Title
Adopt a Resolution to:
a. Amend the Public Defender Office FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget Unit 001-2270-PUB001-8169 to add one .50 FTE Deputy Public Defender II (39P11); and
b. Authorize County Administrative Office to incorporate the changes to the FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget Unit 001-2270-PUB001-8169 to reflect the change in position counts; and
c. Approve an increase in appropriations and estimated revenues of $79,469 for the Public Defender FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget Unit 001-2270-PUB001-8169 (4/5ths vote required); and
d. Authorize the Auditor-Controller to amend the FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget by increasing appropriations and estimated revenues by $79,469 in the Public Defender Unit 001-2270-PUB001-8169 (4/5ths vote required); and
e. Authorize the Human Resources Department to implement the changes in the Advantage HRM system.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Amend the Public Defender Office FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget Unit
001-2270-PUB001-8169 to add one .50 FTE Deputy Public Defender II (39P11); and
b. Authorize County Administrative Office to incorporate the changes to the FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget Unit 001-2270-PUB001-8169 to reflect the change in position counts; and
c. Approve an increase in appropriations and estimated revenues of $79,469 for the Public Defender FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget Unit 001-2270-PUB001-8169 (4/5ths vote required); and
d. Authorize the Auditor-Controller to amend the FY 2019-20 Adopted Budget by increasing appropriations and estimated revenues by $79,469 in the Public Defender Unit
001-2270-PUB001-8169 (4/5ths vote required); and
e. Authorize the Human Resources Department to implement the changes in the Advantage HRM system.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Recent criminal justice reform legislation, California Penal Code Section 1001.36- Diversion of Individuals with Mental Disorders, as amended in January 2019. The reform allows some people with mental health disorders to get treatment when they are charged with a crime. If the defendant successfully completes treatment, the criminal charges may be reduced or dismissed. The length of this diversion can last for up to two years with numerous court appearances, detailed research, coordination with mental health providers and ongoing reports. The Deputy Public Defender II will provide legal assistance that will emphasize a holistic approach for mental health, drug, alcohol, domestic violence, and criminal history.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Human Resources Department reviewed and approved the Request to Classify and concurs with the recommendation. The Budget Committee supported the recommendation at its October 24th meeting.
FINANCING:
The total estimated costs for FY 2019-20 for this half-time Deputy Public Defender II position is $79,469 including salary and benefits. The half-time position is fully reimbursable by grant funding through a collaborative Prop 47 grant with Behavioral Health. The grant was available as of August 2019, with anticipated funding for three years.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
ü Public Safety:
Create a safe environment for people to achieve their potential, leading businesses and communities to thrive and grow by reducing violent crimes in general.
Prepared by: Latasha Ellis-Bowers, Finance Manager, ext.5082
Approved by: Susan Chapman, Public Defender, ext.5806
Attachment: Attachment A
Resolution