Title
Receive a preliminary analysis report in response to Board Referral No. (#2021.20) requesting the Board of Supervisors seek and direct staff with potential funding and locations suitable for a Monterey County Family Justice Center. Including coordinating and working with the City of Salinas and related service providers who would be a part of the Family Justice Center.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive a preliminary analysis report in response to Board Referral No. (#2021.20);
b. Direct that staff proceed with completion of referral based on description in this report; or
c. Direct that staff:
i. Proceed with completion of referral based on modifications by the Board; or,
ii. Return to Board with a more comprehensive analysis of referral and anticipated effort for completion; or,
iii. Rescind referral.
d. Provide further direction, as appropriate.
SUMMARY:
On October 12, 2021 the Board added Supervisor Phillips’ referral #2021.20 to the Monterey County Board of Supervisors matrix. The purpose of the referral is to identify potential funding sources and suitable locations as well as identifying opportunities to collaborate with the City of Salinas, Social Services, and allied service agencies.
Proposed Project Description:
As stated in the referral a Family Justice Center provides wrap around services to victims of intimate partner violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse. A Family Justice Center provides a one-stop center for victims and their family members. Survivors can receive assistance in obtaining Temporary Restraining Orders, finding safe housing, meeting with prosecutors and investigators, and obtaining forensic exams including primary prevention services such as information and referral services for families at risk of experiencing Child Protective Services involvement.
Estimated Project Cost:
Currently we are unable to provide an estimated cost. There are considerable variables based on identifying a suitable location. We are seeking grant funding through the California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) and anticipate their selection of grantees in March 2022.
Staffing Level Estimate:
The Family Justice Center would need an executive director to run the center. The District Attorney has sufficient personnel to support the Family Justice Center with the exception of the executive director position. We have Deputy District Attorneys, District Attorney Investigators, and Victim Assistance Advocates currently assigned to the target population. Social Services have social workers who are assigned to the same population. The vision for Monterey County’s Family Justice Center model includes local nonprofits and allied agencies co-locating their staff at the Center, and them absorbing their respective agencies staff related cost.
Departmental Challenges:
Meeting with City of Salinas - currently scheduled for November 29, 2021.
Identifying funding sources outside government grants.
Identifying a suitable building and location.
Develop agreements with relevant non-profits and allied agencies.
Proposed Response Date:
Monterey County District Attorney and Social Services Director will report back to the Board of Supervisors in March of 2022.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
This referral will support the Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives by providing vital services to victims of crime and their family members.
Mark a check to the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives
__Economic Development
__Administration
X Health & Human Services
__Infrastructure
X Public Safety
Prepared by: Jeannine M. Pacioni, District Attorney, Ext. 5470
Approved by: Jeannine M. Pacioni, District Attorney, Ext. 5470
Attachments:
Board Referral No. # 2021.20