HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-1203 Council Mtg MINCITY OF
-ASHLAND
DRAFT MINUTES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
ASHLAND CITY COUNCIL
Tuesday, December 3, 2019
Council Chambers
1175 E. Main Street
Note: Items on the Agenda not considered due to time constraints are automatically continued to the next
regularly scheduled Council meeting [AMC 2.04.030.E.]
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Stromberg called the Business Meeting to order at 6:00 PM.
H. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. ROLL CALL
Councilors' Slattery, Graham, Akins, Seffinger, Rosenthal and Jensen were present.
IV. MAYOR'S ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mayor Stromberg announced the current Commission/Committee vacancies.
V. CITY ADMINISTRATOR REPORT
City Administrator Kelly Madding spoke that due to large topics on the agenda it was suggested to move
the below items to a future Council Meeting:
• VII. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
o Annual Presentation by the Planning Commission
o Statistical Transparency of Policing (STOP)
o First Quarter Review of Ordinance 3176
XIII. NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
o Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission Revenue Bond Approval and Capital
Council gave consensus to move the suggested items to a future date.
Council discussed having a special meeting on the 11 ' instead of the 171. It was decided to keep the
Regular Business Meeting on the 17t'.
VI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Study Session of November 18, 2019
2. Business Meeting of November 19, 2019
Rosenthal/Seffinger moved to approve the minutes. Discussion: None. All Ayes. Motion passed
unanimously.
VII. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS & AWARDS
1. Annual Presentation by the Planning Commission
2. Statistical Transparency of Policing (STOP)
3. First Quarter Review of Ordinance 3176
Due to time constraints these items were moved to a future Council Meeting.
VIR. MINUTES OF BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES
Airport Budget Conservation
Historic Housing and Human Srvs. Parks & Recreation
Forest Lands Climate Policy Cost Review
Plannine Public Arts Transportation
Tree Wildfire Mitigation
IX. PUBLIC FORUM Business from the audience not included on the agenda.
(Total time allowed for Public Forum is 15 minutes. The Mayor will set time limits to enable all
people wishing to speak to complete their testimony.) [15 minutes maximum]
Louise Shawkat — Ashland — Read a statement into the record regarding climate change (see attached).
Alan Rathsam — Ashland — Read a statement into the record regarding the cell tower (see attached).
Gretchen Vos — Ashland — Spoke regarding the AT&T cell tower. She spoke against it and hopes
the City will work together with the Community to fix this issue (see attached).
Dr. Carol Voisin — Ashland — Read a letter into the record regarding AT&T (see attached).
X. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Liquor License Approval for Press for Oil, LLC
2. Resolution Supporting a Strengthened 2021 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC)
3. Award of a Professional Services Contract for Final Engineering to Rehabilitate the East and
West Forks Raw Water Transmission Line
4. Intergovernmental Agreement with Southern Oregon University for Public Access Television
Services
Rosenthal/Graham moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Discussion: None. All Ayes. Motion
passed unanimously.
XI. PUBLIC HEARINGS (Persons wishing to speak are to submit a "speaker request form" prior to
the commencement of the public hearing. Public hearings shall conclude at 8:00 p.m. and be
continued to a future date to be set by the Council, unless the Council, by a two-thirds vote of
those present, extends the hearing(s) until up to 9:30 p.m. at which time the Council shall set a
date for continuance and shall proceed with the balance of the agenda.)
XII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. City Hall Design
Public Works Director Paula Brown introduced ORW Architect Dana Crawford.
Brown gave a Staff report discussing the two options.
Council discussed the LEED certifications.
Brown explained that ORW has done an analysis and recommends new construction for City Hall.
Brown explained this is due because of safety, faster to construct, provides more usable space and greater
efficiencies.
Council discussed the options.
Graham/Jensen moved approval of staffs recommendation to approve a contract for professional
engineering/ architectural services with ORW to provide City Hall Phase 2 Design and
Construction Documents for a base cost of $404,431 plus the additional cost of $81,400 in this phase
to include LEED certification and acceptance process for a total Phase 2 cost of $485,831.
Discussion: Graham spoke that this is designed to be a 100 year building and it is clear that whenever we
are building something to last that long we need to build to the highest and safest standards. Jensen spoke
that this is an exciting moment and is looking forward to continue. Seffinger spoke in agreement with
Graham and Jensen. Rosenthal spoke regarding the additional $81,400 for LEED certification. He spoke
that many in the Community have spoken to importance of the climate and energy plan. He spoke that
this investment could yield a huge dividend down the line in terms of increased energy efficiency. He
spoke that this would be a wise investment. Akins spoke that she is pleased this option appears to be the
least expensive. She spoke to the importance of keeping a close eye on the project. Slattery spoke in
agreement with the Councilors. Roll Call Vote: Slattery, Graham, Jensen, Akins, Rosenthal and
Seffinger: YES. Motion passed unanimously.
X1H. NEW AND MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS
1. Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission Revenue Bond Approval and Capital
Improvement Projects Amendment
Due to time constraints this item was moved to the next Council Business Meeting.
2. Amendment to the Ashland City Charter to Create City Manager Position Ballot Language
Lohman gave Staff report (see attacked).
Public Input:
Bill Heimann —Ashland — Spoke regarding the Charter change. He explained that there has been
extensive research on this topic. He spoke that this will correct the split leadership in the City. He
explained that this will separate politics from administration. He spoke that this change will not diminish
the power of the Mayor. He spoke that only one other City in Oregon has Ashland's current form of
government.
Eric Navickas — Ashland — Spoke to the importance of having a democratic system. He spoke that there
are problems with manager system. He spoke that a manager system can cause a high turnover rate
because the Mayor still has the authority to hire and fire the Manager. He spoke that this could be fiscally
irresponsible. He suggested that if Mr. Heimann wants to do this he needs to follow through with the
process and get the signatures from the Citizens. He spoke that this isn't a decision that should be made
by the Council.
Slattery/Jensen to direct the City Recorder to file the necessary documents with Jackson County to
have the question whether to amend the Ashland City Charter to establish a City Manager position
for administration of city government as proposed by petitioners placed on the May 19, 2020
primary election for Jackson County. Discussion: Slattery spoke in support of putting this item on the
ballot to let the Citizens of Ashland decide. Jensen agreed with Slattery and spoke in support of the
motion. Roll Call Vote: Jensen, Rosenthal, Seffinger, Akins, Slattery and Graham: YES. Motion
passed unanimously.
)IV. ORDINANCES, RESOLUTIONS AND CONTRACTS
1. Resolution 2019-31 and 2019-32 to join the Jail Service District
Madding introduced Stacy Brubaker Jackson County Mental Health Division Manager.
Brubaker gave Council handouts and presented Council with a PowerPoint presentation (see attached).
Items discussed were:
• History of mental health in Jackson County.
• Roles and Responsibilities of the CMHP/LMHA
• County and State responsibilities.
• Coordinated Care Organizations (CCO's).
• Long-term planning.
• Identifying a community health improvement plan.
• Top 3 priorities. Behavior Health, Housing for all & Families Matters.
• 24 Hour Crisis Response System — Core Functions.
