220 West Broadway

San Diego, CA 92101

RE: San Diego County Grand Jury 1996-1997 Final Report

Dear Judge Howatt:

The San Diego County Grand Jury 1996-1997 hereby submits its Final Report to you for filing with the County Clerk in accordance with section 933 (a) of the Penal Code of California. This Grand Jury conducted inquiries under sections 919, 925, 925a, 933.1 and 933.5. The Grand Jurors approved all reports as required by section 916.

In your Charge to us on June 28, 1996, you stated, "You function lawfully only as a body; no individual grand juror acting alone has any power or authority." We sought to conduct this Grand Jury's investigations and reporting with this and your other stated parameters as our guide. This report is the product of 19 jurors, with diverse backgrounds, working to help local governments be more responsible and accountable to the public they represent.

This Final Report is a collection of 18 individual reports that are the result of mandated inspections, reviews, inquiries and investigations prompted by citizen complaints or by the collective interest of this Grand Jury to examine certain areas of government in San Diego County. One example of the impact of grand jury investigations and reports is this Jury's "Improving Low Income Housing Practices" report which was released early. Because of facts discovered during the investigation which prompted actions by the County's Assessor's Office, and the resulting publicity, a positive action has taken place to strengthen the low income housing program.

While these reports represent a great deal of the work of this Grand Jury, it does not reflect its overall impact. Frequently, we have been able to effect significant change simply by asking pertinent questions or making individuals and agencies aware of our concerns. The greatest value of the Grand Jury is that it does exist and has the power to examine all matters within its jurisdiction.

This Grand Jury thanks the Court for its consistent support in helping us complete our duties and serve our community.

Sincerely,

SAN DIEGO COUNTY GRAND JURY 1996-1997

By: GALE L. ACKER

Foreman