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included in the final analysis and recommendations. Andy Sachs from the Center would work <br />with the County Manager's office and other key stakeholders to better define the make-up of <br />each focus group. Based on an hourly rate presented by the Center, staff estimates that the <br />cost for the focus groups may range from $2,000 to 2,500. <br />The Board of Commissioners may wish to consider scheduling a work session with the APSOC <br />Board of Directors and the Board of Health at the conclusion of the evaluation to hear the <br />recommendations of the HSUS evaluation. <br />A preliminary timeline using the guidelines on page 11 of the proposal (page 14 of this agenda <br />abstract) could be as follows: <br />December and January Preparation of data for submission to HSUS (APSOC) <br />January Planning and conducting focus groups (Dispute Settlement) <br />March Site visit by HSUS Consultant Team <br />March/April Follow-up Information sent to HSUS as requested (APSOC) <br />July Report prepared by HSUS <br />August/Early September Presentation of Recommendations to work session <br />FINANCIAL IMPACT: The total cost of the HSUS proposal is $18,500. The estimated cost of <br />the focus groups by Dispute Settlement Center would be $2,500. The total cost of the project <br />would be $21,000. Funding would come from an appropriation of fund balance to be <br />replenished in spring 2003 when additional half-cent sales tax proceeds are received. <br />RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board authorize the Chair to <br />sign the contract with HSUS for the external evaluation of the Orange County Animal Shelter <br />and authorize the staff to proceed with a contract with the Dispute Settlement Center for the <br />facilitation and summary of results from focus groups. <br />