• Assertive Community Treatment (ATC).
• Adult Foster Homes.
• Jail Diversion Services.
• Prevention and Promotion.
• Crisis intervention training.
Jennifer Lind CEO of Jackson County Care Connect presented information to Council regarding what
Coordinated Care Organizations (CCO's) are responsible for.
Lind explained that they serve to cover all Medicaid benefits for member and they are paid based on how
many members there are. She spoke that there are roughly 60,000 Medicaid members in Jackson County.
She spoke regarding jail diversion programs and working with the County. She explained the importance
of treating people rather than incarcerating.
Judge Lorenzo Mejia - Medford— Spoke regarding his background. He explained that no member of the
bench thinks mental illness or homelessness is a crime. He spoke to the importance of helping each
person. He explained that the criminal justice system in Jackson County is currently in crisis. He spoke
that a major problem is fail to appear. He spoke that he is not an advocate of putting people in jail.
Public Input:
Lucy Durst — Ashland —She spoke that she is a district attorney and sees people cycle in and out of jail.
She spoke to the importance of services and programs. She spoke that a bigger jail is needed but urged
Council to vote no at this time.
Christine Lachner — Medford — Read a statement into the record regarding the importance of mental
health and the safety of the Community (see attached).
Gina DuQuenne — Ashland — Spoke urging Council to vote no at this time and bring it back to the County
Commissioners.
Meesha Blair — Talent — Spoke to the dangers of having a larger jail.
Rich Rohde —Ashland —He spoke in opposition ofthejail and concerns regarding behavioral health.
William Zentner —Ashland - Spoke in appreciation of all the speakers. He spoke that a larger jail would
negatively affect Ashland.
David Wick — Ashland — Spoke to the importance of diversion options and urged Council to vote no.
Betsy Shanafelt — Ashland — Spoke in opposition of the jail and the importance of treatment programs.
Chris Luz — Phoenix — Encouraged the Council to vote to send this to the voters.
Marian Spadone — Ashland — Spoke against the Resolutions and that this needs to be looked at more. She
spoke to the importance of dealing with mental health problems.
Peter Philbrick — Ashland — Spoke that Jackson County is high in crime. He spoke that he is not sure a
larger jail will help the crime rate. He spoke that his house was burglarized by a repeat offender.
Barbara Knox— Ashland — She spoke in concern of money being spent on a jail instead of other services.
Paula Sohl— Ashland — Urged Council to vote no. She spoke that taxes have already increased and there
needs to be a better plan.
Jesse Sharpe — Medford — Spoke in appreciation of all the work the Sheriff has put into this proposal. He
urged Council to Vote no. He spoke regarding the Housing crisis.
Ed Masler— Ashland — Spoke opposed to the jail. He spoke to the importance of getting more programs
for people and breaking the cycle of poverty.
Jamie Powell — Ashland — She spoke regarding racial equality. She suggested to vote no and work on a
new proposal.
Tony Foster— Ashland — Spoke in concern of a new jail and to look at other ways to help the Community.
Kevin Brewer - Ashland — Thanked Sheriff. He spoke in concerns with proposal and the importance of
mental health needs.
Charlotte Nuessle — Ashland — Spoke regarding her personal background. She spoke regarding the
difficulties it is to fix the mental health issues.
Eric Navickas — Ashland — Spoke regarding the cost of the project and the impacts it places on the tax
payer. He spoke regarding fixing mental health issues. He spoke regarding jail beds and releasing
homeless people.
DeeAnne Everson- Ashland — Spoke to the importance of her right to vote. She urged Council to let the
voters decide on this issue.
Derek Pyle — Ashland —Spoke that the mental health system is broken in this Country.
Questions:
County Administrator Danny Jordan clarified incorrect information going around in the media.
Jordan discussed the current mental health structure in the County. He explained that the County does not
fund mental health services. He explained that that is something the State funds.
The Council discussed County and CCO's responsibilities.
Jordan discussed County funding and services.
Slattery/Jensen moved to approve Resolution No. 2019-31 entitled "A Resolution Approving a
Jackson County Order to Initiate Formation of a Jackson County Law Enforcement Service
District and Consenting to the Inclusion of City Territory Within the Boundaries of the District".
Discussion: Slattery thanked Ms. Brubaker for her presentation. He spoke that the current jail is not a
good situation for people in it and for people who work in it. He spoke that this isn't a decision that
should be made by 6 people and the importance of allowing the citizens to vote. Jensen spoke in support
of the motion and read a statement into the record (see attached). Akins spoke against the motion and
explained this is too much money and too big of a jail. She suggested to go back and try for a better plan.
Seffinger spoke to the importance of mental health services being provided. She spoke that it is
undemocratic to not allow the people to vote and spoke in support of the motion. Rosenthal spoke in
appreciation of all emails and citizen testimony. He explained that the citizens come and speak and ask to
be heard. He spoke to the importance of listening to the citizens of all view points and is in agreement
that this should go on the ballot for the citizens to decide. Graham spoke that when this topic first came in
she voted no and asked for a delay on the vote. She explained she needed more context and more
research. She explained that since that time she has done lot of research. After getting all the facts and
understanding how the system works she spoke in support of the motion. She spoke in confidence in the
people who put this proposal together and that it was well thought through. She spoke that she wants to
give the Sheriff and the County the opportunity to make their case in front of the people of Ashland.
Mayor Stromberg spoke in support that this decision needs to go to the voters. Roll Call Vote: Slattery,
Graham, Seffinger, Rosenthal and Jensen: YES. Akins: NO. Motion passed 5-1.
Slattery/Jensen moved to approve Resolution No. 2019-32 entitled "A Resolution Approving a
Jackson County Order to Initiate Formation of a Jackson County Law Enforcement Service
District and Consenting to the Inclusion of City Territory Within the Boundaries of the District".
(without Talent). Discussion: Slattery thanked all for their work on this topic. Roll Call Vote:
Slattery, Graham, Seffinger, Rosenthal and Jensen: YES. Akins: NO. Motion passed 5-1.
XV. OTHER BUSINESS FROM COUNCIL MEMBERS/REPORTS FROM COUNCIL
LIAISONS
Rosenthal announced that the RVMPO approved the Jackson County proposal to improve Clay Street.
Public Works will be coming back with a proposal.
Seffinger announced that the Conservation Commission will be bringing a discussion to Council on
declaring a climate energy emergency in Ashland.
XVI. ADJOURNMENT OF BUSINESS MEETING
The Business Meeting was adjourned at 9:30 PM.
Respectfull submitted by:
City Recorder Melissa Huhtala
Attest:
Mayor Stromberg
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ifyou need special assistance to participate in
this meeting, please contact the City Administrator's office at (541) 488-6002 (T7Yphone number 1-800-
735-2900). Notification 72 hours prior to the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable
arrangements to ensure accessibility to the meeting (28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA Title I).
