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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 03242020 -CALENDAR FOR THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS CONTRA COSTA COUNTY AND FOR SPECIAL DISTRICTS, AGENCIES, AND AUTHORITIES GOVERNED BY THE BOARD BOARD CHAMBERS ROOM 107, ADMINISTRATION BUILDING, 651 PINE STREET MARTINEZ, CALIFORNIA 94553-1229 JOHN GIOIA, CHAIR, 1ST DISTRICT CANDACE ANDERSEN, VICE CHAIR, 2ND DISTRICT DIANE BURGIS, 3RD DISTRICT KAREN MITCHOFF, 4TH DISTRICT FEDERAL D. GLOVER, 5TH DISTRICT DAVID J. TWA, CLERK OF THE BOARD AND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR, (925) 335-1900 PERSONS WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THE BOARD DURING PUBLIC COMMENT OR WITH RESPECT TO AN ITEM THAT IS ON THE AGENDA, MAY BE LIMITED TO TWO (2) MINUTES. A LUNCH BREAK MAY BE CALLED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD CHAIR. To slow the spread of COVID-19, the Health Officer’s Shelter Order of March 16, 2020, prevents public gatherings (Health Officer Order ). In lieu of a public gathering, the Board of Supervisors meeting will be accessible via television and live-streaming to all members of the public as permitted by the Governor’s Executive Order 29-20. Board meetings are televised live on Comcast Cable 27, ATT/U-Verse Channel 99, and WAVE Channel 32, and can be seen live online at www.contracosta.ca.gov. PERSONS WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THE BOARD DURING PUBLIC COMMENT OR WITH RESPECT TO AN ITEM THAT IS ON THE AGENDA MAY SUBMIT PUBLIC COMMENTS TO publiccomment@cob.cccounty.us EITHER BEFORE OR DURING THE MEETING. All comments submitted before the conclusion of the meeting will be included in the record of the meeting. When feasible, the Clerk of the Board also will read the comments into the record at the meeting, subject to a two minute time limit per comment. The Board Chair may reduce or eliminate the amount of time allotted to read comments at the beginning of each item or public comment period depending on the number of comments and the business of the day. Your patience is appreciated. A lunch break or closed session may be called at the discretion of the Board Chair. Staff reports related to open session items on the agenda are also accessible on line at www.co.contra-costa.ca.us . ANNOTATED AGENDA & MINUTES March 24, 2020                  9:30 A.M. Convene, call to order and opening ceremonies. Present: John Gioia, District I Supervisor; Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor; Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor; Karen Mitchoff, District IV Supervisor; Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor Staff Present:David Twa, County Administrator Mary Ann Mason, Chief Assistant County Counsel CONSIDER CONSENT ITEMS (Items listed as C.1 through C.2 on the following agenda) – Items are subject to removal from Consent Calendar by request of any Supervisor or on request for discussion by a member of the public. Items removed from the Consent Calendar today will be continued to the next Board of Supervisors meeting. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 1    Consent items adopted as presented.     AYE: District I Supervisor John Gioia, District II Supervisor Candace Andersen, District III Supervisor Diane Burgis, District IV Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District V Supervisor Federal D. Glover Public Comment (2 minutes)   D.2 UPDATE on COVID-19 and Guidelines for Board of Supervisors and Commission Meetings consistent with the new social distancing guidelines. (Anna M. Roth, Director of Health Services)       Public Comments: Joshua Anijar, Contra Costa Labor Council; Vickey Dominguez, Health Services Department; Molly Armstrong, resident of Contra Costa; Henrissa Bassey, Anna Benvenue, Director of Immigration Legal Service, Jewish Family and Community Services East Bay; Catrina Beverly, SEIU l021; Andrea Crider, Bay Area Legal Aid; Oliver Davidson, resident of Contra Costa; Vickey Davidson, Health Services; Ye Do, SEIU 1021; Vickey Dominguez, Health Services; Sandra Figuera, Employment and Human Services (EHSD); Marie Gandara, EHSD; Dan Geiger, Human Services Alliance of Contra Costa; Sue Guest, President, Local 21; Robin Hargrave, Health Services; Rosalinda Hernandez, EHSD; Hassam Jawaid, resident of Contra Costa; Jess Jollett, Lift Up Contra Costa; Bob Lane, Faith Alliance for a Moral Economy (FAME); Kristi Laughlin, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy; Lorraine Lindell, EHSD; Sonya Z. Mehta, resident of Contra Costa; Sean Murphy, resident of Contra Costa; Dick Offerman, resident of Pleasant Hill; Linda Olvera, Freedom For Immigrants; Ken Paff, resident of Richmond; Mike Parker, resident of Richmond; Ashley Payne, SEIU 1021; Leigh Pierson-Brown, Health Services; Albert Ponce, resident of Contra Costa; Sally Reader, Health Services; Vickey Dominguez, SEIU 1021; Diane Ridgley, EHSD; Dan Russell, University of California; Ali Saidi, President, Contra Costa County Defenders Association; Sean Stalbaum, IFPTE Local 21; Will Shattuc; Ken Sheppard, EHSD; Taylor Sims, Lift Up Contra Costa; Mark Smith; Evette N. Thomas, EHSD; Uche Uzegbu-McGhee, EHSD; Hao Vaqui, EHSD; Sandra Wall, EHSD; J&J. (Written commentary attached) Ms. Roth reported that as March 23, 2020 there were 71 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county, one related death, 12 hospitalized, and 12 hospitalized persons awaiting test results. Chris Farnitano, Public Health Officer, noted that the number of confirmed cases is expected to rise as testing is rolled out and testing becomes available through private labs. Several private labs are offering tests through their healthcare providers, and the county is working to acquire additional data on the testing. At this time, the total number of tests given and number of negative tests is not being reported. A health order will be issued today that will mandate that these private labs report all tests through the standard electronic testing mechanisms to both the state and local authorities, to better understand testing capacity and ascertain the rate of positive tests. The labs are testing those with symptoms. The County is not recommending testing those without symptoms at this time. The County will participate in a joint press release in cooperation with all the Bay Area counties, as it works on lab reporting requirements. The County’s Public Health lab has performed over 450 tests to date. Results of the tests are arriving within a day. Some private labs can achieve this time frame and some cannot. Testing criteria is being loosened in line with the capacity to process them, and the County would like to increase the level of testing. While essential work still continues, Dr. Farnitano stressed the importance for those at high risk to stay home. He noted it is important to physical and mental health to go outside and exercise, while being vigilant in maintaining social distance of six feet or more between persons. Dr. Farnitano stressed the importance of following the health orders as the healthcare staff prepare for an expected surge in cases. Staff is exploring additional locations for care of the ill, requesting March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 2 and receiving supplies for the state and federal government. He expects that more gloves, masks, gowns (personal protective equipment or ppe) will be needed, and starting today, will be asking for donations from the public. Details can be found at the website CCCGOV.org/coronavirus. PPE is being prioritized for healthcare providers and first responders. The County is setting up a mobile staff hospital with federal resources, and looking at a facility as a lower level care facility; every possible solution to expand care capacity is being examined. Several clinics have set up drive-through testing capability. The data from cases in New York City will be tracked carefully in addition to our own, to ascertain the effectiveness of the shelter in place on preventing the spread of the disease. Ms. Roth provided a brief summary of some of the work being performed in the health department and county. Staff are observing social distancing guidelines. The County’s Emergency Operations Center is open and assisting with virtualizing functions. Staff is delivering healthcare, running lab tests, investigating cases, answering the call lines, ensuring restaurants are in compliance by operating as take out establishments, and coordinating with community organizations. Health services is partnering with the Sheriff to meet the needs of the incarcerated, and the Housing and Homeless Director to serve the unhoused. Employment and Human Services is providing outreach to the community to how to get food and manage finances. The County has a one-stop website cchealth.org and has opened a coronavirus hotline (Monday – Friday 1-844-729-8410). Those feeling anxious are encouraged to call 211 for someone to talk to. Supervisor Gioia noted that there is a stay on all eviction orders. The Sheriff has stopped serving eviction orders in all 19 cities and the unincorporated area until May 31 st. Supervisor Burgis noted that as the science and data changes, orders may be modified. David Twa, County Administrator, said the County has expedited the purchasing process to acquire critical equipment and supplies for healthcare workers and first responders. The County has purchased laptops and virtual private network (VPN) devices to allow as many employees as possible to work from home or a remote location; procured some hotel rooms for off-duty healthcare workers and first responders to rest in isolation and prevent exposure of family members to COVID-19; and provides pay and benefits to all employees through April 6, 2020. The Families First Act passed by Congress provides 80 hours of sick leave to most employees to address the illness, to use for sick leave and for child care due to school or daycare closures. The County met with labor leadership via conference call on March 24th for an informational session to address issues and concerns, and will continue to have daily contact with them. Additional meetings will be scheduled as plans are developed. The first priority is to provide personal protective equipment to the employees on the front line, and then to work toward getting essential personnel back to work to continuing serving the public. Supervisor Gioia requested that Dr. Farnitano continue to keep in touch with the school district superintendents and continue providing guidance. Public Health has been in touch with the superintendents and having regular calls with Officer of Education in each of the counties and jurisdictions for a consensus across the board and is working on providing them with written policy guidelines. Many documents have been placed on the cchealth.org website for easy access by schools, farmers markets, child care facilities, senior facilities, and others on how to operate safely. More documents will be added. There will be an update on to the Board on March 31, 2020 on how agencies are meeting needs, particulary in regard to to property tax collection activities, Employment and Human Services and Public Health activities, and if feasible discussion with Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey.    AYE: District I Supervisor John Gioia, District II Supervisor Candace Andersen, District III Supervisor Diane Burgis, District IV Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District V Supervisor Federal D. Glover March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 3 D.3 PRESENTATION on homeless issues in Contra Costa County. (Lavonna Martin, Director of Health, Housing and Homeless Services)       AYE: District I Supervisor John Gioia, District II Supervisor Candace Andersen, District III Supervisor Diane Burgis, District IV Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District V Supervisor Federal D. Glover D.4 PRESENTATION on Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) and Children/Youth. (Suzanne Tavano and Jaspreet Benepal, Health Services)       Public Comments: Douglas Dunn, Mental Health Commission, District 3; John Geluardi; d Leslie May, Co-Chair, Mental Health Commission; Kathleen McLaughlin, former MHC Co-Chair and Child Advocate; Teresa Pasquini, Behavioral Healthcare Partnership of Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, former Mental Health Commissioner; Lauren Rettagliata; Barbara Serwin, Chair, Mental Health Commission. (Written commentary attached) The report for today’s presentation was prepared for the scheduled Board Retreat and shared with the Mental Health Commission. Going forward, it will be shared with the wider community to obtain feedback from the public. Detailed information is provided in the attached report.   Board Members Comments.    Supervisor Gioia requested assurance that the board meeting is in compliance with the Brown Act. Assistant County Counsel Mary Ann Mason provided information to demonstrate full compliance: The Governor of California in his Executive Order expressly waived the requirement that there be physical access to the board chambers and that the public be able to come into the chambers to talk to the Board; The Board has provided access electronically to the meeting – it is being live streamed on the internet and appears on many television stations, which is noted on the agenda the appropriate time in advance. The agenda will continue to be published on the County webpage; The Board has provided an email address to receive public commentary, said address published on the agenda; the reading of commentary into the record remains at the discretion of the Chair.   CONSENT ITEMS   C.1 RATIFY the order of the County Administrator closing all County libraries until further notice, effective March 16, 2020, in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 and preserve critical health care capacity across the region.       AYE: District I Supervisor John Gioia, District II Supervisor Candace Andersen, District III Supervisor Diane Burgis, District IV Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District V Supervisor Federal D. Glover C.2 ADOPT Resolution No. 2020/110 to revise Section IV.40. of Management Benefits Resolution No. 2019/507, making certain health services classes eligible for On-Call Duty and Call Back Time, as recommended by the Director of Health Services.       AYE: District I Supervisor John Gioia, District II Supervisor Candace Andersen, District III Supervisor Diane Burgis, District IV Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District V Supervisor Federal D. Glover ADJOURN    Adjourned at 11:50 a.m.     GENERAL INFORMATION March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 4 GENERAL INFORMATION The Board meets in all its capacities pursuant to Ordinance Code Section 24-2.402, including as the Housing Authority and the Successor Agency to the Redevelopment Agency. Persons who wish to address the Board should complete the form provided for that purpose and furnish a copy of any written statement to the Clerk. Any disclosable public records related to an open session item on a regular meeting agenda and distributed by the Clerk of the Board to a majority of the members of the Board of Supervisors less than 72 hours prior to that meeting are available for public inspection at 651 Pine Street, First Floor, Room 106, Martinez, CA 94553, during normal business hours. All matters listed under CONSENT ITEMS are considered by the Board to be routine and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless requested by a member of the Board or a member of the public prior to the time the Board votes on the motion to adopt. Persons who wish to speak on matters set for PUBLIC HEARINGS will be heard when the Chair calls for comments from those persons who are in support thereof or in opposition thereto. After persons have spoken, the hearing is closed and the matter is subject to discussion and action by the Board. Comments on matters listed on the agenda or otherwise within the purview of the Board of Supervisors can be submitted to the office of the Clerk of the Board via mail: Board of Supervisors, 651 Pine Street Room 106, Martinez, CA 94553; by fax: 925-335-1913. The County will provide reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities planning to attend Board meetings who contact the Clerk of the Board at least 24 hours before the meeting, at (925) 335-1900; TDD (925) 335-1915. An assistive listening device is available from the Clerk, Room 106. Copies of recordings of all or portions of a Board meeting may be purchased from the Clerk of the Board. Please telephone the Office of the Clerk of the Board, (925) 335-1900, to make the necessary arrangements. Forms are available to anyone desiring to submit an inspirational thought nomination for inclusion on the Board Agenda. Forms may be obtained at the Office of the County Administrator or Office of the Clerk of the Board, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, California. Applications for personal subscriptions to the weekly Board Agenda may be obtained by calling the Office of the Clerk of the Board, (925) 335-1900. The weekly agenda may also be viewed on the County’s Internet Web Page: www.co.contra-costa.ca.us STANDING COMMITTEES The Airport Committee (Supervisors Karen Mitchoff and Diane Burgis) meets quarterly on the second Wednesday of the month at 11:00 a.m. at the Director of Airports Office, 550 Sally Ride Drive, Concord. The Family and Human Services Committee (Supervisors John Gioia and Candace Andersen) meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. The Finance Committee (Supervisors John Gioia and Karen Mitchoff) meets on the fourth Monday of the month at 9:00 a.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. The Hiring Outreach Oversight Committee (Supervisors Federal D. Glover and John Gioia) meets on the first Monday of every other month at 1:00 p.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. The Internal Operations Committee (Supervisors Candace Andersen and Diane Burgis) meets on the second Monday of the month at 1:00 p.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. The Legislation Committee (Supervisors Karen Mitchoff and Diane Burgis) meets on the second Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 5 The Public Protection Committee (Supervisors Candace Andersen and Federal D. Glover) meets on the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. The Sustainability Committee (Supervisors Federal D. Glover and John Gioia) meets on the fourth Monday of every other month at 1:00 p.