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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2000x Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Jane Grover, Carol Sittler, Vickie Kalish, Ellen Reynolds, and Susan Canter . Presiding. Ellen Reynolds, Vice Chair staff. - Community Representatives: Harvey Saver, Joan Baron Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Delores Holmes (Family Focus); Karen Wertymer (Metropolitan Family Services), Pat Foran (Mental health Association of the North Shore) Ellen Reynolds, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Reynolds welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES NOVEMBER 9, 2000 Ms. Reynolds indicated that, hearing no corrections, the November 9, 2000 minutes were accepted as presented. III. HEARING WITH INIHB-FUNDED AGENCIES ABOUT THE FUNDING APPLICATION AND ALLOCATION PROCESS Mr. Saver reported that the Board agreed to invite the various agencies that went through the MHB's funding process to provide comments about the process, forms, and proposal narrative and overall format. He added that this was an opportunity for agencies to discuss the allocation process, but not about specific allocation. Invitations were sent to all the MHB-funded agencies, and follow-up reminders were sent by telephone. Mr. Saver said that several agencies telephoned to say that they had no concerns, or thought that the process worked well. They added, however, that they would like to see the MHB not make major revisions to the system every year. December 14. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pagel rJoh.10 WAnutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Saver said, based upon the responses, that there were two or three agencies that were not able to make the meeting and were planning to submit comments before the January Board meeting. He said that there were three agencies in attendance to submit their comments, and one set of remarks that were submitted in writing. Jerry Gulley, Executive Director, SHORE: Community Services (in writing): "I wish to express our appreciation to the Evanston Mental Health Board for the continued support and confidence in our programs and for the opportunity to give input regarding the funding process. am very supportive of the current process and the efforts of the staff and volunteers who conduct the application and hearing process in a fair and thorough manner. I have no recommendations for changes in the forms or process. The volunteer and staff efforts make this a very credible . process and I do not believe it needs to be changed. Keep up the good work! I believe the City of Evanston is served well by the Evanston Mental Health Board." Delores Holmes, Director, Family Focus: Overall, the agency likes the process and has no concerns about the forms or the proposal. Sometimes the hearing does not seem long enough, and does not provide Family Focus the opportunity to inform fully the fenders about the programs. Had concerns about the Board's expectations, and did not think that they were clearly communicated. Would like a different Quarterly Narrative Report form that would allow the agency to better tell their story, and provide the MHB with a better picture of who is being served. Recognizes that the agency may be at a disadvantage because they do not fall into the MHB's top funding priority categories. However, they are a prevention program, and prevention is difficult to prove. They know that what they are doing is helpful and needed, and is preventing greater mental health issues. Mr. Rowitz asked what Ms. Holmes' thoughts were about what the SIHB should be asking in the Quarterly Narrative Report? Ms. Holmes responded that she was not sure what the questions should be, but that the form, itself, was too limiting. She said her reports try to answer the questions, but they don't help them tell the agency's whole story. Ms. Reynolds asked if there would be another format that would be more appropriate. Ms. Holmes said that she would like some way to describe the way that her agency's serices, and the services other agencies provide at Family Focus, are interconnected, and work together in achieving their objectives. Mr. Rowitz said that he thought the agency defined its problems in relation to a population area_ He said that made it hard, at times, to sort out what services were public health activities and what were mental health activities. He added that it would be helpful for him to see in Family Focus's reports what, specifically, were the mental health components. Karen Wcrtymer, Metropolitan Family Services: Ms. Wertyrner said she was presenting comments on behalf of Sandra Sturnme, Executive Director, who %vas unable to attend this meeting. Ms. Wertymer commented that MFS liked the agency liaison process. The agency's impression is that it had not received any comments about their quarterly reports, and that is December 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 Wnutes recorded — not yet approved generally the case for most reports reviewed during the meetings. It would be helpful to them to receive some feedback. In the funding process, it its very difficult to have to complete a totally different set of budget forms for the MHB and for the United Way processes. There is a different breakout of dollars. They cannot roll together the narrative, and they cannot do this %ith the budget forms. The questions at the hearings are u=y general, and are not always about the services for which funding has specifically been requested. Mr. Rowitz said it must be difficult for an agency that provides multiple services, such as MFS, to put together a proposal for a total program, and to decide what part the MHB finds are going to pay for. He asked whether there is a good way to tease out what the specific funds arc going to pay for? Ms. Wertymer said that if the questions vvere raised a little differently, perhaps in a more specific way, then the agencies could be a lirtle more explicit about this. It would be more helpful for the agency to respond in that way. Ms_ Reynolds asked if it was the same person who writes the quarterly report and who writes the proposal for the hearings. Ms. Wertmyer said at the agency's Evanston site the supervisors write the funding proposal and write the quarterly reports. Alexander Brown, Birector, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services: The experience has been increasingly positive for the agency in terms of time line, process, and budget forms. They appreciate that the MHB reads all of the material before the hearing. The questions on the Agency Quarterly Narrative Reports are understood, but it is not always clear how important the reports or information is to the MHB. There doesn't seem to be much discussion about the reports. Consequently, he is not sure if it is meeting the MHB's needs, or whether it is important to spend more or less time in completing the report. It would be useful to get more specific guidelines about what the MHB wants in the quarterly reports. The information and materials for the allocations this year provided much better rationale for the decisions. The MHB's discussion before making the allocations was excellent this %ear. Mr. Brown said, in response to earlier comments, that most agencies cannot separate our specific items in the budget. At his agency, services are to tied together to try to separate out i-pecific functions. The only basis they use for deciding what to bring to the MHB seems to be what is of most interest to the Board. Ms. Reynolds thanked all of the agencies for their comments. She said the MHB would be using the information as it discusses the funding process. and would provide feedback to the agencies about their comments. IV. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY Quarterly Narrative Reports Mr. Saver reviewed the background information on the Quarterly Narrative Reports. He said that the form that Ms. Sittler had previously discussed was enclosed. Ms. Sittler said she thought the last page of the report was adaptable. It would allow objectives to be listed, and then an ongoing December 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meetfng Minutes Page 3 Minutes recorded — not yet approved report could be provided as to how the agency did that quarter. The NIHB would ha%v the ai hMty to compare quarters on the same page. Ms. Reynolds commented that the form rccrmbltx£.h Federal form. She said that she would not like to impose it on the agencies. Mr. Rowitz said that the Quarterly reports should be able to help the Board bettrs underst:=2 ti c funding proposals. They make it easier for him to judge the proposals, and they give me a a jrw of what has been happening over this funding cycle. They are like a journal ab-cuat the a_ze irs' experiences during the year, in conjunction with the information from the Agency Liaison_ Ms. Reynolds said if might be useful for the MHB to provide "crib sheets" to the agencies for tEw Quarterly reports. That way they could be the basis for the agency funding proposals. Ms_ Sitter suggested that the Agency Liaison should have some responsibility for the Quarterly reports and following up on any issues. There was general discussion about how the Liaison role could be used as a mechanism for feedback to the agencies. Ms. Reynolds said that the N1HB should review the Liaison job description with that in mind. Ms. Reynolds recommended that the MHB should review its expectations about the Quarterly Narrative Report, and provide feedback to the agencies. She added that, in addition to responses to the questions on the form, the Board was as interested in how the agency responds to unforeseen problems. Agency Liaison Reports Dimensions. Susan Canter said she spoke with Kate Mahoney. The three agencies feel good about the first year of the program. They want to do more outreach, and they want to expand the program. They have a target date for January to produce new brochures to make available at various sites around town, e.g., YMCA, Library. They want to pass out more material to families who might benefit from the program. In addition, they are going to try to dome with the graduates of the program. The program is staying at about the same number of people who are being served Metropolitan Family Semices. Ms. Reynolds said she attended the Advisory Board meeting of MFS. They are busy with fund raising. There will also be an educational format for the meetings, with an emphasis upon legislative education. The topic at this meeting w•as working with the legislature regarding payday loan stores. Ms. Reynolds said that these stores have victimized many individuals. She explained how these stores are having a negative impact upon some of MFS's clients in Evanston. V. REVIEW MHB WORK PLAN (DRAFT) Mr. Saver reviewed the activities in the draft work plan for 2001. He indicated that he tried to reflect all of the activities and objectives that the MHB had previously discussed. There is work already being done for several of the events. He said, for example, that he and Ms. Grover December 14. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 Minutes recorded — not yet approved already have a meeting set up the next day with Dee McDonald, Co -Chair of the Mental Health Association of the North Shore, to begin to plan a legislative forum about mental health concerns for consumers. There was a discussion about the tentative plans and areas v.-here Board members will be able to take an active role with planning. Ms. Grover said it looked like the acti%itics might change as different issues develop, and suggested that the report be renamed Worldng Paper. VI. COMMITTEE REPORTS Housing Policy Committee. Ms. Reynolds said that Ms. Wiebe had been putting a considerable amount of time into this. In response to questions, Mr. Saver said that the Committee's charter was to review and revise the Board's housing policy. Ms. Reynolds said that Ms. Wiebe wanted the Committee's activity to be coordinated with training for the N114B in board development and policy making. It is also an opportunity to educate the Board about housing issues for people with special needs. Mr. Saver said that the Committee has proposed a calendar for presentations about what additional information the MHB would need to consider in developing housing policies. At several of monthly meetings, there will be presentations made to the Board about laws, regulations and program practices related to the housing issue. Mr. Saver added that one of the MHB's FY01-02 objectives was to conduct an assessment in one area about the community needs, service gaps and priorities for one of the Board's target populations. The MHB would meet with community providers, consumers, and other significant stakeholders to retrieve information and establish priorities. The Committee's recommendation was to implement this objective for housing needs or priorities. The process could similar to the one developed by Mr. Row7tz regarding substance abuse issues in the community. The Committee also invited the Housing Commission to collaborate on the initiative. As a first step, at the January meeting the Board will view the rest of the John Carver video pertaining to board governance and policy issues. The Committee will develop a series of presentations relevant to the issue to provide education for the Board about housing issues for its mandated populations. In response to a question, Mr. Saver referred to Housing Options' Quarterly Narrative Report. He said that they received S20,000 grant through