The November 2019 issue of Road and Track published an article by Sam Smith -.It is an
unheard of subject for a combustion engine magazine. Specifically he writes about his love of
driving cars and trucks and climate change
He says....The science here is not new, but its conclusions are worth
repeating. The chemical bits emitted by automobiles and their production
reorganize the atmosphere. As a result, the planet is warming and cooling
as it recently has not, and we get increasingly strange and often
catastrophic weather. Stretch that timeline out long enough, and coastal
cities are underwater and the Earth looks and works a lot differently —
generally in ways that will make human existence more costly and difficulL
The irony is obvious: car writer chews on climate change by driving& s „,, rep. Tnw�--
somewhere, consuming nonrenewable resources to visit a place where use
df those resources has caused us to consume more nonrenewable
resources.
But How else do you go anywhere in America? Outside a few select
corridors, our public transit is patently terrible. And at the risk of sounding
like a selfish ostrich, I like driving. You control a satisfying machine. Travel
independently and with minimal restriction. In this vast country built by
and for the automobile, the machine too often makes sense. .
We have made the automobile so much a part of our lives and our
landscape for so long that it's sometimes difficult to acknowledge that
roads cannot expand forever, that traffic and pollution left unchecked will
inevitably worsen as the world's population grows. It's equally difficult to
adore the machine while recognizing its problems, acknowledging that you
can love what the device does for us while also despising much of what it
has done to us. The ways in which it has made us dependent
The author acknowledges that we have to make choices and recognize that
we have a problem -what to do about the auto's contribution to climate
chaos. �,S
•. .. Cu ,.. cn:r,•
311
1J.i sga:.�,I�,p;, :.�swue .. '.�_•„up"r :v n:
Presentation to Ashland City Council
By Alan D. Rathsam, Ashland resident
December 3, 2019
mayor Stromberg and members of the City Council, my name is Alan
Rathsam, and I'm a resident of Ashland.
There is growing awareness, worldwide, about serious adverse effects of
radio frequency radiation. This affects the environment, human and
animal health, trees and plants, insects and bees, and more, all of which
are documented in peer -reviewed scientific journal reports deemed
acceptable evidence in the courts. The local placement of cell towers
and antennas also raises valid legal issues: loss of city aesthetics, loss
of real estate values, lost business revenue, and the personal and
professional liability of government officials when employees and the
public experience health and other losses from radiation exposure.
Lloyds of London will not insure the wireless industry for health effects.
With the imminent permit application from AT&T for a 105-foot pine -
tree cell tower on Walker Street, informed Ashland parents and
residents appeal to the City to act now in the best interests of everyone
by taking three actions as other cities have done:
1. Declare a moratorium on wireless facilities permits for 4G and 5G
facilities until state officials make health determinations or until new
ordinances have been adopted. Telecom regulations are based on 3G
technology.
2. Update the existing ordinance for cell towers and antennas to
maximize local regulatory authority within state and federal laws.
3. Because they use significantly different technology than cell towers,
establish a separate small -cell facility (5G) ordinance to maximize local
regulatory authority, also within state and federal laws.
Here are some notes on the legal overreach of the FCC in dozens of law
suits by politicians, civil society groups, and cities.
1. The Telecommunications Act of 1996 sustained the purposes of the
Communications Act of 1934, which created the FCC to execute and
enforce provisions that include, "promoting safety of life and property
through the use of wire and radio communication. "
2. The Telecom Acts of 1934 and 1996 do not allow local municipal
authorities to deny wireless facility permits for reasons of
"environmental effects." When a Federal judge ruled that
environmental effects includes health effects from RF radiation
exposure, he or she was making law inconsistent with congressional
intent. By definition in Blacks Legal Dictionary, environmental effects do
not include health effects.
3. State and local governments can cite the tenth amendment to the
constitution in claiming authority for public health:
AMENDMENT X: Powers retained by the states and the people
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor
prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or
to the people.
State and local governments can prove their lawful authority to protect
public health since the Telecom industry and the FCC do not practice
constitutional authority to protect public health.
4. The Telecom Acts regulate three factors associated with wireless
facilities: placement, construction, and modification. Congress did not
deny local authority to regulate operational requirements, such as
radiation exposure levels. The FCC does not monitor wireless power
exposure levels. Cities may require unannounced measurements by a
qualified third party as a condition for annual permit renewals.
Public Comment by Gretchen Vos, 444 Lit Way, Ashland, Oregon, to be entered into the public
record, City of Ashland, Public Forum, December 3, 2019 City Council Meeting.
1. AT&T is in the initial application process of a cell tower (a monopole) to be located near
SOU stadium in Ashland, Oregon. The AT&T consultant has already notified property owners
within 300 feet of the proposed site, and had their public information meeting last Monday
Nov. 25, 2019.
2. The proposed location is very close to 3-5 schools: Head Start pre-school; Walker
Elementary School, Ashland Middle School, SOU Resident Dorms, SOU Cafeteria, SOU
Rec. Bldg and SOU local TV station).
3. There is a very large citizen opposition to the location; over 50 citizens attended the AT&T
meeting on a cold rainy night. Only 2 of the 50 people at the meeting identified themselves as
living within 300 feet of the proposed location. They attended because they oppose the siting
regardless of where they live.
4. The AT&T rep. stated, when asked directly, that they would not be willing to collaborate
with the city/residents on the location of a new tower, i.e. a fight is a coming.
5. Since the 1996 Telecommunications Act, many studies have been published by peer -
reviewed scientists that dispute the current FCC agencies' claims of no harm from RF energy.
In fact, significant harm has occurred when telecommunication facilities are located near
elementary schools, fire stations as well as universities. I am old enough to remember when
tobacco companies own scientists disputed the link between cigarette smoking and lung
cancer. Similarly, and eventually independently -funded research is now showing the science
of environmental and physiological effects from RE.
6. To be clear: the 1996 Act never stated we "cannot" voice our concerns about health
effects, the act actually and simply states that wireless companies do not have to consider
environmental impacts; but it does not preclude them from considering a community's health
or environmental concerns, they can consider these impacts, they just are not required to."
7. A new 2019 federal ruling in a DC court challenges certain aspects of the 1996 act
because it denies a NEPA review process. The ruling requires some kind of environmental
review process to be included in cell tower location. As this was just published, we as a city
will need to see how this lands to respond appropriately. This may allow the city the
opportunity and time to legally rewrite some ordinances (i.e. school set backs).
8. Senate Bill 283 currently in the Oregon Legislature directs the Department of Education to
prepare and make available statements that disclose the potential health risks of wireless
network technology and requires public and private schools to distribute statements to
employees, students and parents.
9. We all are in agreement in wanting to protect the children of Ashland and college students.
The citizens of Ashland WANT to collaborate and work WITH the council to help you. Let us
know what you need to better understand the legal, scientific, environmental, and legal
issues; there is a very educated respectful concerned group of citizens willing to support you!
Thank you for this chance to speak about an issue that affects so many citizens of Ashland.
Public Forum: December 3, 2019
Cell Tower Permit Moratorium
He's back and it isn't Arnold Schwarzenegger. It's AT&T. In 2010, Ashland citizens led
by Rod Newton and Jim Fong let the city council know of all the ways that it was wrong and
immoral to let AT&T put a cell lower on the Ashland Cinema roof. The council listened and
found good reasons to reject AT&T's permit none of which were based on health effects.