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. The Transportation, Water & Infrastructure Committee (Supervisors Candace Andersen and Karen Mitchoff) meets on the second Monday of the month at 9:00 a.m. in Room 101, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez. PERSONS WHO WISH TO ADDRESS THE BOARD DURING PUBLIC COMMENT OR WITH RESPECT TO AN ITEM THAT IS ON THE AGENDA, MAY BE LIMITED TO TWO (2) MINUTES A LUNCH BREAK MAY BE CALLED AT THE DISCRETION OF THE BOARD CHAIR AGENDA DEADLINE: Thursday, 12 noon, 12 days before the Tuesday Board meetings. Glossary of Acronyms, Abbreviations, and other Terms (in alphabetical order): Contra Costa County has a policy of making limited use of acronyms, abbreviations, and industry-specific language in its Board of Supervisors meetings and written materials. Following is a list of commonly used language that may appear in oral presentations and written materials associated with Board meetings: AB Assembly Bill ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments ACA Assembly Constitutional Amendment ADA Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 AFSCME American Federation of State County and Municipal Employees AICP American Institute of Certified Planners AIDS Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome ALUC Airport Land Use Commission AOD Alcohol and Other Drugs ARRA American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District BART Bay Area Rapid Transit District BayRICS Bay Area Regional Interoperable Communications System BCDC Bay Conservation & Development Commission BGO Better Government Ordinance BOS Board of Supervisors CALTRANS California Department of Transportation CalWIN California Works Information Network CalWORKS California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids CAER Community Awareness Emergency Response CAO County Administrative Officer or Office CCCPFD (ConFire) Contra Costa County Fire Protection District CCHP Contra Costa Health Plan CCTA Contra Costa Transportation Authority CCRMC Contra Costa Regional Medical Center CCWD Contra Costa Water District CDBG Community Development Block GrantMarch 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 6 CDBG Community Development Block Grant CFDA Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance CEQA California Environmental Quality Act CIO Chief Information Officer COLA Cost of living adjustment ConFire (CCCFPD) Contra Costa County Fire Protection District CPA Certified Public Accountant CPI Consumer Price Index CSA County Service Area CSAC California State Association of Counties CTC California Transportation Commission dba doing business as DSRIP Delivery System Reform Incentive Program EBMUD East Bay Municipal Utility District ECCFPD East Contra Costa Fire Protection District EIR Environmental Impact Report EIS Environmental Impact Statement EMCC Emergency Medical Care Committee EMS Emergency Medical Services EPSDT Early State Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment Program (Mental Health) et al. et alii (and others) FAA Federal Aviation Administration FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency F&HS Family and Human Services Committee First 5 First Five Children and Families Commission (Proposition 10) FTE Full Time Equivalent FY Fiscal Year GHAD Geologic Hazard Abatement District GIS Geographic Information System HCD (State Dept of) Housing & Community Development HHS (State Dept of ) Health and Human Services HIPAA Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act HIV Human Immunodeficiency Syndrome HOV High Occupancy Vehicle HR Human Resources HUD United States Department of Housing and Urban Development IHSS In-Home Supportive Services Inc. Incorporated IOC Internal Operations Committee ISO Industrial Safety Ordinance JPA Joint (exercise of) Powers Authority or Agreement Lamorinda Lafayette-Moraga-Orinda Area LAFCo Local Agency Formation Commission LLC Limited Liability Company LLP Limited Liability Partnership Local 1 Public Employees Union Local 1 LVN Licensed Vocational Nurse MAC Municipal Advisory Council MBE Minority Business Enterprise M.D. Medical Doctor M.F.T. Marriage and Family Therapist MIS Management Information System MOE Maintenance of Effort MOU Memorandum of Understanding MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 7 NACo National Association of Counties NEPA National Environmental Policy Act OB-GYN Obstetrics and Gynecology O.D. Doctor of Optometry OES-EOC Office of Emergency Services-Emergency Operations Center OPEB Other Post Employment Benefits OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration PARS Public Agencies Retirement Services PEPRA Public Employees Pension Reform Act Psy.D. Doctor of Psychology RDA Redevelopment Agency RFI Request For Information RFP Request For Proposal RFQ Request For Qualifications RN Registered Nurse SB Senate Bill SBE Small Business Enterprise SEIU Service Employees International Union SUASI Super Urban Area Security Initiative SWAT Southwest Area Transportation Committee TRANSPAC Transportation Partnership & Cooperation (Central) TRANSPLAN Transportation Planning Committee (East County) TRE or TTE Trustee TWIC Transportation, Water and Infrastructure Committee UASI Urban Area Security Initiative VA Department of Veterans Affairs vs. versus (against) WAN Wide Area Network WBE Women Business Enterprise WCCTAC West Contra Costa Transportation Advisory Committee March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 8 RECOMMENDATION(S): Update on COVID-19 and Guidelines for Board of Supervisors and Commission Meetings consistent with the new social distancing guidelines. FISCAL IMPACT: Administrative report with no specific fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: The Health Services Department has established a new website dedicated to COVID-19, including daily updates. The site is located at: https://www.coronavirus.cchealth.org/ APPROVE OTHER RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE Action of Board On: 03/24/2020 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER Clerks Notes: VOTE OF SUPERVISORS AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District IV Supervisor Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor Contact: Anna M. Roth, Health Director (925) 957-5403 I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: March 24, 2020 , County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: Jami Napier, Deputy cc: All County Departments (via CAO) D.2 To:Board of Supervisors From:Anna Roth, Health Services Director Date:March 24, 2020 Contra Costa County Subject:Update on COVID 19 and Guidelines for Board of Supervisors and Commission Meetings March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 9 CLERK'S ADDENDUM Public Comments: Joshua Anijar, Contra Costa Labor Council; Vickey Dominguez, Health Services Department; Molly Armstrong, resident of Contra Costa; Henrissa Bassey, Anna Benvenue, Director of Immigration Legal Service, Jewish Family and Community Services East Bay; Catrina Beverly, SEIU l021; Andrea Crider, Bay Area Legal Aid; Oliver Davidson, resident of Contra Costa; Vickey Davidson, Health Services; Ye Do, SEIU 1021; Vickey Dominguez, Health Services; Sandra Figuera, Employment and Human Services (EHSD); Marie Gandara, EHSD; Dan Geiger, Human Services Alliance of Contra Costa; Sue Guest, President, Local 21; Robin Hargrave, Health Services; Rosalinda Hernandez, EHSD; Hassam Jawaid, resident of Contra Costa; Jess Jollett, Lift Up Contra Costa; Bob Lane, Faith Alliance for a Moral Economy (FAME); Kristi Laughlin, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy; Lorraine Lindell, EHSD; Sonya Z. Mehta, resident of Contra Costa; Sean Murphy, resident of Contra Costa; Dick Offerman, resident of Pleasant Hill; Linda Olvera, Freedom For Immigrants; Ken Paff, resident of Richmond; Mike Parker, resident of Richmond; Ashley Payne, SEIU 1021; Leigh Pierson-Brown, Health Services; Albert Ponce, resident of Contra Costa; Sally Reader, Health Services; Vickey Dominguez, SEIU 1021; Diane Ridgley, EHSD; Dan Russell, University of California; Ali Saidi, President, Contra Costa County Defenders Association; Sean Stalbaum, IFPTE Local 21; Will Shattuc; Ken Sheppard, EHSD; Taylor Sims, Lift Up Contra Costa; Mark Smith; Evette N. Thomas, EHSD; Uche Uzegbu-McGhee, EHSD; Hao Vaqui, EHSD; Sandra Wall, EHSD; J&J. (Written commentary attached) Ms. Roth reported that as March 23, 2020 there were 71 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the county, one related death, 12 hospitalized, and 12 hospitalized persons awaiting test results. Chris Farnitano, Public Health Officer, noted that the number of confirmed cases is expected to rise as testing is rolled out and testing becomes available through private labs. Several private labs are offering tests through their healthcare providers, and the county is working to acquire additional data on the testing. At this time, the total number of tests given and number of negative tests is not being reported. A health order will be issued today that will mandate that these private labs report all tests through the standard electronic testing mechanisms to both the state and local authorities, to better understand testing capacity and ascertain the rate of positive tests. The labs are testing those with symptoms. The County is not recommending testing those without symptoms at this time. The County will participate in a joint press release in cooperation with all the Bay Area counties, as it works on lab reporting requirements. The County’s Public Health lab has performed over 450 tests to date. Results of the tests are arriving within a day. Some private labs can achieve this time frame and some cannot. Testing criteria is being loosened in line with the capacity to process them, and the County would like to increase the level of testing. While essential work still continues, Dr. Farnitano stressed the importance for those at high risk to stay home. He noted it is important to physical and mental health to go outside and exercise, while being vigilant in maintaining social distance of six feet or more between persons. Dr. Farnitano stressed the importance of following the health orders as the healthcare staff prepare for an expected surge in cases. Staff is exploring additional locations for care of the ill, requesting and receiving supplies for the state and federal government. He expects that more gloves, masks, gowns (personal protective equipment or ppe) will be needed, and starting today, will be asking for donations from the public. Details can be found at the website CCCGOV.org/coronavirus. PPE is being prioritized for healthcare providers and first responders. The County is setting up a mobile staff hospital with federal resources, and looking at a facility as a lower level care facility; every possible solution to expand care capacity is being examined. Several clinics have set up drive-through testing capability. The data from cases in New York City will be March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 10 tracked carefully in addition to our own, to ascertain the effectiveness of the shelter in place on preventing the spread of the disease. Ms. Roth provided a brief summary of some of the work being performed in the health department and county. Staff are observing social distancing guidelines. The County’s Emergency Operations Center is open and assisting with virtualizing functions. Staff is delivering healthcare, running lab tests, investigating cases, answering the call lines, ensuring restaurants are in compliance by operating as take out establishments, and coordinating with community organizations. Health services is partnering with the Sheriff to meet the needs of the incarcerated, and the Housing and Homeless Director to serve the unhoused. Employment and Human Services is providing outreach to the community to how to get food and manage finances. The County has a one-stop website cchealth.org and has opened a coronavirus hotline (Monday – Friday 1-844-729-8410). Those feeling anxious are encouraged to call 211 for someone to talk to. Supervisor Gioia noted that there is a stay on all eviction orders. The Sheriff has stopped serving eviction orders in all 19 cities and the unincorporated area until May 31 st. Supervisor Burgis noted that as the science and data changes, orders may be modified. David Twa, County Administrator, said the County has expedited the purchasing process to acquire critical equipment and supplies for healthcare workers and first responders. The County has purchased laptops and virtual private network (VPN) devices to allow as many employees as possible to work from home or a remote location; procured some hotel rooms for off-duty healthcare workers and first responders to rest in isolation and prevent exposure of family members to COVID-19; and provides pay and benefits to all employees through April 6, 2020. The Families First Act passed by Congress provides 80 hours of sick leave to most employees to address the illness, to use for sick leave and for child care due to school or daycare closures. The County met with labor leadership via conference call on March 24th for an informational session to address issues and concerns, and will continue to have daily contact with them. Additional meetings will be scheduled as plans are developed. The first priority is to provide personal protective equipment to the employees on the front line, and then to work toward getting essential personnel back to work to continuing serving the public. Supervisor Gioia requested that Dr. Farnitano continue to keep in touch with the school district superintendents and continue providing guidance. Public Health has been in touch with the superintendents and having regular calls with Officer of Education in each of the counties and jurisdictions for a consensus across the board and is working on providing them with written policy guidelines. Many documents have been placed on the cchealth.org website for easy access by schools, farmers markets, child care facilities, senior facilities, and others on how to operate safely. More documents will be added. There will be an update on to the Board on March 31, 2020 on how agencies are meeting needs, particulary in regard to to property tax collection activities, Employment and Human Services and Public Health activities, and if feasible discussion with Superintendent of Schools Lynn Mackey. AGENDA ATTACHMENTS MINUTES ATTACHMENTS public comments March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 11 From:Joshua Anijar To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment: Josh Anijar, Contra Costa Labor Council Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:11:08 AM Chair Anderson and Supervisors, First of all, I wish to thank you for your leadership in these trying times. The Board’s decision to declare a shelter in place in Contra Costa County was necessary and will be shown to have saved many lives. Since there is a lack of leadership at the top of our Federal Government, it is up to us to show the country how to properly defend against COVID-19. The Contra Costa Labor Council is a federation of 85 unions representing over 85,000 workers many of whom are on the front lines in fighting to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Sadly, many of these workers are doing this work without the necessary protection equipment putting their lives and the lives of their families in jeopardy from this deadly virus. Without these workers’ sacrifices and dedication we would all suffer. They have our communities’ back. we have to have theirs. To address the needs of your frontline workers, County leadership must meet with workers and create an MOU to give everyone guidance and reassurance in these troubling times. With the COVID-19 pandemic barreling down around us, time is of the essence. It is our sincerest hope that the County administration can meet within the week. The county’s workforce have been placed in-front of a speeding train. Their needs must be addressed before it is too late. The County needs to continue to provide full wage replacement for workers who cannot work during this pandemic for the duration of any shelter in place order. This will continue to save lives and secure a health workforce once this crisis has been eliminated. We want to thank you for the steps the county has already taken in regards to administration leave and granting many the option to work from home but there are still too many important issues left unresolved and the need for a meeting with these affected unions is at the utmost importance. As previously stated, workers are standing on the front lines of this crisis from the hospital rooms to the grocery stores. Without these necessary workers, our society would completely fail to function. As county leaders, you must have their back, but there are many more workers doing their part by staying at home preventing this virus from becoming a firestorm. Those who’ve stayed home and foregone their paycheck deserve help too. By enacting a moratorium on evictions and rent increases in the unincorporated area, we can give peace of mind to those who live paycheck to paycheck. The Sheriff’s department says that they won’t enforce any evictions, but those who have been hit hardest by this crisis need the reassurance, through county proclamation, that they won't be left in the cold because they followed this county shelter at home policy . Everyone has enough to worry March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 12 about right now, being evicted shouldn't be one of these. The Contra Costa Labor Councils stands ready to assist the County in this crisis. We are living in a historic moment, one in which future generations will look back and judge our response. It is what we do now to make an impact on people's lives that will be the difference between life and death. Meet with the unions, listen and respond to their concerns. Protect all workers from evictions and rent increases. Thank you once again for your leadership and together we will rise out of this crisis, stronger than ever before. -- Joshua Anijar Executive Director Contra Costa Labor Council, AFL-CIO 602-770-9307 cclabor.net March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 13 From:Vickey Dominguez To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment Item D2 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:44:31 AM Another SEIU 1021 Member who wishes to remain annonymous writes: Here are just a few examples of my experiences. I work in the ED and I am on the frontline of COVID-19. I have been asked to see a patient who was being ruled out for COVID-19. There was a sign on the door saying droplet precaution; I asked the nurse about it and she said he did not have COVID-19. I did not go into the room I put on a mask and spoke with him from the arch way of the door. I noticed as he was leaving a nurse reminded him to leave his mask on. I am not sure what he had, but he had something since she told him to keep his mask on.There have been patients that come in for one medical issue and end up being assessed for COVID-19. There was an older patient who came from home for a mechanical fall and he was eventually assessed for COVID 19. My point is it's easy to be exposed in the emergency department. I know that everyone is scrambling to provide services and are understaffed. There are some things that Social Workers need to know to do the job. Such as, what to do when a COVID-19 homeless case is being ruled out and or is positive and needs isolation. I was chatting with several nurses and a doctor overheard the conversation. He asked if I saw an e-mail that appeared to be generated to the physicians. He then shared an e-mail that was sent to him on who to call if there is a homeless COVID-19 patient in need of isolation. Lucky, that resource from the doctor had such a case a week later. It's more than a challenge to provide services in the midst of COVID-19, but to not get the information on what the resources renders me useless. It is like taking notes without a pen. Lastly, when the county letter was issued stating only essential employees have to come to work. I was not sure if I was viewed essential. It was after the due diligence of my colleague that I was informed we are essential workers. Over all it has been frustrating and I am concerned for my health and the health of my loved ones. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 14 From:Molly Armstrong To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 11:11:54 PM Hello, My name is Molly. I am a nursing student and bartender who lives in the East Bay. I am writing to convey the urgency and necessity for the County Administrator, David Twa, to meet with the labor coalition. This coalition is made up of the very people who make sure Contra Costa Country runs and provides essential services to its people. They know their work and the clients the best - and should have a say in how to address this public health and economic crisis that impacts each of our lives. We are facing a crisis unprecedented in our lifetimes - we are facing a looming public health emergency of COVID19 and the nightmare economic consequences. We need to make decisive decisions taking into account the realities on the ground - and that means taking into account what this coalition has to contribute as soon as possible. Not doing so makes me wonder what are you afraid of? What are you hiding? Delaying this, or refusing this - will cost lives. It's that serious. We are watching this unfold before our eyes and I can promise that we, and history, are noting which side you are on in this fight. I once again urge the Board of Supervisors to instruct County Administrator, David Twa, to meet with the labor coalition that includes County Hospital and county health clinic workers in our Health Services Dept: CNA, PDOCC (Physicians and Dentists of Contra Costa), Teamsters 856 health services workers, IFPTE Local 21 health services workers, and SEIU 1021’s medical social workers in the hospital and the County health clinics. Thank you for your time. Molly Armstrong March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 15 From:Henrissa Bassey To:Public Comment Subject:Comments for BOS re moratorium on evictions Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:43:50 AM I ask that the court cease scheduling eviction cases for as long as the state’s “Shelter in Place” order remains in effect. Courts in other counties have agreed not to schedule evictions for at least 60-90 days. Contra Costa’s courts are creating uncertainty and confusion by the temporary and conditional closure (on March 13 the court stated that it “hopefully will reopen on April 1”). Small business owners, hair stylists, and their families facing threats to housing need certainty. Otherwise they will have no choice but to leave their homes to search for housing, move in with extended family/friends or other measures contrary to the public health and our already suffering housing market. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 16 From:Anna Benvenue To:Public Comment Subject:Please enact a moratorium on evidences/rent increases and create rental assistance fund Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:05:42 AM Dear Contra Costa Board of Supervisors - My name is Anna Benvenue, and I am the Director of Immigration Legal Services at Jewish Family and Community Services East Bay. Our office is currently in Walnut Creek and we primarily serve Contra Costa residents from Richmond to Brentwood. I am writing to urge the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors to create a rental assistance fund AND enact a temporary moratorium on evictions and rent increases during the Coronavirus crisis for all of Contra Costa County. This moratorium should extend to ALL renters, not just those facing non-payment of rent cases, in order to truly protect people’s housing during this crisis. I support this because many Contra Costa families do not have access to sick leave or other benefits to help pay rent and other expenses. The already-existing housing insecurity for many working-class families is being intensified during this time of lay- offs, shortened work hours, and no business. No family or resident should be concerned with losing their home because of their inability to pay rent at this time. People losing their homes will also make the health crisis worse. In the last week as we have reached out to all of our clients, we have heard countless stories of fear regarding the impact of not paying rent on April 1. This is truly a matter of life and death. People getting evicted with their children will only make all issues worse for all Contra Costa residents, put hospital staff at greater risk and increase the risk to public safety. Leaders at the national and state levels are calling for local governments to pass these protections to support the most vulnerable members of their communities, and ensure that the health and financial consequences of this crisis aren't any worse than they need to be. We are looking to you to provide leadership in this moment to ensure the health and safety of all communities in Contra Costa. Sincerely, Anna Benvenue Anna Benvenue (she/her) Director of Immigration Legal Services JEWISH FAMILY & COMMUNITY SERVICES EAST BAY 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 200 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 17 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 (925) 927-2000, ext. 225 www.jfcs-eastbay.org March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 18 From:Catrina Beverly To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment: COVID-19 and MCSC Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 8:12:51 AM Good Morning, We here in MCSC have to constantly worry about contracting COVID-19 and passing it to family members, family members who are vulnerable to this virus. I do not know what I would do if I were to pass it along to my mother or significant other both who are immune compromised. We need better protections in order to be able to serve our community. We cannot do that when we are all placed in self-quarantine because someone from work who is carrying the virus is spreading it all over the office. With us being essential workers, WE NEED HAZARD PAY AND PPE! Thank You, Catrina Beverly SEIU 1021 Shop Steward-MCSC East Eligibility Worker III Antioch, CA 94509 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 19 From:Andrea Crider To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment on Covid and Reentry Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:36:47 AM Good Morning Supervisors, My name is Andrea Crider and I am a Reentry Attorney at Bay Area Legal Aid’s Contra Costa Office. Many of my clients are the most vulnerable to Covid-19. Many of my clients are living in their cars and/or homeless. These are the same people who are subject to predatory towing practices and harassment. They are having difficulties accessing services more than ever. Saddled with court debt and a criminal record, they already have difficulties getting jobs. Those that have jobs are calling me reporting they have been temporarily laid off. We must suspend collection of all government debt now, expand the pre-existing moratorium. Similarly, my clients that are still incarcerated are seeking release. Many of them are already AB109 eligible participants in which I get referrals for. We need to decrease the jail population in contra costa county to ensure the safety of these individuals, which DA Becton called for in her joint Covid statement addressing individuals in custody. The DA needs to stipulate to more releases of adult and youth individuals who are low safety risks to the community and/or have less than 90 days to serve on their sentence. We must restrict in-custody bookings and release all individuals being detained pretrial because they can’t afford cash bail. We need to protect our non-citizen neighbors and release any new detentions. All juvenile detainees should be released to their parents and/or immediately placed in approved programs. And finally we need to ensure that those that work in our jails are protected with the proper equipment to handle and outbreak like this. Because it is only a matter a time before covid sweeps through this population. I’m asking the BOS to ensure the safety of this vulnerable community during this time, thank you. Andrea Crider Bay Area Legal Aid, Staff Attorney 1025 Macdonald Ave. Richmond, CA 94801 510-903-2625 This transmission may be subject to attorney-client privilege, or an attorney work product. This communication is intended to be confidential to the addressee. If you are not the addressee or cannot deliver it to that person, please do not read, copy, distribute, or use it in any way. Delete it, and notify the sender at the contact information listed above. Thank you. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 20 From:Vicky Davidson To:Public Comment Cc:Laura Watson Subject:Re: For 3/24 BOS Meeting Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 9:13:13 PM If there is any time left, please also read this letter from my son. Thanks! Vicky Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android On Mon, Mar 23, 2020 at 8:29 PM, Public Comment <PublicComment@cob.cccounty.us> wrote: Is this public comment for D.2 on the agenda? From: Vicky Davidson <vickydavidson916@yahoo.com> Reply-To: "vickydavidson916@yahoo.com" <vickydavidson916@yahoo.com> Date: Monday, March 23, 2020 at 8:28 PM March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 21 To: Public Comment <PublicComment@cob.cccounty.us> Cc: Laura Watson <lwatson@calnurses.org> Subject: For 3/24 BOS Meeting Good morning/afternoon, My name is Vicky Davidson, public health nurse in Contra Costa County. As of this morning, I am still able to work from home, but many of my colleagues and friends are out there on the front-lines. We talked, texted, and FaceTime daily. I am also seeing their posts on social media. They are pleading for help, expressing their concern and fear, and asking forgiveness from their loved one for being with their patients instead of being home with them, or they may get infected and carry the viruses home. They sleep on air mattresses in the garage and not able to sleep at all. They have dreams about not having N95 or PPE when they report to work. They are afraid that they are infected and are passing the viruses to their high risk patients. Their concerns are legit, and their fear is real. I am worry about their physical health as well as their mental health. The front-line providers need the proper Personal Protective Equipment to safely care for the patients and to protect themselves. This is not a third world Country, and the health care providers shouldn't be wearing bandana or scarf and continue to work if they are exposed to or infected with Coronavirus. Please continue your efforts and be proactive reaching out to community partners, organizations, and companies, that can provide the PPEs we need. Also, please don't forget to continue advocating for the front-line providers. Thank You! Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 22 From:Vicky Davidson To:Public Comment Cc:Laura Watson Subject:For 3/24 BOS Meeting Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 8:28:26 PM Good morning/afternoon, My name is Vicky Davidson, public health nurse in Contra Costa County. As of this morning, I am still able to work from home, but many of my colleagues and friends are out there on the front-lines. We talked, texted, and FaceTime daily. I am also seeing their posts on social media. They are pleading for help, expressing their concern and fear, and asking forgiveness from their loved one for being with their patients instead of being home with them, or they may get infected and carry the viruses home. They sleep on air mattresses in the garage and not able to sleep at all. They have dreams about not having N95 or PPE when they report to work. They are afraid that they are infected and are passing the viruses to their high risk patients. Their concerns are legit, and their fear is real. I am worry about their physical health as well as their mental health. The front-line providers need the proper Personal Protective Equipment to safely care for the patients and to protect themselves. This is not a third world Country, and the health care providers shouldn't be wearing bandana or scarf and continue to work if they are exposed to or infected with Coronavirus. Please continue your efforts and be proactive reaching out to community partners, organizations, and companies, that can provide the PPEs we need. Also, please don't forget to continue advocating for the front-line providers. Thank You! Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 23 From:Yen Do To:Public Comment Subject:BOS 3/24/20 Public Comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:00:46 AM My name is Yen Do and I am one of two field representatives representing the brave, the committed and the hardworking social service workers and medical SW’s, here at Contra Costa. Due to the COVID-19 epidemic, this has led a state of fear, anxiety and uncertainty; especially to those working in the front lines though all of this. I write this as a gesture to remind you, members of Board, to recognize that ALL public sector workers are unsung hero’s serving the most vulnerable. And as always to work with us… Contra Costa County’s labor union coalition to ensure that our workers, our members are heard and well taken care of, because their lives also matter. Our labor coalition has put forth proposals we see fit in this time of chaos, please consider them and ensure that ALLWORKERS ARE PROTECTED! I thank you for your time & for your warm hearts in considering our inputs on how to assist our workers. Yen L. Do, MPP SEIU 1021 Field Representative March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 24 From:Vickey Dominguez To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment Item D2 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:20:22 AM The MSW staff within HS have been working the frontline along side the physicians and nurses. These have been challenging times for us all. Communication has been lacking with several departments; Inpatient MSW's, Outpatient MSW's and CCHP MSW's all reporting lack of direction/information. We realize that this remains an ever fluid situation but a simple check in or notification of what is going on would be nice. We have had to demand information when one would think it a priority for all of us in HS to be on the same page with regard as to how we are approaching patient care/community safety and our own safety. We don't have enough PPE and PPE is being saved for those who have direct contact with those who are infected and/or manning a screening area. This has caused concern /anxiety for us as the messaging about COVID-19 keeps changing. Initially, we were told that if you as a staff member had contact with someone who had COVID-19 you would need to self quarantine for 14 days and test Negative x2 consecutively. That quickly changed to if you had no symptoms you didn't need to self quarantine or need to be tested and could report to work. We are well aware that there is not enough PPE and COVID -19 tests. How can it be that we as a community at large , nation wide are being told we need to shelter in place to minimize exposure to one another not knowing who has COVID-19, so following the order of Governor, Newsome and CDC guidelines of social distancing and staying home but for essential needs to "help flatten the curve", yet once we are at work there is at times difficulty in maintaining social distancing, as a number of staff have shared office space. The Nurses station is close quarters for everyone. The lack of PPE exposes us as staff to one another and those staff still having face to face contact with the public/patients exposes the community as well. We are grateful for being able to work telephonically and in this way protecting the community and ourselves. MSW's have raised concern about needing to care for their children with schools now closed. The MSW's also have raised concern with having to care for an elderly parent or partner who has a medical condition that may put them at greater risk should they contract COVID-19. This makes some staff torn with doing their job and wanting to keep their own families healthy/safe. Those 65 and older were ordered to "Shelter in Place" as they are considered to be a "High Risk group for COVID-19" yet I see workers continuing to work after being told they had to work. A MSW who has a shared office with another employee reported her co-worker went home sick with a fever and coughing, consequently tested for COVID-19 with Kaiser. The MSW's supervisor instructed her to stay home for one day with no other guidance offered. The other employees in that building asked Housekeeping to do a deep cleaning of that office and the shared restroom in that building. The MSW returned to work the next day which