HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES - 03061990 - 2.1 TO: BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
_. Contra
FROM: Phil Batchelor, County Administrator
Costa
Mark Finucane, Health Services DirectorCOunt
y
DATE: c2rrA c6uN 1 c4~,
February 28 , 1990
SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATION TO PLACE COUNTY-WIDE DRUG AND ALCOHOL
ACTION PLAN ON THE BALLOT JUNE 5, 1990
SPECIFIC REQUEST(S)OR RECOMMENDATION(S)&BACKGROUND AND JUSTIFICATION
RECONII4E24DATIONS-
1. Pursuant to the provisions of Section 3780 of the Elections
Code, place a measure on the June 5, 1990 ballot, to read as
follows:
"Should the Contra Costa County Community Drug and Alcohol
Action Plan (A Partnership for a Drug-Free Contra Costa) be
approved and adopted to address the growing problem of the
illegal use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs through:
(1) prevention/education;
( 2) intervention/treatment; and
1( 3 ) law enforcement/interdiction?"
2. Approve the text of the Action Plan as attached.
3 . Consider the attached report of the County Administrator on
the cost of mailing the entire text of the Action Plan,
along with the regional plan for that portion of the County
where the voter lives to each household having at least one
registered voter.
4. Request the Health Services Director to report to the
Internal Operations Committee March 12, 1990 and request the
Internal Operations Committee to return to the Board of
Supervisors March 13 , 1990 with a recommended argument in
CONTINUED ON ATTACHMENT:Y4SYES SIGNATURE:
L RECOMMENDATION OF COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR RECOMMENDATION OF BOARD COMMITTEE
�`—APPROVE OTHER
SIGNATURE(S):
ACTION OF BOARD ON APPROVED AS RECOMMENDED OTHER
APPROVED the recommendations set forth above and AUTHORIZED Supervisor Powers
to work with the County Administrator to secure and coordinate the services
of volunteers for printing and districution of the Action Plan to public
agencies , etc.
VOTE OF SUPERVISORS
I HEREBY CERTIFY THAT THIS IS A TRUE
XX UNANIMOUS(ABSENT ) AND CORRECT COPY OF AN ACTION TAKEN
AYES: NOES: AND ENTERED ON THE MINUTES OF THE BOARD
ABSENT: ABSTAIN: OF SUPERVISORS ON THE DATE SHOWN.
County Administrator March 6 1990
CC: Health Services Director ATTESTED
County Clerk PHIL BATCHELOR,CLERK OF THE BOARD'OF
County Counsel SUPERVISORS AND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR
Auditor-Controller
BY (-2 2/f �--�/
M382 (10/88) 2 t DEPUTY
support of the ratification vote on the Action Plan,
pursuant to Section 3783 of the Elections Code and a
recommended list' of those individuals who should be asked to
sign the argument in support of the ratification vote on the
Action Plan, pursuant to Section 3785 of the Elections Code.
BACKGROUND:
.on February 27, 1990 the Board of Supervisors held a hearing
regarding whether they should place on the ballot for June 5,
1990 the question of the ratification of the County-wide Drug and
Alcohol Action Plan. At the hearing twelve individuals spoke in
support of the Action Plan and in support of placing it on the
ballot on June 5 , 1990 . No testimony was received indicating
that the Action Plan should not be placed on the ballot.
Testimony was received suggesting that more of an emphasis be
placed on the needs of pregnant women and their children.
However, a review of the plan seems to indicate that . the latest
version which was before the Board of Supervisors on February 27,
1990 contains several references which had been added at the
suggestion of the Maternal and Child Health staff in the Health
Services Department. Therefore, no changes have been
incorporated in response to this testimony.
Testimony was also received to the effect that the need to train
day care and child care providers in substance abuse prevention
was not included in the Action Plan. In response to this
testimony we have included the following wording on page 14 of
the Action Plan:
"Family day care and child care providers should have
appropriate training on substance abuse detection and
prevention to assist them in supporting children in their
choice to be drug-free. "
In view of the overwhelming testimony in support of placing the
Action Plan on the June 5 , 1990 ballot we are , therefore, making
the above recommendations to the Board.
Ca u nty`Ad m i n i st rata r Contra Board of Supervisors
Tom Powers
County Administration Building /^�t`+ta tst District
ll1Js
651 Pine Street, 11th Floor
Martinez,California 94553Nancy C.Fanden
(415)646-4080 County 2nd District
Phil Batchelor
Robert i,Schroder
s L
County Administrator t.`.w_ ,•-.,o
3rd District
' ., Sunne Wright McPeak
4th District
ot.
Tom Torlakson
5th District
SrA•coiitz`� �
March 1, 1990
Board of Supervisors
651 Pine Street, Room 107
Martinez, CA 94553
Dear Board Members:
COST OF MAILING THE
COUNTY-WIDE ACTION PLAN
RECOMMENDATIONS-
That the Board of Supervisors consider the following alternatives
and determine what action the Board wishes to take:
1. Mail the County-wide Action Plan only to each household
which has at least one registered voter, along with the
voter information handbook.
2. Mail the County-wide Action Plan and the regional Plan for
the area of the County where the voter lives to each
household which has at least one registered voter, along
with the voter information handbook.
3. . Advise each household which receives the voter information
handbook that a copy of the County-wide Action Plan and/or
regional action plans are available and will be mailed to a
voter upon request.
BACKGROUND:
The County Administrator was asked to determine the cost of
mailing the County-wide Drug and Alcohol Action Plan to each
household in the County which has at least one registered voter
in connection with placing the ratification of the Action Plan on
the ballot June 5, 1990.
The Elections Supervisor, Bob Delevati, reports that mailing the
County-wide Action Plan to each household would cost
approximately $50,000, based on the cost of a similar mailing of
the Measure "C" ordinance to' each household in 1988.
Mailing each regional plan along with the County-wide Action Plan
would approximately double this cost to $100 ,000 and would
present substantial problems in stuffing the regional plan for
mailing in addition to the County-wide Action Plan.
The Elections Department indicates that it does not have
sufficient funds in its 1989-90 budget to cover the cost of
printing and mailing the Action Plan, with or without the
regional plans.
Very truly yours,
NJ 4a"
Phil Batchelor
County Administrator
PB:nrl
ballot
cc: Stephen L. Weir, County Clerk-Recorder
Robert Delevati, Elections Supervisor
Mark Finucane, Health Services Director
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY
: COMMU1NITY
DRUG A►�D_ .A�:CQ�OL AC�"�ON A
. PRT�IIEFSH' P �R A
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JANUARY 'i' Q
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CONTRA COSTA COUNTY COMMUNITY
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ACTION PLAN
(A PARTNERSHIP FOR A DRUG-FREE CONTRA COSTA)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................. I
OVERALLGOALS ......................................................................... ................. 3
OVERALLSTRATEGIES.................................................................................... 4
REVENUE REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT THE
COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN
SUMMARY OVERVIEW:
PREVENTION/EDUCATION .................................................................. 6
TREATMENT/INTERVENTION ............................................................ 7
LAW ENFORCEMENT/INTERDICTION .............................................. 8
IMPLEMENTATION IDEAS:
PREVENTION/EDUCATION .................................................................. 9
TREATMENT/INTERVENTION .......................................................... 23
LAW ENFORCEMENT/INTERDICTION ............................................ 33
APPENDIX .......................................................................................................... 36
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY COMMUNITY
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ACTION PLAN
(A PARTNERSHIP FOR A DRUG-FREE CONTRA COSTA)
I. INTRODUCTION
Contra Costa County has a serious and growing problem with the illegal use and abuse of alcohol
and other drugs. The problem involves all age groups,all ethnic and racial groups,all economic
levels of the community and all geographic areas of the County.
While there may be differences in the perception of the problem in different areas of the County,
the problem is there,it is countywide,it is serious and it will not go away by denying that it is
a problem.
Abuse of alcohol and other drugs is serious in all areas of the County,even though the form in
which it is displayed,the impact on the community or even the types of drugs which are involved
may be different in different areas of the County.
While it is certainly true that the vast majority of citizens in this County do not abuse alcohol or
take illegal drugs, the problem can and does affect everyone indirectly. Erratic drivers on our
highways,random shootings on our freeways and increased crime due to drugs impact each of
us in one way or another. In addition,those who do have a direct problem with alcohol or drugs
force the County to allocate a disproportionate share of our scarce resources to their care and
treatment rather than to other programs needed by the community at large. Those in the
community who are not directly affected by the abuse of alcohol or other drugs can and must
serve as positive role models for those of ourcitizens who are personally involved in such abuse.
Huge and growing resources have been applied in recent years to stopping the manufacture,
importation,distribution and sale of illegal drugs. While law enforcement attacks on the supply
of drugs needs to continue,law enforcement officials are the first to note that no amount of funds
will ever stem the supply of drugs as long as the demand for drugs continues unabated. If the
demand for drugs were to be substantially reduced,the supply would dry up because it would no
longer be profitable to take the risks associated with the manufacture,importation,distribution
and sale of illegal drugs.
There is a widespread attitude in the community which condones and even encourages the use
and even abuse of alcohol and other drugs. As long as this attitude is prevalent in this County
it will be difficult to address the problem.
While government must be a partner in the solution of the problem, government alone cannot
solve the problem, particularly without the total support of the community.
The problem of the abuse of alcohol and other drugs is so widespread in this County that it will
require a major, coordinated effort on the part of all elements of the community to solve the
problem- truly a community-wide War on Drugs!
This War on Drugs must involve all elements of the community:
Parents,children,students,young adults,grandparents/seniors,neighborhood and homeowners
associations, schools and colleges, employers, labor organizations, religious organizations,
service clubs, non-profit community-based organizations and providers, the media and cities
and the county. Most individuals are members of one or more of these groups. Therefore, all
individuals have a stake in seeing the problem solved and a role in making that happen.
In order for a War on Drugs to be effective, the community must develop a "zero tolerance"
attitude toward the illegal use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. This must be reflected in
both individual and organizational behavior. Protection must be provided to those citizens who
are courageous enough to speak out about illegal drug activities. Support and protection must
also be provided to young people who want to speak out about stopping the use of drugs.
Currently,many such young people are ridiculed and even threatened because of their anti-drug
convictions.
The major regions of Contra Costa County are different in terms of the form in which the problem
is displayed, the resources which are available to fight the problem and the needs which have
been identified. As a result,each region must identify for itself what it needs to do. Strategies
which are needed in West County may not work in South County. The resources which are
available in Central County may not be present in East County. The needs in one community
will probably be different from those in another community.
Each community needs to define the extent and nature of the problem in their community, the
resources which are present to address the problem and the unmet needs which are identified.
Then each community must develop a strategy which will work in that community to provide
resources to meet the unmet needs. Prevention,treatment and law enforcement activities must
be sensitive to the community's economic and racial diversity.
What follows are some actions which have been developed by the three major regions of the
County which help to provide a strategy for addressing the drug problem in the County. What
is included here are only some of the suggestions which have been made. The three regional
Community Action Plans from which this document is formed are available for a more detailed
and specific review of the assessment which has been made in each region of the County.
The Board of Supervisors is placing this Action Plan on the ballot in June 1990 for
ratification by the voters of Contra Costa County based upon its having been unanimously
endorsed at the Drug and Alcohol Summit LI in January 1990. Also,for your information,
attached is the regional plan for the area of the County in which you live. This action Plan
incorporates the main features of each of the three regional plans.