Monday, November 251h, Smartlink representative Sharon Getch rolled out the new
proposal for AT&T to have a 105' tower on a small piece of property leased from SOU. She met
her match. Expecting a dozen or so folks, she was surprised when Pioneer 1 fall filled up with
people sitting and standing to listen to what she had to say. She was to report to AT&T what she
heard from Ashland residents. She "heard" us. She also was quite frank with us when she said
this is a done deal and there is no plan B and most likely no desire to work with citizens to find
another site.
This brings us to tonight — December 3, 2019. The application for a permit will be
submitted in early December or maybe late December. So, I'm representing those folks who
came out on a cold, wet Monday evening on November 25 and the hundreds of people who are
signing petitions that we don't want a wireless tower in or near our schools or residential areas.
We honestly would like to collaborate with AT&'I, but were given no hope for that.
Nevertheless, in order to collaborate, we need our land use ordinances regulating cell
towers to he brought up to date. The Oregon for a Safer Technology group presented you with
specific ideas for revising these ordinances in May of this year. In fact, Councilor Tonva
Graham and Mayor John Stromberg have had these revisions in hand for a while with their
promise to run them by Planning and legal before presenting them to council.
With a revision of the city regulations governing cell towers well under way, we are
asking for the council to consider a moratorium on cell tower permits until these revisions are
considered by council. The short term moratorium on land use permit approvals would
effectively stop all new tower construction until the council has had a chance to analyze the
overall planning issues and to decide where, and under what conditions, tower construction
may proceed given the new ordinance proposals presented by Southern Oregon for a Safer
Technology.
I have samples of what other cities and states have done in regard to such a
moratorium. I'm happy to share that information with you for your consideration.
Dr. Carol Voisin
Ashland
ATTACHMENT
The following amendments are proposed to the Ashland City Charter. Only these articles and
sections therein are amended. All other language in the Charter shall be unchanged.
ARTICLE IV - Mavor
Section 2. Powers and Duties. The Mayor is the political head of the city government. lie or
she shall exercise careful supervision over the general affairs of the City and, with the City
Council, over the City Manager and City Attorney, as well as other appointive officers as may be
created by this charter. Appointive officers are those city employees who are hired by and report
directly to the mayor and Council. The Mayor shall make a report to the Council and the citizens
of Ashland on the state of the city at or as soon as practical following the first Council meeting
of each calendar year.
VIII-A—CITY MANAGER
Section 1. The office of City Manager is established as the chief executive and administrative
head of city government. The City Manager is responsible to the Mayor and Council for the
proper administration of all city business. The city manager will assist the Mayor and Council in
the development of city policies, and carry out policies established by ordinances and
resolutions.
Section 2. A majority of the Mayor and Councilors must appoint and may remove the city
manager. The appointment must be made without regard to political considerations and solely
based on education and experience with local government management.
Section 3. The City Manager may be appointed for a definite or an indefinite term, and may be
removed at any time by a majority of the Council. The Council must fill the office by
appointment as soon as practicable after the vacancy occurs.
Section 4. The City Manager must:
1. Attend all Council meetings unless excused by the Mayor or Council;
2. Make reports and recommendations to the Mayor and Council about the needs of the
city;
3. Administer and enforce all city ordinances, resolutions, franchises, leases, contracts,
permits, and other city decisions;
4. Appoint, supervise and remove all non -elected department heads and other city
employees, except as follows:
a. The Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission shall have responsibility for
appointing, supervising, and removing its employees, subject to state law,
Ashland Municipal Code, written mutual agreements between the City Council
and Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission, and formal, written City
administrative policies.
b. Employees who report directly to the mayor and City Council shall be appointed,
supervised, and removed by the mayor and City Council and shall be termed
appointive officers.
5. Organize city departments and administrative structure, except that the City
Manager shall have no responsibility for the supervision of the City Attomey's Office or the
Ashland Parks and Recreation Commission;
6. Prepare and administer the annual city budget; '
7. Administer city utilities and property;
8. Encourage and support regional and intergovernmental cooperation;
9. Promote cooperation among the council, staff and citizens in developing city
policies, and building a sense of community;
10. Perform other duties as directed by the council;
11. Delegate duties to any city employee, in a manner consistent with the provisions
of the City Charter, the Ashland Municipal Code, state and federal employment law, and
collective bargaining agreements.
Section 5. The City Manager has no authority over the Mayor or Council or any other
elected official, or the City Attorney;
Section 6. The City Manager and other employees designated by the council may sit at council
meetings but have no vote. The City Manager may take part in all council discussions.
Section 7. When the City Manager is temporarily disabled from acting as manager or when the
office becomes vacant, the Council must appoint a manager pro tem. The manager pro tem has
the authority and duties of manager, except that a pro tem manager may appoint or remove
department heads only with council approval.
Section 8. Neither the Mayor nor a member of the Council shall directly or indirectly, by
suggestion or otherwise, attempt to influence or coerce the manager in the making of any
appointment or removal of any officer or employee or in the purchase of services and supplies;
or attempt to extract any promise relative to any appointment from any candidate for City
Manager. Nothing in this section shall be construed, however, as prohibiting the Council from
fully and freely discussing with or suggesting to the manager anything pertaining to city affairs
or the best interests of the city.
Section 9. No person related to the manager by consanguinity or affinity within the third degree
shall hold any appointive office or employment with the city, except with express city council
approval.
Section 10. This Article VIII-A shall be effective on January 1, 2021, if approved by the
electors of Ashland in a primary or general election prior to that date. The individual employed
as Ashland City Administrator on the effective date of this ARTICLE VIII-A shall be the city
manager as described above and shall remain so gmployed until such time as he/she resigns or is
terminated by the Council. The position of city administrator is abolished.
ARTICLE RI I I -Appointive Officers
Section 1. Appointive Officers. The Mayor, with the confirmation by the Council, shall appoint
a City Manager, City Attorney and such other officers as the Council deems necessary. The
Council may combine any two or more appointive offices. (Charter amendment 5-23-78)
Jackson County Mental Health (JCMH) is the designated Community
Mental Health Program (CMHP) and the local Mental Health Authority
(LMHA) for Jackson County. Through this designation, JCMH provides
medically necessary mental health services to children and adults with
severe or chronic psychological or emotional problems, with direct
responsibility for the indigent population. JCMH helps individuals
resolve crisis situations, develop skills to improve their functioning in
daily life, and reduce criminal justice involvement. Utilizing a recovery
model, it supports individuals with serious mental disorders to sustain
stable lives in the community. Additionally, JCMH provides mental
health promotion and prevention. JCMH is the safety net for the
community and will continue to deliver services as outlined in the
Inter -Governmental Agreement (IGA) with the Oregon Health
Authority (OHA).
EVIDENCE BASED PROGRAMS
ASIST Training: ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) is a
two day suicide prevention training designed for counselors, teachers,
mental health specialists and other gatekeepers who want to feel more
comfortable, confident and competent in helping to prevent the
immediate risk of suicide. ASIST is recognized as an Fvidence-Based
Practice by the state of Oregon.
Mental Health First Aid: Certified staff members offer Mental Health
First Aid to community partners throughout Jackson County as part of
JCMH's prevention efforts. The interactive 12-hour course provides an
overview of mental illness and substance use disorders in the U.S.,
introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental
health problems and reviews common treatments. In addition to our
adult trainers, Jackson County Mental Health has a certified
adolescent Mental Health First Aid Trainer. These staff, in
collaboration with the two certified instructors at the FQHC, will
continue to offer trainings across the County.
Suicide Prevention (Garrett Lee Smith): Jackson County is partnering
with the Oregon Health Authority on a federal grant (FY 14-19), with
an expansion grant (FY 20-22) to reduce suicide among youth aged 10-
24 through implementing comprehensive suicide prevention and early
identification practices. A full-time suicide prevention coordinator is
dedicated to increasing gatekeeper training, facilitating training for
clinicians, improving the continuity of care, and improving data
collection.
11/29/19 1
Wellness Action Recovery Planning (WRAP): WRAP is an evidenced -
based, trauma -informed model for personal wellness and recovery
rooted in the principals of self-determination and empowerment. It
encourages and provides participants with the tools they need to be
more involved and proactive in their own wellness and success.
Jackson County Health and Human Services (HHS) has enlisted WRAP
as a transformative recovery tool for staff, clients, family members,
supporters, partners and our community as a whole.
PREVENTION COALITIONS
Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition: The Jackson County Substance
Abuse Prevention Coalition utilizes the structure of the Strategic
Prevention Framework per the expectations of the Oregon Health
Authority. The purpose of the coalition is to collaboratively address and
reduce alcohol, tobacco, other drug, and gambling problems among
Jackson County youth. The primary goal of the coalition is to utilize the
Strategic Prevention Framework to address alcohol abuse among youth
as well as other focus areas as determined by the coalition. Coalition
members include stakeholders from across multiple community sectors
including healthcare professionals, religious organizations, parents,
schools, youth -serving organizations, local government, and treatment
organizations.
Youth Suicide Prevention Coalition: The Jackson County youth Suicide
Prevention Coalition is a community based, volunteer membership
organization comprised of representatives from public secondary
schools and colleges, hospitals, non -profits, community organizations,
Juvenile Justice, Mental Health, Veteran's Services, and local
volunteers. The mission of the Coalition, available on our website at
http://suicidepreventionjacksoncountV.com , is to raise awareness of
the problem of suicide in our county, reduce the incidence of suicide
and suicidal behavior of Jackson County youth, and provide support
for all those affected by suicide. The group keeps a comprehensive list
of community resources and announcements on the website, as well
as a Facebook page, (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jackson-
County-Yo ut h-Suicide-Prevent io n-Coalition/ 140443226004431).
CRISIS AND STABILIZATION
As part of our CMHP responsibilities, Crisis Services are available
through JCMH 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Services include mobile
crisis response with law enforcement, assessments, referrals, pre-
11/29/19 2
commitment services, discharge planning, and a range of drop -in support and community resource
groups. Services are available to everyone regardless of age, insurance status, Veteran's status or
county of residence. Nearly 5000 individuals per year receive services through 1CMH's Crisis Program,
an estimated 1900 of whom are indigent, i.e., lack Medicaid or any other form of insurance coverage.
Points of access include the walk-in clinic at 140 S. Holly in Medford, telephone referrals through local
hospitals, police and social service agencies, and the after-hours hotline (541-774-8021).
CATS Program - Emergency Department Diversion for Children and Youth: JCMH receives dollars from
the state of Oregon to provide diversion services for children and youth that are taken to the Emergency
Department at local hospitals for psychiatric and behavioral crises. Services are immediate and
delivered in the home and in the community to assist in providing stabilization services and assisting the
families in getting the children and youth established in services.
Living Room: The "Living Room" program opened in July, 2016, This is a program designed to offer
individuals in crisis an alternative to obtaining services in an emergency department. The Living Room is
a research -based model offering a person -centered, non -medical environment staffed by peer
specialists and professionals who are available to help clients de-escalate and avoid hospitalization, and
is part of the crisis continuum.
Mobile Crisis: JCMH now has a law enforcement only back line, which allows local law enforcement to
call for response with a crisis worker, when a mental health situations arises. This has proven to be very
effective and has had some positive outcomes for the individual to engage in appropriate treatment
options rather than being taken directly to the emergency room or incarcerated.
Pre -Commitment Investigations and Commitment Monitoring: JCMH is responsible as the Local Mental
Health Authority to conduct pre -commitment investigations for individuals placed on a mental health
hold to determine if the individual meets criteria for civil commitment. Investigations include interviews
with police, family members, medical and behavioral health providers, and/or any other individual who
holds information that maybe pertinent to a decision. Outcomes of the investigation include one of
three options: the hold is dropped, the hold is extended (14 day diversion) or a commitment hearing is
scheduled. Investigators work directly with an Assistant District Attorney who specializes in legal issues
for individuals with mental health issues.
CHILDREN'S TREATMENT SERVICES
With the changes in the mental health service system in the county, services to children and youth have
drastically changed and JCMH has had a large reduction in the number of children that we serve. JCMH
continues to provide services to indigent and uninsured children and youth and some limited services
(WRAP and EASA) through a contract with Jackson Care Connect. JCMH does not serve any AIICare
children or youth in ongoing services. Access to services occurs through an initial assessment. The
assessment will establish a diagnosis, if appropriate, and the appropriate level of care, and the child will
then enter into treatment planning for outpatient care or receive a referral to a more appropriate
resource.
11/29/19
Children's WRAP: Jackson County utilizes the National
Wraparound model and is part of the Statewide
Children's Wraparound Initiative as one of the three
demonstration sites. Jackson County Wraparound is
an intensive, integrated, holistic method of engaging
children, youth, and their families with complex needs
in a planning process. The primary goal is to keep
children living in their homes and communities
safely. The wraparound team takes a strength based
approach and develops a plan that focuses on the
priority needs as identified by the youth and
family. The current project focuses on children in the
custody of DHS Child Welfare or children who have
behavioral, emotional, and/or mental health
conditions severe enough to warrant direct entry into
the service system at a high level of care. Jackson
Care Connect has contracted with JCMH to serve 45
children and youth in the WRAP program.
