Item Description:
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Joint Powers Agmt A2412190 with the City of Edina and the City of Richfield, to continue and expand services of the Hennepin County Police Embedded Social Worker Program in Edina and Richfield, 04/01/24-12/31/25
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that Joint Powers Agreement A2412190 with the City of Edina and the City of Richfield to establish a 911 Alternative Response which will enhance coordination between local police departments and the Human Services and Public Health Department (HSPHD) as a part of the Police Embedded Social Worker Program for the period of April 1, 2024 through December 31, 2025 be approved; and that the Chair of the Board be authorized to sign the amended Joint Powers Agreements on behalf of the county.
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Background:
In 2022, Hennepin County launched a pilot to test an alternative 911 response to calls for service involving residents experiencing mental health challenges and co-occurring mental health challenges and substance use disorders. The Department requests approval to establish a 911 Alternative Response Team in Edina and Richfield through this agreement and to build on success realized by the pilot in Brooklyn Park.
This systematic and layered approach allows for a tailored assessment and response for residents who engage law enforcement because of mental health and substance use needs. These programs leverage grants, billing, property taxes, and a cost share with police departments to finance the costs.
Through the program, Embedded Social Workers respond to referrals and offer support, assessments, and connections to community services. The goal of the program is to reduce criminal justice system involvement and create timely access to social services. The integration of social workers into emergency response reduces unnecessary law enforcement contacts and raises quality of life for individuals through ongoing stability in their community.
This request supports the county's identifie...
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