Item Description:
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JPA A2412636 with the City of Minneapolis authorizing services of the Hennepin County 911 Embedded Social Worker Program, 01/1/25-12/31/26
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Joint Powers Agreement A2412636 with the City of Minneapolis to enhance the coordination between local police departments and the Human Services and Public Health Department (HSPHD) associated with the 911 Embedded Social Worker Program for the period of January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2026 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 be approved
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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 Agreement launching a 911 Embedded Social Worker Program pilot with the City of Minneapolis through its Minneapolis Emergency Communications Center.
Embedded Social Workers receive referrals from the municipal police departments and dispatch offices regarding individuals who appear to have mental health, substance use, or other needs. The goal of the program is to reduce unnecessary law enforcement contacts, justice involvement and improve the stability for individuals through engagement, assessment and connection to community-based services 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