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OVERALL GOALS
Following are the overall goals which should focus each community's efforts:
+ Reduce the incidence of the abuse of alcohol and other drugs in Contra Costa County
through:
� Prevention and Education
4 Intervention, Treatment and Aftercare
� Law Enforcement and Interdiction
+ Empower individual citizens, community organizations and key civic leaders to take
responsibility for reducing the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
+ Encourage an integrated effort with participation from all sectors of the community -
individuals, families, schools, law enforcement, media, business and labor, medical,
mental health and alcohol and drug services providers, religious and community
organizations, local government and service organizations.
+ Mobilize and maximize the effectiveness of existing resources through cooperation and
public-private partnerships. Generate new resources where needed.
(Points marked with a "*" at the end of the comment reflect suggestions made by the youth of
this county at their conference on January 30, 1990 which are incorporated into this Action Plan.
All of their recommendations are included in the Appendix to this Plan.)
it
STRATEGIES
The preceding goals can best be achieved through the use of the following strategies:
+ Mobilize and involve all key community leaders and organizations to participate in a
community-based organization against the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
+ Increase community awareness through the organization of community groups and the
involvement of elected officials, key advisory Boards and Commissions and the media
in a concerted countywide effort on a community by community basis.
+ In establishing a,community-based organization against the abuse of alcohol and other
drugs,build upon the groups and efforts that already exist in the community;expand and
build on what already is established to provide a broader and stronger base of participation.
+ Provide an organizational framework countywide foreffective and efficient coordination
of community activities. Assure linkage of community-based organizations against the
abuse of alcohol and other drugs to create a countywide"war on the illegal use and abuse
of alcohol and other drugs".
+ Implement this plan of action which clearly defines attainable goals countywide,in each
region of the County and in each community in each region in the County.
+ Develop a plan which addresses the special needs of low-income, unemployed and
minority persons, pregnant women, single parents, working parents and parents for
whom English is a second language.
+ Develop a plan which addresses the need for job development,housing and child care for
many groups in the community.
+ Assess regional and community needs, better coordinate information about existing
services, and develop funding strategies to fill the gaps in service in each community,
including forming effective public-private partnerships.
+ Advocate that messages regarding the illegal use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs
must be consistently applied to community activities. In summary, these messages are:
I No use of alcohol or other drugs by those under the age of 21.
2. No use of illegal drugs by adults.
3. No illegal use or abuse of alcohol by adults.
+ Institute an on-going evaluation component to measure progress and overall success in
the various sectors and geographic regions of the County.
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p)
IV. REVENUE REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT THE COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN
This section outlines several sources of revenue which may have to be explored in order to
realistically finance the program outlined in this Community Action Plan:
We should not deceive ourselves into thinking that any significant part of the added services
called for in the following Community Action Plan can be implemented with the currently
available resources. There is no substitute for citizen involvement and volunteer activities in
addressing the war on drugs. Much can and must be done within existing resources, but more
will be needed. Following are some alternatives that should be considered by the community,
separately or in combination, as mechanisms which will be needed to fully implement anything
akin to the scope of services which are called for in this Community Action Plan.
♦ coordination of existing funding sources through partnerships(public-public and public-
private)to increase efficiency and effectiveness of efforts;
♦ private sector contributions from business, service clubs and private foundations;
♦ additional funds from new proposed federal and state anti-drug programs;
♦ new funds from the proposed"Nickel a Drink" alcohol tax initiative;
♦ sale of confiscated property and assets from drug dealers acquired;through illicit drug
activities;
# institute user accountability through the confiscation and sale of cars used to buy drugs
or imposition of very stiff penalties for users (if legal authority can be obtained);
♦ mobilization of citizen involvement through tax credits for individuals and businesses
volunteering for specified drug-free communities activities: this is an essential component
of any proposal for an anti-drug benefit assessment district that may be considered in the
future.
+ It is important to recognize that there simply are not enough funds available locally to
implement this Community Action Plan. It may become necessary to reorder priorities
and raise more funds locally in order to make the Community Action Plan a reality.
It is far better to have the involvement and sweat equity of citizens as volunteers in our local war on drugs
than to have only their money. Therefore,although it is clear that we must bring new energy and generate
additional resources towage a successful war against drugs,it is critical to provide innovative incentives,
such as tax credits, to mobilize the community.
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V. SUMMARY OVERVIEW
A. PREVENTION/EDUCATION
Each region in the County needs to organize for action and mobilize its resources. Every
segment of the community needs to be involved in this campaign against the abuse of
alcohol and other drugs.
Every city and unincorporated community should adopt comprehensive policies to
prevent and reduce alcohol and drug problems and should establish a"local organization
against the abuse of alcohol and other drugs".
At both the regional and community level,such an organization needs to involve a broad
cross-section of the community: parents, young adults and students, neighborhood
groups,schools,media,employers,labor organizations,religious organizations,service
clubs, service providers, law enforcement and public officials.
Each school district should appoint a "drug-free schools task force" with broad
community participation that is coordinated with the local organization against the abuse
of alcohol and other drugs. These citizen groups should be the forum for planning and
implementing local drug-free activities and programs.
Parents need to enter into an open dialogue with their children about drugs and hopefully
enter into a written agreement with their children for a"drug-free family." {See attached
sample agreement at the end of the Action Plan.)
Our youth must be diverted from careers of drug dealing and lives of drug abuse by
offering them significant opportunities to learn marketable skills. This will require job
training programs which will teach skills that are especially needed in the community and
may require job development efforts in some areas.
Young people who are hurt,depressed,abused and neglected are more vulnerable to the
short-term relief of self-medication with alcohol and other drugs. Our families need to
become more caring and supportive and must be free from violence and sexual abuse.
All sectors of the community must become involved in creating a sense of community
spirit,in building self-esteem and in providing positive alternatives to using alcohol and
drugs. Each sector of the community must do what it can to contribute to the overall
effort. Individual citizens must take responsibility for themselves, their families, their
neighborhoods and the community groups to which they belong.
Our schools and communities must collaborate on a major program of youth and family-
oriented activities. In particular, school-based prevention and early intervention
programs need to be expanded.
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k t
B. TREATMENTANTERVENTIQN
A community that is in the throes of an addiction epidemic cannot become healthy
without sufficient treatment and intervention resources. Programs that are developed for
law enforcement,for prevention and education and health-related issues will continue to
fall short in their efforts if drug treatment resources are not included as well. While there
is a need throughout Contra Costa County for additional treatment services, this need is
particularly evident in West County.
Promoting a drug-free community is an on-going task. A major aspect of that task is to
ensure that our communities have in place resources that are both accessible and
affordable to the entire community. Accessibility is best addressed by making the
community aware of the available resources and by bringing services to where the clients
really are. Affordable services have to be made available to all. If care can be denied due
to a lack of financial resources then the notion of a caring community is without meaning.
A comprehensive approach to treatment and intervention services must be composed of
several essential and interrelated pieces:
♦ Innovative programs are needed to get people into treatment. Among these are
a central information and referral system so everyone in the community can
receive correct,honest information about drugs and what treatment resources are
available. As a part of this element,it is essential to help families detect alcohol
and drug abuse symptoms and behaviors and to develop appropriate and effective
intervention techniques.
♦ A variety of specialized intervention and treatment services are needed,including
children's treatment, "street-based" programs, culturally sensitive programs,
workplace programs,programs which can accommodate voluntary placements,
and programs which can accommodate coercive placements, non-traditional
programs, and programs for families,pregnant women and their drug--exposed
babies.
♦ The programs need to emphasize returning to the community after drug abuse
treatment.
+ A variety of supportive services for the families and children of substance abusers
are needed.
♦ The Probation Department provides a successful,intensive,supervision program
and also provides a wide range of investigation services for drug and alcohol
addicted individuals who are on probation.
♦ Early intervention resources, such as comprehensive perinatal services, are
needed,along with programs such as Head Start which identify children who are
at-risk of becoming involved with alcohol and other drugs.
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C. LAW ENFORCEMENT/INTERDICTION
Historically,society has looked to law enforcement to maintain crime prevention and law
enforcement services but the social tragedy of alcohol and drug abuse is overwhelming
law enforcement capabilities.
Law enforcement and the criminal justice system is our first line of defense for public
safety in enforcing the laws regarding the use and abuse of illegal drugs. There has been
much success with the existing three regional narcotics enforcement teams. These efforts
need to be continued and supported,
However,these efforts are but one division in this war. It is essential that all institutions
and service providers cooperate and coordinate their prevention and service missions.
Every individual's input,support and active involvement with law enforcement,education,
intervention and treatment services will make us an effective army.
Probation, District Attorney and Crime Lab services should be fully staffed to provide
necessary support for law enforcement agencies.
Law enforcement agencies should expand their participation in education and prevention
services,including their contacts with schools,youth groups and parents. Implementation
of a"neighborhood watch"model in communities can be established and encouraged by
law enforcement agencies.
Law enforcement interdiction efforts need to be seen as an integral element of the overall
anti-drug campaign. This should take the form of formally communicating to elected
officials that law enforcement and treatment are part of the same continuum of services
which the community must make available. To fund one component at the expense of
the other diminishes the effectiveness of both.
Law enforcement agencies and the.community need to forge closer ties that are mutually
trusting and mutually supportive. New partnerships need to be forged with a number of
neighborhood, community, school and youth groups.
Law enforcement agencies need to continue to publicly advocate for and support
education, prevention, intervention, treatment and aftercare services.
In return, law enforcement agencies and their governing bodies need to hear clear,
unequivocal support from the community for a"zero tolerance"philosophy in enforcing
the laws.
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VL IMPLEMENTATION IDEAS FOR PREVENTION/EDUCATION
COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN
The overall action plan in each community must be founded on the establishment of a
community-based organization against the abuse of alcohol and other drugs. This organization
must involve every key sector of the community, including parents,young adults and students,
neighborhood groups,schools,media,employers,labor,religious organizations,service clubs,
community-based providers and local government. Where community organizations against
substance abuse already exist, sectors or interest groups not yet participating must be included
in the effort. It is most appropriate to build upon what already has been done and strengthen it.
To prevent the abuse of alcohol and other drugs requires that we do more than affirm prohibitions
or educate about dangers. All sectors of the community must become involved in creating a sense
of community spirit,in building self-esteem,in providing positive alternatives and in eliminating
the sense of helplessness and hopelessness which leads people to seek relief or happiness in drugs
and alcohol. Opportunities for self-development,education,meaningful work, safe recreation
and freedom from violence and crime are an essential part of creating a community in which the
war on the abuse of alcohol and other drugs can truly be won.
In some communities, the existing organization will be primarily school-oriented and in others
it will be primarily local government-oriented. Both are good,workable models depending on
the historical development of public participation and the local preference.
In addition to participation in a community organization against the abuse of alcohol and other
drugs,each of the sectors listed below should undertake the following activities to implement the
Community Action Plan and prevent the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
PARENTS
+ Set an example for behavior regarding drugs and alcohol and serve as a positive role
model for children.
+ Set a standard of not tolerating alcohol and drug use by their children and do not violate
existing laws prohibiting furnishing alcohol and other drugs to minors.
+ Invest in positive time with their children,communicating with them, listening to them
engaging in recreational activities, etc.
+ Be informed and take advantage of available education on the effects of abusing alcohol
and other drugs.
+ Take advantage of parenting,communication skills,and fostering self-esteem classes.
+ Discuss substance abuse with children and provide needed support and guidance to
children to remain drug-free.
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♦ Enter into a written agreement with children for a "drug-free family." (See attached
sample agreement at the end of the Action Plan.)
+ Volunteer for activities which provide opportunities to interact with the schools,such as
the Parent Educator Program (PEP).
+ Attend and participate in programs such as the Parenting Education Program(3 sessions,
9 hours) which is a companion component to PEP. (Research shows communications
and management of limits/expectation s are both very important for effective parenting.)