Medford Drop (Young Adult Hub): Originally funded
through a grant offered through OHA, these dollars
now come to JCMH through the IGA and are passed on
to Youth ERA Oregon (formerly Youth M.O.V.E Oregon)
The purpose of this project is to: a) provide outreach,
engagement and recovery oriented young adult
centered planning and creation of social support
systems, b) provide peer support services by young
adult peers, particularly for young adults reluctant or
disengaged in services, c) assist young adults in
identifying and accessing resources to fit goals, d)
demonstrate expertise in LGBT youth and connection
to LGBT specific resources, e) participate in a statewide
learning collaborative, and f) incorporate at least the
philosophy and ideally the practice of the Transition to
Independence Process (TIP) Model of support for Youth
Adults in Transition. Partnering with Youth ERA
Oregon, JCMH supports this drop -in center model, The
Medford Drop, for youth ages 14-25; the focus of the
program is education, employment and social
11/29/19
Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA): The purpose of the EASA program is to identify young
adults, aged 15-25, who are experiencing (or are at high risk for experiencing) a newly emerging
psychotic disorder. This program is geared towards providing intensive services as soon as possible to
reduce the symptomology of this disease and decrease the negative impacts of the disease over the life
course. The EASA program provides youth/young adults experiencing an onset of psychosis with the
following services: trauma -informed mental health counseling utilizing the most current evidenced -
based research and modalities; case management that provides youth assistance with financial, housing,
relationships, school, and other areas which have been affected by their illness; supportive employment;
peer supports; psychiatric and medication services; occupational therapy that helps youth and their
family understand sensory issues and strategies for improving the outcome of treatment; family
support, education and stress reduction activities; and crisis intervention with an enduring focus on
helping young people to flourish to the greatest extent possible. These services will continue as
appropriate for non-OHP members, and for five Jackson Care Connect clients as contracted.
ADULT TREATMENT SERVICES
Adult Outpatient Treatment: Jackson County Mental Health continues to provide outpatient services for
indigent and uninsured throughout the county. Focusing on short term, solutions focused treatment, in
addition to some long term services for those individual with Severe and Persistent Mental Health
diagnoses.
Aid and Assist — Restorative Services: Aid and Assist screenings are managed through the Jail Diversion
Team and are screened as they arise, through the Public Defender's Office or the court. After a Forensic
Evaluation has been completed, a QMHP is assigned to interview the individual and should the team
determine that the individual can receive the appropriate level of supports while the individual remains
in the community, a recommendation to the court is made for community restoration. A county Aid and
Assist docket has been created in Circuit Court in an effort to coordinate and resolve these cases as
appropriate.
Assertive Community Treatment (ACT): ACT is an evidenced based intensive and community -based
method of providing mental health care. Clients with serious and persistent mental illness or personality
disorders are provided an alternative to traditional outpatient mental health care through an integrated
community based team. Persons served by ACT may receive integrated substance abuse treatment,
housing support, CBT, DBT, skills groups, peer supports, and Supported Education or Employment.
Jackson Care Connect has contracted with JCMH for 40 ACT slots. JCMH will continue to offer these
services to the indigent and under -insured, as dollars from OHA allow.
Housing: JCMH continues to work with other providers of Supported and Supportive Housing in the
community. Originally working with Columbia Care to apply for Rental Assistance Program dollars
through the state for SPMI, Veterans and Transition Aged Youth populations, JCMH continues to work
with them for individuals that they are responsible for serving. Both Columbia Care and Options of
Southern Oregon have developed housing for the OHP population in Jackson County and deliver those
services to the various CCO members.
11/29/19 S
JCMH continues to manage two transitional living homes that house 10 individuals, offer the supportive
services and assistance need to find permanent housing. JCMH also funds transitional beds at the Kelly
House through the Addiction Recovery Center (ARC) for individuals with co-occurring disorders involved
with the criminal justice system and working on their addiction issues.
Adult Foster Homes. JCMH staff provide supportive services to individuals residing in adult foster homes,
and coordinate with the other community providers to ensure that the individual's needs are met by the
providers and that placements are timely and appropriate.
Jail Diversion: A partnership with the Jackson County Community Justice program, this program focuses
on assisting adults with mental health issues to avoid becoming more entrenched with the criminal
justice system through offering support and treatment. Program staff complete behavioral health
screenings and provide collaborative release planning within the Jackson County Jail and the Community
Justice Transition Center. They provide ongoing treatment services as appropriate and connect these
individuals to appropriate services providers as needed.
Mental Health Court: Jackson County Mental Health Court is a partnership between JCMH and many
other key community partners. Modeled after other evidence based treatment courts, the Mental
Health Court supports are available to defendants charged with a crime in Jackson County Circuit Court
who have a serious and persistent mental illness that appears to be the primary factor in the person's
involvement with the criminal justice system. Mental Health Court provides a highly structured,
supervised opportunity for eligible defendants to pursue mental health treatment, stability and
independent well-being under intensive supervision of a multi -disciplinary team. JCMH provides the
coordinator for this project and Jackson Care Connect and AllCare provide shared funding for this
position.
Multi -Disciplinary Staffings: The purpose of inter -agency client staffing is to develop solutions for
individuals who are struggling and slipping through the cracks of community services, as evidenced by
multiple police or mental health emergency contacts, with the ultimate goal of preventing escalation of
mental health symptoms and attendant crises. JCMH sponsored the formation of this group in 2012
through a subcommittee of the Public Safety Coordinating Council. This process has assisted several of
the community's most high risk individuals in gaining stability and reducing police contact. JCMH will
continue to chair this community group and serve in its capacity as convener.
Peer Support Services: Peer support is a research -based service delivered by state certified Peer
Support Specialists. Peer support specialists self -identify as being in recovery from their own mental
health and/or substance abuse problems; their personal experiences enable a depth of empathy and
perspective that cannot be duplicated. Peers work as extra -help employees and support the clients they
serve with skill development, advocacy, encouragement and assistance.
Psychiatric Support Services: Providing medication services and supports to individuals that will continue
to be available for those individuals being served in our system. With the PharmBlue pharmacy
embedded in the HHS building these medications are often filled at the on -site pharmacy with the goal
of increased medication compliance and better outcomes for those individuals.
Psychiatric Security Review Board (PSRB): Services for individuals under the mandate of the PSRB
promote community integration for severely mentally ill persons after prolonged stays in state hospitals
with the goal of moving to fully independent living situations when possible. Assessing for risk to public
safety is an integral component of this work. Services include: the Hazel Center Secure Residential
Treatment Facility (SRTF) run by Options which houses and treats 16 clients (8 clients under the PSRB)
following discharge from the State hospital; and PSRB monitoring and supervision for up to 20 clients,
living independently in transitional housing or in group homes under conditional release from the State
hospital.
SERVICES FOR AGING AND PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (Enhanced Care):
Older Adult Behavioral Health Specialist: 1 FTE is currently funded through the OABHS initiative from
OHA. Those dollars are passed through to the Rogue Valley Council of Government (RVCOG) to ensure
collaboration and integration with the other services available in the county for older adults and
individuals with mental health issues.
11/29/19 6 11/29/19 — — -- — 7
EXPANSION OF JAIL MH AND SUD TREATMENT
nOnnnCA 1
tT
eO
N
Existing Services correspond with the color of
the pie 'ha"
.f
hook back ... the history of mental
lalth in Jackson County
008 the county in collaboration with other entities, such as the two local hospital systems —
eveloped a plan for a Community Crisis Center — when the recession hit, the hospitals pulled
ut from the project and it could not move forward without the financial support of those partne
►regon Health Authority (OHA) reduced the County Mental Health and Substance Abuse
udgets by 15% statewide.
012 Coordinated Care Organizations were stood up in Oregon as part of the Affordable Care
,ct. Both CCO's delegated the management of the mental health benefit to Jackson County.
