Title
a. Authorize the Public Defender or designee to accept the $8,000,000 Proposition 47 Cohort IV Grant entitled “Effecting Change in Circumstances (ECC)” from the State of California Board of State and Community Corrections (“BSCC”) to fund mental health services, substance use disorder services, housing related assistance, community based supportive services, and additional prevention/early intervention diversion services; and
b. Authorize the Public Defender or Chief Assistant Public Defender to execute the Grant Agreement No. BSCC1326-24 with BSCC for a total Grant amount of $8,000,000 for the grant period from October 3, 2024 through June 30, 2028.
Report
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Authorize the Public Defender or designee to accept the $8,000,000 Proposition 47 Cohort IV Grant entitled “Effecting Change in Circumstances (ECC)” from the State of California Board of State and Community Corrections (“BSCC”) to fund mental health services, substance use disorder services, housing related assistance, community based supportive services, and additional prevention/early intervention diversion services; and
b. Authorize the Public Defender or Chief Assistant Public Defender to execute the Grant Agreement No. BSCC1326-24 with BSCC for a total Grant amount of $8,000,000 for the grant period from October 3, 2024 through June 30, 2028.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION
The Board of State and Community Corrections has awarded a 45-month $8,000,000 grant to the County of Monterey Public Defender’s Office. The Grant entitled “Effecting Change in Circumstances (ECC)” will focus on individuals who are involved in the justice system and who also have a mental health (MH) issue and/or substance use disorder (SUD) that limits one or more of their life activities. The project addresses current gaps in providing MH and SUD
support to our rural and lower income population. Monterey County proposes to not only supplement existing intensive services, but also include additional prevention/early intervention diversion services to our underserved areas using restorative justice principles and evidence-based treatment models.
The goals and objectives for this proposal focuses on increasing the progression and recovery rate of this population by providing local substance use disorder services such as residential treatment slots, outpatient services and sober living environments along with mental health services. The project will provide services to 400 justice-involved individuals over 3 years.
Additionally, the Sobering Center previously established in Salinas and operating on a part-time basis will be funded for 24/7 operations. This Center will provide services tailored to the participant’s level of intoxication from alcohol and/or other drugs to achieve a safe and supportive short-stay service with qualified staff on site at all times. These services will free-up law enforcement time and monies and will contribute to the public health and safety of the community by providing clients with a place to sober-up with the goal of engaging them in follow-up substance use treatment services and/or other necessary supportive services and resources.
The program team will consist of a Program Director, 1.0 FTE Management Analyst III. In addition, contractual services will be provided for: Substance Use Disorder Treatment Services, Mental Health Services, Transportation to Treatment, Wrap-around Supportive Services, Housing Resources, and Performance Assessment as a measurement tool of the Proposition 47 Cohort IV grant program implementation.
This work supports the County of Monterey Public Defender’s Office vision and mission.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel, Risk Management, and the Auditor-Controller have reviewed this Agreement as to legal form, insurance requirements, and fiscal provisions respectively.
FINANCING
As the grant award occurred after the adoption of the Fiscal Year’s 2024-2025 Budget, the associated revenue and expenditures are not included in the Department’s current year’s operational budget. The Department will evaluate the need to increase revenue and appropriations at mid-year and will return to Budget Committee if necessary.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
This recommendation meets three of the Board’s strategic initiatives by improving health and quality of life through County supported policies, programs, and services as well as promoting access to equitable opportunities for healthy environments in collaboration with communities. Additionally, this creates a safe environment for people to achieve their potential and communities to thrive and grow by reducing violent crimes as well as crimes in general. Lastly, this recommendation promotes an organization that practices efficient and effective resource management and is recognized for responsiveness, strong customer orientation, accountability, and transparency.
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: Michelle C. Wouden, Chief Deputy Public Defenderx6422
Approved By: Susan E. Chapman, Public Defender, x5806