alarmed the other employees in that building. To date, the co-worker's test results are unknown. The staff March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 25 have been told not to worry as the MSW reports having no symptoms. We continue to work trying to meet the patient's need. However, A & D Treatment programs are not currently accepting new clients. The County Shelter system on a good day has limited capacity and is maxed out with no bed availability. Physicians and Nurses have voiced being scared/worried which in turn makes us more worried and scared, as we have never faced this kind of health challenge before. We have faced fires, earthquakes, threat of terrorist act and active shooter preparedness. Please communicate with your workers! Stay safe & healthy & please help us to stay safe & Healthy! Thank you, Vickey Dominguez, MSW SEIU 1021 VP Health & Human Services March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 26 From:Sandra Figueroa To:Public Comment Subject:COVID 19 - having to work during this crisis Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 8:42:28 AM To whom it may concern: I am writing this statement so that is known that having to work as an essential worker in Contra Costa County has caused stress and anxiety, and a hardship for my family and I. First of all, I love my job and enjoy helping those I serve on a daily basis. I am a Welfare to Work worker at 1305 MacDonald Ave., office in Richmond. We were told in a meeting on 3/17/19, that Welfare to Work workers were considered Non-essential because Welfare to Work is a discretionary program, yet we are still expected to work during this crisis. We were also told that in order to avoid having to work in close quarters with our co-workers we would work on rotation with our unit members, and I have been working 3 days per week ever since. Although I don’t mind coming in to work 3 days per week, I am concerned about spreading germs to my family who are all at home sheltering in place. Having to work during this crisis had made me change the way I function with my family. My mother is 81 years old, she has chronic medical issues. I am the person who mainly helps to care for her. I live next door to her, and my daily routine is to go to her house at 7:00 am and help her get ready and I make her breakfast. Then at noon, I go to her house again to check up on her help her with whatever she needs, then after work I go back over and help her clean up, help her bathe and give her medication etc. Because I have to work in a building with many other people, where the ventilation is not good , and where no gloves and masks are provided I know that I can easily become infected with corona virus. All it takes is person to be exposed in order to the virus to spread. Because of this I can no longer care for my Mother the way I used to. I try to stay away from her as much as possible and only go over to drop groceries off and tend to only her essential needs. I wear a mask and gloves, but still feel concerned about contaminating her. I am also concerned about my daughters and husband who has asthma. They are home while I am working 3 days per week. If the virus gets spread to my family I am the one who will bring t it home, and this concerns me. Although I will continue to work as expected, I feel very uneasy in doing so. Those who are having to work during this crisis deserve some sort of compensation for the sacrifices we are making to serve the public. Respectfully, Sandra Figueroa Juarbe March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 27 From:Marie Gandara To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 7:54:18 PM I am a longtime employee of the County and have worked the the call center in Antioch since shortly after its inception. We had been forewarned for the better part of a year that the building was closing. We knew we would be moved to other sites within the county, were we not selected for the work from home pilot. I was sure that, given the current situation, with an increase in cases of COVID-19 being reported in California every few days, the County would revisit that decision and perhaps delay the closure of the call center. I was wrong. The call center was fairly empty, so it was very easy to practice social distancing. The admin team at that office provided sanitizing wipes in common areas, posted reminders to wash our hands, etc. I have not observed the same in other county offices. The hand-washing reminders are there, but I am not seeing any sanitizing wipes being provided to wipe down high-touch surfaces, for instance. Since we were a call center, we had little contact with the public and given that the call center was emptying out, I had little reason to fear exposure to the virus. As well, our admin team was very quick to provide materials for sanitization, giving me less of a reason to worry while I was still at the call center. I live with family members who are potentially at high risk of complications from COVID-19 should they contract it, and I am at high risk myself. With that in mind, I have made the difficult decision to self-isolate for the time being. I would rather not do so; I would prefer to be at work, but I cannot take the chance of exposure, knowing that I am being sent to a location with many more workers, some of whom are still required to contact the public, and where fewer hygiene precautions are being taken. I cannot take that risk, for myself or for my other family members, and I feel like the County has been derelict in its duty to us, their front-line employees, to keep us safe and healthy. We are being reminded at every turn that we are essential employees, that we should be showing up to work, but that does not take into account our individual situations. Any pending office closures or moves should have been temporarily suspended, and I feel that the County should have made more, and more rapid, investments in the infrastructure to allow as many employees as possible to work from home in such an emergency. Without us there to do the jobs we signed up to do, healthy and safe, it is impossible to keep the communities and populations we serve safe. I cannot make the community my priority if I do not feel like my employer is doing everything within its own power to keep me, and my colleagues, safe. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 28 From:Dan Geiger To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:53:40 AM The Human Services Alliance urge the Board to consider the proposal to maintain the human services system of care as outlined in its letter of March 23, 2020. Thank you very much Dan _________________________ Dan Geiger Director Human Services Alliance of Contra Costa dan@humanservicesalliance.org 415-828-9977 www.humanservicesalliance.org March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 29 From:President Local 21 Contra Costa To:Public Comment Subject:COVID19 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 9:30:38 PM When we start working at the County we sign up to be Disaster Service workers. We are glad to do that. Many of us have volunteered at many different disasters. But no one signed up to put their life or the life of their family at risk because their employer could not provide the needed personal protective equipment to keep them safe while practicing their profession. Both the Sheriffs and the Firefighters are provided with everything they need to perform their profession, but not the rest of your employees. We are like an after thought. Sheriffs become sheriffs knowing that they put their life on the line. Of course, they have firearms to defend themselves. Firefighters are well equipped with the latest fire fighting equipment. But how do you fight a virus? You don’t. You can only protect yourself with the right personal protective equipment. No one knows how lethal COVID19 will be for them, just like a firefighter does not know how lethal the fumes of a burning car will be. Those on the front lines of COVID19 should be protected. Treat all your employees the same. Otherwise you won’t have any employees. This pandemic is not going away and you are going to need to maintain a workforce over the duration of this pandemic. Sue Guest March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 30 From:President Local 21 Contra Costa To:Public Comment Subject:C2- BOS Agenda 3/24/20 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 9:03:54 PM The COVID19 pandemic is unpredecented. However, these two classifications CEO (VCB2) and Chief Medical Officer (VPS4) both use to get on call and call back. Several years ago their base salaries were raised to account for the on call and call back time they were doing, and to make that pay pensionable. Both these single class classifications make a yearly salary currently of $343,093.32 or $28,591.11 per month or around $178 per hour. It was right after PEPRA was passed that with both of these classifications the amount of on-call and call back pay was added to their salary. I distinctly remember the Chief Medical Officer made around $132,000 in call back pay. This was known because it was public information on the Transparent California web site. But what is disturbing about this is the amount. Please do the math. That means one is on call every day every night. Does the Chief Medical officer never sleep? Never take vacation? One has to wonder? And if one is doing that much work, one has too wonder how well they are performing their work? Perhaps what is really needed is more workers to delegate tasks to so the Chief Medical Officer can get some sleep? Both these classifications are compensated very well knowing that they have to work more hours than the staff. That is the very expectation of highly compensated executives especially during unprecedented times as we are experiencing now. They work a lot of long hours but they also are highly compensated with a very high base pay. If you are going to consider giving them on-call and call back then you must consider offering to all the other FSLA exempt employees who are working extra hours and not being compensated. Or are you thinking that the Administrative Leave compensates for overtime? 94 hours equates to about 20 minutes a day of overtime. Do the math! Seems if you are going to award this to them it should be at least under the same terms of the other FSLA exempt employees and that they should have to give up their Administrative Leave and go on the Overtime Exempt List (OTEL). Whether they should remain on the OTEL should be evaluated quarterly by the BOS because they are such highly compensated individuals. I would recommend you not agree to this. As it appears a knee jerk reaction and we are only in the shelter-in-place for a little over a week. Additionally, the message to employees is you care about upper management, but no about them. Not a good message when you need employees at work, not unless you think 2 people can handle everything in health services. Sue Guest March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 31 From:robin hargrave To:Public Comment; Laura Watson Subject:PPE Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 7:26:25 PM My name is Robin Hargrave, and I am a registered nurse at CCRMC. I have been an RN for over 20 years, and have never seen anything like this before. We are definitely in uncharted waters. Having said that, it is imperative that Contra Costa County do everything in its power to keep the front line staff safe. We need PPE, and we need it now. We, the RNs, Doctors and Ancillary staff, are putting ourselves at risk every time we take care of our patients and our community. I implore the board of supervisors to provide us with what we need so that we may continue to serve our community. Thank you, Robin Hargrave, RN March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 32 From:Rosalinda Hernandez To:Public Comment Subject:FW: Statements Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:34:02 AM Good Morning, We at the MediCal CalFRESH Service Center have had to deal with many changes and struggles within the last year and they have been exhausting and causing much stress; emotionally, physically and mentally. Now add on the fear of COVID-19 and now make the previous statement 100x worse. Some MCSC workers are now or will be working from home, including some of the Supervisors and Admin staff. How less essential are those Supervisors or Admin employees that they are given the opportunity to work from home while the ones in the trenches are still working on the line? We are being put at risk of exposure and exposing our family as we go home and could take it to them unknowingly. Why has there been no talk of us getting hazard pay while we are here at work or any additional time off once this pandemic is over?? I have heard of other staff members being sent home as their work is not considered essential, but yet they are still getting full pay. Not that I am trying to get that taken way, but what about us the essential workers that are here??? Again risking exposure of us and our loved ones? I have also heard of other units working skeleton crews, where they are taking turns working two days on two days off and so on; Just to make sure they are social distancing themselves from their co-workers Why is this not being offered to all of us?? I am very concerned for my safety and that of my family!!! Please take us into consideration. Rosalinda Hernandez Clerk-Specialist Lead Level (925)60(8)5941 This message and accompanying documents are covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. "Sections 2510-2521," and contain information intended for the specified individual(s) only. This information is confidential. If you are not the intended recipient or an agent responsible for delivering it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you have received this document in error and that any review, dissemination, copying, or the taking of any action based on the contents of this information is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e-mail, and delete the original message. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 33 From:Hassam Jawaid To:Public Comment Subject:Renters" Protections During Covid-19 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:58:20 AM Hello, my name is Hassam Jawaid and I'm a resident in Contra Costa County. I'm writing to urge the board to create a rental assistance fund and enact a moratorium on all evictions and rent increases while the people of Contra Costa County are impacted by Covid-19. At a time when many of us are stuck at home, unable to work, struggling to comprehend the actions of our leadership in the White House, we desperately need our local leadership to take action to protect all of our residents, our friends, families, our elderly, our students, our teachers, and everyone else who resides in our community. I urge the board to take swift action in creating a rental assistance fund, passing a moratorium on evictions while our county is impacted by Covid-19, and to ensure this moratorium applies to all renters, and not just those facing non-payment of rent cases. We all need protection and support from our community during this time, and we all need you to ensure this happens. Sincerely, Hassam Jawaid March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 34 From:Jess Jollett To:Public Comment Subject:public comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:17:28 AM Attachments:Co Co Actions to Decrease Jail Population .pdf Hi - attached and below you will find a letter for public comment regarding the impending health crisis brewing in our county jails. As a coalition of nonprofits, advocacy groups, and practitioner we are calling for these immediate actions for our collective safety. Thank you, - Jess -- March 24th, 2020 To the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, Sheriff David Livingston, Chief of Probation Ehmen-Krause, Health Services Director Anna Roth, Presiding Judge Barry Baskin, Contra Costa County Chiefs of Police Association, and District Attorney Diana Becton: As Contra Costa County faces an unprecedented public health crisis, we call on you as our local leaders to protect our community and uphold our commitment to justice by taking necessary measures to reduce the number of people in our county jails and juvenile detention facilities. We have come together as impacted individuals, community organizations, labor, healthcare professionals, lawyers, activists, department heads, and faith leaders, because we are committed to public health policy that protects those who are incarcerated in our county. Conditions in correctional facilities make it impossible to practice proper social distancing, which is the undisputed best practice in slowing the spread of infection in the absence of a vaccine. Our county must step up now and implement evidence-based plans to stop the incarceration of people who do not pose an immediate, serious danger to themselves or others. We must also provide the support services necessary for the health and safety of those who are released, as well as those who are diverted from jail by way of citation or non-enforcement because of this pandemic. As county agencies, direct service providers, and unionized workers, we are committed to continuing to provide essential services during this time, and we are already coordinating a resource guide for people who are released. As a collective, we share an understanding that true public safety is a result of meeting the fundamental physical and mental health needs of every member in our community. Being mindful that much more is necessary to achieve that standard, in order to meet the great demands of this moment, we call for the following immediate actions: 1. Restrict in-custody bookings as proposed by DA Becton and other law enforcement leaders in the March 20, 2020 Joint Statement from Elected Prosecutors on COVID-19 and Addressing the Rights and Needs of Those in Custody; March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 35 2. Release all individuals being detained pretrial because they can’t afford cash bail; 3. Release all individuals who are being held in jail custody solely because they have not been transported to a hospital as ordered by a court; 4. Release individuals serving jail sentences as proposed by DA Becton and other law enforcement leaders in their March 20, 2020 Joint Statement; 5. Suspend new detentions and release suspected non-citizens as proposed by DA Becton and other law enforcement leaders in their March 20, 2020 Joint Statement; 6. Provide