♦ Join parent clubs/PTA's to support drug-free school activities including encouraging
school boards and local government to adopt aggressive policies to prevent the abuse of
alcohol and other drugs.
♦ Seek assistance if needed to insure healthy family functioning.
CHILDREN, STUDENTS, YOUNG ADULTS
♦ Take responsibility for your own healthy behavior and provide a role model for your
peers.
♦ Be informed and take advantage of available educational programs through the school
and the community. Examples of school programs are PEP,DARE,Friday Night Live,
Youth Educator, QUEST, Here's Looking at You 2000, REACH, and Gateway.
Examples of community programs are provided by the YWCA,YMCA,Boy Scouts and
Girl Scouts, Girls and Boys Clubs, community centers, neighborhood organizations,
churches,sports activities,the Youth Services Bureau,Center for Human Development,
Neighborhood House of North Richmond and the Drug and Alcohol Council of Contra
Costa County.
♦ Share and discuss information from these programs and do the homework from these
programs with family and friends.
♦ Express your support for a drug-free community by standing up for your convictions.
♦ Enter into a signed agreement with family members for a "drug-free family." (See
attached sample agreement at the end of the Action Plan.)
♦ Participate in"drug-free school"activities,someexamplesof which include volunteering
for peer education programs,Youth Educator Programs,Student Activity Team(SAT),
Just Say No Clubs,etc. Support and organize Red Ribbon.Week(October)and Just Say
No Week (May) activities. *
♦ Volunteer for alcohol and drug-free community activities. (These might include Friday
Night Live, Youth Educator, REACH, etc.)
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+ Seek assistance if needed to insure healthy family functioning. Help is available by
calling(415)646-1087.
GRANDPARENTS/SENIORS
+ Serve as role models for their grandchildren.
+ Participate in the written agreement for a"drug-free family"by accepting responsibility
as a grandparent to support grandchildren in being drug-free. (See attached sample
agreement at the end of the Action Plan.)
+ Volunteer for substance abuse prevention programs such as PEP.
+ Encourage local governments to adopt aggressive policies on the prevention of the abuse
of alcohol and other drugs.
+ Encourage intergenerational programs and support for young people.
+ Volunteer in church groups, service clubs and other community organizations to
participate in substance abuse prevention activities.
+ Encourage and nurture a"Foster Grandparent" network, to include providing meeting
space, facilitation of self-help groups,etc.
COMMUNITY ORGANIZING
+ Each community in the County should organize itself to coordinate on a whole range of
drug-related problems that feed,into and exacerbate the drug problem in the County.
+ Each community needs to establish a collaborative educational process for politicians,
schooladministrators, business leaders, churches, judges, community leaders, etc. to
come together to both learn and share different attitudes and perspectives about the drug
problem in our community.
+ A public relations campaign around the message"You Can Help"would be valuable in
creating a climate which is conducive to widespread community involvement.
+ Some communities may wish to consider the value of a three-day conference which
explores the elements to a collaborative network of cooperating organizations,and which
I
develops a local response mechanism to address the problem of the abuse of alcohol and
other drugs.
+ Different regions of the County may wish to consider a series of forums and discussion
groups which allow those most directly affected by the alcohol and drug problem to get
together offering support,encouragement and ideas for solution. These meetings should
be held in local communities which have a common set of interests and problems.
NEIGHBORHOOD AND HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS
t Adopt strong policies to prevent the abuse of alcohol and other drugs (including
amending CC&R's(Covenants,Conditions and Restrictions)to prohibit"keggerparties"
where minors are present).
♦ Organize community groups such as a Neighborhood Drug Watch Program or Parents
on Patrol Program including posting signs that declare a"drug-free neighborhood"and
assert that residents will control the neighborhood or will"take back their neighborhood."
♦ Assist law enforcement by reporting incidences of drug and alcohol abuse in the
neighborhood.
♦ Coordinate substance abuse activities(in conjunction with community-based organizations
against substance abuse, drug-free schools task force, Red Ribbon Week,Just Say No
Week, etc.) and provide information through homeowners association newsletters.
Recruit volunteers for activities such as Neighborhood Drug Watch,Parents on Patrol or
PEP.
SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
♦ Each school district board of trustees should:
4 adopt and implement a comprehensive drug and alcohol abuse program for all
public schools from pre-school through high school with an evaluation component.
In this context, a comprehensive program requires prevention, intervention,
aftercare and discipline programs.
4 seek to encourage the development of expanded partnerships with other public,
private, and non-profit agencies providing services to youngsters and their
families with or at risk for substance abuse difficulties. Each high school should
"establish a partnership with a local substance abuse program.
4 consider establishing a student assistance program to assist at-risk students,if one
is not already available.
4 establish an outreach program directed at school dropouts.
4 consider the need to establish a full-time staff position for substance abuse
program planning at the district level, sharing this resource between districts
where appropriate.
d approve an action pian/strategic plan to achieve a"drug-free school district."
- 12 -
establish(or continue and strengthen)a"drug-free schools task force." The task
force must represent the agencies,disciplines,authorities and community groups
needed to design and implement the strategic plan(curriculum,activities,etc.).
There must be coordination between a "drug-free schools task force" and the
community-based organizations against the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
The school district must designate a coordinator for the task force to ensure
adequate staff support.
+ The drug-free task force should encourage the formation of groups such as Parent Action
Teams(PAT)and Student ActionTeams(SAT)to determine the best components of the
strategic plan. The PAT's,SAT's and drug-free school task forces should draw upon the
resources provided by publicly funded organizations such as the Far West Labs to assist
in developing an action plan.
+ Every grade-level should participate in curriculum,co-curriculum and other activities to
prevent the abuse of alcohol and other drugs. School districts should distribute"drug-
free families" agreements in conjunction with these programs. All schools should
implement programs that meet criteria adopted by the Drug-Free Schools Task Force.
+ Each school district should build upon and expand the peer-counseling programs within
the public schools. *
+ Each school district should provide comprehensive counseling and intervention for"at
risk" youth and their families.
+ Each school district should increase and improve the training of teachers and other school
staff in substance abuse prevention, continuing to use models that are effective, and
introducing others that have worked in other regions,such as the STAR TRAK and CO-
AIR programs operated by the Richmond Unified School District which seek to
intervene with youth whose parents have had substance abuse problems. *
+ Each school district should encourage a coordinated approach with all of the community
agencies so that Prevention, Intervention and Treatment programs can be more unified.
Perhaps agency offices on school campuses would be a viable way to do this.
+ Each school district which operates junior high or senior high schools should implement
a comprehensive program of peer and/or cross-age education in the junior and senior
high schools. For example,junior high school students could plan and present skits for
drug abuse education at elementary schools. Senior high school students could be
involved in the development of drug and alcohol abuse prevention video tapes that could
be aired over local cable television public access channels. I
+ Legislation should be explored which would provide tax incentives and scholarships to
pay for higher education for non-drug users.
- 13 -
♦ Community colleges and other institutions of higher education should provide adequate
and relevant curriculum in alcohol and other drugs as a part of the training of all teachers.
♦ Family day care and child care providers should have appropriate training on substance
abuse detection and prevention to assist them in supporting children in their choice to be
drug-free.
♦ Other options for school districts include but are not limited to the need for:
Active participation from school district governing boards.
One-to-one peer counseling in Junior/Senior High schools for students with
needs.
Increased counseling services,especially for Elernentary and Junior High School
level young people.
Establishment of drug free zones at every school. (See,attached sample
Resolution for possible adoption.)
Applications for appropriate services for babies born addicted and for pregnant
minors.
♦ The County Superintendent of Schools should be requested to coordinate the efforts of
the Local Coordinating Committee established pursuant to AB 1087 (Chapter 92,
Statutes of 1988) with the efforts to implement this Community Action Plan.
WORKPLACE: EMPLOYERS AND LABOR ORGANIZATIONS
Unemployment among our youth remains a major concern. We must develop better ways to
reach those children who may be at high risk of both using and selling drugs. We must address
the needs of our young people both within and outside our schools and provide some type of
vocational, skills training so that these young people (who may find themselves selling drugs,
primarily for the economic incentive) can earn money and self respect by contributing to the
community through legal and safe work.
♦ Employers and workers at each workplace should negotiate and adopt a written contract
for a "drug-free workplace." Ensure that each workplace implements an active
Employee Assistance Program.Develop and/or create mechanisms for small businesses
to enter employee assistance programs.
♦ Provide substance abuse prevention education in the workplace, including training
parents to identify substance abuse problems with their families. Distribute contract for
"drug-free families."
+ Provide traininc, and employment opportunities for adolescents, young
adt►lts and
recovering individuals as a prevention strategy.
14 -
+ Provide family oriented drug-free activities for union members.
+ Encourage more businesses io provide the leadership in community prevention efforts.
+ Recruit representatives,participants and volunteers for community-based organizations
against substance abuse, drug-free schools task force and PEP.
• Encourage private-public partnerships to fund community projects, such as Drug Free
Schools Runs and participation in"Red Ribbon Week" activities.
• Provide matching grants to substance abuse prevention activities. Financially support
service clubs and other community service clubs and other community groups(such as
LBRT Challenge-Lenders/Builders/Realtors/Title Companies)to raise funds for substance
abuse prevention programs.
• Labor organizations should encourage their members to request a substance abuse
prevention and rehabilitation program at their workplace. Workers should request active
participation in the design and implementation of the workplace program.
• Motel/hotel owners should not rent to juveniles on recognized "party or celebration"
nights such as the junior or senior prom or graduation night.
• Restaurants, bars and other businesses whichall
serve alcoholic beverages should a
establish "server education" programs and participate in promoting the "designated
driver"campaign (such as providing free or half-priced non-alcoholic beverages to the
designated driver of a group).
• Local schools and the community college district,in conjunction with employers in the
County, should develop expanded job training programs. In particular,these programs
should:
O Target the building trades, including specialized skills in carpentry, electrical,
plumbing and mechanical trades. The goal should be to create career paths in the
construction trades leading to positions as skilled craftsmen, supervisors,contractors
and building inspectors.
Focus on renovating and improving homes in low-income areas of the County,
thereby playing a valuable role in community improvement.
Train and prepare aspiring day-care providers and child-care workers,especially
pregnant teens,single mothers,and seniors. This program will not only provide
participants with needed skills, but will prepare them to fill an important service
gap-
Establish a literacy program with a special emphasis on "business"English.
15 -
4 Implement a training program in computer literacy. The rationale for this
approach is that the young people who would participate in this program would
acquire skills that are very desirable to employers. ,
4 Expand to other appropriate areas of the County the pilot vocational education
project operated in North Richmond by the County Career Development
Employment Program.
RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS
♦ All religious organizations (such as the Council of Churches, Catholic Diocese, Board
of Rabbis, Ministerial Alliance, etc.) should establish education and training programs
for religious leaders regarding effective roles for leaders of congregations,particularly
assisting their members break through denial. Provide a positive role model for their
members and the greater community.
♦ 'Encourage their organizations to become more knowledgeable about substance abuse
resources and referral possibilities.
♦ Religious leaders should plan and implement a schedule of activities for their congregation
including topics for sermons and volunteering as a group for drug-free activities planned
by the community or school district. Special attention should be given to involving
religious youth groups in drug-free activities.
♦ Individual religious organizations should train leaders to work with the congregation to
identify and address substance abuse problems and to establish congregation support
groups for substance abusers and their families. If approved by the congregation, the
trained leaders may also be a resource for school referrals.
♦ Recruit individual members as volunteers for substance abuse prevention programs.
Distribute agreements for"drug free families." (See attached sample agreement at the.
end of the Action Plan.)
