COLUSA, CA (MPG) — The Colusa City Council approved a revised response to the 2024–2025 Colusa County Civil Grand Jury report at its Sept. 2 meeting, addressing each of the grand jury’s findings and recommendations with specific updates.
The new letter replaces an earlier draft that the council chose not to send in August after several members said it came across as disrespectful. The updated response outlines corrective actions already taken by the city and identifies items still under review.
In its final report, the grand jury alleged that Colusa was not following state procurement thresholds, lacked detailed financial reporting, did not have clear check-signing controls, and had inadequate audio and visual systems for public access. It recommended updates to purchasing procedures, accounting software, financial oversight policies, and council meeting technology.
The city’s revised letter notes that its purchasing policy was updated on June 3, 2025, and states that Colusa is compliant with CUPCCAA requirements. It disagreed with the grand jury’s second finding, saying no evidence was provided of procurement methods not being followed.
For financial reporting, the city acknowledged the need for improvement and said it has been updating its accounting software since January 2025. That process is expected to take two years.
On check signing, the city said requirements are already defined in municipal code section 2-5.2(b) and in Resolution 12-46, which designate authorized signers on city accounts.
Regarding meeting transparency, the council said it will review whether to continue using Zoom for public access. If Zoom is retained, the council will consider funding upgrades to improve sound and video quality.
The council also addressed the grand jury’s recommendations, noting that Colusa is compliant with the State of California Government Accounting Act and has incorporated procurement updates into its revised purchasing policy. It reiterated that accounting software upgrades are in progress and that check-signing procedures are already codified. The council said it will hold future discussions about the city’s audio-visual system and funding for potential improvements.
The full text of the city’s response is available in the Sept. 2 City Council agenda packet on the City of Colusa’s website, www.cityofcolusa.com.