Pulled for discussion by Ms. Meshes.
Kelly Scimeca, Director of the Office of Special Projects, joined the committee to discuss the resolution.
Chair Skala requested voting on routine consent agenda items 6.9 and 6.10 together. Committee members agreed to do so.
Ms. Meshes wanted to confirm that the grants will only last one year. Ms. Scimeca confirmed that was correct.
Ms. Meshes then inquired if Ms. Scimeca thinks it is likely that they will continue to get the grants renewed every year because a concerned citizen approached her that they will grow the staff but wondered about their financial plan for how to sustain that.
Ms. Scimeca stated there is no guarantee that they will get them next year but they can get the Tranformational Grant for three years, which they are hoping to do but after that, they would have to ask the County to support the position or eliminate it.
Ms. Meshes stated she is always in favor of accepting grant funds, but inquired if they try to look for ways to grant fund positions in general. Ms. Scimeca confirmed that is correct, and stated there is definitely a need for their programs because they are growing. She stated eventually she would love for the County to support the positions, even as she continues to go for grants.
Mr. Austin inquired if the candidate would be a candidate for the Mental Health Board (MHB) grant. Ms. Scimeca stated they could always apply as the MHB does support part of the DUI Court Clinician.