Title
a. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services to sign an agreement with Orphan Productions to administer the Safe Parking and Supportive Services Program in the amount of $139,630 for the period July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022; and
b. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services to sign up to (3) amendments to the agreement where the total amendments do not exceed 10% ($13,963) of the original contract amount, and do not significantly change the scope of work.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services to sign an agreement with Orphan Productions to administer the Safe Parking and Supportive Services Program in the amount of $139,630 for the period July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022; and
b. Approve and authorize the Director of the Department of Social Services to sign up to (3) amendments to the agreement where the total amendments do not exceed 10% ($13,963) of the original contract amount, and do not significantly change the scope of work.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Increasing numbers of homeless individuals in the County are living in their vehicles as a last resort form of housing. Vehicle dwelling by persons experiencing homelessness is scattered throughout the County, with some areas having greater density than others. Vehicles provide a sense of security for persons experiencing homelessness, as they help alleviate fears that are commonly associated with living on the streets or in a shelter.
The Monterey County Safe Parking Program in Marina opened in response to concerns and complaints of overnight parking occurring in neighborhoods. Use of the Safe Parking Program has been continuous, and the program is at its maximum capacity for parking (16 cars, 5 RVs average) and case management support services with a current wait list of 10 people. Case management assistance serving consists of employment and housing search, information & referral, and has housed 16 persons in the current fiscal year. The program handles 125 calls monthly, 1,245 calls year to date related to this program.
The Program expanded to a church parking lot in Seaside in April 2020. Because the Seaside site cannot accommodate R.V.’s, the Marina safe parking site will be utilized until an alternative site is confirmed. The contractor is actively seeking locations in Monterey County that are appropriate and receptive to hosting a safe parking site. During the coronavirus pandemic, persons living in their vehicles face an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19. Portable hygiene and garbage facilities are on-site at both locations, and masks and gloves have been provided for participants.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The Department of Social Services (DSS) is partnering with DSS facilities, County Counsel, and Public Works Facilities and Parks. The Auditor Controller and Purchasing have reviewed and approved this agreement. County Counsel has approved the agreement as to form.
FINANCING:
This Agreement is funded with County General Fund contributions. Sufficient appropriations and revenues for SOC004 are included in the FY 2021-22 Recommended Budget.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
This program correlates to the Health & Human Services Strategic Initiative adopted by the Board of Supervisors by working towards the goals of improving the health and quality of life outcomes for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives
__Economic Development
__Administration
X Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
__Public Safety
Prepared by: Glorietta Rowland, MAII, x3584
Approved by: Lori Medina, Director, x4430
Attachment: Agreement
The proposed agreement is on file with the Clerk of the Board as an attachment to this Board Report.