Title
Resolution Authorizing Award of Contract to The S.E.L. Group for Behavioral Health Response Program in the Amount of $500,000
Body
Council Priority: Promote Public Safety & Reduce Crime and Exceptional Customer Service and a Diverse City Government Workforce
Department: Executive-Office of Equity and Inclusion
Council District: All
Public Hearing: N/A
Advertising Date/By: N/A
Contact 1 and Phone: Kim Sowell, 373-7926
Contact 2 and Phone: Maria Hicks-Few, 373-2657
PURPOSE:
To provide the City of Greensboro (City), with a Behavioral Health Response Program (BHRP). This BHRP will provide support to City employees through real-time response from a mental health professional during crisis interactions with customers/residents. Additionally, the BHRP will equip City staff with the knowledge of how to handle crisis situations with clients in the absence of a mental health professional. The objective is to de-escalate crisis situations, minimize crisis situations that lead to arrests, and more effectively connect citizens who experience crises to the appropriate services in a timely manner.
BACKGROUND:
As part of the FY 19-20 budget process, council gave staff direction to pursue professional mental health options to support city staff in crisis interventions. Departments routinely encounter persons suffering from various behavioral health conditions that require assistance beyond what staff members are capable of providing. A behavioral health professional can assist employees in immediate crisis situations and help refer residents to appropriate and longer term behavioral crisis support.
BUDGET IMPACT:
Funding in the amount of $500,000 is budgeted in account 101-9510-11.5429.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
City Council is requested to authorize award of a contract to The S.E.L. Group for a Behavioral Health Response Program not to exceed $500,000.