016 Both Coordinated Care Organizations changed their delegation agreement and contracts
Pith Jackson County, and so went the Medicaid dollars, leaving the county with little influence
ow those dollars are spent moving forward. Contract relationship only.
Jith the inability to now leverage and braid funding, the County's level of influence is lower.
And then the escalator stopped...
Roles an(
Responsibilities of the
CMH P / LMH)
Jackson County Mental Heal
Stacy Brubaker, Division Manm
atutory Framework
agon Revised Statutes (ORS 430.610) direct DHS
,w OHA) to assist county governments in the
ablishing and development of community mental
filth and developmental disabilities programs.
lawn Revised Statutes (ORS 430.610) establish
unties, Regions or Tribes as Local Mental Health
`.hority.
.atutory Framework
Continued
;S 430.630 (9)(b) Statutorily defined responsibility
A LMHA for planning includes (but not limited to):
Each local mental health authority that provides mental
iealth services shall determine the need for local mental
iealth services and adopt a comprehensive local plan
or the delivery of mental health services for children,
amities adults, and older adults that describes the method
)y which the LMHA shall provide those services...
ie Local Mental Health Authority Role
the Health Care System
LMHA has the responsibility to:
rmine the need for local mental health services and adopt a comprehensive local plan
the services will be provided most efficiently and effectively.
dish and administer or operate a community mental health program with an array of
ces (includes screening, evaluation, crisis stabilization, vocational and social services,
nuity of care with housing, health, and social services, psychiatric care, residential
ces, medication monitoring, counseling and therapy, public education, prevention
ces and mental health promotion).
ige the mental health crisis system, children and adults entering or transitioning from
on State Hospital or residential care, and community -based specialized services.
dinate mental health services with the criminal/juvenile justice and corrections system
;ollaborate with the local public safety coordinating council.
While all Counties are designated Local
Mental Health Authorities by State law,
many Counties contract those
responsibilities out, and how Counties carry
out this role varies... "If you have seen one
county ... you have seen one county."
• Size and rural or urban makeup play a role.
The amount of consumer/survivor or family advocacy plays a
role.
• Local leaders' understanding of mental illness and its impact
plays a role.
Jefferson Regional Health Alliance
(JRHA)
collaboration of regional community leaders from all sectors learning and working together to
nprove the health and healthcare resources of Southern Oregonians.
%II in for Health" is a community -wide initiative involving the collaborative engagement and
xpertise of organizations and individuals from multiple sectors across our two -county region.
ackson County has participated in the process from the beginning and has used the data, the
sport and the priorities as the basis for their required plans for OHA and what priorities we are
eeding to focus on. This is true for both Public Health, as well as for Mental Health. Top three
riorities are:
Behavioral Health and Well -Being (mental health and substance use)
Housing for All (safe, affordable, appropriate housing)
Families Matter (parenting support and life skills)
24 Hour Crisis Response Syster
Core Function
.atute, LMHA's are charged with the responsible to provide a 24/7 crisis
�m for individuals in the county regardless of insurance coverage.
lobile Crisis Response with Law Enforcement
;risis and Transition Services Team (CATS) - Emergency Room Diversion for chill
ounger Adults to assist in designing and providing alternatives to placement in higher levels of care.
�ntly both CCO's continue to contract with the county to provide crisis s
bers through out the county.
Civil Commitment —
Core Function
he CMHP in the county of custody (meaning where the individual was hospitalized at)is
;sponsible for conducting the investigation.
he commitment process is a legal intervention not a social work intervention
idividuals completing the investigations must be certified by the state as a Pre -Commitment
ivestigator (PCI) and be a directors designee.
ivestigators collect relevant facts in a relatively short timeframe
he investigator must
- Establish that there is or is not probable cause to believe the person is "mentally ill" as defin
in statute.
- Determine if there is a "least restrictive" treatment option available to the person and the
likelihood of the person following through with this treatment alternative.
- Determine if the person is an imminent risk or danger to self or others.
1anaging the State Hospital Population
(Choices Model) —Core Function
'he Local Mental Health Authority has the responsibility to manage both the
ront and back door to the Oregon State Hospital.
'his includes a continuum of services:
► Community supports and treatment of Seriously Mentally Ill Adults
► Involuntary Commitment Investigation and Court Proceedings
► Diversion from the State Hospital and from Acute Care if possible
► Transition planning out of the OSH back into the community **
** This process has become very challenging with the recent changes to the mental
health system in this county as much of this leg work requires the treatment providE
to give information in a timely fashion and an opportunity for disagreement about
next steps
sertive Community Treatment (ACT)
,ssertive Community Treatment (ACT) is an Evidence -Based Practice (EBP) designed to prov
omprehensive treatment and support services to individuals who are diagnosed with serious
rental illness.
lighest level of care outside of the hospital setting, but offered in the community aka Hospital
fithout Walls, Services provided through a multi -disciplinary team.
:ontract with Jackson Care Connect for 45 of their members to receive this service.
;eceive a small amount of money through OHA to serve a limited amount of unfunded and
9edicare individuals in need of the service.
Adult Foster Homes -
Core Function
:MHP's are responsible for the contracting, quality assurance, utilization management and pla
f care approval for the Adult Foster Homes in the county.
ackson County has made this level of care a priority.
ackson County has the largest number of mentally ill individuals living in foster homes, 89
idividuals.
listorically JCMH has provided not only the oversight to the homes, but also the supports that
ften keep these individuals living in these lower levels of care and in their own communities.
Mh the change in the mental health provider system these services are now often very differs
ian the level of service that use to be provided to these individuals in the homes and the
upport given to foster providers.
Jail Diversion Services
Forensic Team
,imed to increase Mental Health's interaction with individuals with Serious and Persistent Men
Iness (SPMI) who are involved with justice or law enforcement solely due to a mental health
Cason and are charged with low-level crimes.
,s a result of a grant written in 2014, 3 FTE embedded within the Community Justice
rogramming and coordination and backup to the social worker in the jail. Providing individual
nd group services to this population.
ased on the Sequential Intercept Model allowing CMHP's to intervene upon points of
iterception with the aim of preventing them from going further down the criminal justice track,
upports implementation of the Stepping Up Initiative that the county commissioners supporter
12015.
;eceive some dollars through OHA and can serve Jackson Care Connect members through
ontract.
70 Aid and Assist Population - Core Functio
(one of many "unfunded mandates" )
hese are individuals that are found to not be able to aid or assist in their own defense of the
rime in which they are charged.
low requires that the CMHP agree with the court that the individual is unable to aid and assist
nd needs to either be sent to the OSH to receive restoration services or may be more
ppropriate to receive restorative services in the community through the Forensics team.
:ircuit Court has started an Aid and Assist docket to mainstream process.
his is coordinated through our Forensics team and we will now begin to offer these restorativE
ervices through the services we offer in the jail, probation and parole and the Transitional Woi
:enter.
;estorative Services means a planned, systematic program that focuses on helping each
idividual obtain and maintain the highest level of understanding and functional participation.
Psychiatric Services Review Board
(PSRB) - Core Function
his program provides the ongoing monitoring and supervision of individuals in the community
iat have been found Guilty by means of Insanity.
upervise them in the community and ensure that they are meeting the conditions of their
.lease, including treatment and limitations.