♦ Develop drop-in counseling for teens and parents.
♦ Provide facilities for drug-free activities planned by the community or school district.
♦ Provide representation and participation in the community-based organization against
substance abuse and the drug-free schools task force.
♦ Provide after-school and weekend activities for youth in their communities.
- 16 -
+ Individual church cc ogations should be recruited to provide support,endorsement,
planning,management,and/or participation in an individual prejectorphase of aproject.
Some examples might include developing a network of outreach treatment sites or
providing meeting space for community support groups such as AA, NA, Al-Anon,
Alateen and others.
+ Various ministerial alliances should be advised regarding projects and ideas under
consideration and their assistance sought in gaining access to their particular segments
of the community.
SERVICE CLUBS
+ Service clubs' officers should plan and implement a schedule of activities for their
members to participate in, including educational programs at club meetings and
volunteering as a group for drug-free activities planned by the community or school
district.
+ Sponsor drug free activities for youth (e.g. Panther Striders, Drug free Schools' runs,
"Red Ribbon Week" activities).
+ Recruit individual members as volunteers for substance abuse prevention programs.
Distribute agreements for"drug-free families."
+ Participate in increased community awareness and education of parents arents and children.
+ Provide civic and business representation and participation in the community-based
organization against substance abuse and the drug-free schools task force.
+ Provide publicity about education/work opportunities for those recovering or at risk.
+ Actively promote and implement drug-abuse prevention programs adopted by the
service club's regional,state or national organization(such as QUEST,sponsored by the
Lions;and the Rotary Foundation for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention and Rehabilitation
sponsored by the Rotarians). Raise funds to support the designated substance abuse
prevention program or donate to community-based programs(such as Friday Night Live
and AAUW's Drug-Free Kids Video Project)or providers(such as CHD,Pros for Kids,
New Connections, Bi-Bett, etc.). Provide funding for tee shirts and other awards to
DARE, QUEST, Youth Educator and PEP participants.
+ Obtain more information about 12 step programs and set up referral systems to these
programs for members and their families in trouble. *
+ Initiate fund-raising activities to support substance abuse programs and activities. This
might,for instance, be implemented through an"adopt a school"program where funds
that were raised could be contributed for program development at a particular school.
- 17 -
NON-PROFIT COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS AND PROVIDERS
♦ All non-profit community-based organizations and providers funded by public sector
should cooperate in a coordinated plan to augment the prevention and education
activities of the community-based organization against substance abuse or the drug-free
schools task force. Each organization should complete a written pledge of specific
participation in the community substance abuse prevention activities and should become
a part of the contract for public funding.
♦ These community-based organizations should:
4 Provide educational services to parents that will empower them to nurture
healthy,drug and alcohol free youth.
b Provide training in enhancing parenting and communication skills as well as in
substance abuse issues, including how to recognize symptoms of substance
abuse.
{'r Help parents to become positive role models in a sober way of life.
d Establish innovative methods to train and provide accurate information about the
impacts of drug and alcohol abuse as well as innovative ways to spread that
information.
4 Work closely with churches, religious organizations and volunteer health,
educational and social organizations to provide information and training and
encourage their participation in fighting drug and alcohol abuse.
d Help the community understand the financial and human cost of drug and alcohol
abuse.
d Set up a network of service providers to share ideas and coordinate efforts in
reaching the community. This network would also provide speakers to various
community organizations.
Educate families in the dynamics of co-dependency and the enabling of high-risk
behavior.
# Expand substance abuse prevention programs in a cost-effective manner by maximizing
volunteers when new resources become available.
♦ Participate in community-based organizations against substance abuse and drug-free
schools task force.
- 18 -
+ Certain organizations with broad private sector support,such as Just Say No Foundation,
should be encouraged to expand the framework for fund-raising for other community-
based providers. An effort to project a coordinated message should be developed.
MEDIA
+ All print and electronic media should participate in a Media Action Committee for the
countywide substance abuse prevention program. Each media organization should
provide news coverage of the drug-free Contra Costa campaign and activities.
+ Provide(through the Media Action Committee)professional direction for the development
of the message and educational materials needed for the drug-free Contra Costa
campaign. Explore securing permission to use the"Partnership for Drug-Free America"
PSA's for Contra Costa County.
+ Identify a regular, consistent format for reporting information.and progress to the
community about the drug-free campaign. This might involve a weekly report in the
newspapers and on electronic media. Provide space and PSA time for promoting the
campaign.
+ Encourage local newspapers and community access programs on cable television to
work in concert with the community to help reduce the incidence of images and messages
it projects which appear to glorify or endorse drug and alcohol use.
+ Advocate that 'the local media provide facts and current information about the health,
economic and social impacts of drug and alcohol abuse.
+ Explore the feasibility of cable companies providing a regularly scheduled program
(locally produced) about substance abuse as a part of community'access programming.
Select a subcommittee to locally produce the program.
+ Consider additional ways to highlight the alcohol and drug abuse problems and give
profile to drug-free activities,including promoting"drug-free family contracts"(printing
in the newspaper and announcing on electronic media) and publishing the names of
individuals who volunteer for substance abuse prevention programs.
+ Promote Red Ribbon Week, Just Say No Week and/or other countywide drug-free
activities that occur at the same time throughout the county in every community.
- 19 -
CITIES AND COUNTY
+ The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors should establish a countywide organization
and framework to oversee and assure the implementation of the Community Action Plan.
This organization should include representation from each community-based organization
against substance abuse, each drug-free schools task force and the Media Action
Committee. This organization must be coordinated with the work of the Alcoholism
Advisory Board and Drug Abuse Advisory Board.
♦ The Board of Supervisors should insure that the efforts to implement this Community
Action Plan are closely coordinated with the planning being undertaken by the Local
Coordinating Committee chaired by the County Superintendent of Schools and established
pursuant to AB 1087 (Chapter 92, Statutes of 1988).
♦ Each city council and the Board of Supervisors should adopt a comprehensive policy on
substance abuse prevention,treatment and law enforcement.Local governments should
highlight the importance of addressing alcohol and drug abuse problems through a highly
visible and integrated administrative structure.
♦ Each city and the County should conduct a community campaign for substance abuse
awareness.
♦ Each city and the County should develop a long range plan to deal with alcohol and drug
abuse issues.
4 Each city should establish or support an existing community-based organization against
substance abuse. The city council should identify those activities in the Community
Action Plan for which it will assume implementation responsibility.
♦ Each city and the county should examine the appropriateness of land use policies in the
prevention of substance abuse. Each jurisdiction must promote a"drug-free environment"
in their community. This should include the establishment of "drug-free schools"
ordinances in conjunction with local school districts.
♦ Each city council and the Board of Supervisors should ensure that Planning Commissions
are aware of community concern about locating establishments that sell alcoholic
beverages near schools and parks.
♦ Each city and unincorporated community should establish a Community Drug Education
Program similar to that being operated by'the City of Richmond. This program provides
oversight to the Richmond Anti-Drug Task Force. This model can provide staff to an
effort within each city to marshal volunteers who then mobilize the community for a
comprehensive anti-drug effort around the issues of their own choosing. The community
awareness and education potential of these localized efforts can be enormous.
- 20 -
♦ Fund police and Sheriff participation in prevention and education programs such as
DARE and Officer Friendly so they can be implemented in every school in Contra Costa.
Cities and the County should provide all law enforcement agencies necessary funds to
participate in programs that address the needs of at-risk youth, such as the Police
Activities League (P.A.L.).
♦ Copies of reports from law enforcement agencies should routinely be made available to
all members of the community who request them. Efforts should also be made to
publicize the progress which has been made by the law enforcement agency.
♦ Youth in many areas of the County need organizations and activities in their neighborhoods
that contribute to a much-lacking sense of civic pride and belonging.
.0. There must be monies to develop and create relevant afterschool recreational
programs to meet the needs of all children in our County. We must acknowledge
the special needs of high-risk youth and offer appropriate services. Culturally
relevant activities must also be considered.
-0 Programs such as Police Activities League(PAL)programs should receive funds
for expansion.
Local communities should provide additional recreational activities and leisure
time alternatives for children and youth. Recreation centers in each community
should become the focal pointforyouth activities. Additional staff need to be
hired to develop significant youth programs at these centers. *
♦ Continue participation in coordinated narcotics law enforcement teams throughout
Contra Costa. Use confiscated property from illegal drug activities to fund additional law
enforcement. (Please see section on Law Enforcement). This should include the
enforcement of new existing law to revoke the drivers licenses of minors who are
involved with drug offenses.
♦ Urge state and federal agencies to address the potential fordrug money-laundering which
can infiltrate legitimate business or establish "fronts" which appear to be legitimate
businesses funded with the proceeds of the sale of illegal drugs.
♦ Develop a comprehensive plan for employment opportunities for both youth and adults.
+ Coordinate letter writing campaigns to state and federal officials in favor of changes in
priorities regarding funding distribution to local government and stronger legislation.
+ Work with chambers of commerce, businesses and industry and the school districts to
provide job fairs, vocational training and educational opportunities for low-income
rovi I training
families to improve their marketable skills.
- 21 -
♦ Develop Enterprise Zones which will encourage employment in underemployed areas.
♦ Support legislation which will provide incentives for former drug addicts who have
shown they are able and willing to avoid using drugs in the future.
♦ Support legislation which will provide significant disincentives for adult users (casual
and other),such as giving local jurisdictions the ability to revoke the drivers license or
confiscate and resell the car used by convicted offenders to buy drugs.
♦ Support legislation providing for no bail for repeat drug sellers and requiring that drug
sellers serve their full sentence without time off for good behavior or other incentives to
reduce their sentence.
♦ The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, in cooperation with the cities, should
establish a significant tax incentive program for individual citizens who choose to
participate in and volunteer for the activities of the drug-free Contra Costa campaign.
The activities for which a taxpayer could receive a tax credit would have to be clearly
designated in the Community Action Plan and approved by the Board of Supervisors.
However,examples of appropriate volunteer activities to become eligible for a tax credit
would be:
.4? Submission of a completed "drug-free family agreement" should provide a
certain minimum tax credit for residential property owners(including owners of
rental property who implement "drug-free contracts or programs" for their
tenants).
4 Volunteering for and successfully completing serving in substance abuse prevention
programs.
4 For business and organizations (service clubs with property, etc.) who pay
property taxes, the submission of an adopted program of activities with legal
certification by an appropriate officer that it was implemented (including
adoption of a"drug-free workplace"policy/contract and implementation of an
Employee Assistance Program).
Serving on a community-based organization against substance abuse or a drug-
free schools task force.
Participation in Parents on Patrol in neighborhoods.
4 Developing and/or sponsoring another approved drug and alcohol prevention
program, such as a neighborhood "Alano"club.
- 22 -
VII. IMPLEMENTATION IDEAS FOR TREATMENTANTERVENTION
COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN
Comprehensive health care delivery systems are a continuum of services from primary
prevention to secondary prevention/intervention, and to tertiary prevention/treatment.
Comprehensive alcohol and drug abuse delivery systems are also a continuum of care - from
primary prevention to tertiary prevention. Due to the comprehensive and integrated nature of
alcohol and drug abuse services, tertiary prevention, for instance, most always includes
important elements of primary and secondary prevention. Professionals in the field of alcohol
and drug abuse now recognize that intervention and treatment are, in fact, important types of
prevention. The following Community Action Plan focuses on intervention and treatment
services but does so in the context that"prevention"cuts across all levels of the alcohol and drug
abuse field. The Community Action Plan also indicates that the provision of treatment services
requires special training and expertise which needs to be recognized in the same manner as other
health care skills.
