Item Description:
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JPA A2512771 with the City of Eden Prairie expanding services of the Hennepin County Embedded Social Worker program, 04/01/25-12/31/26
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, Joint Powers Agreement A2512771 with the City of Eden Prairie to enhance the coordination between local police departments and the Human Services and Public Health Department associated with the Hennepin County Embedded Social Worker program during the period April 1, 2025 through 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.
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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 to expand access to the Embedded Social Worker Program in the Eden Prairie Police Department by adding a second embedded social worker.
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