Title
Sheriff's Office recommending the Board authorize the Chair to sign a non-financial Memorandum of Understanding between the County of El Dorado and the State of California's Department of Justice Eradication and Prevention of Illicit Cannabis Program for the term July 1, 2026 through October 30, 2026 to locate and eradicate illegal cannabis operations within the County of El Dorado.
FUNDING: N/A
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
The purpose of the MOU is a joint operation with the State of California DOJ and the Sheriff's Office to locate and eradicate illegal cannabis operations within the County of El Dorado. Illegal marijuana cultivation in the County of El Dorado poses risks to public safety, the environment, and local communities. These cultivation sites often operate outside of regulatory oversight, leading to significant adverse effects such as water theft, pesticide misuse, habitat destruction, and fire risks. The MOU outlines the roles and responsibilities of both parties, including resource sharing, operational coordination and joint enforcement to effectively address illegal marijuana cultivation, mitigate environmental damage, and ensure public safety.
Although this MOU falls under Board Policy C-18, Non-Financial Agreements and the Board has delegated authority to execute MOUs under this policy to the Chief Administrative Officer or designee, the California DOJ has requested Board approval of the MOU.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could elect not to sign the MOU limiting the Sheriff's Office resources and partnerships for eradicating illegal marijuana grows.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel approved this MOU.
CAO RECOMMENDATION / COMMENTS
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact associated with this MOU.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
Return one signed MOU to Sheriff’s Office for distribution.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
N/A
CONTACT
Undersheriff Eric Palmberg