If the community is serious about dealing with the drug problem, there must be available,
adequate,local,affordable treatment facilities to help people including young people plagued by
drug abuse.
With the rapid growth in the availability and popularity of designer drugs,communities urgently
need"designer programs" which are equally available and equally popular. This Community
Action Plan format is developed along the lines of the environment in which the intervention/
treatment services are to be provided. The epidemic nature of drug abuse requires that services
be provided in a number of environments. The following environmental areas look at what
works, what we have, and what we need. No longer can we afford to view intervention and
treatment services as the exclusive domain of the health care field. The health care field will
remain an important leader,but clearly any war on drugs requires multiple efforts and multiple
strategies. Following are a variety of actions which need to be taken, broken down by various
disciplines and interest groups, as follows:
HEALTH SERVICES
SOCIAL SERVICES
SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
WORKPLACE
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
HOUSING
FAMILIES/NEIGHBORHOODS
VOLUNTEER SERVICES
INDIVIDUALS
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL SERVICES
ADMINISTRATION
- 23 -
HEALTH SERVICES
♦ Treatment staff should be encouraged to work with any family member or personal friend
of a drug or alcohol abuser to initiate care. It is no longer correct to assume that treatment
requires that the substance abuser take the first step. In fact,significant progress can be
made by working with other affected persons to get the potential client into treatment.
♦ Presently,outpatient recovery services are provided in contract and in county operated
sites throughout the County. More resources need to be directed towards expanding these
outpatient recovery programs.
♦ Re-entry group homes are an important part of the continuum of services which make
recovery possible for many county residents. Presently,there is a serious shortage in the
number of group homes and follow-up support services available for the chemically
dependent person who is re-entering the work force.
♦ There is presently one residential treatment program for chemically dependent women
and their children in Contra Costa County. There is a critical need to develop at least one
additional residential treatment program for chemically dependent women and their
children.
♦ Provide for the development of one special detoxification center for women who have
alcohol and other drug dependent problems. This would allow a large number of women
who currently do not avail themselves of the services because of the co-educational issue,
to come forth and receive services. In this regard,there is also a need for adequate child
care for women who wish to go into recovery.
♦ Individuals and organizations in the community should lobby the appropriate legislators
and other decision makers to remove barriers to care,including financial barriers.
♦ Funds must be appropriated for both prevention and treatment,because one without the
other is meaningless. A fair share of the funding allocated to drug abuse services must
be dedicated to prevention and treatment.
♦ In order to meet the needs of the local community, federal anti-drug funds should be
controlled locally in terms of how much goes to prevention,how much to treatment and
how much goes to law enforcement.
♦ Help families detect substance abuse symptoms and behaviors and develop appropriate
and effective intervention techniques.
t Provide intensive outpatient treatment services for pregnant and postpartum alcohol and
other drug dependent women and their- families.
- 24 -
♦ Provide for appropriate care for"crack" and other drug-exposed babies and addicted
pregnant minors,including follow-up services.
♦ Provide assessment,monitoring and developmental intervention for substance exposed
infants and families.
♦ Establish routine collection of data to monitor the extent and nature of substance abuse
during pregnancy.
♦ Develop and expand our ability to provide intervention and treatment services to the
chemically dependent client who is positive for the H.I.V.virus. Presently,considerable
outreach efforts are being undertaken by public health;however,much more needs to be
accomplished in the instances where intervention and treatment are indicated.
♦ Program enhancement needs to be accomplished in the area of methadone treatment
services. Methadone clients who are medically fragile due to a particular condition,such
as pregnancy, need a higher level of program support.
♦ Develop an intensive outpatient counseling program which will provide acupuncture and
supportive short-term detoxification medication for people who are addicted to crack
cocaine and other stimulants.
♦ Develop a 30-90 day short-term residential program primarily for clients who are crack
addicted. This program should have a strong medical component to effectively serve
medically fragile clients,i.e., pregnant alcohol/drug dependent, HIV positive, multiple
diagnosed clients.
♦ Plan,develop and implement improved capabilities to work with the California Conservation
Corps. A great deal more needs to be accomplished in serving this group and it appears
that their efforts could be of considerable assistance to neighborhoods. if the County
pursues its County Conservation Corps ideas, an important part of the program goals
might be urban conservation to include various anti-drug efforts.
♦ Provide treatment of significant others of the alcoholic and the addict.
♦ Provide more social model recovery programs and support groups for young adults(e.g.
group homes, Alano Club models).
♦ Create a more "consumer friendly" drug and alcohol service system. This entails
planning and development of an improved information and referral systern.
♦ Plan, develop and implement an in-home support program for foster parents and
extended families who have taken responsibility for caring for the children of alcoholics
and addicts.
- 25 -
♦ Additional treatment services are needed for children and young adults throughout the
County. Caution should be taken to avoid negatively stigmatizing these children.
Emphasis should instead be placed on approaches designed to offer positive reinforcement.#
♦ Support programs which demonstrate the value of our children will also help in
treatment. This is especially true with younger children. Treatment should emphasize
self esteem,and models should be sought which carry this message to at-risk elementary
and junior high school youth.*
♦ Continue to develop programs and clinical skills which are culturally relevant. Drug
abuse disproportionately affects members of ethnic minority communities. An effective
response to the drug epidemic necessarily requires an approach which is multi-cultural
and tailored to the needs of various communities.*
♦ Treatment professionals who are on the leading edge of today's drug epidemic urge the
community to develop more street-based solutions.
Contra Costa County needs a network of services which emphasize "taking
services to clients". This concept departs from the standard of setting appointments,
which the addict misses, or requiring that"the addict take the first step".
4 An example might be establishing a network of sites,including churches,public
agencies,and community centers where counselors can see clients motivated to
seek help. Treatment can be dispatched with an immediacy that is lost when
appointments are scheduled for"next week". .
�? Paraprofessional intervention staff should be selected from those who are
"streetwise"and emphasis should be in training to respond to aggression, which
may increase in the non-traditional setting.
♦ Changing societal attitudes and behaviors requires a great deal of educating the public
(and providers)as to the real nature of this epidemic. The process of knowledge transfer
is key to improving community resistance skills which is an integral part of the
intervention and treatment process. Considerable resources need to be directed towards
educating all segments of society and then educating again and again.
+ Augment staffing at county operated and contracted'residential drug and alcohol
programs. Currently,county operated drug program have such thin staffing patterns that
they have no weekend coverage or night coverage. This staffing is critical to insure the
proper operation and management of a 24 hour a day program.
♦ Keep abreast of research that is effective and evolving to determine what is, in fact,
working.
- 26 -
+ Augment clerical support in county and contract operated drug and alcohol programs.
With a few minor exceptions, the county operated drug programs have only one clerk
who works in administration. This lack of clerical support seriously impedes both the
quantity and quality of services provided to county residents.
+ Develop improved levels of service for county residents who are alcohol and other drug
dependent and who are physically or psychologically disabled. This may include
chemically dependent clients who are seeing and/or hearing impaired or may apply to
clients who have serious psychiatric disabilities in addition to their addiction.
+ Develop residential recovery beds for youth who have been adjudicated wards of the
court or who are voluntary regardless of their economic status. Presently, there are no
in-county residential chemical dependency programs for youth who are unable to afford
private hospitalization and develop a full continuum of services for both emancipated
and non-emancipated children.
+ Emphasize a serious need for HMO's and third party insurance coverage for alcohol and
drug services.
+ Provide ongoing training and education to everyone involved in providing alcohol and
drug services regarding the latest developments in the field.
+ Devellop'treatment services for children and families of alcohol and drug addicts even if
the addict is not in treatment.
+ Review,develop and implement permanent homes for children of alcoholics and drug
users who will not be returning home after placement.
+ Provide education and support for foster homes and adoptive parents regarding alcohol
and drug issues.
Increase information and referral services to all segments of the community. Provide
services for individuals interested in interventions with family, friends, employees or
employer.
+ Increase services to young people cited for possession of alcohol or other drugs.
+ Increase the Driving Under the Influence(DUI)services to better serve the first time and
repeat offenders.
+ Develop a continuum of services for the elderly who have problems with alcohol and
prescription drugs.
- 27 -
SOCIAL SERVICES
♦ Expand the capability of Social Services Department staff to conduct in-house assessments
and interventions for chemically dependent clients. Referral to Health Services Department
staff will be made when clinically appropriate. The dramatic rise in drug related
Children's Protective Services(C.P.S.)referrals requires new resources as well as new
solutions for some very new and challenging problems. The"societal symptoms"of drug
abuse are not only burgeoning C.P.S. caseload levels but are also increasing the levels
of homelessness and General Assistance:
♦ Develop and implement special foster care,programs for drug exposed infants and for
children from homes where the parents are dependent on alcohol and other drugs
dependencies. The demand for these services will require at least four additional six bed
facilities to serve this special population. It is essential that these group homes be located
within the communities from which most of these referrals originate.
SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
♦ All elementary, middle and high schools should implement intervention programs for
youth who are at high risk for drug abuse or who have alcohol and/or drug abuse
problems.
• All school districts should have increased levels of training for teachers and administrators
to fully educate them regarding appropriate intervention strategies.
♦ Schools need to develop in-house peer counseling programs and teams to work with and
identify high risk youth. These interventions should lead to a higher number of referrals
to counseling programs.
♦ Parents shouldadvocate for school boards and school administrators to provide consistent
district-wide intervention and treatment policies.
♦ School,districts should forge close partnerships with local treatment programs:
4 Each high school should have at least one substance abuse counselor on campus
from a nearby community-based or County drug abuse program.
Teachers and other school staff should receive extensive training in identifying
youth who are either at risk for substance abuse or who are already involved in
substance abuse.
♦ School districts should increase job training and educational training for youth who are
no longer in school.
- 28 -
WORKPLACE
4 County employers should be encouraged to comply with the Drug Free Workplace Act
of 1988.
♦ Employers and organized labor should insure that adequate levels of intervention and
treatment are made available to the alcohol and drug dependent people who are
employed.
♦ Businesses should consider hiring persons in recovery,thus providing these individuals
an opportunity to reenter a drug-free society.
♦ Private business and corporate foundations should support increased funding for the
provision of intervention and treatment services.
♦ Workplace programs should replicate the models developed and demonstrated to be
effective,such as the Teamsters TARP program,or the rehabilitation program of the U.S.
Postal Service Letter Carriers Union.
These model programs are predicated on the belief that chemical dependence can
be successfully treated, and that the incentive of retaining a good job is a
significant motivation to most employees.
<? These models require total abstinence,beginning with residential detoxification,
and require adherence to the 12-Step program with employees required to attend
an Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meeting every day for up to
six months.
4 The clear message from the employer is that the standard is "drug and alcohol
free"but that for the employee in treatment,job,family andlquality of life can be
maintained.
♦ Employers who are unable to cover their workers with health insurance that pays for drug
and alcohol treatment should band together to create some form of health care response
which addresses this issue.
�J Such consortia could be organized by Chambers of Commerce or by other
business or professional groups.
Because the bottom-line profitability of businesses is being dramatically affected
by substance abuse,such a plan would,in fact,be cost effective and would serve
as an employee benefit as well.
- 29 -
CRIMINAL JUSTICE
♦ Treatment professionals recognize that there are levels of drug treatment,ranging from
treatment that is coercive—i.e.,required by law enforcement,courts,or as a condition
of probation—to treatment that is voluntary. This diversity of circumstances requires
that treatment options must be multi-tiered to accommodate differences in motivation for
treatment.
4 There is a need for alternative, non-traditional and innovative sentencing for
offenders. A committee of treatment professionals and court officials—judges,
prosecutors, defenders and probation officials—should be formed to explore
such alternatives.
♦ Provide increased treatment services for prisoners of the Marsh Creek Detention Facility
and the new West County Detention Facility. Expansion of the model DEUCE program
would provide important treatment services to alcohol and other drug dependent
prisoners who are currently receiving only limited treatment services.
♦ Need to establish work and recovery programs for those in jail.
♦ Provide greater levels of outpatient assessment, intervention and treatment services to
the alcohol and other drug dependent clients who are on probation. The Probation
Department is eager to expand assessment,intervention and treatment services to many
of its clientele.Often times,a life crisis such as arrest and probation offers a very unique
and important window of opportunity for lasting behavior change.
♦ Develop pre-trial diversion services for new arrestees at the County jail. Presently,
virtually no health focused intervention is provided for alcohol and drug dependent
arrestees.
♦ Expand and develop diversion services for clients referred from the judiciary. Considerable
effort and resources need to be directed towards retooling the diversion program which
was originally developed in approximately 1974 to address possession of marijuana
cases. In 1989, the target population is much different and the program needs to be
substantially modified toinclude urinalysis testing, closer screening, more vigorous
education, etc.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
+ Greater resources and commitment need to be directed towards improving the quantity
and quality of positive alternative activities for youth. Programs which challenge youth
psychologically, physically and intellectually are all effective strategies for lessening
certain risk factors.
- 30 -
HOUSING
+ Additional resources need to be directed towards expanding clean and sober living
environments for recovering residents of Contra Costa County. Development of
appropriate housing for this population will require more resources and greater coordination
between various service providers.
+ Continue to expand and develop the role of the Contra Costa County Housing Authority
in creating clean and sober living environments. This type of housing intervention may
not be traditional or clinical in nature but it is a good example of the sort of"designer
programs"which we must develop.
FAMILIES/NEIGHBORHOODS
+ As is the case with other public health epidemics,additional effort needs to be directed
towards empowering families and neighborhoods to intervene in the alcohol and drug
abuse cycle. Many times the healing and recovery process begins with family members
or significant others who initiate and maintain an intervention proces I s. This model needs
to be developed and piloted in several communities where crack cocaine abuse is
endemic.
VOLUNTEER SERVICES
+ Enhance the ability of volunteer organizations to provide assistance in intervention or
treatment services.
INDIVIDUALS
• Individuals and key policy makers should advocate for broad health:plan coverage for all
individuals who need treatment.
• Every individual in all segments of the community can help add ress this problem by
attending Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Narcotics Anonymous and other 12 step
program types of meetings,or by attending community alcohol/drug education programs
provided by many of the local programs.
+ Individuals in every*community should mobilize their communities to promote involvement
in such projects as the alcohol tax initiative or other projects which support the
development of resources that can be used for establishing treatment programs.
31 -
INFORMATION AND REFERRAL SERVICES
+ There needs to be a countywide centralized Information and Referral (I&R) System.
Residents need to be able to seek reliable,accurate information from a single source,to
speed up individual and family responses and to learn about options and resources which
are available. In this regard, the following needs to be done:
.0. Conduct a survey of existing I&R services and hotlines to determine the extent
to which they meet or fail to meet the needs of the entire community.
b Develop a model of what the appropriate I&R service would require in the way
of funding, staffing and location.
ADMINISTRATION
+ The development and implementation of ahigh quality managed health care system is
.
an administratively complex and highly technical undertaking. Fundamental service
goals such as access to appropriate care, linkages to other human service systems, and
maintenance of quality assurance standards can only be achieved through the development
of an uncluttered and efficient administrative infrastructure. Failure to develop a strong
administrative component will result in a syktem which will not be consumer friendly and
a system which may not provide the best answers and the best services possible.
+ Continuation of efforts to actively involve the community in the ongoing planning
process.
+ Identify and initiate a multi-year planning process which will explore various ways in
which drug and alcohol services can be provided with higher efficiency and higher
quality.
+ The administrative structure of the overall alcohol and drug effort will have to be done
in a way which empowers the administration to forge inter-departmental working
relationships as well as multi-county, regional working relationships. This level of
authority and responsibility is needed in order to successfully plan, develop and
implement many of the recommendations contained in this action plan.
+ Proposing that the public,via the ballot process,be involved in shaping the future of these
important public policy questions is an important action step. This step provides useful
infon-nation and actually helps to speed the community recovery process which centers
around taking responsibility for the healing process.
- 32 -
VIII. IMPLEMENTATION IDEAS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT/
INTERDICTION-COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN
The following Community Action Plan focuses on the law enforcement approach to wage war
on abuse of alcohol and drugs.
Historically, society has looked to law enforcement to maintain crime prevention and law
enforcement services but the social tragedy of alcohol and drug abuse is overwhelming law
enforcement capabilities.
Law enforcement and the criminal justice system is our first line of defense for public safety in
enforcing the laws regarding the use and abuse of illegal drugs. There has been much success
with the existing three regional narcotics enforcement teams. These efforts need to be continued
and supported.
However, these efforts are but one division in this war. It is essential that all institutions and
service providers cooperate and coordinate their prevention and service missions. Every
individual's input, support and active involvement with law enforcement,education,intervention
and treatment services will make us an effective army.
PROPOSED ACTIONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES
+ Each law enforcement agency should routinely inform their governing bodies and
community as to the extent and nature of drugs/alcohol abuse and report the progress they
have made in implementing this Action Plan in their region.
+ Each law enforcement agency should participate with community-based organizations
against substance abuse to develop demand reduction education by providing programs:
In the schools such as DARE, SANE,REAP,Here's Looking at You 2000,etc.
To any community-based organization.
+ Each law enforcement agency should jointly develop and adopt policies with all
educational institutions in their jurisdictions to enforce drug and alcohol laws on campus.
Consideration should be given to establishing drug-free schools and drug-free zones.
(See attached model resolution for this purpose.)
+ Each law enforcement agency should improve operational effectiveness against alcohol
violations by:
1�> Implementing tactics which will decrease driving under the influence of drugs
and alcohol.
- 33 -
4 Implementing tactics which will reduce sales/furnishing to and use of alcohol by
minors, including educating adults about the fact that it is illegal to provide
alcohol to minors.
♦ Each law enforcement agency should participate in multi-agency task forces which
integrate federal, state and local drug enforcement agencies and prosecutors for the
purpose of enhancing inter-agency coordination, intelligence and facilitation of multi-
jurisdictional investigations (e.g., CCCNET, ECCNET and WCCNET).
♦ Each law enforcement agency should establish a Serious Habitual Offender program
(SHO) to coordinate with prosecution, probation and schools, if the offender is a
juvenile, in targeting the most serious offenders for apprehension, prosecution and
incarceration. Staffing-up must occur in the District Attorney's Office to permit vertical
prosecution of these offenders.
♦ The number of police officers in law enforcement agencies must be increased to enhance
patrol and line operation staffing and place more officers on the street to protect the
community and suppress drug and gang-related crime by:
<? Maintaining proactive enforcement against street-level dealers and users.
4 Implementing programs to disrupt commerce in stolen goods and property which
have proven to be directly related to illegal purchase and use of drugs/narcotics.
.01 Utilizing problem-oriented policing methods to strengthen community and
neighborhood participation.
Providing rapid response to all persons reporting drug/alcohol violations.
♦ "Hot Lines" should be considered throughout the county to receive confidential
information relating to drug violations. Rewards should be offered through creation of
organizations such as"Crime Stoppers", etc. *
♦ All law enforcement agencies should develop and seek community assistance to design
programs to target the local source of controlled and illegal substances such as precursor
chemicals,diverted pharmaceuticals,clandestine laboratories and marijuana cultivation.
♦ All law enforcement agencies should provide additional training to all uniformed
personnel in identification of drug/alcohol usage and the implementation of appropriate
and innovative enforcement tactics.
- 34 -
♦ All law enforcement agencies should coordinate efforts with fire marshals, health
inspectors and code enforcement personnel to abate facilities used for drug distribution
or gang gathering places by enforcing local health, fire, building and safety codes.
♦ All law enforcement agencies should coordinate their efforts with business and community
organizations, as well as outreach, treatment and intervention agencies.
♦ All law enforcement agencies should implement procedures to ensure that revenue from
drug asset forfeitures are utilized to enhance, rather than supplant, law enforcement
efforts as required by law.
♦ Probation,District Attorney and Crime Lab services should be fully staffed to provide
necessary support for law enforcement agencies. The Probation Department, in
particular, has a special role in dealing with drug and alcohol repeat offenders who are
on Probation.
♦ Police agencies should implement enforcement policies against the user of illicit drugs
and alcohol to reduce the demand and profit margin associated with substance abuse. The
community must be energized to accept a philosophy of zero tolerance and should
consider appropriate legislation to provide for seizure of property,such as autos,used in
obtaining or using illegal substances.
In a time of limited resources available to law enforcement,communities must recognize and
accept that to wage a war against alcohol and narcotics,other tasks such as traffic enforcement
and investigation of minor criminal acts may require setting new priorities,for the allocation of
resources.
New partnerships need to be forged with a number of neighborhood, community and children
and youth groups and other human services agencies. The purpose of these efforts should be to
bring about an overall increase in community support for law enforcement efforts to suppress and
control the substance abuse problem.
- 35 -
On January.30,1990,over 600 young people and adults met to share their ideas on how to create a drug-free
Contra Costa.No words can describe the energy and enthusiasm of this group. Young people were divided
into groups to address the topic areas of prevention/education,treatment,and law enforcement. Following
are the top 3 ideas from each of these groups and the general themes for their areas.
PREVENTION/EDUCATION
Top 3 ideas generated from all the Prevention/Education groups:
1) Required alcohol/drug education in schools in order to graduate (including mandatory
education for teachers).
2) Earlier education, starting at the pre-school level.
3) More positive role models.
General ideas from Prevention:
* Teacher training
Cross-training between youth and teachers
Community activities
County-wide drug free parties
Mandatory drug testing
More education of all ages
* More advertising of consequences
Better communication in getting the message across
Good role models
Peer support groups
* Alcohol and drug counselors
Friday Night Live at the jr. high school level
Conflict managers 4
Listen to teenagers
Pre-school programs
* Testimonials by ex-drug dealers and recovering people
* Peer counseling
Ethnic studies to increase understanding
Education in the jails
Pass law regulating advertising
Mandatory assemblies with youth and parents present
Develop parenting classes
Teach self-esteem at a young ale
Alternative activities
Promote entertainment with drug-free messages
Have libraries carry prevention infonn:mon y
Adult education and involvement
Develop teacher-studeiit-parent neoxorks
Start Youth Educators at a younger atglz-�
Prevention information at 1-lead Saari n o«rams
No stereotvpina of people v
TREATMENT
rp 2 ideas generated from all Treatment groups:
More treatment facilities available for young people(particularly east county,sliding scale underwritten
by the county,possibly tax added to fund drug treatment programs.)
More support groups(peer counseling,on a county-wide basis reaching into the schools at the jr. high
and high school levels,also making support available to families.)
General ideas from Treatment:
* More free detox and treatment centers
Less money spent on defense more money spent on treatment
* More government funding
* Develop post-treatment support services (i.e.job development)
* Police training about addiction
* Develop strong outpatient after-care programs
* Support twelve step programs
* Develop support groups which include faculty
- r
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Top 3 ideas generated from all Law Enforcement groups:
1) No bail for dealers i
2) Have people serve full sentences—no parole
3) Establish educational and rehabilitational diversion programs as an alternative to jail or school
suspension.
General ideas from Law Enforcement:
Stricter penalties for adults. .
No special treatment for white collar crirnes and upper class offenders.
* Stricter control on sales of alcohol.
More police officers.
