Communications from the public can provide valuable information to the Civil Grand Jury, which may prompt an investigation of a local government agency. Any citizen may submit concerns regarding mistreatment, suspicious misconduct or inefficiencies to the Civil Grand Jury for consideration on a Citizen Complaint Form.
The Civil Grand Jury, at its discretion, inquires into citizen complaints regarding local government agencies and officials to identify practices in government that need improvement. The ultimate goal of the Civil Grand Jury is to improve government in Monterey County and to make public officials responsive to the people.
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
CONFIDENTIALITY
All citizen complaints are treated as confidential correspondence. All persons who appear before the Civil Grand Jury or who communicate with the Civil Grand Jury in writing are protected by strict rules of confidentiality. These rules extend to all participants in the process, including complainants and witnesses. Additionally, the minutes and records of Civil Grand Jury meetings are protected by law and cannot be subpoenaed or inspected by anyone.
LIMITATIONS OF INVESTIGATIVE AUTHORITY
The Civil Grand Jury has no jurisdiction or authority to investigate federal agencies, state agencies, the courts or criminal activity . Please also note the following limitations:
The Civil Grand Jury is authorized to examine all aspects of local government within the County of Monterey (including special districts) ensuring that all public monies are being handled judiciously, all accounts are properly audited—in general, guaranteeing honest, efficient government in the best interests of the people.
The Civil Grand Jury is authorized to: