Title
a. Approve and authorize the Public Defender or designee to execute a Non-Standard Agreement with Renie Rondon-Jackson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to provide supervision for California State University Monterey Bay student intern, in the amount of $7,500 retroactive date of August 25, 2025 through December 31, 2026;
b. Approve and authorize the Public Defender or designee to execute up to three (3) amendments, extending the agreement by one (1) year each, where total additional costs do not exceed 10% of the contract amount ($750) and the amendments do not alter significantly the scope of work, and do not exceed the maximum amount of $8,250;
c. Accept the risk provisions as recommended by the Public Defender.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Public Defender or designee to execute a Non-Standard Agreement with Renie Rondon-Jackson, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, to provide supervision for California State University Monterey Bay student intern, in the amount of $7,500 retroactive date of August 25, 2025 through December 31, 2026;
b. Approve and authorize the Public Defender or designee to execute up to three (3) amendments, extending the agreement by one (1) year each, where total additional costs do not exceed 10% of the contract amount ($750) and the amendments do not alter significantly the scope of work, and do not exceed the maximum amount of $8,250;
c. Accept the risk provisions as recommended by the Public Defender.
SUMMARY:
The Public Defender office will host a student intern from California State University Monterey Bay (CSUMB) earning a Master of Social Work. The CSUMB requires the intern to be supervised by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker during the internship period.
DISCUSSION:
The Public Defender provides internship programs for students seeking a career in criminal law, social work, investigations, and administration. Interns are provided with an opportunity for hands-on work experience and exposure to services the Public Defender offers to indigent defendants, juveniles, and community members in both criminal and civil proceedings.
In June of 2020, the Public Defender added a Psychiatric Social Worker (non-licensed) position to provide recommendations and treatment intervention plans to clients as proactive steps to address issues leading to their involvement in the criminal justice system and mental health courts. Since the creation of this position, the office has received numerous inquiries regarding internship opportunities. In response, the Public Defender has recruited students who major in social work to assist in assignments such as, conducting interviews, gathering information for mitigation, preparing comprehensive psychosocial histories, providing social services information and education, and accompanying holistic defense clients at service provider intakes.
The intern plays a vital role within the defense team, supporting the Public Defer in delivering recovery oriented and culturally competent services that emphasize the strengths and resilience of each individual. Through this internship, students can build meaningful relationships with community programs and social service providers. Additionally, they collaborate closely with partners to address the comprehensive and diverse needs of clients, fostering a holistic approach to client advocacy and support.
Renie Rondon-Jackson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, is requested to provide one hour of remote supervision each week. In addition, she will be responsible for completing any necessary documentation required by the governing board of California State University Monterey Bay, to ensure compliance with academic and professional standards.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
County Counsel has reviewed Agreement as to legal form. Auditor Controller has reviewed as to fiscal provisions. Risk Manager has reviewed the insurance and indemnity provisions.
The Public Defender accepts the risks provisions and have outlined them in Exhibit B of the Non-Standard Agreement with Renie Rondon-Jackson.
FINANCING:
The costs associated with this agreement are included in the Public Defender's FY 2025-26 Adopted Budget, Fund 001, department 2270, Budget Unit 8169, Appropriation Unit PB001. Future year's costs will be included in the respective annual budgets.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
This recommendation supports the Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives by promoting an organization that practices efficient and effective resource management. As well as improving the quality of life through County supported programs and services. Lastly, this recommendation also supports Public Safety in creating a safe environment for people to achieve their potential, communities to thrive and grow while reducing violent crimes.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives
__Economic Development
_X_Administration
_X_Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
_X_Public Safety
Prepared by: Becky Avila, Management Analyst II, x.3048
Approved by: Nick Chiulos, Chief Assistant County Administrative Officer
Administrative Department Head , x.5145
Attachments:
Board Report
Non-Standard Agreement Renie Rondon-Jackson