Stricter drug laws.
Have officers talk to youth with respect.
Make licenses or 1D cards with special codes.
x Have government-owned liquor stores.
Undercover police on school campuses.
Legalization.
Hotlines for tipsters.
Increase pay/benefits of police officers.
Less severe laws.
Police officers need to be positive role models.
I_e2, lize locker checks.
Set up youth courts.
Stiffer penalties for adults SUV1112 mirrors.
Drug screening for police.
Police officers should take action when they see deals.
PARTNERSHIP FOR A DRUG-FREE CONTRA COSTA
FAMILY SUBSTANCE ABUSE AGREEMENT*
AS A FAMILY: We agree to learn as much as possible about the effects of alcohol and other
drugs, to discuss these issues openly, and to share our concerns about peer
pressureand self-destructive behavior.
We commit ourselves to mutual support, love, and seeking joy in healthy life
practices.
We agree to obey the drinking and driving laws. It any of us have consumed
more than one drink per'hour we will call a sober driver to get us home safely.
AS A PARENT: I agree to discuss and develop a clear position about alcohol and other drug
use with my children.
I will set an example that can be followed by my children, and will not confuse
them with double standards.
I will not conduct myself in an illegal manner with regard to the use of alcohol
or drugs.
If I am contacted by a member of my family who finds himself or herself in a
dangerous or potentially dangerous situation, I will respond in a supportive
manner. I am open to being contacted at anytime of the day or night. 1will then
be open to discussing the situation with them at a later time.
I will not serve or permit youth under legal drinking age to drink alcohol or use
illegal drugs in my home.
I welcome communication with other parents regarding our sons' and daughters'
activities.
AS A YOUTH: If I ever find myself in aclangerous or potentially dangerous situation, in regard
to substance abuse, I will know that you are open to my calling you for
guidance or help, at any time of the day or night.
I commit myself notto endanger my well-being by using alcohol orother drugs.
I agree that I will not accept a ride with anyone who is under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs.
Signature Signature nature
Signature Signature
Signature Signature
*Some parents and youth may want to work together to revise this agreement,or to create a new agreement, in order
to arrive at something that is mutually acceptable and workable for their family.
Please post in a prominent place at home! (Sample Agreement)
CREATING DRUG FREE SCHOOL ZONES IN EXEMPLAR CITY
The following information suggests a process that could implement a "Drug Free School Zone" in any
jurisdiction.
Newly enacted California state law (section 11353.6 H&S) provides that any person 18 years of age or
over who is convicted of sections 11351.5 (possession of cocaine base for sale), 11352(transportation,
sale, giving away etc, of designated controlled substances), and 11379.6 (manufacturing any controlled
substances)provides enhanced sentencing if the violation takes place upon the grounds of,or within 1,000
feet of a public or private elementary vocational,junior high school or high school.
Federal law (United States Code, Sections 845 and 845(A) of Title 21) also provides for prosecution of
violators who distribute drugs to individuals under the age of 21 or who distribute drugs within 1,000 feet
of schools.
The amount of drugs required for a federal prosecution is much higher than the state requirements. The
idea that a person could face possible Federal prison is seen as psychological too)being used by the cities,
obviously the posting of the signs near the schools indicating a"drug free zone"is meant to have that same
type of psychological warning.
Action Suggested:
First- The city council must pass a resolution(s) the schoolstl�
outlining the city's position on protecting
I
(Martinez passed two resolutions,one for the public and the other for the private schools. This
may need to be decided by your city attorney, although the state law includes both).
Second - Send a copy of the resolution to the district attorney's office and the school district so that they
are aware of the city's and the police department's position on this issue_
Third - Signs are suggested (drug seizure money can be used).Although not required,they serve public
notice of intent.
Fourth - Establish all of the schools that would be having signs placed within 1,000 feet of their
boundaries. A decision needs to be made if one��,ishes to place the signs at all of the schools or
designated ones.
Fifth - 1-lave the signs made(wording appears to be very simple,i.e.,"Drug,Free School Zone Exemplar
Resolution it Establish the 1,000 foot perimeter nieter and the sign locations.
Sixth - Install the sins.
DRAFT RESOLUTION
EXEMPLAR FOR"DRUG FREE ZONES"
WITHIN 100 FEET OF"EXEMPLAR"PUBLIC SCHOOLS
WHEREAS, the drug epidemic is rapidly growing in the City of"Exemplar", the Bay Area and
throughout the Nation; and
WHEREAS,the sales of drugs to children is particularly deplorable in that it is illegal,destroys
young lives,has disastrous effects on families and communities and ultimately the future of our nation;and
WHEREAS,both California Law,Section 11353.6,and the United States Code,Sections 845 and 845
(A)of Title 21 provide forenhanced penalties for persons who distribute drugs to individuals under the age
of 21 or who distribute drugs within 1000 feet of schools; and
WHEREAS the City of"Exemplar" may request through the District Attorney or the U.S.Attorney
General's Office State or Federal prosecution of violators of the above described sections.
WHEREAS; the City of Exemplar acknowledges that the same issues which justified the
establishment of the drug free zones around public schools, also exists in the areas of private schools;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of "Exemplar" hereby
approves of establishing"Drug Free Zones"within 1000 feet of public elementary and secondary schools;
(may include private schools, vocational schools,colleges,junior colleges and universities) and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that by copy of this resolution the Contra Costa County District
Attorney's and the U.S.Attorney General's Office will be advised of Exemplar's participation in the war
against drugs,and encourage Federal prosecution to the maximum extent possible for all drug offenders
violating the City of Exemplar"Drug Free Zones"; and
BE ITFURTRER RESOLVED that acopy of this resolution be forwarded to the Contra Costa District
Attorney's Office.
I certify that the foregoing resolution was adopted by the Council of the City of"Exemplar" at a
regular meeting held by the following vote:
Ayes:
Noes:
Absent:
Clerk of the City of Exemplar
Approve,d:
1\4ayor
school
......................
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Approved by the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors March 6, 1990 to be
placed on the June 5, 1990 ballot for ratification.
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY COMMUNITY
DRUG AND ALCOHOL ACTION PLAN
(A PARTNERSHIP FOR A DRUG-FREE CONTRA COSTA)
I. PREFACE
What you have before you is a summary of a County-wide Drug and Alcohol Action Plan. The com-
plete plan details a number of things you as an individual and as a member of many groups in the
community can do to help combat the illegal use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. This Action
Plan was created by combining regional plans from each area of the County.
Copies of the complete plan and regional plans are available at libraries-throughout the County and
at the offices of each County Supervisor. You may also call 646-2601 if you would like to have a
copy of the County-wide Action Plan or any of the regional plans mailed to you.
Success in the War on Drugs requires the cooperation of every member of the community. If you
would life more information about how you can get involved in this effort please call 646-1161.
Also attached to this summary of the Action Plan is a Family Substance Abuse Agreement. Here
are some ideas for how to use this Family Substance Abuse Agreement.
1. Call a meeting of your extended family. Calmly and candidly discuss the terms of this agree
ment.
2. Use this opportunity to express your own personal feelings about the use of alcohol and drugs.
Do not be surprised if the young people know more about drugs than you do. Listen to them and
learn. Some parents and youth may want to work together to revise this agreement or create a
new agreement in order to arrive at something that is mutually acceptable and workable for their
family.
3. After all members of your family have signed this document please post it in a prominent place
in your home where it will serve as a reminder to family members.
t
1
INTRODUCTION
Contra Costa County has a serious and growing problem with the illegal use and abuse of alcohol
and other drugs. The problem involves all age groups, all ethnic and racial groups, all economic
levels of the community and all geographic areas of the County. .
While there may be differences in the perception of the problem in different areas of the County,
the problem is there, it is countywide, it is serious and it will not go away by denying that it is a
problem.
Abuse of alcohol and other drugs is serious in all areas of the County,even though the form in which
it is displayed,the impact on the community or even the types of drugs which are involved may be
different in different areas of the County.
While it is certainly true that the vast majority of citizens in this County do not abuse alcohol or take
illegal drugs,the problem can and does affect everyone indirectly. Erratic drivers on our highways,
random shootings on our freeways and increased crime due to drugs impact each of us in one way
or another. In addition,those who do have a direct problem with alcohol or drugs force the County
to allocate a disproportionate share of our scarce resources to their care and treatment rather than to
other programs needed by the community at large. Those in the community who are not directly
affected by the abuse of alcohol or other drugs can and must serve as positive role models for those
of our citizens who are personally involved in such abuse.
Huge and growing resources have been applied in recent years to stopping the manufacture,
importation,distribution and sale of illegal drugs. While law enforcement attacks on the supply of
drugs needs to continue, law enforcement officials are the first to note that no amount of funds will
ever stem the supply of drugs as long as the demand for drugs continues unabated. If the demand
for drugs were to be substantially reduced, the supply would dry up because it would no longer be
profitable to take the risks associated with the manufacture, importation, distribution and sale of
illegal drugs.
There is a widespread attitude in the community which condones and even encourages the use and
even abuse of alcohol and other drugs. As long as this attitude is prevalent in this County it will be
difficult to address the problem.
While government must be a partner in the solution of the problem,government alone cannot solve
the problem, particularly without the total support of the community.
The problem of the abuse of alcohol and other drugs is so widespread in this County that it will
require a major,coordinated effort on the part of all elements of the community to solve the problem
truly a community-wide War on Drugs!
2
This War on Drugs must involve all elements of the community:
Parents, children, students, young adults, grandparents/seniors, neighborhood and homeowners
associations,schools and colleges,employers,labor organizations,religious organizations,service
clubs, non-profit community-based organizations and providers, the media and cities and the
county. Most individuals are members of one or more of these groups. Therefore,all individuals
have a stake in seeing the problem solved and a role in making that happen.
In order for a War on Drugs to be effective,the community must develop a"zero tolerance"attitude
toward the illegal use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs. This must be reflected in both individual
and organizational behavior. Protection must be provided to those citizens who are courageous
enough to speak out about illegal drug activities. Support and protection must also be provided to
young people who want to speak out about stopping the use of drugs. Currently,many such young
people are ridiculed and even threatened because of their anti-drug convictions.
The major regions of Contra Costa County are different in terms of the form in which the problem
is displayed,the resources which are available to fight the problem and the needs which have been
identified. As a result,each region must identify for itself what it needs to do. Strategies which are
needed in West County may not work in South County. The resources which are available in Central
County may not be present in East County. The needs in one community will probably be different
from those in another community.
i
Each community needs to define the extent and nature of the problem in!their community, the
resources which are present to address the problem and the unmet needs which are identified. Then
each community must develop a strategy which will work in that community to provide resources
to meet the unmet needs. Prevention,treatment and law enforcement activities must be sensitive to
the community's economic and racial diversity.
What follows are some actions which have been developed by the three major regions of the County
which help to provide a strategy for addressing the drug problem in the County. What is included
here are only some of the suggestions which have been made. The three regional Community Action
Plans from which this document is formed are available for a more detailed and specific review of
the assessment which has been made in each region of the County.
The Board of Supervisors is placing this Action Plan on the ballot in June 1990 for ratification
by the voters of Contra Costa County based upon its having been unanimously endorsed at the
Drug and.Alcohol Summit II in January 1990.
3
OVERALL GOALS
Following are the overall goals which should focus each community's efforts:
♦ Reduce the incidence of the abuse of alcohol and other drugs in Contra Costa County
through:
Prevention and Education
Intervention, Treatment and Aftercare
Law Enforcement and Interdiction
♦ Empower individual citizens, community organizations and key civic leaders to take
responsibility for reducing the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
+ Encourage an integrated effort with participation from all sectors of the community -
individuals,families,schools,law enforcement,media,business and labor,medical,mental
health and alcohol and drug services providers,religious and community organizations,local
government and service organizations.
