Mendo Local Weekly News Roundup - August 8, 2025
A weekly compilation of local news from around Mendocino County
🩺 Local Health Professionals Warn of Federal Cuts to Care
by John Glyer
Local doctors, nurses, and other health professionals are sounding the alarm over deep federal cuts to health care and public health programs, warning these reductions could leave rural communities like Mendocino County without access to basic care. In a letter to the Mendocino Voice, they say slashed funding for Medicaid, vaccines, and research will strain local clinics, endanger vulnerable populations, and cost lives.
⚖️ Mendocino Court Restricts Public Access to Criminal Records
by Frank Hartzell
On August 1, the Mendocino County Superior Court quietly implemented a rule that eliminates online access to criminal case documents. Members of the public must now travel to courthouses in Ukiah or Fort Bragg and pay multiple fees to view and copy files, a process critics say effectively creates a closed court system for criminal cases. The rule change stems from a 2019 statewide judicial council directive and has prompted concern about the erosion of constitutional rights and the movement to opaque government.
Other coverage: Mendo Local
👮 Fort Bragg Police Chief to Retire in October
by Elise Cox
https://mendolocal.substack.com/p/fort-bragg-police-chief-neil-cervenka
Fort Bragg Police Chief Neil Cervenka announced he will retire on October 1 after a 25-year law enforcement career, citing pride in his department’s progress on training, community outreach, and internal reforms. Since arriving in 2022, Cervenka brought the department into compliance with state standards, added electric vehicles, and emphasized organizational wellness. He also cleared the way for the creation of a social services unit to address homelessness and mental health issues. He was praised by colleagues and community leaders for leadership on both policy and compassion.
Other coverage:
MendocinoCoast.News
Mendofever
Mendocino Voice
🚧 Ukiah Officials Address Gas Line Ruptures, Plan Better Alerts Amid Ongoing Roadwork
by Justine Frederiksen
With road construction intensifying in Ukiah, city officials are exploring ways to improve public communication after two unmarked PG&E gas lines were ruptured on Main Street in July. Public Works Director Tim Eriksen told the City Council the incidents were not the city’s fault, noting that PG&E has taken responsibility for the old, unmarked laterals. Council members discussed enhancing Nixle emergency alerts—potentially linking them to city Facebook posts and improving Spanish translations—to keep residents better informed. Paving on Main Street begins Friday, Aug. 8, with closures and limited access expected through mid-month.
🪡 County Expands Needle Exchange Amid Criticism Over Missing Syringes
by Matt LaFever
Mendocino County supervisors approved a $100,000 expansion of its syringe exchange program despite reports that more than 45,000 needles remain unreturned. Fourth District Supervisor Bernie Norvell raised concerns about drug normalization and environmental harm, while public health leaders defended the harm-reduction model as life-saving and cost-effective. Officials say they’re working on improved tracking and cleanup protocols, but debate continues over how best to balance addiction treatment, community safety, and environmental protection.
🚑 Volunteers Slammed by County for “Fiscal Assessment” of EMS Funds
by Mark Scaramella
https://theava.com/archives/271047
Volunteer ambulance crews in Covelo, Laytonville, and Anderson Valley are crying foul after Mendocino County launched a formal financial review of the small stipends they receive for providing 24/7 emergency services. Mark Scaramella writes that the so-called “fiscal assessment” is insulting and hypocritical, especially given the lack of oversight applied to large mental health contracts. Volunteers say the review overlooks the critical role they play and ignores years of chronic underfunding in rural emergency medical services.
🤠 Community Gathers to Honor Late Supervisor John Pinches
by Jim Shields
https://theava.com/archives/271045
Friends, family, and constituents gathered at the Laytonville Rodeo Grounds on July 26 to celebrate the life and legacy of former Mendocino County Supervisor John Pinches. Shields praised Pinchas as a down-to-earth problem solver and advocate for rural residents, who fought bureaucratic waste, fixed roads, protected libraries, and held department heads accountable.
🚓 Ukiah Manhunt Ends in Vineyard, Two Patrol Cars Disabled by Error
by Matt LaFever
A dramatic police chase through Ukiah ended in a vineyard Saturday night after the suspect, 34-year-old Kolton Lindecarnes, fled on foot and was captured by drone-assisted officers. The chase began after he sped away from a traffic stop and involved multiple agencies. In a twist, two Ukiah Police patrol cars accidentally hit spike strips meant for the suspect and were disabled. Lindecarnes now faces multiple charges including felony evasion and DUI.
⚖️ Philo Man Faces Seven Felony Sex Charges Involving Minor
by Frank Hartzell
Ryan Clayton Davis, 41, of Philo, appeared in Fort Bragg court last week to face seven felony charges related to alleged sexual contact with an underage girl over a 18-month period. Prosecutors cited “position of trust” and “vulnerable victim” as aggravating factors that could influence sentencing. Davis is currently out on his own recognizance with protective orders in place. A preliminary hearing was postponed at the request of his attorney, who declined to comment.