:MHP is not responsible to provide the treatment but rather ensure participation in the needed
wels of treatment.
listorically JCMH has done both the supervision and the treatment this is no longer the case fl
nyone on Medicaid and enrolled in a CCO the CCO provider will provide the treatment and th
:ounty will continue to provide the supervision.
Abuse Reporting and Investigation -
Core Function (unfunded mandate)
,s established in ORS 430.610 to 430.695 and ORS 430.743, Jackson County Mental Healt
e Community Mental Health Program in Jackson County, holds responsibility for carrying
-ie duties outlined in OARs Chapter 411, Division 20.
rocess reports of alleged abuse or the death of adult mental health clients receiving
ervices in Jackson County.
oversight to ensure protective services are offered by MH service providers as needed or
iat law enforcement is involved as necessary.
rvestigate allegations, complete reports and submit to Office of Training, Investigations a
afety (OTIS).
oversight to ensure any required actions identified through investigation are completed.
hese rules are now being looked at and will be part of the upcoming legislative session V
et more clarity around them and who is responsible for what.
(laintain documentation, data collection and reporting to OTIS.
Prevention and Promotion
Core Function
lental Health First Aid training
:risis Intervention Training (CIT) for law enforcement
lental Health Court — Coordinator position paid for through CCO contracts
:ompass House — Initial start up investment made by county when managing the benefit
,SIST training
►riginating through a grant written in 2014 - "Medford Drop" the youth hub through YouthERA
►regon (formerly YouthMOVE Oregon) is funded through these dollars
IAMI involvement and program support
rauma informed care support and community training efforts
Suicide Prevention Efforts
'art of the statewide Garrett Lee Smith grant
hese funds pay for part of a full time suicide prevention specialist
'rovides a variety of community trainings such as — Mental Health First Aid, Youth Mental Hea
irst Aid, QPR, ASIST, RESPONSE, CALM and AMSR
'roviding prevention and post-vention services to schools and community for youth 24 and unc
uicide Prevention Coalition
Ledford School District has now hired a full-time suicide prevention coordinator as a result of t
uccess of this program
:IT - Parent Child Interactive Therap,,
:enter for Excellence for the State. Provide the statewide training and support for this modalit
-erving children ages 2 — 7 years of age and their parents, when children have significant soci
motional, or behavioral disorders.
leliver the service to uninsured children, limited number of commercial insurance and JCC
iembers as well.
rvices to the Indigent and Uninsured
>utpatient services — including Psychiatric Support Services
eer Delivered services across the full system
,CT services
-upported Employment and Education
orensic services
ASA services
'CIT services
Other responsibilities - Core Functions
)Ider Adult Behavioral Health Specialist — currently contracted out to RVCOG
ASRRS — evaluation of services delivered to individuals in nursing homes who have Serious
nd Persistent Mental Illness. (SPMI)
aestionsM
Stacy Brubaker, LCSW
Division Manager
Jackson County Mental Health
(541)774-8146 ' N
ova
Mayor and Council Members,
My name is Christine Lachner. My home at 1732 Whitman Avenue in Southwest
Medford is located within 2 1/4 miles of the jail. I have been on the Homeless Task
Force, campaigned for housing for those with mental health challenges and in
recovery, volunteered my time with various Jackson County non -profits. Twice a week
my friends and I walk 3 miles on the Greenway. I do believe we need to put more
resources into mental health, addiction services and felon rehabilitation. I am here to
address the council regarding your stance on allowing us to vote on building a larger
jail in Jackson County.
Besides the jail, the county mental health and social services, the majority of
addiction treatment centers and most of the homeless shelters, food kitchens and
affordable housing projects are located in Medford. We have needed a larger jail for
years. We have to be able to hold people in crisis long enough to determine the kind
of help they need or to keep them from committing further crimes. Medford residents
also pay for 3 full time officers devoted to interacting and helping those on the street
connect with programs or organizations to improve their situation.
Of course Ashland residents do not see the urgency of building a larger jail. When
inmates are released because of jail overcrowding do you think they get in their
Subarus or Prius' and drive to Ashland? No they go into our neighborhoods and steal
something to pawn, buy drugs, or if mentally ill, look for a place where they will be
safe.
I have been the victim of crime a few times in Medford — more than I ever
encountered in 25 years of working in Detroit. These crimes have cost me thousands
more than triple any projected tax increase. And last year, during the day when a man
tried to break down my door with me in full view, should I have calmly dialed 911 and
waited for officers to arrive? No I picked up my gun and held it by my side — he
jumped off my porch and ran. I don't want to have to make the choice of another's life
or mine.
Meanwhile the convicts, addicts, homeless and mentally ill come from all parts of the
county — but the residents of Medford are living up close with them — even those from
Ashland. So I guess if you are not the victims of crime, your city parks aren't littered
with used needles even in the children's areas, your properties aren't devalued.. .
then I guess you feel you are entitled to prohibit the rest of us from voting on one
solution that would reduce crime in our neighborhoods.
I would ask you to FIRST consider yourselves residents of Jackson County. To care
about how the cities can work together to make Jackson County a place where ALL of
us feel we can have a say in our future safety.
Christine Lachner
A Very Short Cautionary Tole
Or
What Goes Around Comes Around
Once upon a time in the near future in 2022, a group of progressive citizens throughout Jackson
County, but mainly in Ashland, joined together and qualified a bond measure to fund a much -
needed improvement to the addiction, mental health and human services here in Jackson
County. In 2020, the Jail Bond, which had a significant human services component, had failed
to even come to a vote in Jackson County due to Ashland City Councilors voting to not allow
Ashland to join the service district. And thus, human services throughout the county were in
dire straits by 2022.
The special services district that needed to be formed to set up the taxing authority for this new
bond required the consent of most of the city councils in Jackson County to put it on the ballot.
Even though it was expensive, the proponents felt that if they could just get it on the ballot it
would have widespread support with a good chance of passing.
However, several of the more conservative communities in Jackson County had significant "law
and order" constituencies that opposed such expensive coddling of addicts, the shiftless and
the homeless without a concomitant new jail as part of the package. These communities
pushed hard for their city councils to vote the measure down and not even let it come to a vote
of the people. They felt it was a flawed proposal and shouldn't even see the light of day!
These more conservative communities also vividly recalled in 2020 when the Ashland City
Council voted to not allow a district to form to allow all voters in the county to vote on the Jail
Bond. They were still raw from that memory where they felt disenfranchised by Ashland's
"exception aIistic" attitude toward the rest of the county.
As a result in the spring of 2022, Central Point, Eagle Point and Rogue River city councils
torpedoed the new bond measure and no one lived happily ever after. -- The End
While 1 would probably not support the Jail Bond in its present form, I feel strongly that to
prevent the citizens of Jackson County the chance to vote on this measure is undemocratic.
Let those who oppose this Jail Bond fight it on the fields of electoral debate, civilized
discourse and factual presentation. It should not be still -born and voters not allowed to
exercise their basic right to vote.
Stephen Jensen
Ashland City Councilor