The Lassen County Board of Supervisors met for its regular session on September 22, 2026, receiving law enforcement updates on major illegal cannabis operations, approving infrastructure investments, recognizing county personnel, and reviewing the 2026 Lassen County Fair season.
Massive Illegal Cannabis Eradication Detailed
Lassen County Sheriff-Coroner John McGarva addressed the board during public comment to outline the results of a joint multi-week law enforcement operation targeting illegal marijuana cultivation across northern Lassen County.
Beginning with aerial reconnaissance and joint investigations alongside Lassen County Code Enforcement in June, authorities identified numerous unpermitted cultivation sites. Interagency operations conducted from mid-August through early September led to the dismantling of these grows with support from state partners, including the Enforcement Team (EPIC) and specialized SWAT units.
“A lot of work, a lot of hard work, a lot of long days, but they went out there and did exactly what I wanted them to do… to take care of this problem,” Sheriff McGarva said, thanking department staff and participating agencies.
The Board formally thanked the Sheriff’s Office and collaborating law enforcement teams for their multi-week effort.
Key Board Actions & Department Reports
1. Public Health Service Recognition
The Board presented a 10-year service recognition to Public Health employee Rosa (Maria), with department leadership highlighting her behind-the-scenes tracking, eagerness, and operational contributions to county public health services.
2. PG&E EV Charging Infrastructure Program
Brenda Nyan, representing Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), delivered an update on utility initiatives assisting local agencies and commercial clients with Electric Vehicle (EV) infrastructure. Qualifying applicants receive coverage from PG&E for design, installation, and ongoing maintenance up to the utility meter.
3. Critical Core IT Equipment Upgrades Approved
Information Technology Director Travis presented a proposal for core network infrastructure equipment replacements to support countywide communications. To avoid significant increases in department-level PC direct-billing costs, IT leadership utilized designated technology reserve funds to cover the hardware acquisition. The Board voted unanimously to approve the purchase and authorize execution.
4. $771,460 Transportation Claim Authorized
Public Works Director Amy presented a resolution authorizing the county to file a formal claim with the Lassen County Transportation Commission for $771,460 in Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) funds. The revenue represents accumulated allocations over the past five to six fiscal years returned to Lassen County and the City of Susanville. The resolution passed unanimously.
5. 2026 Lassen County Fair Recap & CDFA Allocation
Fair Manager Bill Payer delivered the annual recap report for the 2026 Lassen County Fair, which the Board formally received and filed. Following the presentation, Supervisors unanimously approved a request to the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) for Fiscal Year 2025/2026 base allocations, securing up to $48,000 in state funding to support ongoing fairground operations and facility upkeep.
Closed Session Report
County Counsel reported out on three items considered during closed session:
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Litigation Exposure: One item under Government Code § 54956.9(d)(2) was pulled by the department.
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Go Construction Inc. v. County of Lassen: Direction was provided to county staff.
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Callaway v. County of Lassen: No reportable action was taken.
