Agenda - 01-21-2016 - 7-c - Creation of a Criminal Case Assessment Specialist Position

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2 resources. Allowing an individual to remain in the community will increase employment stability, avoid disruptions in treatment and education, preserve family stability, and as a result, reduce the likelihood of re-arrest. For individuals participating in the pretrial release program, the position will also provide case management support in treatment or diversionary programs with the expectation that this higher level of therapeutic support will increase successful outcomes in these programs and reduce recidivism. Finally, this position will support inmates remaining in the jail with counseling for ongoing mental health issues and will create discharge plans for those being released. The goal of these efforts is to promote immediate engagement in community resources upon release in an effort to reduce rates of recidivism. Funding for this position will be supported through reimbursement from Cardinal Innovations. Annually, the County provides maintenance of effort funding to Cardinal Innovations to support selected mental health, substance abuse, and intellectual/developmental disability services. In Fiscal Year 15-16, Orange County allocated $1.3 million to its maintenance of effort payment which includes a $107,500 reserve to support unforeseen needs. The County would use $31,200 of this reserve to finance the costs associated with Criminal Case Assessment Specialist. The position started in January as an unbenefited, temporary position but would be converted to a full time, benefitted position upon approval by the Board of County Commissioners. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The expenses for the Criminal Case Assessment Specialist are estimated to be $31,200. This includes funding for a temporary position for 60 days and funding for a full time, benefitted position for the balance of the fiscal year. These costs would be fully offset by reimbursement from Cardinal Innovations of $31,200, resulting in no net cost to the County. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are applicable to this agenda item • GOAL: ENSURE ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY The creation and preservation of infrastructure, policies, programs and funding necessary for residents to provide shelter, food, clothing and medical care for themselves and their dependents. • GOAL: CREATE A SAFE COMMUNITY The reduction of risks from vehicle/traffic accidents, childhood and senior injuries, gang activity, substance abuse and domestic violence. • GOAL: FOSTER A COMMUNITY CULTURE THAT REJECTS OPPRESSION AND INEQUITY The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race or color; religious or philosophical beliefs; sex, gender or sexual orientation; national origin or ethnic background; age; military service; disability; and familial, residential or economic status. RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the creation of a 1.0 FTE Criminal Case Assessment Specialist and accept revenue from Cardinal Innovations to offset the cost of the position.