♦ Mobilize and maximize the effectiveness of existing resources through cooperation and
public-private partnerships. Generate new resources where needed.
(Points marked with a at the end of the comment reflect suggestions made by the youth of this
county at their conference on January 30, 1990 which are incorporated into this Action Plan. All of
their recommendations are included in the Appendix to this Plan.)
4
IV. STRATEGIES
The preceding goals can best be achieved through the use of the following strategies:
♦ Mobilize and involve all key community leaders and organizations to participate in a
community-based organization against the abuse of alcohol and other drugs.
♦ Increase community awareness through the organization of community groups and the
involvement of elected officials,key advisory Boards and Commissions and the media in a
concerted countywide effort on a community by community basis.
♦ In establishing a community-based organization against the abuse of alcohol and otherdrugs,
build upon the groups and efforts that already exist in the community; expand and build on
what already is established to provide a broader and stronger base of participation.
♦ Provide an organizational framework countywide for effective and efficient coordination of
community activities. Assure linkage of community-based organizations against the abuse
of alcohol and other drugs to create a countywide"war on the illegal use and abuse of alcohol
and other drugs".
♦ Implement this plan of action which clearly defines attainable goals countywide, in each
region of the County and in each community in each region in the County.
♦ Develop a plan which addresses the special needs of low-income,unemployed and minority
persons, pregnant women, single parents, working parents and parents for whom English is
a second language.
♦ Develop a plan which addresses the need for job development, housing and child care for
many groups in the community.
♦ Assess regional and community needs,better coordinate information about existing services,
and develop funding strategies to fill the gaps in service in each community, including
forming effective public-private partnerships.
• Advocate that messages regarding the illegal use and abuse of alcohol and other drugs must
be consistently applied to community activities. In summary, these messages are:
1. No use of alcohol or other drugs by those under the age of 21.
2. No use of illegal drugs by adults.
3. No illegal use or abuse of alcohol by adults.
• Institute an on-going evaluation component to measure progress and overall success in the
various sectors and geographic regions of the County.
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V. REVENUE REQUIRED TO IMPLEMENT THE COMMUNITY ACTION PLAN
This section outlines several sources of revenue which may have to be explored in order to
realistically finance the program outlined in this Community Action Plan:
We should not deceive ourselves into thinking that any significant part of the added services called
for in the following Community Action Plan can be implemented with the currently available
resources. There is no substitute for citizen involvement and volunteer activities in addressing the
war on drugs. Much can and must be done within existing resources, but more will be needed.
Following are some alternatives that should be considered by the community, separately or in
combination,as mechanisms which will be needed to fully implement anything akin to the scope of
services which are called for in this Community Action Plan.
♦ coordination of existing funding sources through partnerships (public-public and public-
private) to increase efficiency and effectiveness of efforts;
♦ private sector contributions from business, service clubs and private foundations;
♦ additional funds from new proposed federal and state anti-drug programs;
♦ new funds from the proposed"Nickel a Drink" alcohol tax initiative;
• sale of confiscated property and assets from drug dealers acquired through illicit drug
activities;
♦ institute user accountability through the confiscation and sale of cars used to buy drugs or
imposition of very stiff penalties for users (if legal authority can be obtained);
♦ mobilization of citizen involvement through tax credits for individuals and businesses
volunteering for specified drug-free communities activities: this is an essential component
of any proposal for an anti-drug benefit assessment district that may be considered in the
future.
♦ It is important to recognize that there simply are not enough funds available locally to
implement this Community Action Plan. It may become necessary to reorder priorities and
raise more funds locally in order to make the Community Action Plan a reality.
It is far better to have the involvement and sweat equity of citizens as volunteers in our local war on drugs
than to have only their money. Therefore,although it is clear that we must bring new energy and generate
additional resources to wage a successful war against drugs, it is critical to provide innovative incentives,
such-as tax credits, to mobilize the community.
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VI. SUMMARY OVERVIEW
A. PREVENTION/EDUCATION
Each region in the County needs to organize for action and mobilize its resources. Every
segment of the community needs to be involved in this campaign against the abuse of alcohol
and other drugs.
Every city and unincorporated community should adopt comprehensive policies to prevent
and reduce alcohol and drug problems and should establish a"local organization against the
abuse of alcohol and other drugs".
At both the regional and community level, such an organization needs to involve a broad
cross-section of the community: parents,young adults and students, neighborhood groups,
schools, media, employers, labor organizations, religious organizations, service clubs,
service providers, law enforcement and public officials.
Each school district should appoint a"drug-free schools task force"with broad community
participation that is coordinated with the local organization against the abuse of alcohol and
other drugs. These citizen groups should be the forum for planning and implementing local
drug-free activities and programs. Educational opportunities for adults,especially pregnant
women, should be available, as well as programs for children and youth.
Parents need to enter into an open dialogue with their children about drugs and hopefully
enter into a written agreement with their children for a"drug-free family." (See attached
sample agreement at the end of the Action Plan.)
Our youth must be diverted from careers of drug dealing and lives of drug abuse by offering
them significant opportunities to learn marketable skills. This will.require job training
programs which will teach skills that are especially needed in the community and may
require job development efforts in some areas.
Young people who are hurt, depressed, abused and neglected are more vulnerable to the
short-term relief of self-medication with alcohol and other drugs. Our families need to
become more caring and supportive and must be free from violence and sexual abuse.
All sectors of the community must become involved in creating a sense of community spirit,
in building self-esteem and in providing positive alternatives to using alcohol and drugs.
Each sector of the community must do what it can to contribute to the overall effort.
Individual citizens must take responsibility for themselves, their families, their neighborhoods
and the community groups to which they belong.
Our schools and communities must collaborate on a major program of youth and family-
oriented activities. In particular, school-based prevention and early intervention programs
need to be expanded.
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B. TREATMENTANTERVENTION
A community that is in the throes of an addiction epidemic cannot become healthy without
sufficient treatment and intervention resources. Programs that are developed for law
enforcement, for prevention and education and health-related issues will continue to fall
short in,their efforts if drug treatment resources are not included as well. While there isaneed
throughout Contra Costa County for additional treatment services, this need is particularly
evident in West County.
Promoting a drug-free community is an on-going task. A major aspect of that task is to ensure
that our communities have in place resources that are both accessible and affordable to the
entire community. Accessibility is best addressed by making the community aware of the
available resources and by bringing services to where the clients really are. Affordable
services have to be made available to all. If care can be denied due to a lack of financial
resources then the notion of a caring community is without meaning.
A comprehensive approach to treatment and intervention services must be composed of
several essential and interrelated pieces:
+ Innovative programs are needed to get people into treatment. Among these are a
central information and referral system so everyone in the community can receive
correct,honest information about drugs and what treatment resources are available.
As a part of this element,it is essential to help families detect alcohol and drug abuse
symptoms and behaviors and to develop appropriate and effective intervention
techniques.
+ A variety of specialized intervention and treatment services are needed, including
children's treatment,"street-based"programs,culturally sensitive programs, workplace
programs, programs which can accommodate voluntary placements, and programs
which can accommodate coercive placements, non-traditional programs, and programs
for families, pregnant women and their drug--exposed babies. Accessibility also
means overcoming the barrier of child care for pregnant women,postpartum women
and parents who wish to be in treatment. The programs need to emphasize returning
to the community after drug abuse treatment.
♦ A variety of supportive services including parenting, child development and life
skills for the families and children of substance abusers are needed.
+ The Probation Department provides a successful,intensive,supervision program and
also provides a wide range of investigation services for drug and alcohol addicted
individuals who are on probation.
+ Early intervention resources, such as comprehensive perinatal services, are needed,
along with programs such as Head Start which identify children who are at-risk of
becornin- involved with alcohol and other drugs.
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C. LAW ENFORCEMENT/INTERDICTION
Historically, society has looked to law enforcement to maintain crime prevention and law
enforcement services but the social tragedy of alcohol and drug abuse is overwhelming law
enforcement capabilities.
Law enforcement and the criminal justice system is our first line of defense for public safety
in enforcing the laws regarding the use and abuse of illegal drugs. There has been much
success with the existing three regional narcotics enforcement teams. These efforts need to
be continued and supported.
However,these efforts are but one division in this war. It is essential that all institutions and
service providers cooperate and coordinate their prevention and service missions. Every
individual's input, support and active involvement with law enforcement, education,
intervention and treatment services will make us an effective army.
Probation, District Attorney and Crime Lab services should be fully staffed to provide
necessary support for law enforcement agencies.
Law enforcement agencies should expand their participation in education and prevention
services, including their contacts with schools, youth groups and parents. Implementation
of a"neighborhood watch"model in communities can be established and encouraged by law
enforcement agencies.
Law enforcement interdiction efforts need to be seen as an integral element of the overall
anti-drug campaign. This should take the form of formally communicating to elected
officials that law enforcement and treatment are part of the same continuum of services
which the community must make available. To fund one component at the expense of the
other diminishes the effectiveness of both.
Law enforcement agencies and the community need to forge closer ties that are mutually
trusting and mutually supportive. New partnerships need to be forged with a number of
neighborhood, community, school and youth groups.
Law enforcement agencies need to continue to publicly advocate for and support education,
prevention, intervention, treatment and aftercare services.
In return, law enforcement agencies and their governing bodies need to hear clear,
unequivocal support from the community for a"zero tolerance"philosophy in enforcing the
laws.
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�AMTT,Y SUBSTANCE "USE AGRF,F,MF,NT`
AS A FAMILY: We agree to learn as much as possible about the effects of alcohol and other
drugs; to discuss these issues openly; and to share our concerns about peer
pressure and self-destructive behavior.
We commit ourselves to mutual support, love and seeking joy in healthy life
practices.
We agree to obey the drinking and driving laws. If any of us have consumed
more than one drink per hour,we will call a sober driver to get us home safely.
AS A PARENT: I agree to discuss and develop a clear position about alcohol and other drug use
with my children.
I will set an example that can be followed by my children and will not confuse
them with double standards.
I will not conduct myself in an illegal manner with regard to the use of alcohol
or drugs.
If I am contacted by a member of my family who finds himself or herself in a
dangerous or potentially dangerous situation, I will respond in a supportive
manner. I am open to being contacted at any time of the day or night. I will then
be open to discussing the situation with them at a later time.
I will not serve or permit youth under legal drinking age to drink alcohol or use
illegal drugs in my home.
I welcome communication with other parents regarding our sons' and daughters'
activities.
AS A YOUTH: If I ever find myself in a dangerous or potentially dangerous situation, in regard
to substance abuse, I will know that you are open to my calling you for guidance
or help, at any time of the day or night.
I commit myself not to endanger my well-being by using alcohol or other drugs.
I agree that I will not accept a ride with anyone who is under the influence of
alcohol or other drugs.
Signature Signature
Signature Signature
Signature Signature
Signature Signature
PARTNERSHIP FOR A DRUG-FREE CONTRA COSTA
*HOW TO USE THIS FAMILY SUBSTANCE ABUSE AGREEMENT
1-Call a meeting of your extended family;then calmly and candidly discuss the terms of this agreement.
2-Use this opportunity to express your own personal feelings about the use of alcohol and drugs. Do not
be surprised if the younger generation of your family are more knowledgeable about drugs than you are.
Listen to them and learn. Some parents and youth may want to work together to revise this agreement, or
create a new agreement, in order to arrive at something that is mutually acceptable and workable for their
family.
3-After all members of your family have signed this document,please post it in a prominent place in your
home where it will serve as a reminder to family members.
"AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE"