Napa County, CA — In a significant milestone for public health and safety, Napa County’s food facilities have earned impressive grades in recent health inspections, with more than 90 percent receiving an “A” grade and 98 percent achieving an “A” or “B.” This achievement highlights the county’s continued commitment to upholding high standards for food safety and its reputation as a world-class culinary destination.
The results come under new leadership within the county’s Planning, Building, and Environmental Services Department, following a department-wide review aimed at enhancing efficiency, accountability, and public health protection. The Environmental Health Division, which oversees the inspections, has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfire response, staffing shortages, and the growing need to regulate unpermitted food vendors and temporary food events.
Despite these hurdles, the department focused its efforts on high-risk establishments, addressing public complaints, and increasing oversight of businesses with a history of violations. Brian Bordona, director of the Planning, Building, and Environmental Services Department, emphasized the dedication of the team in meeting these challenges head-on.
“We prioritized high-risk establishments and increased monitoring where it was most needed,” Bordona said. “The results speak to the impact of focused improvements and the commitment of our exceptional team.”
In its ongoing efforts to improve food safety, the department has implemented several key strategies:
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Metrics-Based Inspection Model: The department has adopted a metrics-based approach to inspections that ensures consistency, accountability, and transparency across all food facilities in the county.
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Optimized Resource Allocation: Resources have been strategically allocated to support timelier and more effective inspections, allowing for a quicker response to potential issues.
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Enhanced Data Systems: An upgraded data system has improved reporting and oversight, helping track inspection outcomes and maintain high standards of health and safety.
These improvements have contributed to the significant increase in inspection scores, and Bordona credits the department’s staff as well as local food industry partners for the positive results. “We are also grateful to our local food industry partners for their unwavering commitment to public health and safety,” he added. “Their dedication plays a key role in maintaining Napa Valley’s reputation as a culinary and wine destination of the highest caliber.”
As the department continues to evolve, the county’s food facilities are expected to maintain high levels of compliance, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for residents and visitors alike. Napa County’s focus on public health and safety, coupled with a robust inspection process, underscores the county’s ongoing commitment to its community and the world-class food culture it fosters.
For now, Napa’s food industry leaders and residents can take pride in the county’s ability to overcome challenges and deliver impressive inspection outcomes that safeguard both public health and the region’s culinary standing.