information and referrals to individuals diverted from and/or released from facilities about essential service resources; 7. Identify County agencies that can provide services to individuals diverted from and/or released from facilities, and identify the services that those agencies would be able to provide; and help to coordinate with non-County service providers; 8. Release all juvenile detainees to their parents/guardians; 9. Immediately make public and implement an evidence-based plan inside county detention facilities to best prevent transmission and provide adequate care. The actions described above are the minimum that must be done in Contra Costa County in order to protect all of our community. We stand ready to work with you in taking on these essential changes. In Solidarity, Bay Area Legal Aid Contra Costa County Defenders Association Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance Contra Costa Labor Council, AFL-CIO Central County Regional Working Group East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy East County Regional Working Group Ensuring Opportunity Family Economic Security Partnership March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 36 Lift Up Contra Costa Monument Impact Multi-faith ACTION Coalition Racial Justice Coalition Richmond Progressive Alliance Rubicon Programs Safe Return Project SEIU 1021 The Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment - Contra Costa Chapter West County Regional Working Group -- Jess Jollett Lift Up Contra Costa Executive Director 619.203.0959 Lift Up Contra Costa members include Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (ACCE), Asian Pacific Environmental Network (APEN), Communities for a Better Environment, The Contra Costa AFL-CIO Labor Council, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy, SEIU Local 1021, SEIU Local 2015, Safe Return Project, and the Richmond Progressive Alliance March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 37 From:boblaneca22 To:Public Comment Subject:Protect Renters Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:12:31 AM Hello, my name is Bob Lane and I am a Volunteer withthe Faith Alliance for a Moral Economy (FAME). I am writing to urge the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors to create a rental assistance fund AND enact a temporary moratorium on evictions and rent increases during the Coronavirus crisis for all of Contra Costa County. This moratorium should extend to ALL renters, not just those facing non-payment of rent cases, in order to truly protect people’s housing during this crisis.I/we support this because many Contra Costa families do not have access to sick leave or other benefits to help pay rent and other expenses. The already-existing housing insecurity for many working-class families is being intensified during this time of lay-offs, shortened work hours, and no business. No family or resident should be concerned with losing their home because of their inability to pay rent at this time. People losing their homes will also make the health crisis worse.Leaders at the national and state levels are calling for local governments to pass these protections to support the most vulnerable members of their communities, and ensure that the health and financial consequences of this crisis aren't any worse than they need to be. We are looking to you to provide leadership in this moment to ensure the health and safety of all communities in Contra Costa. Contra Costa courts must cease scheduling eviction cases for as long as the state’s “Shelter in Place” order remains in effect. Courts in other counties have agreed not to schedule evictions for at least 60-90 days. Contra Costa’s courts are creating uncertainty and confusion by the temporary and conditional closure (on March 13 the court stated that it “hopefully will reopen on April 1”). Families facing threats to housing need certainty, or else will have no choice but to leave their homes to search for housing, move in with extended family/friends or other measures contrary to the public health requirements. The President and Governor Newsom have both called for an eviction moratorium. However, neither of them can fully implement this policy - it is up to local leaders to take action and put strong protections in place. (Counter to some news reports, no statewide ban has been enacted yet). So simply “supporting” the executive order that Governor Newsom issued is wholly inadequate and only symbolic. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 38 While the Contra Costa Sheriff has said he will not enforce evictions during this time, there is no formal ordinance in place - it is unwritten as a policy, open-ended, and could be reversed anytime. Moreover, Sheriff Livingston has a track record of not acting in the best interest of immigrants and communities of color. Residents and organizations on the front lines know that stronger protections are the only way to fully secure families' housing over the coming weeks and months. SIncerely, Bob Lane Sent from Samsung Galaxy smartphone. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 39 From:Kristi Laughlin To:Public Comment Subject:Public comment for BOS meeting now March 24 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:57:40 AM Hello My name is Kristi Laughlin and I work with the East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy. We work with a lot of low-wage service sector workers and tenants in Concord and Contra Costa County. We are seeing so many families hit hard by this COVID 19 crisis. They are not able to work, or their hours have been dramatically reduced. They are panicked about losing their homes. We need a county-wide moratorium on evictions and rent increases NOW to help stabilize families, ease the panic and distress, and to help people in their homes. We know that Concord is poised to pass something tomorrow. But it does not make sense to have to go city-by-city to pass separate ordinances, where there will also be different policies enacted in each place. This is laborious, time-consuming and ultimately inefficient. We need bold leadership from the County NOW to enact a county-wide moratorium on evictions and rent increases that would apply to all 19 cities in the County and in the unincorporated areas. Other counties are already doing this, like in Santa Clara and San Mateo counties. We also need clarification and extension of the Sherriff’s cessation of enforcing eviction judgments. Right now it is unwritten as a policy, open-ended and could be reversed anytime. We need an ordinance that is public and transparent. Please agendize this moratorium as soon as possible. Thank you. -- Kristi Laughlin Senior Campaign Director East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy Concord office: 2140 Minert Rd, 94518 510-847-2399 Preferred pronouns: She/her or They/them March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 40 From:Lorraine Lindell To:Public Comment Subject:PPE and hazard pay Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:34:06 AM If we are expected to work during this time we need hazard pay not only are we putting ourselves at risk but our families as well. Me personally I have a household where everyone has asthma. I do not have a spleen and evening getting pneumonia could put my life in danger so who knows what the COVID 19 would do to my health and it scares me. The hazard pay should also be considered for the stress and worry this is adding to our everyday lives. The fact that we know how dangerous this virus is and we are not given proper ppe is ridiculous Thank you, Lorraine Lindell FTMG Eligibility Worker III Medi-Cal/CalFRESH Service Center 1650 Cavallo Rd. Antioch, Ca 94509 (925) 608-6329 “Be the change you wish to see in the world” The information contained in or accompanying this e-mail is intended only for the use of the stated recipient and may contain information that is confidential and/or privileged. If the reader is not the intended recipient or the agent thereof, you are hereby notified that any dissemination, distribution or copying of this e-mail is strictly prohibited and may constitute a breach of confidence and/or privilege. If you have received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender immediately. Any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Contra Costa County, California~ March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 41 From:Sonya Z. Mehta To:Public Comment Subject:Moratorium on evictions Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:13:26 AM Hello, my name is Sonya Mehta and I am an attorney at a civil rights firm. I am writing to urge the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors to create a rental assistance fund AND enact a temporary moratorium on evictions and rent increases during the Coronavirus crisis for all of Contra Costa County. This moratorium should extend to ALL renters, not just those facing non-payment of rent cases, in order to truly protect people’s housing during this crisis." Sonya Mehta March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 42 From:Sean Murphy To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 11:02:21 PM Hello, I would like to submit the following comments for Item D2 at tomorrow's meeting: I am writing you to ask you to keep our government workers safe so that they can maintain essential services during the COVID crisis. If social workers lack personal protective equipment (PPE) they will be risking their health, their lives. When they get sick. who will investigate child and elder abuse? If our government workers have to go to offices where COVID can spread, who will handle the applications of people in need of MediCal or food stamps, people whose numbers will only grow as more jobs are lost and the economy falters? Please make sure our government workers are safe and healthy so they can continue to support our community in this crisis. We need them and they deserve more support. That means PPE, hazard pay, and safe workplaces. Sean March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 43 From:Dick Offerman To:Public Comment Subject:[BULK] Rental assistance fund AND enact a temporary moratorium on evictions and rent increases Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:03:10 AMHello, my name is Dick Offerman,I am a member of the Contra Costa Immigrant Rights Alliance. I am writing to urge the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors to create a rental assistance fund AND enact a temporary moratorium on evictions and rent increases during the Coronavirus crisis for all of Contra Costa County. This moratorium should extend to ALL renters, not just those facing non-payment of rent cases, in order to truly protect people’s housing during this crisis.Leaders at the national and state levels are calling for local governments to pass these protections to support the most vulnerable members of their communities, and ensure that the health and financial consequences of this crisis aren't any worse than they need to be. We are looking to you to provide leadership in this moment to ensure the health and safety of all communities in Contra Costa.Sincerely,Dick OffermanPleasant Hill, CA 94523 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 44 From:Linda Olvera To:Public Comment Subject:[BULK] PUBLIC COMMENT - Reduction of jail population to stop spread of corona virus Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:22:35 AM PUBLIC COMMENT To: Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Item: Carona virus and the jails From: Linda Olvera, Martinez, Ca. Freedom For Immigrants I am speaking here as a Contra Costa County resident and representing Freedom For Immigrants, a national organization advocating for immigrants. We are here to echo the District Attorney's commitment to an immediate reduction of the jail population and the call to stop admitting people to jail absent a serious risk to the community. In recognition that the Corona virus is spreading quickly among high concentrations of people in close proximity, schools are being shut down, conferences rescheduled,and non essential workers are asked to stay home. Those measures are all sensible, but they also drive home how little attention is being paid to the hundreds of people in the most overcrowded conditions that are ripe for the spread of this contagious and deadly virus: the folks in our jails including innocent immigrants. Now is the time to decarcerate our jails to ensure that all Contra Costans are safe from this global pandemic. It is therefore imperative that the Procecutor's office no longer seek detention for those who are facing low level crimes and a release of those within 6 months of completing their sentence. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 45 From:Ken Paff To:Public Comment Subject:Please meet with our Essential County Workers Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 6:59:51 AM Hello, I am a resident of Richmond, and concerned about our essential county employees who are on the job for us. I am writing to convey the urgency and necessity for the County Administrator, David Twa, to meet with the labor coalition. This coalition is made up of the very people who make sure Contra Costa Country runs and provides essential services to its people. They know their work and the clients the best - and should have a say in how to address this public health and economic crisis that impacts each of our lives. These workers are the ones on the front lines and so are their families, as they work for us helping some of the most vulnerable neighbors here in Richmond and elsewhere in the county. Not doing so makes me wonder what are you afraid of? What are you hiding? Delaying this, or refusing this - will cost lives. It's that serious. Dont do the wrong thing. Do the right thing for our service workers and for the health of all. I once again urge the Board of Supervisors to instruct County Administrator, David Twa, to meet with the labor coalition that includes County Hospital and county health clinic workers in our Health Services Dept: CNA, PDOCC (Physicians and Dentists of Contra Costa), Teamsters 856 health services workers, IFPTE Local 21 health services workers, and SEIU 1021’s medical social workers in the hospital and the County health clinics. Thank you for your time Ken Paff Richmond March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 46 From:MParker To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment D2 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:40:17 AM I wan to urge that the Board of Supervisors instruct Mr. Twa to enter into negotiations with the unions that represent employees. We are asking them to do hazardous work and possibly expose their families to dangerous conditions. Police and Fire are already paid extra because their work is deemed hazardous. They also have early retirement for the same reason. If we ask other employees to engage in even more hazardous work then they should be treated appropriately with health and safety protection, hazardous duty pay, and most of all the respect to negotiate conditions with them. Mike Parker Richmond March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 47 From:Ashley Payne To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 9:55:03 PM As an SEIU 1021 member I am greatly concerned by the lack of urgency exhibited by Labor Relations and some County Departments in collaborating with the labor unions to address the health and safety of our members and their families during this unprecedented public health crisis. We know our work best, we are most familiar with our clients’ needs, and how to ensure the health and safety of the public and ourselves. We are willing and eager to meet. Nearly all SEIU 1021 bargaining unit classifications provide essential services, safety net services. We are committed to providing those services however, we shouldn’t have to pick between protecting our and our families’ health and safety by leaving for work every day to go somewhere that hasn’t ensured ours. Every time we leave, we compromise the people we live with’s ability to self quarantine and stay well. Not to be hyperbolic but if the virus decimates our workforce because we’re or our families are not healthy and safe, we won’t be able to provide essential services. I don’t want this County to get the point when someone calls the child abuse hotline, no one answers because our workers are sick, disabled, dying or dead. Please collaborate with the County unions to ensure our health and safety so we can keep delivering essential services to our community in crisis. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 48 From:Leigh Pierson-brown To:Public Comment Subject:CCCHD PPE Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 5:47:27 PM Hello, I am a nurse practitioner who has worked in CCCHS for 30 years. I have witnessed numerous health and welfare emergencies since my time here. COVID-19 is an unprecedented emergency that demands urgent, proactive and universal precautions asap. As front line healthcare workers, my colleagues and I absolutely need complete PPE with the proper training in how to safely use this equipment. This PPE needs to be available to every single County worker when appropriate. This includes all health care staff, custodian staff, food preparation staff, security staff and anyone else on the front line trying to protect our high risk and vulnerable populations. This is not about us workers “complaining,” or “whining,” or asking for too much. It’s the BASIC equipment that’s needed to protect everyone in this current health crisis. It’s as essential as sterile technique in Operating rooms. I am asking the Board of Supervisors to step up to the plate and keep our CCC population and workers safe and protected. We are committed to doing our jobs and want to do the. In the most professional and safe ways possible. This includes PPE with training for everyone who needs it. Thank you, LPB Sent from my iPad March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 49 From:ALBERT PONCE To:Public Comment Subject:Stop Evictions Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:41:49 AM Dear Board of Governors: Please enact a policy to prevent evictions of Contra Costa County residents. We know in this time of crisis leadership is paramount. There is no time to waste as some of our most vulnerable residents are under duress. Sincerely, Dr. Albert Ponce Martinez, CA March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 50 From:Sally Reader To:Vickey Dominguez; Public Comment Subject:Re: BOS Mtg Today, Your Opportunity to make your voice heard Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:00:30 AM Dear Contra Costa Board of Supervisors: First, I want to thank you for your presence and attentiveness to the COVID-19 crisis that has obviously disrupted "business as usual" for you, for our community, and for those of us who are healthcare workers. I appreciate all of the positive feedback we have seen in the media regarding healthcare workers and first responders, and I would like to give a respectful request that Social Workers across this county also make that list. We are still reporting to work in hospitals, clinics, and other essential facilities across the County to try in an effort to keep the world turning for our patients and clients. Since the COVID-19 crisis began weeks ago, I have spent an unthinkable amount of time providing emotional support to our patients who are panicked, isolated, and unprepared in the community. I have been a beacon of hope and reassurance for our homeless whom we are nearly powerless to help during this crisis. We are providing a great deal of social services which are similar to what we normally provide but with dwindling and uncertain resources. We are checking websites and local news outlets daily to find out what programs and resources are still in operation and what new services may be available to make sure our patients' basic human needs are met. We are a source of support to our compatriots and colleagues at work on the front lines. We are, as always, highly invested in the health and safety of our community, and COVID-19 does not change that. It is no secret that Social Workers are essential employees--that is a given. It should also be known to each of you and to our community that we are still suiting up and showing up, and we are here to help our community fight back against this crisis and remain as healthy as possible. In short, a thank-you goes a long way, so make sure not to forget us in your important public remarks, if for no other reason than to prop us up with the support and appreciation we need as we continue marching forward in solidarity with our community as a whole. Respectfully submitted, Sally Reader-Matthews, M.A. Medical Social Worker II Contra Costa Health Services March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 51 Antioch & Brentwood Health Centers (925) 608-8639 From: Vickey Dominguez <Vickey.Dominguez@cchealth.org> Sent: Tuesday, March 24, 2020 8:26 AM To: SEIU 1021 <seiu1021@cchealth.org> Subject: BOS Mtg Today, Your Opportunity to make your voice heard Hello All, The BOS is meeting today and this is your opportunity to make your voice heard, as to how COVID-19 has had an impact on your work as a MSW. Tell your story about your work conditions and the importance of your work and any personal challenges you face. I know I asked you to text me yesterday but you can post your comment to: publiccomment@cob.cccounty.us Public Comment Item D2 by 0900 today! In Solidarity, Vickey Dominguez, SEIU 1021 VP Health & Human Services March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 52 From:Diane Ridgley To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 8:02:33 PM To whom it may concern: I’ve been at work every day since the shelter in place order went out last week. What I have seen is disheartening. Coworkers are taking off in droves for the no accruals no questions policy. We are down to 8 SSPAs in intake at 400 Ellinwood. We are receiving 80+ BCW applications daily and this doesn’t account for mail in, fax in, and call applications. These all need to be screened for IN/ES. On top of that, we are given MMIU and MC overages. Additionally, we are being double and triple booked on our application days in order to cover overbooks and other appointments for workers who are not in. Phones are ringing off the hook and since we only have 2 clerical staff for 5 units, we’re it for answering those too. It’s overwhelming and stressful. We’re doing the best we can, but are feeling the burden. We are being called names, being yelled at, and taking much abuse by frustrated customers. We are being stopped in the parking lot by customers. Still we put ourselves and families at risk daily in order to do our jobs. We need to be paid for the amount of work we are now responsible for and our level of commitment we are making. Thank you for considering our commitment to our jobs and the community. Sent from my iPhone March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 53 From:Dan Russell To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 7:59:07 AM My name is Dan and I work in IT at the University of California. I am writing to demand that David Twa meet with the unions who represent workers doing vital public services in this time of crisis. I am fortunate that my job allows me to work from home so that I don't have to risk my life or others during the greatest crisis of our lives. Anyone who continues to go to work in this time of crisis is taking on a major risk for their families and for all of us. Have their concerns heard and taken into account is the least that we owe them. How many people have to die before we learn that we are only as safe as the last safe among us? Direct the County Administrator to meet with CNA, PDOCC, Teamsters, IFPTE, and SEIU immediately. Time is of the essence. Thank you for your time. Dan Russell March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 54 From:Ali Saidi To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment 3/24/20 Item D.2 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:35:44 AM Dear Board of Supervisors, The Contra Costa County Defenders Association urgently requests an immediate joint meeting between the County and the various bargaining units representing county workers to discuss immediate coordination and collaboration to protect county workers while we do the essential work of continuing to provide public services during this pandemic. Many issues relating to the coronavirus pandemic, including access to PPE, ongoing financial security, working from home protocols, and proper support for county workers are pressing and urgent. These issues would best be addressed by immediately scheduling a meeting between the county (CAO and Labor Relations) and all county bargaining units that are willing to come to the table to create a coordinated response to this crisis. We are committed to public service and public health, including the health and security of county workers as we pull together as Contra Costans to face these unprecedented challenges. We ask the Board of Supervisors to immediately schedule a meeting between the County and County Bargaining Units to address a coordinated approach to the health and safety of our community during this emergency. Time is of the essence. We need to meet now. Ali Saidi President, Contra Costa County Defenders Assocation March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 55 From:Sean Stalbaum To:Public Comment Subject:Covid-19 Public Comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:07:56 AM Honorable Board Members and CAO Twa: In the fight against this new Coronavirus (COVID-19), Local 21 remains committed to collaborating with the County and vigilant about ensuring the health and safety of all County workers and the public we serve. We ask you to teleconference and/or Zoom with union representatives weekly or more as needed. We ask you to collaborate and be aggressive pushing for more Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline essential workers. We ask you to persevere and double-down on the leadership you exhibited by extending full wage replacement for the duration of any shelter-in-place order for all workers who are unable to work during this pandemic due to illness, caring for a family member, childcare obligations due to school or daycare closures, and if they are deemed high risk. It is imperative for us as workers, as well as the public, that we not be compelled to come to work in conditions that could spread COVID-19. We ask you to insist that all County Departments, especially those most vital to the COVID-19 crisis response, rigorously enforce social distancing measures for essential workers who must work and step up efforts to get employees who can do so working from home. We ask for better communication from the top-down to eliminate confusion and decrease panic. Finally, we ask that you recognize the extraordinary sacrifices being made by our non-public safety essential employees who now find themselves serving as essential workers providing front-line services for which appropriate social distancing has so far been impossible and without the necessary PPE to protect themselves. These workers may have agreed to work during disasters and they do so. But a global pandemic is not the same as a fire, earthquake, flood or other natural disaster. County workers in Health Services and EHSD are now being asked to risk their own health and the health and safety of their families by increased risk of exposure to COVID-19 while lacking appropriate PPE. The attitude coming from the County that “this is what they signed up for” must STOP. We ask you to continue to lead and collaborate so we can meet this unprecedented public health challenge together. Thank you, -Sean Stalbaum Sean Stalbaum Lead Representative/Organizer IFPTE Local 21 Physical Address: 624 Ferry Street Martinez, CA 94553 Mailing Address: 649 Main Street #226 Martinez, CA 94553 Main: (925) 313-9102 Direct: (925) 239-1271 Fax: (925) 313-0190 Email: sstalbaum@ifpte21.org March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 56 From:Will Shattuc To:Public Comment Subject:PUBLIC COMMENT ITEM D2 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:08:44 AM Hello, My name is Will and I'm a long time teacher and artist in the Bay. I rely on both SNAP and MediCal to make ends meet in one of the most expensive places to live on the planet. I'm calling on County Administrator Twa to meet with the labor coalition and take action on the concerns and experiences of these workers. I'm sure that social services are already feeling the intense burden of providing for others during a global pandemic. They spend their day helping people like myself get their medication and basic supplies. If what scientists and economists are telling us is true, we're facing well over one million deaths nationally and unemployment worse than the Great Depression; every person we know will be affected. To ignore the workers who organize these services, which are now more essential than ever, would be to ignore the suffering of the clients they talk to everyday, your constituents. The question is being forced nationally: which side are you on? Do you support working-class people in this crisis or do you plug your ears to our needs and let COVID sort it out. The choice is clear to me as I hope it is to you. Instruct Country Administrator Twa to meet with the labor coalition and we can get through this crisis together. The best, Will Shattuc March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 57 From:Karen Sheppard To:Public Comment Subject:WTW not essential right now Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 6:58:38 AM I am a Welfare to Work worker in the for EHSD. Our services are not needed at this time. Some of us are working while others are home, I am working with a compromised immune system in effort to allow my coworkers time with their families (if I don’t work they must take my shifts) Not fair. I am petrified about catching the virus too! Reconsider essential workers, at this time we are not! No one is working or in school! Sent from my iPhone March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 58 From:Taylor Sims To:Public Comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:43:03 AMHello, my name is Taylor Sims and I am the Special Projects Coordinator at Lift Up Contra Costa. I am writing to urge the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors to create a rental assistance fund AND enact a temporary moratorium on evictions and rent increases during the Coronavirus crisis for all of Contra Costa County. This moratorium should extend to ALL renters, not just those facing non-payment of rent cases, in order to truly protect people’s housing during this crisis.I support this because many Contra Costa families do not have access to sick leave or other benefits to help pay rent and other expenses. The already-existing housing insecurity for many working-class families is being intensified during this time of lay-offs, shortened work hours, and no business. No family or resident should be concerned with losing their home because of their inability to pay rent at this time. People losing their homes will also make the health crisis worse.Leaders at the national and state levels are calling for local governments to pass these protections to support the most vulnerable members of their communities, and ensure that the health and financial consequences of this crisis aren't any worse than they need to be. We are looking to you to provide leadership in this moment to ensure the health and safety of all communities in Contra Costa. -- Taylor Sims Special Projects Coordinator (925) 478-9465 (She/Her/Hers) Lift Up Contra Costa members include Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (ACCE), Asian Pacific Environmental Network (APEN),Communities for a Better Environment, The Contra Costa AFL-CIO Labor Council, East Bay Alliance for a Sustainable Economy, SEIU Local 1021, SEIU Local 2015, Safe Return Project, and the Richmond Progressive Alliance March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 59 From:mark smith To:Public Comment Subject:Public comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:52:21 AM Aren’t your workers disaster service workers? Why are they running and hiding from their obligations rather than providing services to us? I find it pathetic and despicable that your workers think they should continue to be paid while they sit at home. What is wrong with you that you would allow this? You and they have a duty. Where is your integrity? Why are you even discussing this with the union? Tell them to get to work! This is reprehensible. I bet those same selfish human beings expect their grocers to be at work. What is wrong with you all? March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 60 From:Evette N. Thomas To:Public Comment Subject:Statement for Hazard Pay Request Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:42:15 AM Hello, My name is Evette Thomas, I am an Eligibility Worker III at the Medi-cal Calfresh Service Center. I am requesting for 15% or more for Hazard Pay be negotiated for all Contra Costa County essential employees. Amazon is one of the companies paying their workers double their normal wage during COVID-19. I am one of the many families who depend on a dual income household. My husband is an Iron Worker and has been off work since 03/17/2020. His tentative return date is 04/07/2020, however with everything going on, there is no guarantee the shelter in place will be lifted that day. He is not being paid during this time, he has applied for unemployment benefits, but since it is capped it will not make up the loss in income we will be taking once we receive the income. We do not know how long this will be in effect and are requesting some assistance during this time. Thank you for your consideration, Evette N. Thomas- FTHC Eligibility Worker lll 8-6223 1650 Cavallo Rd. Antioch. (925) 608-6223 Ethomas1@ehsd.cccounty.us March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 61 From:Uche Cutnn To:Public Comment Subject:Public Comment Item D2 Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 9:42:34 PM To the Contra Costa Board of Supervisors: My name is Uche Uzegbu-McGhee and I am a social casework assistant in Children and Family services. During this unprecedented time of crisis, myself and many of my coworkers have felt confused and unsure about how the county will keep not only the workers safe, but the children and families we serve. We have seen the various memos that have been disseminated since late February in regards to COVID-19. Many were informative and as of late caused distress. Many of the individuals who choose to be social workers did so because they have a passion for the community they serve, want to keep our children safe and educate our community. That being said, many of these workers are single parents, sole breadwinners or caregivers to aged family members. I know none of us can foretell how long this crisis will last, but keep in mind that whatever decision is made here will have a trickle down effect to workers and clients alike. We all continue to serve our community during this time as diligently and passionately as ever. We know work has to be done, but more should be done to ensure the protection of our workers. We ask for trainings, supplies and “tried and tested” alternatives to face-to-face contact to ensure our continued safety. We also ask the our accruals and paychecks not be effected. We also ask for transparency and warning if anything changes so that we can prepare ourselves mentally and financially. Many will panic, but with the aforementioned requests taken into consideration, I believe that we will have a more calm, willing and satisfied workforce. Thank you. Best Regards, N. Uche Uzegbu-McGhee March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 62 From:Hao Voqui To:Public Comment Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:12:31 AM Sorry about ramble, but I have 3 kids at home and 2 are high risk. My daughter has medical problem that relate to a pain syndrome, and other related medical conditions (including respiratory issues). When it gets bad. She cannot even walk. She craws around the house (she is 11 by the way). Many night when it gets bad, I have to carry her up stairs to bed. Most morning she is in tears waking up to the pain. My son has respiratory and heart issues. He also has autism and being home during this time is a nightmare for him. He cannot get out and burn off some of this energy. I should be at home to take care of them and reducing risk, but I was just declined again for the work from home pilot, because I have about 20 cases over 90 days, even with all the outage of the BREE all through December/January and increase call volumes and call outs. All of the cases over 90 days are pending documents requested from the customer. So now I have the added stress of not know where I will be place in the near future. They have doctor’s appointment/therapy 4x a week and if I get place anywhere further than Delta Fair I am not going to be able to take them. So their health is going to be compromised by the county. Even though we can take time off, I cannot. I need to make sure I get ahead to be possible consider from the next group of the telecommute group. SO I have to risk coming to work to “catch up” to maybe get a chance to work from home and avoid a big commute that will impact the long term health of my kids. When this 90 rule came about, look at the case per MCSC worker average. And look at it now. And can you please explain to me how that is fair when the cases are almost double? And how you can penalize people for this? March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 63 From:SANDRA WALL To:Public Comment Subject:COVID -12 Employee Safety Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 10:05:44 AM Good Morning Board, My name is Sandra Wall. I'm currently an SSPA and have worked for EHSD for what will be 22 years in June. I'm here because I love my what I do in helping the most vulnerable people in the County I was both born and raised in. What I didn't sign up for was to put my family and elderly mother with respiratory issues at risk. I along with my fellow employees don't feel that our health has been made a priority. For those employees who are working are having problems getting even sanitizing wipes. The lobbies were closed and I was hopeful. That was until I witnessed both managers and clerical staff outside collecting documents without any type of PPE and not adhering to the 6ft of social distancing required. In addition they were allowed to come into the lobby to set up a PIN for their EBT cards that can be done via phone. That same lack of social distancing extends into the office space where employees are sitting side by side. Not to mention district offices without any janitorial services. For those of us who are deemed essential and unable to temporarily work from home should be able to come to work safely within the guidelines of the CDC. Let's protect those workers that are on the front line. Thank You, Sandra Wall SSPA / EHSD President / Contra Costa Area Rep SEIU Local 1021 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 64 From:J & J To:Public Comment Subject:Need to provide ways for unhoused to charge their phones. I heard today that people used to be able to charge their phones at the library. Appreciate you"ll looking into how to make charging stations available to people similar to other disasters. Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 9:30:47 PM Sent from Mail for Windows 10 Virus-free. www.avast.com Need to provide ways for unhoused to charge their phones. I heard today that people used to be able to charge their phones at the library. Appreciate you'll looking into how to make charging stations available to people similar to other disasters. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 65 RECOMMENDATION(S): Presentation on Contra Costa's homeless issues. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: Contra Costa's homelss issues. APPROVE OTHER RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE Action of Board On: 03/24/2020 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER Clerks Notes: VOTE OF SUPERVISORS AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District IV Supervisor Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor Contact: Lavonna Martin (925) 608-6700 I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: March 24, 2020 David J. Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: Jami Napier, Deputy cc: Anna Roth, Director of Health Services D.3 To:Board of Supervisors From:David Twa, County Administrator Date:March 24, 2020 Contra Costa County Subject:Presentation on Homeless Issues March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 66 RECOMMENDATION(S): Presentation on Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) and Children/Youth. FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact. BACKGROUND: Presentation on Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) and Children/Youth. APPROVE OTHER RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE Action of Board On: 03/24/2020 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER Clerks Notes: VOTE OF SUPERVISORS Contact: Jaspreet Benapal I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: March 24, 2020 David J. Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: , Deputy cc: Anna Roth, Director of Health Services D.4 To:Board of Supervisors From:David Twa, County Administrator Date:March 24, 2020 Contra Costa County Subject:Presentation on Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) and Children/Youth March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 67 CLERK'S ADDENDUM Public Comments: Douglas Dunn, Mental Health Commission, District 3; John Geluardi; d Leslie May, Co-Chair, Mental Health Commission; Kathleen McLaughlin, former MHC Co-Chair and Child Advocate; Teresa Pasquini, Behavioral Healthcare Partnership of Contra Costa Regional Medical Center, former Mental Health Commissioner; Lauren Rettagliata; Barbara Serwin, Chair, Mental Health Commission. (Written commentary attached) The report for today’s presentation was prepared for the scheduled Board Retreat and shared with the Mental Health Commission. Going forward, it will be shared with the wider community to obtain feedback from the public. Detailed information is provided in the attached report. AGENDA ATTACHMENTS PES Remodel Report MINUTES ATTACHMENTS public comments March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 68 1 CONTRA COSTA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER PSYCHIATRIC EMERGENCY SERVICES (PES) REMODEL PROJECT OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this project include 1) separation of children (ages 7 through 12 years) and adolescents (ages 13 through 17 years) from adult patients; 2) provision of a larger dedicated space more conducive to a therapeutic environment to better support youth and their families; 3) addition of a confidential triage space at the entrance to PES, and 4) expansion of treatment space for adults. BACKGROUND: Psychiatric Emergency Service (PES) is the only Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) in Contra Costa County. It is located at the Contra Costa Regional Medical Center (CCRMC) in Martinez, California. It is the only CSU in Contra Costa County certified by the State Department of Health Care Services to receive persons on involuntary treatment holds pursuant to Article 1, Section 5150 of the California Welfare and Institutions Code. Treatment functions include assessment of mental health conditions, triage for appropriate level of care, stabilization of a crisis, and referral to appropriate outpatient services or, when indicated, psychiatric hospitalization. The basis for initiating and sustaining involuntary treatment include imminent danger to self, danger to others or grave disability due to a mental health condition. While the majority of clients come to PES on a 5150 hold, a significant number seek these services on a voluntary basis. The Crisis stabilization unit, a covered Medi-Cal benefit, is open to the community and provides services regardless of insurance type or coverage. It is important to emphasize that crisis stabilization is intended to have a duration of no longer than 23 hours and 59 minutes. PES is not an inpatient unit and instead is a Specialty Mental Health outpatient program. It is noteworthy that some commercial insurance plans do not reimburse for crisis stabilization services, others partially reimburse, and Medi-Cal reimburses only up to 20 hours of the 24-hour maximum stay. It is a common misunderstanding in the community that services are to be provided for the full 72-hour duration of a 5150 WIC hold. Utilization of PES increased significantly each year from FY 2008-2009 to FY 2014-15 then plateaued with annual visits of about 10,000+. Reasons contributing to the increases include the closure of inpatient psychiatric units in the greater Bay Area (which also has resulted in longer lengths of stay in PES while an inpatient bed is sought), county population growth, changes in social determinants of health such as poverty and homelessness, significant prevalence of methamphetamine use with induced psychosis, and, very significant absence of adequate outpatient resources for persons with commercial insurance. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 69 2 Yearly Patients Options: Discussion To address the assorted needs, several options were examined using input from clinicians, family community advocates, and current best practices. Initial consideration was given to a) creating a separate stand-alone CSU for youth off campus, b) located within the George and Cynthia Miller Wellness Center (MWC), or c) in the inpatient unit within CCRMC. Off campus locations would require proximity to a medical facility, capacity to receive ambulances 24 hours/7 days a week, and community support for siting a high intensity treatment center and therefore ruled out. Utilization of an inpatient unit would require significant and costly retrofitting in order to meet more recent building requirements and significant uncertainty about approval by DHCS to convert an inpatient unit to an outpatient clinic. Even for temporary use of this type, DHCS declined to consider approval prior to completion of physical plant modifications. But even if eventually approved for outpatient services, using an interior inpatient unit would require delivery of individuals in acute distress, often highly disorganized, dis -regulated, and agitated and restrained on a gurney through the corridors of the hospital. This would provide far less privacy to clients and potentially disrupt other patient care areas. However, apart from the above considerations, utilization data did not support a free-standing CSU for youth. It became evident that utilization of PES by youth was very seasonal (particularly low census during summer months) and that throughout the year there were significant periods of time when no youth were present on the unit. Given the 24/7 hours of March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 70 3 operation required of PES, the costs of staffing and operating a unit that was not consistently used would be prohibitive. Moving the entire PES , serving both youth and adults, to a new and separate location introduced the same barriers as when considering one just for youth: locating an acceptable property, establishing an intensive treatment program with 24/7 ambulance traffic, and being in close physical proximity of a health facility. Additionally, costs of a new building would be significant. Redesign of the existing PES is considered more feasible than other of the options. Three conceptual models for redesign evolved over a several year period and recently were presented at different community forums. Each of these options would create a separate and distinct treatment center for youth, result a greater square footage of PES with expanded capacity for both youth and adults, and accomplish other stated objectives. Whichever option might be selected will require some period of disruption in PES operations due to noise, worker traffic, presence of tools, etc. Alternatives would need to be considered to maintain a safe and secure area for clients while construction is in progress. Below are conceptual, not to scale, floor plans showing the current state and t he three options which were examined. Further details will be addressed when a selection is made and during the preparation and review of architectural drawings. In each option presented, additional security may be needed within the PES during construction. Current Floor Plan Current Floor Plan March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 71 4 The PES is “land-locked” with limited expansion opportunities. On the right in this picture is the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Critical Care Unit (CCU). On the left is the Emergency Department; neither of which can be feasibly relocated. The only practical solution for expansion within this space is to relocate non direct-care administrative space, identified within the red dotted line, to another location, March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 72 5 Option 1 Option 1 moves the youth into the relocated administrative space, creating a dedicated unit, with locked doors, away from the adult patients. This option also creates a dedicated entry and uses the hallway between the PES and ICU/CCU with a dedicated exterior door. Option 1 also creates a vestibule inside the PES where the handoff can occur for a patient on a gurney from EMS to the CCRMC staff. Currently this handoff is done directly inside the PES, in potential earshot of other patients. Once the youth space is constructed, the current youth observation area will be renovated into an additional adult observation area. Some operational problems exist with this option, as well as Options 2 and 3. W hile not ideal, these can be addressed by phasing construction. Phase I. Creating the vestibule will present an operational impact on patients entering through the sally port. If phasing construction and changing workflows are not feasible, we will need to close the unit for a period of time or go on diversion. Once the vestibule is competed normal entry can resume. Phase II would build out the youth space and once complete the youth would be relocated with a dedicated, separate entrance. Phase III would be the renovation of the current youth observation space into an additional adult observation area. This is the cheapest option but does not address the need for additional pre-entrance triage space, nor for a meaningfully larger adult space. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 73 6 Option 2 This option builds on Option 1 and creates a private triage space outside the PES. Today, patients presenting must stand in the covered vestibule outside the entrance to PES. Often, ambulatory patients are arriving there with other patients awaiting triage along with arriving ambulances and vehicle exhaust, thus creating a space that is not private, unwelcoming, and unhealthful. The triage area creates a private, confidential, space for ambulatory patients coming to the PES to be triaged and evaluated. If this option were selected, the triage area could be built while the vestibule is closed. Option 3 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 74 7 This option presents the same operational issues outlined above in addition to enlarging the men and women observation space into the current, and little used, outdoor patio. If this option were selected the construction phasing addressed earlier would be the same. To keep the PES operational, a wall would be constructed inside the observation area to allow for exterior construction. The entire dorm would not be usable for a short period when the expansion is attached to the existing building. During this time, current adult patients will need to be transferred to another facility and arriving adult patients will need to be diverted to other facilities. This will require BHS to ensure options are available in the community. TIMELINE Below is an estimated timeline for each option, which has been prepared by a professional construction estimating company in San Francisco. The exact timeline will be developed in coordination with the selected architect. The timeline may vary depending on the construction activity in the Bay Area. Incentives may be built into the construction contract for a sooner completion. Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Design 3-4 months 4-5 months 4-5 months OSHPD and Permitting 6-8 months 7-9 months 7-9 months Construction 10-12 months 12-15 months 14-16 months Total Months 19-24 months 23-29 months 25-30 months PROJECT COST Below are cost estimates developed in December 2019. Actual costs may be different depending on Bay Are costs of labor and materials. FUNDING The project will be financed with a ten to twenty-year bond issuance (review pending). Debt service will likely be a combination of grant and/or Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) funds (validation pending). RECOMMENDATION: The recommended solution is Option 2, with the provision there is additional inpatient availability for youth and/or adult patients within the County or neighboring counties. Current Sq Ft Added Sq Ft Total Sq Ft Construction Cost Project Mgt Cost1 Security Cost2 Total Cost $/Sq Ft 5,370 Option 1 2,101 7,471 $2,296,783 $1,148,392 $282,560 $3,727,735 $1,774 Option 2 2,265 7,635 $3,092,272 $1,546,136 $282,560 $4,920,968 $2,173 Option 3 3,499 8,869 $5,366,607 $2,683,304 $282,560 $8,332,471 $2,381 Notes: 1. All options use 50% of construction cost for project management cost 2. All options add Security (1 Deputy 10 hours/day, M-F, during 16 months of construction) March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 75 8 In the absence of additional inpatient beds option 3 would be the recommendation to move forward with. Whichever option is selected, there will be several significant challenges which will need to be addressed  Patient volume must be closely managed. There is a high possibility of needing to close or minimize the number of adult and/or youth patients in PES during this time  Due to noise and construction activities, which may negatively affect our patients, there is a distinct possibility that we may need to go on diversion, or to close completely for a period o Creating a vestibule will present an operational impact on patients entering through the sally port. If phasing construction and changing workflows are not feasible, we will need to close the unit for a period or go on diversion. o In Option 3, enlarging the observation rooms and constructing a temporary interior wall present significant challenges when the wall is taken down and the enlarged rooms are connected to the building. At that time current adult patients will need to be transferred and new adult patients will need to be diverted to other facilities. This will require BHS to ensure options are available in the community.  