The future of Sierra County’s Probation Department office in Loyalton remains uncertain as county and city officials continue to disagree over the building’s lease, with a 120-day eviction notice prompting the County to begin looking for a new location.
County supervisors say they rejected a proposed lease that would have nearly doubled the rent and added new liabilities, while the City maintains it is simply seeking a fair market rate, proposing an increase from about $1,000 to $1,800 per month.
The dispute has sparked concern from residents, school officials, and community leaders, many of whom urged both sides to reach an agreement, noting the probation office’s proximity to local schools makes it an important public safety resource.
The debate has also expanded to include the cost of sheriff’s services and the distribution of local tax revenue, with county officials arguing the City pays well below the cost of services it receives, while city representatives questioned how tax dollars are allocated.
Although tensions remain, officials on both sides said negotiations are continuing in hopes of resolving the issue before the eviction deadline.
