Item Description:
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JPA A2412650 with the Metropolitan Airports Commission authorizing services of the Hennepin County Embedded Social Worker program, 03/01/25-02/28/27
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Joint Powers Agreement A2412650 with the Metropolitan Airports Commission to enhance the coordination between local police departments and the Human Services and Public Health Department (HSPHD) associated with the Hennepin County Embedded Social Worker Program for the period March 1, 2025 to February 28, 2027 be approved; and that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the Joint Powers Agreement on behalf of the County; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a supplemental appropriation of $115,826 and 1.0 FTE be added to the 2025 Human Services and Public Health budget.
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Background:
In 2019, six cities partnered with Hennepin County’s Behavioral Health Area to pilot embedding social workers in their police departments for a tailored response for 911 calls related to mental health and substance use issues. The Department requests approval for Joint Powers Agreements to expand access to the 911 Embedded Social Worker Program to the Metropolitan Airports Commission.
The goal of the program is to reduce unnecessary law enforcement contacts, justice involvement and improve stability for individuals through engagement, assessment and connection to ongoing community-based supports in their community. In 2024, the Embedded Social Worker program received over 7,500 referrals resulting in more than 5,000 connections to community services across 31 police departments and 45 municipalities. While a significant number of people were referred to mental health supports, many needed help across a wide range of human services like housing and economic support
This request supports the county’s identified priorities and goals for the disparity reduction Health domain by focusing on achieving health equity where every person feels they have the opportunity to attain their highest health potential, and no one is disadvantaged from achieving this potential because of social position or other socially determined circumstances.
recommendation
Recommendation from County Administrator: Recommend Approval