalton water and sewer is owed in 
excess of $200,000.
According to Sierra County Auditor / Treasurer / Tax Collector Van Maddox, one person signed up but did not bid. 
Van said the next step, according to the State, is a number of building violations which the County has well documented and will hopefully be filed shortly. 
Van said the County needs to push the State as the County has complied with the State’s wishes and now needs to insist the State does its job. 
The State, according to Van, has the legal obligation to evoke the license and help those legitimately living there to relocate. But he said it will be 3-4 months before evictions because of it being winter.
It’s everybody’s hope the squatters will leave as Van states, they “came for an easy ride.”

Brysyn Simeral, local boy out of Chilcoot, attends Loyalton elementary (3rd grader) Races Outlaw Go karts. He finished his season out strong. He won the Championship at Rattlesnake Raceway and rookie of the year. He came in second place overall in Fernley, Nevada. Brysyn was interviewed on December 8th on ESPN radio. He got to co host the show and tell about his achievements this year. Brysyn also got to talk via phone to TJ Bell. TJ Bell is a NASCAR driver in all three NASCAR series   (sprint, nationwide and truck series) TJ Bell will be in Reno on December 26th at Need to Speed and he will go head to head with Brysyn on the track! Brysyn thinks it's super cool to be able to race a NASCAR driver at the age of 8 years old. Brysyn will be heading to California on January 7th to race the kart nationals. Brysyn would like to thank ESPN radio, his sponsors, his mom and dad (Kelly & Rebecca Herron) his grandma and papa (Don and Kelly Hughes) & The Cunningham's. To everyone who follows Brysyn's dream we thank you! ​

The Skilled Nursing Facility Residents at Eastern Plumas Health Care’s Loyalton Campus were evacuated on Sunday, December 11th and transported by ambulances to Portola’s Skilled Nursing.
The Loyalton facility’s heater system has two boilers and a month ago, the main one failed. The Number Two boiler, described as bad or worse than the main one and having bad pipes and cracks,  was put online. 
According to Linda Satchwell, Recruitment & PR Coordinator of Eastern Plumas Health Care, a disaster/evacuation plan was put into place and all residents’ families were called in case of failure and what would happen with each resident.
With the Number Two boiler failure, that disaster plan was put into place Sunday morning. According to Satchwell, EPHC CEO Tom Hayes and staff members spent two hours in Loyalton that morning on an evacuation plan.
Satchwell stated on Monday how Plant Operations Director Stan Peiler has been working with architects and driving from Portola to Loyalton at 1 a.m. daily “nursing” the boiler prior to its failure. 
On Monday they were repairing and rebuilding one of the boilers and buying a forced air heat solution for backup in case the boilers fail again.  Hospital CEO Tom Hayes was hopeful this temporary solution will be complete by the end of this week at which time they can transfer all residents back to Loyalton’s Campus.  
The longer term solution is to replace the two boilers at the facility but this will take at least six months to a year because of all the permits needed from the State.  
Satchwell stressed their focus is on patients and their families. She described it as a “horrible situation,” acknowledged “transfer trauma” and said they are doing everything to get the boilers fixed with a lot of staff working around the clock since it happened. A new system will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to Satchwell.
Seventeen of the 21 Loyalton Campus skilled nursing residents were taken to Portola’s Skilled Nursing Facility. Four residents were taken home. Satchwell described Portola’s facility at 1 p.m. on Sunday, which had had most rooms full, as “quiet and calm” after eight of the residents had been transferred to regular rooms, SNF rooms and into the library.
Sierra County Supervisor Jim Beard had been in contact with Tom Hayes and had offered information on USDA which may help with funding in grants or with no and low interest rate loans.
On Monday night, Hayes met with members of Sierra Valley District Hospital Board over possible funding options.

The wonderful Girls Night Only at Sierra Valley Home Center on Friday night, December 2nd, followed by the two-story crafts fair, the free spaghetti feed with toys for Toys for Tots and the arrival of Santa on Saturday, December 3rd, were all highly successful and made for a fun community week end. Thanks to all the volunteers who donated time and effort.
Sierra Pacific Industries loaned their equipment to erect the massive blue spruce donated by Sue Camara of Sierra Brooks and Connor Heywood strung the lights on the community tree. Thanks to all!