The contractor must closely monitor tools and equipment within the PES  CCRMC and Behavioral Health Division (BHS) will work closely together to ensure minimal disruption to services. BHS needs to ensure there is mutual regional cooperation agreement  There will be a need for increased administrative, clinical, and security staff during this time  Last minute changes may need to be made to operational processes, construction phasing, labor availability, construction cost, timelines, and security requirements, which will need to be immediately addressed  Construction will present issues which are not planned for that will require immediate decisions regarding construction and operational issues  Staff will need to be flexible and accommodate short notice changes  There will be inconveniences to departments outside the PES March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 76 Item D4 Comments-PES Report—Board of Supervisors 03/24/2020: Douglas Dunn Barbara Serwin, Chair of the Mental Health Commission (MHC) and me, Chair of its MHSA-Finance Committee, have been involved in these discussions with both Medical Center and Behavioral Health leadership. However, this is the first time I have seen this report. In addition, despite Medical Center and Behavioral Health leadership’s presentation at the March 4 Mental Health Commission meeting, this report was not made available then to either the Commissioners or the large stakeholder community that attended. As a result, they voiced their great displeasure at the Consolidated Planning Advisory Workgroup (CPAW) meeting, Thursday, March 5. In short, the stakeholder community feels they have totally been totally excluded from major discussions and decisions while they were taking place. As a result, they feel their input and involvement is not desired or wanted. This needs to change. I’ve been given a personal tour of Psychiatric Emergency Services (PES) and am especially aware of the great need for additional and separate space for both children and adolescent psychiatric patients. In addition, our adult loved one has been involved with PES multiple times these past years. They are among the most vulnerable persons in the county. I’m also aware of the numerous physical plant and operating challenges of keeping PES open during ongoing construction. Because of the historic coronavirus pandemic, I’m not sure Option 3 is feasible to consider at this time. Both Medical Center and Behavioral Health leadership need to effectively reach out to Commission, CPAW, and Behavioral Health Care Partnership (BHCP) leadership to really engage community stakeholders before any further decisions are contemplated. Thank you for your careful consideration. Douglas Dunn Mental Health Commissioner, Family Seat – District 3 Chair, Commission MHSA-Finance Committee Family-east county-member of CPAW Member of CPAW System of Care Committee March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 77 From:John G To:Public Comment Subject:What about 4-D? Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:11:53 AM Why specifically is 4-D not being evaluated as a possible crisis stabilization unit for children and adolescents? Please no vague and misleading information such as "regulatory restrictions." John Geluardi March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 78 From:Leslie May To:Public Comment Subject:PES Remodel Report Date:Friday, March 20, 2020 5:57:34 PM As a Commissioner for District 5, Co-Chair of the Mental Health Commission, and a Mental Health Clinician in Contra Costa County, I implore the Board of Supervisors to select one of the three designs presented to you by Suzanne Tarvano and Jaspreet Benepal today. We are past a crisis for increased beds and services and with the latest COVID-19 crisis, this shines a spotlight on the need for expansion of PES. As a ‘street soldier,’ I come face-to-face with some of the most serious mentally ill populations every week as a practitioner. Just this week, I received referrals from 4 new clients who have diagnosed disorders but are being triggered by the COVID-19 crisis. I had to work with them and their families to stabilize them so they would not have to go to PES. Many of this population are homeless. At this moment, we are living and witnessing a crisis that nobody could have ever imagined and quite frankly, I’m worried about the homeless with severe mental illness living on the streets, and contracting COVID-19. They live on the streets of this county and although I am aware a building can’t be constructed within weeks, we need to move forward with selecting a model, working with one of the architects and contractor’s bids to begin construction of this building addition/revision. This dilemma has lasted too long and it is time to make a decision to move forward; choose which design to move forward with; and, ask the federal government for needed funding to make this a reality immediately. We do not have anymore time on our hands. The time is now before the county is plunged into another disaster with the seriously mentally ill population. Thank you very much for addressing this issue and I hope we can solve this one need as expeditiously as possible. Ms. Leslie D. May Sent from Mail for Windows 10 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 79 From:Kathleen McLaughlin To:Public Comment Subject:Item D4 on 3/24/20 BOS Agenda Date:Monday, March 23, 2020 5:27:43 PM The Grand Jury report and subsequent BOS meetings to review it and the official response to it were heard more than 7 months ago. At that time many of us were assured that consumers and their families would have ample opportunity for input on any plans to correct the problems. Once again, we were NOT heard or included in any of these discussions, specifically the 3 options for a redesign of PES in this report. These "plans" are in fact concepts created by PES staff several years ago without ANY input from consumers or their families. Instead of one of these being approved or moved on for further development at this "Special" meeting we are requesting any additional discussion MUST include more public input and the inclusion of additional options such as using 4D. Previous presentations at CPAW and the Mental Health Commission were NOT discussions and resulted in dozens of unanswered/unaddressed questions. It is time for this Board to fully embrace the concept of "Nothing about us without us". Transparency is ALWAYS better than secrecy and inclusion of more perspectives and ideas ALWAYS results in a better outcome. Kathi McLaughlin Original member of CPAW Former MHC Co-Chair and Child Advocate 20 year member of Martinez Unified Board of Trustees March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 80 From:Teresa Pasquini To:Public Comment Subject:Discussion Comments on D.4 Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 9:59:21 AM Please consider this comment during the discussion of Item D.4: My name is Teresa Pasquini, I am a former Mental Health Commissioner, a founding member of the Behavioral Healthcare Partnership of Contra Costa Regional Medical Center and the proud mom of an adult son who lives heroically with a serious mental illness. My son’s first 5150 was at the age of 16. He was taken to Walnut Creek Children’s Psychiatric hospital which like many psych hospitals has since closed. My son Danny has been conserved by our county for 18 years. Most of that time he has been institutionalized in out of county placements. Yet still, he has touched Psychiatric Emergency Services over 80 times in the past 20 years with over 40 5150s. He has also spent weeks on 4c March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 81 waiting for a step-down bed. We all know that there is a severe crisis in accessing psychiatric beds along the age span and continuum of care. I want to express my support for the heroic staff of PES and all patients/families who must use this service during a crisis. This is a door that we all hope to avoid. I have been inside this Psychiatric Emergency Service numerous times and watched the ambulances roll in. I have watched the staff of this hospital greet patients who are in crisis. I have watched them show compassion, care and then do what they are LEGALLY able to do. So, I consider our county hospital to be like gold, a treasure. It is the hospital that will take those that nobody else will take and I personally know how important that is. A separate Psychiatric Emergency March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 82 Units and inpatient psych units are also rare and not available in all California counties. I hope that we can all agree that children should not be in PES. I think anyone of the designs would be acceptable. However, I don’t understand why the community is not pushing harder on private hospitals to help with the redesign of our hospital-based psych services for kids and youth. I personally hope to see our community move through the current problems in a spirit of improvement and partnership, not blame and shame. Thank you. Teresa Pasquini El Sobrante, CA 94803 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 83 From:Lauren Rettagliata To:Public Comment Subject:PES Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 11:07:04 AM Who directed and oversaw the 3 Options that were presented to the Mental Health Commission? When were these plans drawn up? Who provided input? Was the staff that works in PES given opportunity to give its input? Lauren Rettagliata Sent from my iPhone March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 84 From:Barbara Serwin To:Public Comment Subject:Comments from Barbara Serwin, Chair, Mental Health Commission re: Board of Supervisors 3/24/20 meeting, PES agenda item Date:Tuesday, March 24, 2020 4:19:45 AM Dear Board of Supervisors, Below are my public comments regarding the PES agenda item on today's agenda (3/24/20). Thank you for sharing them at the meeting. Best regards, Barbara Serwin ..... Comments from Barbara Serwin, Chair, Mental Health Commission, on 3/24/20, regarding PES: Dear Board of Supervisors and meeting participants: As the Chair of the Mental Health Commission, I have taken on the task of obtaining community feedback regarding PES options and of sharing that feedback with decision- makers. As it stands, I am nearly empty-handed. The process for developing PES options, and the process for obtaining feedback from the community, have both been short-circuited. In early March I strongly recommended to CCRMC and BHS leadership that they deliver a comprehensive presentation that lays out all of the PES options that have been explored, including those that have been taken off of the table, and those not yet explored. Each option should be evaluated in terms of what it uniquely provides to the community, what problems it solves, its pro's and con's, constraints, potential funding and so forth. The presentation should address all of the questions that we can expect the community to ask. Instead, the presentation that we received focused narrowly on three redesign options. It was as though no other options had ever been discussed. I had hoped for a collaborative and transparent process for the development of options. Instead, a set of three redesign options that were created years ago and that were deliberately not shared with the community, appeared out of nowhere without any explanation of who had held them, why they had held them back, and why they were appearing now. It was as though they dropped out of the sky. Why does this matter if we are finally seeing them now? It matters because when work is not collaborative, the results suffer. When work is not transparent, trust is lost. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 85 I envisioned a well-coordinated process of CCRMC and BHS leadership working on options and getting feedback on these options, with the goal of developing an option that everyone could get behind and that the Mental Health Commission therefore could support. It hasn't worked that way. Instead, the three redesign options that appeared out of the blue were presented to community groups over the course of a month. With no time for community members to reconvene and discuss, here we are at a PES presentation at a special meeting of the Board of Supervisors without any understanding of how and when a decision is going to be made and whether the curtain has gone down on community input. We all want to move forward rapidly on PES. I'm in fact hoping we can slow it down enough to make sure that we are in agreement regarding which problems we are trying to solve and to get a transparent process in place for coordinating analysis, feed-back and decision-making. As a community, we possess the answers. So let's come together to find the right solution for the people and families we care so much for. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 86 RECOMMENDATION(S): RATIFY the order of the County Administrator closing all County libraries until further notice, effective March 16, 2020, in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 and preserve critical health care capacity across the region. FISCAL IMPACT: None. BACKGROUND: The County Administrator (CAO) is the administrator of emergency services and is in charge of the County’s emergency organization. Under the emergency powers granted to the CAO under Article 42-2.8 of County Ordinance Code, on March 15, 2020, the CAO ordered the closure of all County libraries until further notice, effective March 16, 2020. This action was taken in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19 and preserve critical health care capacity across the region. On March 16, 2020, the County Health Officer issued a shelter in place order to all residents, subject to specified exceptions. On March 17, 2020, the American Library Association APPROVE OTHER RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE Action of Board On: 03/24/2020 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER Clerks Notes: VOTE OF SUPERVISORS AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District IV Supervisor Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor Contact: Lisa Driscoll (925) 335-1035 I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: March 24, 2020 David J. Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: Jami Napier, Deputy cc: Melinda Cervantes, County Librarian C.1 To:Board of Supervisors From:David Twa, County Administrator Date:March 24, 2020 Contra Costa County Subject:RATIFY the Order of the County Administrator Closing All Branches of the County Library Until Further Notice March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 87 BACKGROUND: (CONT'D) released its statement containing a strong recommendation that leaders and governing bodies evaluate the closure of libraries and only reopen when guidance from public health officials indicate the risk from COVID-19 has significantly subsided. This ratification supports the County Administrator’s decision and order to close all County libraries due to COVID-19 until further notice and action. CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Allowing the County libraries to remain open during this emergency situation would present health risks to library staff and patrons. March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 88 RECOMMENDATION(S): ADOPT Resolution No. 2020/110 to revise Section IV.40. of Management Benefits Resolution No. 2019/507, adding the following health services classifications to those eligible for On-Call Duty and Call Back Time: -CCRMC Chief Executive Officer-Exempt (VCB2), -Chief Medical Officer-Exempt (VPS4), -Chief Nursing Officer-Exempt (VWD2), -Medical Director (VCA2), and -Assistant to the Health Services Director/PIO (VSC1). FISCAL IMPACT: Dependent upon time on call and called back. Costs may be eligible for COVID-19 reimbursement. BACKGROUND: In recognition of the extremely long hours worked by employees in these classifications, the recommendation is made to make them eligible for on-call duty and call back pay described in Section IV.40 of the Management Resolution. APPROVE OTHER RECOMMENDATION OF CNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE Action of Board On: 03/24/2020 APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER Clerks Notes: VOTE OF SUPERVISORS AYE:John Gioia, District I Supervisor Candace Andersen, District II Supervisor Diane Burgis, District III Supervisor Karen Mitchoff, District IV Supervisor Federal D. Glover, District V Supervisor Contact: Lisa Driscoll, County Finance Director (925) 335-1023 I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: March 24, 2020 David J. Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: , Deputy cc: Dianne Dinsmore, Human Resources Director, Robert Campbell, Auditor-Controller, Anna Roth, Director of Health Services C.2 To:Board of Supervisors From:David Twa, County Administrator Date:March 24, 2020 Contra Costa County Subject:Revision to Management Benefits Resolution No. 2019/507 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 89 CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION: Uncertain. AGENDA ATTACHMENTS Resolution 2020/110 MINUTES ATTACHMENTS signed Resolution 2020/110 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 90 THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS OF CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CALIFORNIA and for Special Districts, Agencies and Authorities Governed by the Board Adopted this Resolution on 03/24/2020 by the following vote: AYE:5 John Gioia Candace Andersen Diane Burgis Karen Mitchoff Federal D. Glover NO: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: RECUSE: Resolution No. 2020/110 In The Matter Of: Revising Section IV.40 of Management Benefits Resolution No. 2019/507. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors acting in its capacity as the Governing Board of the County of Contra Costa RESOLVES THAT: Effective immediately, Section IV.40. of Management Benefits Resolution No. 2019/507, is revised to add the following health services classifications to those eligible for On-Call Duty and Call Back Time: CCRMC Chief Executive Officer-Exempt (VCB2), Chief Medical Officer-Exempt (VPS4), Chief Nursing Officer-Exempt (VWD2), Medical Director (VCA2), and Assistant to the Health Services Director/PIO (VSC1). Contact: Lisa Driscoll, County Finance Director (925) 335-1023 I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of an action taken and entered on the minutes of the Board of Supervisors on the date shown. ATTESTED: March 24, 2020 David J. Twa, County Administrator and Clerk of the Board of Supervisors By: , Deputy cc: Dianne Dinsmore, Human Resources Director, Robert Campbell, Auditor-Controller, Anna Roth, Director of Health Services March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 91 March 23, 2020 Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors 92