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File #: 25-1323    Version: 2 Name:
Type: Informational Report Status: Passed
File created: 10/31/2025 In control: Board of Supervisors
On agenda: 11/4/2025 Final action: 11/4/2025
Title: 1:30 P.M. - Consider Additional Mitigating Actions to Address Supervisor Bushnell's Conduct
Sponsors: Steve Madrone
Attachments: 1. Staff Report, 2. Code of Conduct, 3. Harassment Policy, 4. Boards, Commissions and Ad Hoc Assignments

To: Board of Supervisors

From: Supervisor Steve Madrone

Agenda Section: Time Certain Matter

Vote Requirement: Majority

SUBJECT:
title
1:30 P.M. - Consider Additional Mitigating Actions to Address Supervisor Bushnell's Conduct
end

RECOMMENDATION(S):
Recommendation
That the Board of Supervisors:
1. Consider removal as Board Chair; and
2. Consider removal from Boards, Commissions and Ad Hoc assignments; and
3. Consider referral of the matter to the Grand Jury to review Supervisor Bushnell's conduct and to provide recommendations on changes to be considered for the Board of Supervisor's Code of Conduct; and
4. Appoint two members of the Board of Supervisors to draft a correspondence to the Grand Jury; and
5. Take other actions as necessary.

Body
STRATEGIC PLAN:
This action supports the following areas of your Board's Strategic Plan.

Area of Focus: Core Services/Other
Strategic Plan Category: 9999 - Core Services/Other

DISCUSSION:
Following completion of the complaint review and investigation process, and in accordance with the Board of Supervisors Code of Conduct and Ethics, the Board of Supervisors, prior to this item, considered censure against Supervisor Bushnell based on sustained findings demonstrating that she raised her voice, spoke in a hostile manner, and cursed at employees.

Such conduct undermines public trust, compromises the effective functioning of County government, and violates County ethical standards and workplace conduct policies. In light of these findings, the Board may consider further actions designed to restore public confidence, ensure a safe and respectful working environment, and uphold the standards of ethical governance expected by and owed to the residents of Humboldt County.

The Code of Conduct and Ethics requires Board members to maintain professional conduct, practice civility, refrain from abusive behavior, and support a positive workplace environment. Sustained violations are subject to public censure. Add...

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