a State legislator to do housing needs assessment for persons with mental illness. He said that assessment would be much more extensive than what the Housing Policy Committee was envisioning. He said that he did not think there would be any duplication with the Board's efforts. He added that he thought the results of their study would probably be very useful for the Board, as well. Mr. Saver pointed out the invitation in the packet to the MHB from the Housing Commission. They are sponsoring an audio conference on low income housing issues on January 18, 2001. It December 14, 2000 Mental Health t3oard Meeting MInutes Page 5 Minutes recorded -- not yet approved is an audio conference put on by the American Planning Association. W. Saver said that the Housing Policy Committee envisions doing a lot over a 4 - S month period. Mr. Rowitz commented on the length of the issue agenda that the MHB %as undertaking. He said that he thought that with the amount of time the Board has in its meetings it was limited in what it could accomplish. He referred to several of the items in the proposed I UM Work Plan- Mr. Rowitz said that if the MNB takes on the Housing Policy Committee's issue it might have to push aside something else. He added that he thought the XiHB could only focus on a couple of policy issues a year. Ms. Reynolds asked Ms. Grover about the work she was doing with several other Board policies related to financial and funding issues. Ms. Grover said her Subcommittee had drafted some policy recommendations. However, there were some additional issues that seemed to need to be considered. She said she spoke with Mary Heft -Gavin, a former hiHB member, about original research that the Board had done related to its status. She said it seemed that the information that was provided by the Corporation Counsel did not address all of the questions that the Board had. Ms. Grover said she was continuing to research questions related to the NM's authority, and thought that it was going to take considerable time. VII. REVIEW ITEMS FOR FUTURE CONSIDERATION Ms. Reynolds said that the Executive Committee wanted to review the status of the items that had been carried over at the end of the Board's agenda, and determine what to do with them. She said that these were items that had been referred by Board members: 1. Meet with Agencies to Discuss Funding Process. Ms. Reynolds said that this item could be removed.. This was the basis for the hearing at the beginning of the meeting. 2. Evanston Hospital Inpatient Psych Unit. Ms. Reynolds said that she thought this item could be removed. The Department Chair from Evanston Hospital's Department of Psychiatry had originally provided the information about this issue. She said that she thought that the decision had been made to not transfer the of Inpatient Psychiatric Unit from Evanston Hospital to Highland Park Hospital, Mr. Saver said he spoke with Dr. Fred Miller, Department Chair. He said that Dr. 'Miller confirmed this. He said that Dr. Miller indicated that Evanston Northwestern Healthcare (ENH) might develop an adolescent unit with specialized services at Highland Park Hospital. Ile added that ENH decided not to move their ambulatory psych programs into the community. One of the biggest problems was finding adequate space in an Evanston community setting. At ENH they are still providing the Catalyst program, Emergency Services, and services for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness under their 01\11-1-funded programs. 3. Revise Agency Quarterly Narrative Report Form. Mr. Saver said that this should be completed by March 2001. Comments from agencies will be considered in the revisions. Mr. December 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 it - Minutes recorded — not yet approved Row7tz said that discussing the Quarterly Narrative Report Form would be a part of the Proposal Review Committee's responsibility when they meet. 4. Meeting with the MID Facilities. Mr. Saver asked if the MHB was still interested in meeting,-vith Albany Care and Greenwood Care, and touring the facilities. The MHB expressed interest in visiting these facilities and being updated on their activities. Mr. Saver said he would check Stith the facilities about arrangements in Spring 2001 for a tour S. After School Programming for Children with Development Disabilities. In response to the discussion, Mr. Saver said that this issue arose wizen Steve Strauss, Principal of Park School, made a presentation about it to the MHB lasa spring. The concern that was expressed was the difficulty for parents at Part: School, as well as at other schools, to obtain after - school programming for their children with disabilities. There is not available childcare for the children who are over 12. In many cases, a parent can get special recreation services for their child, but on days when there is no recreational programming they cannot get the after - school care. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said he thought Mr. Strauss came to the MHB because it is an issue that falls under the Board's mission related to persons with developmental disabilities; that Mr. Strauss was hoping that the MHB would take this on as one of their issues. fir. Saver said that last spring the MHB thought this might be something to focus on in the future. He said that, initially, this would a planning issue and would involve bringing together all of the community stakeholders to discuss who was interested in it; what is the size of the problem; what were the available resources; and, where could resources be shared. He said that, from his discussion with Mr. Strauss, he thought the numbers were not large, but the need was great. Mr. Rowritz commented that he was not sure what the MHB could do about this directly. Mr. Saver said that he thought the Board could play a role pulling together the initial meetings. There might also be a role in coordinating any planning efforts, although another group might be able to be identified for this. He said he did not think that the MHB had a role in funding the service. Ms. Reynolds commented that she did not see how the MHB could take the issue on at this time. Ms. Grover recommended that this should issue should be left on the list for the future. There was a consensus of the Board to this. Vill. UPDATES 24/7 Emergency Services. Mr. Saver distributed a first quarter report for Trilogy's start-up of their Emergency Mental Health Services in Evanston. The agency has already been very active, with 33 Evanston contacts in the period July -September. Mr. Saver said he thought that this number was significant during the start-up, given that there was no advertising and Trilogy was trying to roll out the program slowly. lust that week the Trilogy staff did presentations at each of the four roll calls for the Evanston Police Department. They believe that this will be a regular source of referral. Mr. Saver said he %as impressed with the response he has had from the service, so far, and thought they were very effective in working with a very difficult case with which he was involved. Mr. Saver said he would be placing an article in the City Highlights December 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 7 k Minutes recorded — not yet approved regarding the program. Agency Liaison. Mr. Saver said that the MHB annually reassigns Liaison assignments. At the January MHB, Ms. Wiebe will ask the members regarding the changing of liaison assigmnents. She indicated that those members who have been with their agency for less than a year will have the option of staying with their agency. House Bill 4577. Mr. Saver said last year the MHB sported arc of Illinois' Do the Right Thing Campaign. Some of the issues were embodied in legislation that State Representative Hamos had initially introduced during the legislative over -ride sesion_ All of Evanston's State legislators endorsed the bill. HB4577 was an attempt to get an adiitional V an hour and 20% benefit increase for non -administrative staff effective July I .:000. The Bill passed out of the House with a vote of 114-0. There was overwhelming supper: for the Bill in the Senate. Senator Parker provided leadership in the Senate Republican Caucus zo enable the bill to be considered by the Republican Senators. Unfortunately, Senator Phillips. President of the Senate, would not let the bill be considered for a vote. Mr. Saver referred to the letters that were sent from the MHB to Representatives Hamos and Schoenberg, and to Senators Parker and Ronen, thanking them for their support for HB4577. He said that there is a very slim chance that the bill could be reconsidered when the Legislature reconvenes on January 10, before the next legislative session. Social Norms Marketing Presentation. Ms. Saver said there was a good turnout for the ESAPC workshop of social norms marketing. He said that his. Stroh also attended the event. He said that the material from the event w•as included in the packet. Mr. Saver said that the event is serving as a kick-off for beginning to plan a social norms marketing campaign in Evanston. It will likely be implemented initially at ETHS. He said that he and Karen Wertymer, from Metropolitan Family Services, met with all of District =65 social workers to talk with them about social norms marketing for substance abuse prevention_ Part of the reason for meeting was to find out what type of information and data is kept about the issue in the schools. This will be important in developing any campaign, because social norms marketing relies upon regularly testing and gathering data about changes in behavior and attitude. The consensus was that the best way to get data would be to have surveys done in classrooms. He added that it was his impression there was a sense of excitement from the social workers and it seemed like they would be advocates of a social norms marketing approach in the middle schools, as well. Mr. Saver said he would be meeting with the ETHS School Team on Substance Abuse Prevention to begin the discussion about a campaign in ETHS. There are several of the staff at ETHS that are moving this ahead. Mr. Rowit7 commented that social norms marketing presents information about how well most kids are doing rather than focusing on user statistics, and how many people are doing the undesired behavior. He said that it makes the non -substance abusing teen the role model rather than the user. Mr. Rowitz added that the Evanston Community Health Advisory Board also has a strong interest in this approach and discussed it with Director of Pupil Services at ETHS. December 14, 2000 Mental health Hoard Meeting Minutes Page 8 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Aging Well Conference. Mr. Saver said the Aging Well Conference has been scheduled for May 18, 2001 at the King Home. Proposals are being accepted now from people who want to do presentations or workshops. Mr. Saver said he would be coordinating the review and evalumdon of the proposals. Ms. Sittler responded to the invitation and offered to help with the evaluation of workshop proposals. Meeting adjourned at 9:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott December 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 9 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MII`'UTES THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 09, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Jane Grover, Thomas Tharayil, Susan Stroh, Lonnie Wiebe, Carol Sittler, Vickie Kalish, Ellen Reyriolds, and Susan Canter Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Staff: Harvey Saver, and Joan Barott Community Representatives: Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Sandra Stumme, Karen Wertymer (Metropolitan Family Ser%icxs); Karen Helfrich. (Trilogy); Bob Roy (Evanston Community Defender); Helen McCarthy (Childcare Network of Evanston): Frederica Fissell (Housing Options); Andrew Korfhage, (Northwestern MedilI Student); a myriad of students from Jane Adams School of Social Work Ms. Wiebe called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves. II. FY2001-2002 MHB BUDGET Allocation of Purchase of Service Funding Ms. Wiebe stated the MHB had come to the point of allocating its funding for purchase of service funding. She said that the Allocation Subcommittee had provided notes of the MHB discussions about the funding proposals, and about the agency hearings, as well as the Funding Allocations Committee's Funding Recommendations (enclosed). She said that the Committee met with staff to develop recommendations for the Board's consideration. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB would have to decide what it wanted to do with each of the recommendations. Ms. Wiebe asked if for Board members to add comments about any of the agencies that had requested funding. She made some initial comments and said that she was troubled by the information provided by NTSW. First, the agency is going through a large change with their First Step program. She said that, as a (under, she did not feel that she knew where the program was November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page i Mtrnrtes recorded — not yet approved going in the face of uncertainty. Second, there seems to be a larger number of non-Evarz:s= residents that were being served. She noted that she assumed almost all of First Step's clients mere from the IMD's, Albany Care and Greenwood Care. She questioned whether all of the residents at these two facilities were automatically residents of Evanston. She recommended that the MHB look into the question for the purpose of deciding Evanston residency for MHB funding. Ms. Stroh said she disagreed with that perspective. She said that their original place of origin might not be known. However, they were in Evanston now, and they might be on the streets if they did not have a place to go during the day. Ms. Reynolds said that she would hate to think that someone from Evanston would not be served in another community because they were not from that location. There was a general discussion about how it is determined that someone was considered an Evanston resident in the MHB's funded programs. Ms. Kalish said that she was concerned about whether someone coming to an IMD from outside of Evanston might be keeping someone f-om Evanston from being admitted. Mr. Rowitz said he thought it was a non -issue for the consideration of NTSW's proposal. The people being served have been living in the community for a long period of. He said the MHB did not seem to have any applicants who were not serving Evanston residents. Ms. Stroh said she thought that the individuals at the WD's were registered to vote in Evanston. Mr. Rowitz said that the thought the bigger issue with NTSW was its relationship with Thresholds. He said he was very interested in continuing to fund the program. He commented that at the last MHB meeting it was decided to fund NTSW for the coming year. He indicated that he thought the amount of funding could be negotiated. Ms. Grover said that she thought the only recommendations that the Committee developed that were different from what the MHB had discussed were for The Family Institute. Ms. Wiebe asked the Committee for their rationale for the recommendation for The Family Institute. Ibis. Stroh reviewed the issues related to The Family Institute. She reminded the NIHB that the agency was not able to show up for their hearing. The first time it happened it was because of two family emergencies with the agency's representatives. The second time the staff person was not able to appear Saturday for their hearing because they were having car trouble near Midway Airport, and was not able to call the MHB members. Ms. Stroh said that the Committee that the fact the agency was not able to attend the hearing did not indicate that they were not doing good work. She said that she thought The Family Institute was doing a very good job and being very responsible with Carl Hampton being at ETHS. The Committee thought that the agency should focus its efforts specifically at ETHS, and recommended only to match the funding amount from ETHS for the program. The agency had indicated in the past that it was interested in also doing case finding at child care centers, however, the MHB was already funding services at the centers through Childcare Network and didn't want to duplicate that funding. November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Ms. Reynolds stated that usually an agency would have a team of n prmritntives anJ not rely on one person to represent them, or to sell their program. There should to representation fkwn the administration and board of directors. Mr. Tharayil said he thought the I.11III should %nd the agency a message. The Committee thought the program %%as a positive one, but thought it %vould be reasonable to reduce their funding to the same level as %►`a: being prE•%idM by 1;111S. I le mid the Committee thought The Family Institute should get more involved and committed as. an agency to be considered again for funding. Mr. Rowitz said he thought The Family Institute should not be funded. He said the MHB agreed to hold off its deliberations from the first hearing. The agency had t%vo separate opportunities to present their proposal. He said he understood the issue, but thought the agency should be held accountable and to the same standards as other agencies. Money is tight, and the funding decisions are becoming more difficult all the time. Ms. Wiebe voiced her opinion that she is not sympathetic to The Family institute. She discussed her calls with the agency during the funding process, and said she reminded them of the MHB's expectations. She said she thought there was a big gap between the agency's and the MHB's expectations. Ms. Reynolds said she wanted to listen to the people who valued the work of the agency. Nevertheless, she added that she wanted the agency to be more responsive. Mr. Rowitz commented The Family Institute program is a worthwhile program, but he wanted someone else to manage it. He said that he did not think that the program was being given a lot of value within the agency. Ms. Wiebe said she thought the program might be working better under the current staff person, but she said she was not sure that the program works. Ms. Grover commented that the hiHB could move to accept only the recommendations from the Committee with which it agreed as allocations. Mr. Rowitz concurred. He moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to adopt the Allocation Committee's FY2001-2002 funding recommendations, with the exclusion or the recommendations for NPSW and The Family Institute. Mr. Ro«7tz explained that those recommendations would be considered separately. Mr. Saver read the program funding recommendations from the Committee into the record (enclosed). Motion passed 8 ave (Wiebe, Canter, Reynolds, Rowitz, Tharay-il, Grover, Kalish, Sittler) — l no (Stroh). Ms. Stroh said that The Family Institute's program might be dropped if the MHB did not continue to fund it. Ms. Canter asked whether the MHB had information about The Family Institute's specific commitment to support their program? Mr. Tharayil said it appeared that the agency had allocated some funds from their staff practice to the program. but it was unclear from the proposal what these resources were. He added that the :allocation Committee wanted to see that additional funds from the agency's unrestricted revenues be allocated to the program. He pointed out that The Family Institute's other funding for the program comes from the ETHS and the MHB. Ms. Stroh said that The Family Institute is being asked to do more at ETHS from Student Services and from the Superintendent's office, e.g., anger management training for some students. Mr. Tharayil asked what would be missing if the MHB-funded program were not offered at ETHS. Ms. November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 Minutes recorded -- not yet approved Stroh said that the staff would probably continue to make the referrals to the agency. HowX%,er, there would not be an agent on -site to make the referrals to, someone who could ful5aw up and try to engage the student or family. Ms. Wiebe mused that it might be appropriate for dbe program to be funded by the ETHS completely. Mr. Rowitz said he might be more comfortable if ETHS directly submitted a proposal to run the program, itself. The high school could fund it and manage it, and the MHB could pay some portion. He said that The Family Institute is not the only agency that is able to run the program. Mr. Rowitz said that he thought the program was very useful, but other agencies might be able to do it better with a different orientation. There ought to be other ways to make it work. He adder-d that he was not saying that he did not want to support a program of this kind. However, he did want the agency running it to invest more of its own resources to make it work. In response to a question, Mr. Ro%vitz said that he would be willing to fund the program for one more year. However, he said that he would be looking for some clear indication from the agency about their support for the program. He indicated that, in addition to funding for the program, he expected that the agency would also provide a director or deputy director to discuss the program and funding request. Ms. Grover said she wanted the agency put on a watch list. Ms. Grover moved and Ms. Reynolds seconded a motion to adopt the Allocation Committee's recommendation that S6,100 be allocated to The Family Institute. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. Ms. Reynolds said she wanted The Family Institute to be given the appropriate counsel about the MHB's concerns. In response to a question, Mr. Saver discussed bow agencies were notified about the MHB's funding allocations and decisions. He said each agency would receive a letter from the MHB Chair, accompanied, by the MHB's allocations and the Allocation Committee's recommendations and comments. The Chair directed staff to write an additional agency -specific letter to The Family Institute that expressed the Board's concerns in the discussion about the allocation to the agency. Mr. Rowitz said he would like to have NTSW also put on a watch list.. but for differer_t reasons. He reiterated his concerns about the future of First Step in its revised format. In additiom he said the relationship of NTSW %%ith Thresholds seems to continue to evolve. He said the MHB should be kept informed about these changes. Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms- Kalish seconded a motion to adopt the Allocation Committee's recommendation that S10,000 be allocated to NTSW/First Step. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. The Chair directed staff to write a letter to NTSW to express the MHB's concerns in the discussion about the allocation to the agency. Ms. Wiebe reminded the Board that all of the agencies were being invited to the December Board meeting to discuss the funding process and the Quarterly Narrative Report. She said it would be an opportunity for the agencies to provide feedback about the proposal format and the agency hearings from their own perspective. Ms. Sittler said she also had a report format that she used elsewhere for Quality assurance issues that might be useful in revising the quarterly report. She said she would send it to Mr. Saver to share with all of the Board members. November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 Muxutes recorded — not yet approved Mental Health Board Administrative Budget Nis. Wiebe reviewed the MHB Administrative Budget. She commented on the new line item for office furniture. Mr. Saver indicated that much of the furniture of the office was older and mismatched, or had been recycled from other departments. He said that the line item would enable the office to slowly replace pieces of furniture and make the furniture look uniform. Mr. Rowitz moved and his. Kalish seconded a motion to adopt the proposed FY2001-2002 MHB Administrative Budget. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. ILL FY2001-2002 MHB OBJECTIVES Ms. Wiebe commented that the proposed FY2001-2002 objectives were based upon some of the hiHB's historical work, as well as additional areas that were suggested by the Board and its committees. Ms. Reynolds reviewed the objectives. Nis. Grover said she would like to see the objectives presented with priorities. Mr. Saver said that the MHB had not established specific priorities. However, he said he would be providing the objectives to the MHB in context of a work plan for the year. The MHB will be reviewing the draft at the January meeting. Ms. Grover requested that the MHB also receive a clean copy of the objectives after they have been revised. Nis. Wiebe reviewed discussed the objectives and said that the Executive Committee had already begun to develop the calendar. She said that the Items for Future Consideration, provided at the bottom of the agenda, would also be included as a part of the calendar. Mr. Rowitz commented that the MHB must review its funding process and the priorities. Ms. Wiebe commented on Objective "4. She said that the MI313 had not made any decisions as to what particular community education projects to sponsor or to be involved in. She asked that the Board members bring their ideas to the meetings for consideration. Mr. Ro%%itz said, in relation to community needs, the MHB might want to empanel another task force to look at childrens mental health issues. Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to adopt the FY2001-2002 MHB Objectives as presented. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. 1V. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY Agency Liaison Reports Family Focus. Ms. Kalish said that the agency suffered a loss when Bernard Weissbourd, a co- founder of Family Focus, died this past weekend. She said that the agency was planning its fashion show for the following weekend. In addition, the agency has engaged a consultant to develop a plan November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 E3 Minutes recorded — not yet approved for making the building more accessible to people with pkvsi jl disahilitic, She wported that she met with Kevin Limbeck, the agency's new Executive Uirtrtor_ Evanston/Skok* Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh repmcd fiat the agency sib a conh= with the Department of Rehabilitation Services to pro%ide its for indi%iduals who have pdnsicai disabilities, and who are under 65. V. UPDATES Agency Allocations from the Human Service Committee. Mr. Saver reported that the Human Services Committee had a lengthy discussion with all of the agencies about their requests for City funds. At the end of the evening, the}' allocated continuation funding to all of the agencies at the same level as last year. In addition, they agreed to fund a new agency, Meals at Home. Mr. Saver said he would be providing everyone with a spreadsheet with the City, MHB and CDBG allocations for the agencies that are funded in common by those three funding sources. Social Norms Marketing Presentation. Ms. Stroh said that PEER Services would be sponsoring a community program at the high school regarding social norms marketing. The approach is one that uses marketing principles to try to create positive behaviors in the community norms, and reduce unhealthy behaviors. The workshop will focus on how to use social norms marketing as a way to normalize positive behavior instead of focusing upon negative, drug -related behaviors. Mr. Saver said that this approach is one that PEER Services discussed in their presentation to the MHB last spring, He said the ESAPC was also sponsoring the event. The NIHB has also been financially supporting the workshop. Mr. Saver said that the ESAPC has a small committee that has been planning the event. He said that he has been involved on the planning committee. Aber the presentation tomorrow, the committee will meet with the presenter to discuss specific steps to begin to develop a social norms marketing initiative in Evanston. While there has been no final decision made, the ESAPC has already begun to discuss the implementation of a campaign with personnel at the high school. If there is a final decision to undertake this type program, it «ill be a multi -year initiative that will require a significant amount of lead-time to plan. Mr. Rowitz commented that the Evanston Community Health advisory Board is also interested in this type of approach to prevention. He said that the ECHAB is recommending that the results from the Youth Behavior Risk Survey be presented in this manner, with a focus on emphasizing positive behavioral norms in the community, rather than the number of people who are doing negative behavior. November 09, 2000 Mental stealth Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 Minutes recorded — not yet approved VI. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe thanked all the MHB members for their hard work during the funding allocation proms. She reported that this past Monday night was the Human Services Committee (HSC) meetinrz. She said that she hoped that members of the MHB would attend these meetings, and reported than she, Ms. Sittler, and Isis. Canter attended the HSC allocation meeting. Ms. Wiebe said that sly had learned about some of the agencies that do not request funds from the MHB. Ms. Sittler reported that she found the HSC meeting to be fascinating and enjoyed the ace she attended. Ms. Canter said she found the HSC meetings to be interesting. She said that the HSC allocation process %}-as different from the one the MHB used. Ms. Canter indicated that she tb aught the MHBIUnited Way review process was run very smoothly. and enabled every agency to ha-vc the same opportunity to be heard. Ms. Wiebe complimented !sir. Saver for his work in making the MHB/United Way's process run so smoothly. VII. STAFF REPORT Mr. Saver said much of the staff work this past month has been reviewing proposals and preparing for the agency hearings. Mr. Saver said that the ESAPC is planning an event in conjunction with Alcohol Awareness month in April. Reel Time invited the ESAPC to be a part of their program. The ESAPC committee selected a video that came from the Sundance Festival. It examines the impact of substance abuse on a community as a whole. Reel Time will purchase the video for the library. They will also do the advertising for the showing on April 10 as a part of their ongoing series. The ESAPC will put together some type of panel or discussion related to the themes in the video. Mr. Saver said that the ESAPC -would also explore a tie in with either the library or a bookstore, to highlight books related to the themes of the presentation. Mr. Saver reported that Dorothy Lloyd -Still, Executive Director of Housing Options, would be retiring in the spring. Housing Options has started an executive search for his successor. Meeting adjourned at 9:20. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 7 X, Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 09, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Jane Grover, Thomas ThatnyiL Sus'tin Stroh, Lonnie Wiebe, Carol Sittler, Vicide Kalish, Ellen Reynolds, and Susan Canter Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Staff: Harvey Saver, and Joan Barott Community Representatives: Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Sandra Sturnme, Karen Wertymer (Metropolitan Fatally Services); Karen Helfrich, (Trilogy); Bob Roy (Evanston Community Defender); Helen McCarthy (Childcare Network of Evanston); Frederica Fissell (Housing Options); Andrew Kortlsage, (Northwestern MedilI Student); a myriad of students from Jane Adams School of Social Work Ms. Wiebe called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wicbe welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves_ II. FY2001-2002 INI B BUDGET Allocation of Purchase of Service Funding Ms. Wiebe stated the MHB had come to the point of allocating its funding for purchase of service funding. She said that the Allocation Subcommittee had provided notes of the MHB discussions about the funding proposals, and about the agency hearings, as well as the Funding Allocations Committee's Funding Recommendations (enclosed). She said that the C`,ormnittee met with staff to develop recommendations for the Board's consideration. his. Wiebe said the NiHB would have to decide what it wanted to do m ith each of the recommendations. Ms. Wiebe asked if for Board members to add comments about any of the agencies that had requested funding. She made some initial comments and said that she was troubled by the information provided by NTSW. First, the agency is going through a large change with their First Step program. She said that, as a (under, she did not feel that she knew %►-here the program was November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 lk4,541 Minutes recorded -- not yet approved going in the face of uncertainty. Second, there seems to be a larger number of non -Evanston residents that were being served. She noted that she assumed almost all of First Step's clients were from the IMD's, Albany Care and Greemvood Care. She questioned whether all of the residents at these two facilities were automatically residents of Evanston. She recommended that the MHB took into the question for the purpose of deciding Evanston residency for MHB funding. Ms. Stroh said she disagreed with that perspective. She said that their vciginal place of origin might not be known. However, they were in Evanston now, and they might be on the streets if they did not have a place to go during the day. Ms. Reynolds said that she would hate to dih* that someone from Evanston would not be served in another community because they «erne not from that location. There was a general discussion about how it is determined that someone %%as considered an Evanston resident in the MHB's funded programs. Ms. Kalish said that she was concerned about whether someone coming to an IMD from outside of Evanston might be keeping someone from Evanston from being admitted. Mr. Rowitz said he thought it was a non -issue for the consideration of NTSW's proposal. The people being served have been living in the community for a long period of, He said the MHB did not seem to have any applicants who were not serving Evanston residents. Ms. Stroh said she thought that the individuals at the IMD's were registered to vote in Evanston. Mr. Rowitz said that the thought the bigger issue with NTSW was its relationship with Thresholds. He said he was very interested in continuing to fund the program. He commented that at the last MHB meeting it was decided to fund NTSW for the coming year. He indicated that he thought the amount of funding could be negotiated. Ms. Grover said that she thought the only recommendations that the Committee developed that ivere different from what the MHB had discussed were for The Family Institute. Nis. Wiebe asked the Committee for their rationale for the recommendation for The Family Institute. Ms. Stroh reviewed the issues related to The Family Institute. She reminded the MHB that the agency was not able to show up for their hearing. The first time it happened it %%as because of two family emergencies with the agency's representatives. The second time the staff person was not able to appear Saturday for their hearing because they were having car trouble near Midway Airport, and was not able to call the MHB members. Ms. Stroh said that the Committee that the fact the agency was not able to attend the hearing did not indicate that they were not doing good work. She said that she thought The Family Institute was doing a very good job and being very responsible with Carl Hampton being at ETHS. The Committee thought that the agency should focus its efforts specifically at ETHS, and recommended only to match the funding amount from ETHS for the program. The agency had indicated in the past that it was interested in also doing case finding at child care centers, however, the MHB was already funding services at the centers through Childcare Network and didn't want to duplicate that funding. November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Ms. Reynolds stated that usually an agency would have a team of representatives and not rely on one Person to represent them, or to sell their program. There should be representation from the administration and board of directors. Mr. Tharayil said he thought the MHB should send the agency a message. The Committee thought the program was a positive one, but thought it would be reasonable to reduce their funding to the same level as was being provided by ETHS. He said the Committee thought The Family Institute should get more involved and committed as an agency to be considered again for funding. Mr. Rowitz said he thought The Family Institute should not be funded. He said the %M agreed to hold off its deliberations from the first hearing. The agency had two separate opportunities to present their proposal. He said he understood the issue, but thought the agency should be held accountable and to the same standards as other agencies. Money is tight, and the funding decisions are becoming more difficult all the time. Ms. Wiebe voiced her opinion that she is not sympathetic to The Family Institute. She discussed her calls with the agency during the funding process, and said she reminded them of the MHB's expectations. She said she thought there was a big gap between the agency's and the MHB's expectations. Ms. Reynolds said she wanted to listen to the people who valued the work of the agency. Nevertheless, she added that she wanted the agency to be more responsive. Mr. Rowitz commented The Family Institute program is a worthwhile program, but he wanted someone else to manage it. He said that he did not think that the program was being given a lot of value within the agency. Ms. Wiebe said she thought the program might be working better under the current staff person, but she said she was not sure that the program works. Ms. Grover commented that the MHB could move to accept only the recommendations from the Committee with which it agreed as allocations. Mr. Rowitz concurred. He moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to adopt the Allocation Committee's FY2001-2002 funding recommendations, with the exclusion of the recommendations for N-rSW and The Family Institute. Mr. Rowitz explained that those recommendations would be considered separately. Mr. Saver read the program funding recommendations from the Committee into the record (enclosed). Motion passed 8 aye ff iebe, Canter, Reynolds, Rowitz, Tharayil, Grover, Kalish, Sittler) — iI no (Stroh). Ms. Stroh said that The Family Institutes program might be dropped if the MHB did not continue to fund it. Ms. Canter asked whether the MHB had information about The Family Institute's specific commitment to support their program? Mr. Tharayil said it appeared that the agency had allocated some funds from their staff practice to the program. but it was unclear from the proposal what these resources were. He added that the Allocation Conunittee wanted to see that additional funds from the agency's unrestricted revenues be allocated to the program. He pointed out that The Family Institute's other funding for the program comes from the ETHS and the MHB. Ms. Stroh said that The Family Institute is being asked to do more at ETHS from Student Services and from the Superintendent's office, e.g., anger management training for some students. Mr. Tharayil asked what would be missing if the MHB-funded program were not offered at ETHS. Ms. November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Stroh said that the staff would probably continue to make the referrals to the agency. I lo%%,cvcr, there would not be an agent on -site to make the referrals to, someone who could follow up and try to engage the student or family. Ms. Wiebe mused that it might be appropriate for the progr= to be funded by the ETHS completely. Mr. Ro%%itz said he might be more comfortable if ETHS directly submitted a proposal to run the grogram, itself. The high school could fund it and manage it, and the MHB could pay some portion. He said that The Family Institute is not the only agency that is able to run the program. Mr. Rowitz said that he thought the program was very useful, but other agencies might be able to do it better with a different orientation. There ought to be other ways to make it work. He added that he was not saying that he did not want to support a program of this kind. However, he did want the agency running it to invest more of its own resources to make it work. In response to a question, Mr. Rowitz said that he would be willing to fund the program for one more year. However, he said that he would be looking for some clear indication from the agency about their support for the program. He indicated that, in addition to funding for the program, he expected that the agcncy would also provide a director or deputy director to discuss the program and funding request. Ms. Grover said she wanted the agency put on a watch list. Ms. Graver moved and Ms. Reynolds seconded a motion to adopt the Allocation Committee's recommendation that S6,100 be allocated to The Family Institute. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. Ms. Reynolds said she wanted The Family Institute to be given the appropriate counsel about the MHB's concerns. In response to a question, Mr. Saver discussed how agencies were: notified about the MHB's funding allocations and decisions. He said each agency would receive a letter from the MHB Chair, accompanied, by the MHB's allocations and the Allocation Committee's recommendations and comments. The Chair directed staff to write an additional agency -specific letter to The Family Institute that expressed the Board's concerns in the discussion about the allocation to the agency. Mr. Row-itz said he would like to have NTSW also put on a watch list, but for different reasons. He reiterated his concerns about the future of First Step in its revised format. In addition, he said the relationship of NTSW with Thresholds seems to continue to evolve. He said the MHB should be kept informed about these changes. Mr. Rowitz moved and his. Kalish seconded a motion to Adopt the Allocation Committee's recommendation that S10,000 be allocated to NTSWIFlrst Step. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. The Chair directed staff to write a letter to NTSW to express the MHB's concerns in the discussion about the allocation to the agency. Ms. Wiebe reminded the Board that all of the agencies were being invited to the December Board meeting to discuss the funding process and the Quarterly Narrative Report. She said it would be an opportunity for the agencies to provide feedback about the proposal format and the agency hearings from their own perspective. Ms. Sittler said she also had a report format that she used elsewhere for Quality assurance issues that might be useful in revising the quarterly report. She said she would send it to Mr. Saver to share with all of the Board members. November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mental Health Board Administrative Budget Ms. Wiebe reviewed the MHB Administrative Budget. She ccanmented on the new line item for office furniture. Mr. Saver indicated that much of the furniture of the office was older end mismatched, or had been recycled from other departments. He mid that the line item would enable the office to slowly replace pieces of furniture and make the f xTiiture look uniform. Mr. Ro-a tz moved and Ms. Kalish seconded a motion to adapt th-e proposed FY2001-2002 MHB Administrative Budget. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. III. FY2001-2002 MHB OBJECTIVES Ms. Wiebe commented that the proposed FY2001-2002 objectives were based upon some of the MHB's historical work, as well as additional areas that wee suggested by the Board and its committees. Ms. Reynolds reviewed the objectives. Ms. Grover said she would like to see the objectives presented with priorities. Mr. Saver said that the MHB had not established specific priorities. However. he said he would be providing the objectives to the MHB in context of a work plan for the year. The MHB will be reviewing the draft at the January meeting. Ms. Grover requested that the MHB also receive a clean copy of the objectives after they have been revised. Ms. Wiebe reviewed discussed the objectives and said that the- Executive Committee had already begun to develop the calendar. She said that the Items for Fettvre Consideration, provided al the bottom of the agenda, would also be included as a part of the calendar. Mr. Rowitx commented that the MHB must review its funding process and the priorities. Ms. Wicbe commented on Objective 94. She said that the MHB had not made any decisions as to %fiat particular community education projects to sponsor or to be involved in. She asked that the Bti-rd members bring their ideas to time meetings for consideration. Mr. Rowitz said, in relation to community needs, the MHB might want to empanel another task force to look at children's mental health, issues. Mr. Rowitz moved and INU. Grover seconded a motion to adopt the FY2001-2002 MHB Objectives as presented. Motion passed unanimously 9-0. IV. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY Agency Liaison Reports Family Focus. Ms. Kalish said that the agency suffered a loss when Bernard Weissbourd, a co- founder of Family Focus, died this past weekend_ She said thst the agency was planning its fashion show for the following weekend. In addition, the agency has engaged a consultant to develop a plan November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved for making the building more accessible to people kith physical disabilities. She reported that she met with Kevin Limbecic, the agency's new Executive Director. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh reported that the agency signed a contract %ith the Department of Rehabilitation Services to provide assessments for individuals who have physical disabilities, and who are under 65. V. UPDATES Agency Allocations from the Human Service Committee. Mr. Saver reported that the Human Services Committee had a lengthy discussion with all of the agencies about their requests for City funds. At the end of the evening, they allocated continuation funding to all of the agencies at the same level as last year. In addition, they agreed to fund a new agency, Meals at Home. Mr. Saver said he would be providing everyone with a spreadsheet with the City, MHB and CDBG allocations for the agencies that are funded in common by those three funding sources. Social Norms Marketing Presentation. Ms. Stroh said that PEER Services would be sponsoring a community program at the high school regarding social norms marketing. The approach is one that uses marketing principles to try to create positive behaviors in the community norms, and reduce unhealthy behaviors. The workshop will focus on how to use social norms marketing as a way to normalize positive beha%ior instead of focusing upon negative, drug -related behaviors. Mr. Saver said that this approach is one that PEER Services discussed in their presentation to the MHB last spring, He said the ESAPC was also sponsoring the event. The MHB has also been financially supporting the workshop. Mr. Saver said that the ESAPC has a small committee that has been planning the event. He said that he has been involved on the planning committee. After the presentation tomorrow, the committee will meet with the presenter to discuss specific steps to begin to develop a social norms marketing initiative in Evanston. While there has been no final decision made, the ESAPC has already begun to discuss the implementation of a campaign with personnel at the high school. If there is a final decision to undertake this type program, it will be a multi -year initiative that will require a significant amount of lead-time to plan. Mr. Rowitz commented that the Evanston Community Health Advisory Board is also interested in this type of approach to prevention. Fie said that the ECHAB is recommending that the results from the Youth Behavior Risk Survey be presented in this manner. with a focus on emphasizing positive behavioral norms in the community, rather than the number of people who are doing negative behavior. November 09, 2000 Mental Heatth Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 Minutes recorded — not yet approved VI. REPORT F110111 THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe thanked all the NM members for their hard work during the fundir _g alkvation pwxcss. She reported that this past Monday night v--as the Human Services Commiticc (HSC) mo:fing. She said that she hoped that members of the NfHB would attend these meetings, and reported that she, Ms. Sittler, and Ms. Canter attended the HSC allocation meeting. 'Ms. \Fiche said that she had learned about some of the agencies that do not request funds from the \IHB. Ms. Sittler reported that she found the HSC meeting to be fascinating and enjoyed the one she attended. Ms. Canter said she found the HSC meetings to be interesting. She said that the HSC allocation process was different from the one the MHB used. Ms. Canter indicated that sbe thought the MHB/ Jnited Way review process was run very smoothly, and enabled every agency to have the same opportunity to be heard. Ms. Wiebe complimented Mr. Saver for his work in making the MHB[United Way's process run so smoothly. V1I. STAFF REPORT Mr. Saver said much of the staff work this past month has been reviewing proposals and preparing for the agency hearings. Mr. Saver said that the ESAPC is planning an event in conjunction with Alcohol Awareness month in April. Reel Time invited the ESAPC to be a part of their program. The ESAPC committee selected a video that came from the Sundance Festival. It examines the impact of substance abuse on a community as a whole. Reel Time will purchase the video for the library. They will also do the advertising for the showing on April 10 as a part of their ongoing series. The ESAPC will put together some type of panel or discussion related to the themes in the video. Mr. Saver said that the ESAPC would also explore a tie in with either the library or a bookstore, to highlight books related to the themes of the presentation. Mr. Saver reported that Dorothy Lloyd -Still, Executive Director of Housing Options, would be retiring in the spring. Housing Options has started an executive search for his successor. Meeting adjourned at 9:20. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Baron November 09, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 7 X Minutes recorded — not yet approved : "A EVANSTON I%IENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2000 Members Present: Lou Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds, Tom Tharayzl, Susan Stroh, Ca'l Suter, Susan Canter, Ellen Reynolds Presiding: Ellen Reynolds, Vice Chair Staff: Harvey Saver, Joan Barott Community ` Representatives: Karen Wertymer (Metropolitan Family Services); Peter riling, (NTSW) Ellen Reynolds, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 7.30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Reynolds welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves. a IL APPROVAL OF MINUTES JULY 13, 2000 MHB MEETING Vice Chair Reynolds stated that, hearing no corrections, the July 13, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. III. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FROM NTSW Peter Illing, Executive Director of NTSW, joined the MHB. In response to Ms. Reynolds, Mr. Thing summarized NTSW's request to the MHB. He said the agency was requesting the MHB to agree to continue the contract for the FY2000-2001 year, after there is a reconfiguration and consolidation of the First Step program at NTSW's Skokie location. In response to Mr. Saver, Mr. Illing said the agency would make the changes in its operations on November 30. Ms.Reynolds asked Mr. Saver to review the information NTSW had presented about the proposed changes in their programs. Mr. Saver said his concerns, and the issues that he thought tli MHB should consider, were included in his review of the issues that was in the Board packet. A copy of minutes from the ELAN meeting was also included to highlight some of the issues thw were September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting MInutes Page 1 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved identified there. Mr. Saver said that the changes that NTSW presented to thr \111i3 wvrr more than procedural. He indicated that he thought the description of the program wid the services to be provided were changing. Mr. Saver said that if the MHB concurred with that ;assessment, it would require an amendment to the Purchase of Service Agreement. Based up+.m the contract, that would require the MHB to adopt a motion to thaat effect. In response to Ms. Reynolds' question, Mr. Saver said that the MHB %mould have two op-vrtunities to review this issue: the current request for consideration for FY2000-2001 by NTS\V, and the funding request that NTSW was submitting for FY2001-2002 funding_ Mr. Saver said that, based upon Mr. Illing's information, the current request would only effect 3 months of the FY2000-2001 contract. Mr. Saver said the information provided to the MHB at the dune meeting was that there was going to be a consolidation of two programs -- a workshop program and a psychosocial rehabilitation program -- into a single program. Mr. Saver said that the new program v+as going to be based upon some of the same program principles as the current First Step program. He said one concern raised was whether the MHB would fund a program service that is provided outside of Evanston. Mr. Saver commented that the MHB has never funded any agency programs outside of Evanston. They have, however, provided funding agencies outside of Evanston to provide services within Evanston. Mr. Saver added that he based his observations upon the agency's presentation and the materials that they presented regarding their plans. He said it appears that the consolidated program will continue to provide services for the population about which the MHB is concerned, and for which it has already agreed to fund services. He pointed out, additionally, that NTSW is obligated to continue to serve 60+ Evanston residents, in addition to whomever else they recruit for their consolidated program. That is a part of their contract. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that he thought the MHB would continue to have more influence over NTSW if the contract is maintained. He said that the contract has requirements that obligate the agency to participate in local networks, and continue to participate in planning efforts around specific community issues. Mr. Saver also pointed out that NTSW is obligated, under their contract for PSR services with the Evanston PSR cluster, to serve an Evanston population. Trilogy is the lead agency for the PSR cluster. He added that it was his understanding that if NTSW discontinued or significantly changed serving an Evanston population they would jeopardize that funding. Mr. Rowitz said he had spoken at length with Mr. Illing and Mr. Saver. He said that he thought there were four issues that the MHB should consider: 1. Is there anything wrong with serving Evanston residents in a Skokie location? Mr. Row7tz said he thought that was okay, and that seemed to be the consensus of the Board at an earlier meeting. 2. There will be two programs consolidating into a single program. It is too early to know what changes might occur. 3. What is NTSW's evolving relationship with Thresholds, and how is it reflected in this move? September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 it Lunu0rs rtcorded — not yet approved 4. Is the MHB willing to continue the present grant as NTTSNN' evoI:rs its consolidated program? Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to continue to fund NTSW after the consolidation of its programs, through the end of itx current rontrsct, February .S, 2001. Motion passed unanimously (7 aye — U no). Ms. Grover clarified that a contract amendment would ie needed, with a description of the pro -tram changes. Mr. Saver stated a letter of agreement would be attached to the current Purchase of Scr%ice Agreement. Ms. Siuler commented that New Trier Township equivalent of a Mental Health Board has funded programs outside of their Township that serve Winnetka residents. IV. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Rowitz said that there are a series of recommendations in the Substance Abuse Task Force Report for the MHB to consider. Mr. Rowitz asked the MHB to consider what they would like to do regarding the recommendations in the future. The Task Force will be starting again soon with a new focus, and will continue its work :►ith the next priority from the Round Table Report, the issue of dual diagnosis. Mr. Rowitz reviewed the two model projects that were developed by the UIC Public Health students for the Mental Health Board. He said that he hoped that agencies would be interested in them, and pick up on some of the ideas. He said that the models might generate grant applications to the NIHB for the following year, or the MHB might be able to assist agencies to seek funding for proposals from other sources. Mr. Rowitz noted that there was good participation from the community in the Task Force's activities. He said that Kate Mahoney, from PEER Services, co-chaired the Task Force. Ms. Grover thanked Mr. Ro% itz for the work of the Task Force. its. Grover moved and Mr. 'Tharayil seconded a motion to accept the report from the Substance Abuse Task Force. Motion approved unanimously. Mr. Saver said that there were a fear changes to be made in the final report. He said he would coordinate with Ms. Wiebe in the development of a cover letter from the MHB to be sent with the Report, and to identify where the Report would be sent. Housing Policy Committee. Mr. Saver said that Ms. Wiebe asked him, in her absence, to give the Committee Report. He said by way of background for new Board members, that the MHB's the Housing Policy w-as written in 1985 and adopted in 1986. As a part of the Board's current objectives and work plan, the MHB was going to begin work on updating all of its policies. The Housing Policy- Committee was recommending that a few educational sessions be provided for the MHB about current issues, policies, and laws related to housing for persons with special needs. The Committee- thought it would be useful to first educate the MHB prior to discussing local policy issues related to housing. There was a consensus that this would be useful, and that it should be provided in the context of Board meetings. Ms. Reynolds suggested that the Committee could provide this over 34 Board meetings. She asked that this be put on the Board's agenda beginning September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 Muxfts recorded — not yet approved is January 2001. V. PREPARATION FOR AGENCY REVIEW PROCESS . .._•. AND PROGRAM ALLOCATION; Mr. Saver reviewed the meeting calendars for the finding hearings and the allocation process He said the packet with the funding proposals would be distributed at the MHB's training meeting September 21. Three proposals will be reviewed at the MHB October 14 MHB meeting. Mr. Saver said that four or five agencies that are applying to the MHB are also applying for CDBG public sen-ice funds. He said that he and the CD staff have been trying to share information about the finding requests. The CD Committee is provided %%ith the MHB proposals. He indicated that if any MHB member would like copies of the CDBG proposals he will provide them. Mr. Saver reported that he had received requests for a three-year overview of MHB funding for programs, and a three-year summary of program service demographics. He said that he would provide those for the October 12 meeting. He asked the Board members to let him know as soon as possible if there were any other data or financial summaries that thcy wanted to review for the hearings. VI. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Apencv Liaison Reports Housing Options. Ms. Sittler reported she had attended the annual meeting of Housing Options. She said that that the meeting was well run. They had a presentation on mental illness and stigma that was presented by a consumer group from the Unitarian Church. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh reported that PEER Services has gone through a rigorous e%aluation of their programs through JCAHO. She said that they received the accreditation they were 'hoping for. Dimensions. Ms. Canter reported that the Dimensions Program had to move out of the space at St. Francis Hospital. They have expanded their week to 5 days a week, with groups from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and are splitting their time between space at Connections for the Homeless and at PEER Services. Ms. Canter said that the program is emphasizing life skills. She said it was her impression that the participants like the changes. However, one thing they do miss is the meal provided at St. Francis Hospital. Plans are being made for a substitution for this. V1I. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Reynolds said Ms. Wiebe asked that she remind the Board about the retreat that was going to September 14, 2000 Mental Heaith Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 iGrutes recorded -- not yet approved be on Thursday, September 21. She said that arrangements had bete made for a triinittg vidco on boards. Mr. Saver commented that the \1HB purchased one of the training videos by Jahn Caner. He said it was a two-hour video, but that 4is. Wiebe had thought the Board %%x)uld view the first half of it at the retreat. Mr. Saver said that after the MHB views it, he \►-s going to makr it mmilab3c to other interested boards and commissions, and to boards of community agencies. NTII. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'SJSTAFF REPORT Evanston Hospital Inpatient Psychiatry. Mr. Saver reported that one of the administrators at Evanston Hospital's Department of Psychiatry informed him that plans to move Evanston Hospital's inpatient psychiatry unit to Highland Park had been changed. He said he was informed that a derision had been made to maintain some inpatient activity in Evanston. He said he has not scan or heard anything official, but that this might also have an effect upon whether the hospital continues with the plans that Dr. Fred Miller had discussed with the MHB last year to move some of its outpatient psychiatric services into the community. Arc of Illinois Do the Right Thing Campaign. Mr. Saver said the Representative Hamos introduced HB4781 for consideration during the legislative override session. He said that the bill was proposed to increase salaries for direct services workers in community programs for persons with developmental disabilities. This bill is a continuation of some of the same issues that Are of Illinois was pushing last year in the Do the Right Thing Campaign. Mr. Saver said that those efforts were endorsed by the MHB. In response to Mr. Saver's question there w-as a general consensus of the MHB to continue to support this Campaign. North Shore Senior Center (NSSC). Mr. Saver reported that he and Nancy Flowers, Long Term Care Ombudsman, visited the new offices of NSSC in Northfield. The occasion was a legislative forum sponsored by the Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Mr. Saver commented that the new facility was beautiful and seemed to be very inviting. He congratulated the agency on their efforts. Mental Health Legislative Forum. Mr. Saver reported that he had been speaking «ith the Mental Health Association of the North Shore (MHANS) about a local legislative candidates' forum on mental health issues. However, all of the legislative races for Evanston are uncontested. As a result they decided to have a legislative forum on mental health issues prior to or during the legislative session in the spring. He said it would also provide the MHB and MHANS an opportunity to discuss some of the Iegislative issues that will be considered during the spring session, and involve consumers and family members. Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council (ESAPC). Mr. Saver reported that the ESAPC would be sponsoring a training session on social norms marketing on November 10 at ETHS. Chris Kovlsen, from N1U, will be talking about the work he has done in DeKalb with this approach to prevention programming. Social norms marketing was something that Kate Mahoney, from PEER Services, had discussed with the MHB last spring. The ESAPC has an interest in developing a September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved similar prevention campaign in Evanston. Mr. Saver said that ESAPC has been invited to be a participant in Reeltime this spring. The Co ufcH will be asked to screen a number of videos with a substance abuse theme, and identify one or two that Reeltime will purchase for the Library. Reeltime is a video arts group in Evanston that works in conjunction with the Evanston Library. The videos will be screened at a public showing that Reeltime will advertise as a part of their program. ESAPC will develop a program, e.g., pane€, discussion, which will accompany the showing. Tentatively, ESAPC is scheduled for Reeltime in April, which is Alcohol Awareness Month. Emergency Services. Mr. Saver said that the State approved ELAN's plans to use a portion of the community's EPS funds for 24-hour/seven day a wreL mobile crisis intervention services. He said the description of the services was shared witli the NM at an earlier meeting in the summer. As was discussed earlier, the services will be an expansion of the crisis intervention services that Trilogy has been providing in Rogers Park for the past eight gars. Mr. Saver said that, in preparation for this, he convened a meeting this past week for ELAN with several of the agencies in Evanston that report that they respond to crises. The goals were to identif}- a more comprehensive list of the types of emergency or crisis services that are provided in Evanston; develop a list of services that should or could be contacted for specific situations; and begin to identify some of the limitations in the service system and gaps in services. Trilogy will use some of this information in planning their activity in Evanston. Mr. Saver said that participants in the meeting identified a number of other agencies from which to get information. He added that most of the agencies involved in the initial meeting indicated that there was a need for a community psychiatrist who is available to do assessments in homes. These were agencies working with children, adults and seniors. Aging Well Conference III. Mr. Saver advised that the third annual Aging Well Conference would be held in May 2001. He said that this year he and Robyn Golden, from the Council for Jewish Elderly, had been asked to co-chair the planning group. Meeting adjourned at 8:45. Respectfully submitted, Joan Baron Secretary September U, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 Minutes recorded — not yet approved •`, EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD ' MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2000 Members Present: Lou Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds, Tom Tharayil, Susan Stroh, Carol SiWer, , , Susan Canter, Ellen Reynolds Presiding: staff. - Community. Representatives: Ellen Reynolds, Vice Chair Harvey Saver, Joan Barott Karen Wertymer (Metropolitan, Family' Services); Peter filing, (NTSW) , .... . . . . Ellen Reynolds, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Reynolds welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves.. If. APPROVAL OF MINUTES JULY 13, 2000 MHB MEETING Vice Chair Reynolds stated that, hearing no corrections, the July 13, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. W. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FROM NTSW Peter Illing, Executive Director of NTSW, joined the MHB. In response to Ms. Re -holds, Mr. filing summarized NTSW's request to the MHB. He said the agency was requesting the MHB to agree to continue the contract for the FY2000-2001 year, after there is a reconfiguration and consolidation of the First Step program at NTSW's Skokie location. In response to Mr. Saver, Mr. Illing said the agency would make the changes in its operations on November 30. Ms.Reynolds asked Mr. Saver to review the infbrmation NTSW had presented about the proposed changes in their programs. Mr. Saver said his concerns, and the issues that he thought the MHB should consider, were included in his review of the issues that was in the Board packet. A copy of minutes from the ELAN meeting was also included to highlight some of the issues that vmm September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 Minutes recorded — not yet approved identified there. Mr. Saver said that the changes that NTSNi' preQmrL- i to the M14B \%eir more d an procedural. He indicated that he thought the description of the pn grun and the sonices to be provided were changing. Mr. Saver said that if she NiHB concumcd N\ith that ays�.mrnt, it would require an amendment to the Purchase of Serict Agreement- 0.&sci upon the cx ntrw t. that would require the NM to adopt a motion to that effect. In response to Ms. Reynolds' question, Mr. Saver said that the MHB utiuld have trvo.wM�nunities to review this issue: the current request for consideration for FY2OW-2001 by \TW. and the funding request that NTSW was submitting for FY2001-2002 funding. Mr. Saver said that, based upon Mr. Illing's information, the current request would only effect 3 months of the FY2000-2001 contract. Mr. Saver said the information provided to the NIHB at the June meeting was that there , -tins going to be a consolidation of two programs -- a workshop program and a psychosocial rehabilitation program -- into a single program. Mr. Saver said that the new program was going to be based upon some of the same program principles as the current First Step program. He said one concern raised was whether the MHB would fund a program serice that is provided outside of Evanston. Mr. Saver commented that the MHB has never funded any agency programs outside of Evanston. They have, however, provided funding agencies outside of Evanston to provide services within Evanston. Mr. Saver added that he based his observations upon the agency's presentation and the materials that they presented regarding their plans. He said it appears that the consolidated program will continue to provide services for the population about which the MHB is concerned, and for which it has already agreed to fund services. He pointed out, additionally, that NTSW is obligated to continue to serve 50+ Evanston residents, in addition to whomever else they recruit for their consolidated program. That is a part of their contract. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that he thought the htHB would continue to have more influence over NTSW if the contract is maintained. He said that the contract has requirements that obligate the agency to participate in local networks, and continue to participate in planning efforts around specific community issues. Mr. Saver also pointed out that NTSW is obligated, under their contract for PSR services with the Evanston PSR cluster, to serve an Evanston population. Trilogy is the lead agency for the PSR cluster. lie added that it was his understanding that if NTSW discontinued or significantly changed serving an Evanston population they would jeopardize that funding. Mr. Rowitz said he had spoken at length with Mr. filing and Mr. Saver. He said that he thought there were four issues that the MHB should consider: 1. Is there anything wrong with serving Evanston residents in a Skokie location? Mr. Rowitz said he thought that was okay, and that seemed to be the consensus of the Board at an earlier meeting. 2. There will be two programs consolidating into a single program. It is too early to know what changes might occur. 3. What is NTSW's evolving relationship with Thresholds, and how is it reflected in this move? September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 Minutes recorded — not yet approved 4. Is the MHB willing to continue the present grant :tLs its consolidated prog�u? Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to continue to fund \TSW after the consolidation of its programs, through the end of its current contract, February 28, 2001. Motion passed unanimously (7 aye — 0 no). Ms. Grover clarified that a contract amendment would be needed. with a description of did proamarn changes. Mr. Saver stated a letter of agreement would be attached to the current Purchase of Sertice Agreement. Ms. Sittler commented that New Trier Township equivalent of a Mental Health Board has funded programs outside of their Township that serve A mnetka residents. IV. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Rowitz said that there are a series of recommendations in the Substance Abuse Task Force Report for the MHB to consider. Mr. Rowitz asked the MHB to consider what they would like to do regarding the recommendations in the future. The Task Force will be starting again soon with a new focus, and will continue its work with the next priority from the Round Table Report, the issue of dual diagnosis. Mr. Rowtz reviewed the two model projects that were developed by the UIC Public Health students for the Mental Health Board. He said that he hoped that agencies would be interested in them, and pick up on some of the ideas. He said that the models might generate grant applications to the MHB for the following year, or the MHB might be able to assist agencies to seek funding for proposals from other sources. Mr. Rowitz noted that there was good participation from the community in the Task Force's activities. He said that Kate Mahoney, from PEER Services, co-chaired the Task Force. Ms. Grover thanked Mr. Rowitz for the work of the Task Force. Ms. Grover moved and Mr. Tharayil seconded a motion to accept the report from the Substance Abuse Task Force. Motion approved unanimously. Mr. Saver said that there were a few changes to be made in the final report. He said he would coordinate with Ms. Wiebe in the development of a cover letter from the %11113 to be sent with the Report, and to identiA- where the Report would be sent. Housing Policy Committee. Mr. Saver said that Ms. Wiebe asked him, in her absence, to give the Committee Report. He said by way of background for new Board members, that the MHB's the Housing Policy was written in 1985 and adopted in 1986. As a part of the Board's current objectives and work plan. the MHB was going to begin work on updating all of its policies. The Housing Policy Committee was recommending that a few educational sessions be provided for the MHB about current issues, policies, and laws related to housing for persons with special needs. The Committee thought it would be useful to first educate the MHB prior to discussing local policy issues related to housing. There was a consensus that this would be useful, and that it should be provided in the context of Board meetings. Ms. Reynolds suggested that the Committee could provide this over 34 Board meetings. She asked that this be put on the Board's agenda beginning September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 3 �I Minutes recorded — not yet approved in January 2001. V. PREPARATION FOR AGENCY REVIEW AND PROGRAM ALLOCATION PROCESS Mr. Saver reviewed the meeting calendars for the funding hearings and the allocation process`. He said the packet with the funding proposals would be distributed at the MHB's training mearng September 21. Three proposals will be revie«vd at the MHB October 14 MHB meeting. Mr. &zver said that four or five agencies that are applying to the MHB are also applying for CDBG public service funds. He said that he and the CD staff have been tr}zng to share information about the funding requests. The CD Committee is provided %vith the NfHB proposals. He indicated the if any MHB member would like copies of the CDBG proposals he will provide them. Mr. Saver reported that he had received requests for a three-year overview of MHB funding for programs, and a three-year summary of program service demographics. He said that he would provide those for the October 12 meeting. He asked the Board members to let him know as won as possible if there were any other data or financial summaries that they wanted to review for the hearings. VI. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Aqencv Liaison Reports Housing Options. Ms. Sittler reported she had attended the annual meeting of Housing Options. She said that that the meeting was well run. They had a presentation on mental illness and stigma that was presented by a consumer group from the Unitarian Church. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh reported that PEER Services has gone through a rigorous evaluation of their programs through JCAHO. She said that they received the accreditation they were hoping for. Dimensions. Ms. Canter reported that the Dimensions Program had to move out of the space at St. Francis Hospital. They have expanded their week to S days a week, with groups from 10:00 am. to 1:30 p.m., and are splitting their time between space at Connections for the Homeless and at PEER Services. Ms. Canter said that the program is emphasizing life skills. She said it was her impression that the participants like the changes. However, one thing they do miss is the meal provided at St. Francis Hospital. Plans are being made for a substitution for this. V11. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Reynolds said Ms. Wiebe asked that she remind the Board about the retreat that was going to September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 4 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved be on Thursday, September 21. She said that arrangements had been made for a training video on boards. Mr. Saver commented that the MHB purchased one of the training videos by John Carver. He said it was a two-hour s•ideo, but that Ms. Wiebe had thought the Board would view the fum half of it at the retreat. `►'Ir. Saver said that after the MHB views it, he w-as going to make it availabh to other interested boards and commissions, and to boards of community agencies. VIII. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S/STAFF REPORT Evanston Hospit9l Inpatient Psychiatry. Mr. Saver reported that one of the administratom at Evanston Hospital's Department of Psychiatry informed him that plans to move Evanston HospetaI's inpatient psychiatry unit to Highland Park had been changed. He said he was informed tf�w a decision had been made to maintain some inpatient activity in Evanston. He said he has not jimn or heard anything official, but that this might also have an effect upon whether the hospital continues with the plans that Dr. Fred Miller had discussed with the MHB last year to move some of its outpatient psychiatric services into the community. Are or Illinois Do the Right Thing Campaign. Mr. Saver said the Representative Hzmos introduced HB4781 for consideration during the legislative override session. He said that the bill was proposed to increase salaries for direct services workers in community programs for persons with developmental disabilities. This bill is a continuation of some of the same issues that Arc of Illinois was pushing last year in the Do the Right Thing Campaign. Mr. Saver said that those efforts were endorsed by the MHB. In response to Mr. Saver's question there w•as a general consensus of the MHB to continue to support this Campaign. North Shore Senior Center (NSSC). Mr. Saver reported that he and Nancy Flowers, Long Term Care Ombudsman, visited the new offices of NSSC in Northfield. The occasion was a legislative forum sponsored by the Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Mr. Saver commented that the new facility was beautiful and seemed to be very inviting. He congratulated the agency on their efforts. Mental Health Legislative Forum. Mr. Saver reported that he had been speaking with the Mental Health Association of the North Shore (MHANS) about a local legislative candidates' forum on mental health issues. However, all of the legislative races for Evanston are uncontested. As a result they decided to have a legislative forum on mental health issues prior to or during the legislative session in the spring. He said it would also provide the M14B and MHANS an opportunity to discuss some of the legislative issues that will be considered during the spring session, and involve consumers and family members. Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council (ESAPC). Mr. Saver reported that the ESAPC would be sponsoring a training session on social norms marketing on November 10 at ETHS. Chris Kovlsen, from NIU, will be talking about the work he has done in DeKalb with this approach to prevention programming. Social norms marketing was something that Kate Mahoney, from PEER Services, had discussed with the MHB last spring. The ESAPC has an interest in developing a September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved similar prevention campaign in Evanston - Mr. Saver said that ESAPC has been invited to be a participant in Reeltime this spring. The Council will be asked to screen a number of videos with a substance abuse theme, and identify one or two that Reeltime will purchase for the Library. Reeltime is a video arts group in Evanston that works in conjunction with the Evanston Libre-. The videos will be screened at a public showing that Reeltime will advertise as a part of their program. ESAPC %ill develop a program, e.g., panel, discussion, which will accompany the showing. Tentatively. ESAPC is scheduled for Reeltime in April, which is Alcohol Awareness Month. Emergency Services. Mr. Saver said that the State approved ELAN's plans to use a portion of the community's EPS funds for 24hour/seven day a week, mobile crisis intervention services. He said the description of the services was shared with the MHB at an earlier meeting in the summer. As was discussed earlier, the services will be an cq=ision of the crisis intervention services that Trilogy has been providing in Rogers Park for the past eight years. Mr. Saver said that, in preparation for this, he convened a meeting this past week for ELAN with several of the agencies in Evanston that report that they respond to crises. The goals were to identify a more comprehensive list of the types of emergency or crisis services that are provided in Evanston; develop a list of services that should or could be contacted for specific situations; and begin to identify some of the limitations in the service system and gaps in services. Trilogy will use some of this information in planning their activity in Evanston. Mr. Saver said that participants in the meeting identified a number of other agencies from which to get information. He added that most of the agencies involved in the initial meeting indicated that there was a need for a community psychiatrist who is available to do assessments in homes. These were agencies working with children, adults and seniors. Aging Well Conference III. Mr. Saver ad,.ised that the third annual Aging Well Conference would. be held in May 2001. He said that this }-ear he and Robyn Golden, from the Council for Jewish Elderly, had been asked to co-chair the planting group. Meeting adjourned at 8:45. Respectfully submitted, Joan Barott Secretary September 14, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, JULY 13, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds. Thomas Tharayil, Susan Stroh, Carol Sittler, Victoria Kalish, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Staff•., ; ; . Harvey Saver, Joan Baron Community Representatives: Nancy Flowers, (Commission on Aging); Karen Wertymer (Metropolitan Family Services); Alexander Brown (Evanston/ Skokie Valley Senior Services); Bob Roy, Rana Patner-Brown (Evanston Community Defender); Joe Kestnbaum (St. Francis Hospital Comprehensive Mental Health Center); Susan Canter Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves. Ms. Wiebe commented that Lou Rowitz had finally completed and had published his most recent book. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES JUNE 08, 2000 Ms. Wiebe indicated that, hearing no corrections, the June 8, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. Ill. AGENCY REVIEW • St. Francis Hospital Comprehensive Mental Health Center Ms. Wiebe invited Joe Kestnbaum, Director of St. Francis Hospital's Division of Behavioral Health, to the table. She reminded the Board that this was not a funding hearing but a meeting to become more familiar with St. Francis Hospital's Comprehensive Mental Health Center. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 1 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Kestnbaum said he N as aware that the MHB had several new members, and that his presentation would take this into consideration Mr. Kestnbaum said the Center has four programs with which the MHB would be familiar. The Addiction Recovery Center (ARC) is an outpatient service for adults that specializes in alcohol and cocaine abuse. ARC is a small program with a staff of four. He said that the Dimensions Paocram is the first affiliation of this type for their programs. It is collaboration between St. Francis. Connections for the Homeless, and PEER Sersices. La Ofiicina Latina is a bilingual counseling program for the Hispanic families who either do not speak English or prefer have treatment in Spanish. Approximately 1 j% of clients at the hospital are Hispanic. St. Francis has worked closely %%ith St. Nicholas Church, which has a number of Hispanic members. The Outpatient Psychiatric Care (OPC) is also funded by the State, and has two main components. The first is services for adults, children and adolescents from the community %bo have a wide range of problems that are mild to severe in nature. This part of the program is not for the population with chronic mental illness. The second part of Outpatient Psychiatric Care includes clients who have a severe and persistent mental illness, and who have been in the State's psychiatric hospitals. This part of the program also provides counseling and medication management for indi,Tduals moderate levels of developmental disabilities. Mr. Kestnbaum said that individuals stay with this part of the program for a long time. He added that through OPC they provide individual. couple, and group counseling; medication assessments and monitoring; psychological testing; case management and referral services; and crisis intervention. Everyone receives an individualized assessment before they are placed into services in any one program. Ms. Wiebe asked if Mr. Kestnbaum if he foresaw any changes in the programs? heir. Kestnbaum said the most immediate one was that he has hired a psychiatrist, Dr. Gilla Davis, as Chair for the Department of Psychiatry and Medical Director for Behavioral Health He added that Dr. Davis was formerly with Evanston Hospital's Department of Psychiatry. Mr. Kestnbaum said that another possible change % as that the Mental Health Services might need to move out of the hospital complex and find a place elsewhere in the community. Mr. Kestnbaum passed out a flyer on the Group Services Program. He briefly discussed the group services and said that they are trying to build a greater variety and make them more prominent in their service array. Mr. Kestnbaum said that the priman• focus of St. Francis Hospital's behavioral health services was to prevent mental illness. provide community education about mental illness, and to work with people who are the chronic mentally ill. He added that he continues to see a gap about education in the community around mental illness Mr. Rowitz commented that Evanston Northwestern Healthcare (EIN'H) has reportedly made plans to move several of its programs to Highland Park Hospital. He asked whether there was a chance that July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved St. Francis would be moving any of its services? Mr. Kcstnbaum said that Rcctr�-tion Hospital is interested in expanding its services throughout their system, not moving elscwhcre. Resurrection recently purchased another mental health facility, ProCare, in ProNiso To%%nship. I lo%%rvcr, their services would not be moving out of Evanston. He pointed out that approximately �: of their funding is from the Office of Mental Health for Evanston. Ms. Wiebe asked how Mr. Kestnbaum's time was divided among programs? He explained that his responsibilities are divided between St. Francis Hospital and the West Lake Hospital. Ile said he wouldn't be going to ProCare because they have their own structure. In addition. he aid he is having less responsibility for inpatient services. Ms. Sittler asked what were the implications of ENH moving its inpatient M-ch unit to Highland Park Hospital. Mr. Kcstnbaum said he thought it provided an opportunity for a dialogue in the community to ensure that people are still being served. Mr. Saver said ENIH has also discussed the possibility of moving some of its outpatient psychiatric services into the community. He asked Mr. Kcstnbaum if he were on the Mental Health Board what his recommendations would be for how the hospitals should be waning together in the community? Mr. Kestnbaurn said that St. Francis has a good relationship with ENH and their related programs. He said that he thought that the MHB was in an ideal position to use its influence to make sure that the hospitals are talking together as they make changes to ensure that the community's needs are continuing to be met. Ms. Wiebe noted that St. Francis is getting increasing referrals from Evanston Hospital. Mr. Kestnbaum said that there are always some referrals back and forth. It is often that people are "not clicking" at one place and having to go some place else. He said both hospitals try to cooperate. Mr. Saver asked what would change with Dr. Davis starting? Mr. Kestnbaum said that she would have to make her own decisions about that after she finds her way around and begins to understand their system. He said initially he expects better coordination over all their programs. He said he was expecting a new burst of energy and innovation in their system. Mr. Kestnbaum added that he would like to add to the psychiatric staff. Ms. Wiebe thanked Mr. Kcstnbaum for his presentation. She asked him if he had any feedback for the MHB about their working relationship? Mr. Kestnbaum said he was not always real clear about the MHB's priorities. He said he would like to know when and how they evolve. He added that he would like to see a period of stability in the membership on the Mental Health Board. • Evanston Community Defender Office Ms. Wiebe invited Bob Roy, Executive Director, and Rana Patner-Brown, Director of Social Work Services, from the Evanston Community Defender (ECD) to the table. July 13, 200D Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Roy distributed a brochure outlining the operations of ECD. The agency provides legal and social work services. They have invested their dollars in a type of service delivery that is becoming prevalent across the nation. Their goal is to have these two components work in a partnership from a not -for -profit platform. ECD also responds to the needs of individuals who need legal services in areas of social and emotional issues. Mr. Roy pointed out that the MHB funds the social w-nrk services aspect of the program. He talked about the agency's approach in dealing with crisis intervention problems. In response to questions, Ms. Patner-Brown said she discusses goals and their hopes for the fatum with her clients. She discussed "Girl Talk", a group approach that enables girls to talk to one another in a peer -counseling model. The agency has a support group for boys. They also have a group for unwed fathers, a fatherhood project, that involves the YMCA and the I Have A Dream Foundation. Mr. Rowitz commented that the uniqueness of the population is clear, as is the social need He pointed out, however, that there are a number of agencies in Evanston that are doing similar things for teenage girls. He asked whether there are any attempts made to reach out and work with some of the other groups and agencies in certain aspects of the program? He said, for example, that Family Focus was doing a young fathers program. Ms. Patner-Brov-m said that they do work with other groups whenever they can. However, some of the services that each agency offers are note entirely the same, or have the same goals. Ms. Reynolds asked whether everyone that ECD works with has to have a legal issue? Mr. Roy said that is not required for some of the support groups that are offered. Ms. Wiebe asked Mr. Roy to discuss what happens when a troubled youth with serious problems is returned to the same family and same community that were supporting his problem behaviors. Mr. Roy said that it is eery frustrating, and sometimes the problem starts all over. He said that ECD tries to intervene in the issue when plans are made for the child to be returned from placement. He said that they advocate for a step-down plan or program that meets their needs. He indicated that they try to get involved as advocates in discharge planning for their clients. htr. Roy added that there is a need for a group home for Evanston youth in another environment, such as a farm in Wisconsin, with headquarters in Evanston. Ms. Wiebe thanked Mr. Roy and Ms. Ratner -Brown for their presentation. Ms. Wiebe said that this was the last agency review. The next time the MHB will see the agencies %vill be at the funding hearings. Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB needs to make a decision as to whether the Agency Review process is useful to the MHB. She added that the MHB could also ask the agencies for input about this process when they meet with them in December to get comments about the funding Process July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 X Minutes recorded -- not yet approved IV. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS Mental Health Board Funding Policy. Ms. Wiebe said that the recommendations fromt tthe Subcommittee were enclosed in the packet. She said she appreciated the clarity and the econanay of the recommendations from Ms. Grover and Ms. Stroh. Ms. Wiebe said she thought that there were some issues related to these policies that the MHB bul never had resolved in the request to the City Attorney 1112. years ago. She said she thought tliuse should be answered before dealing with the Subcommittee's recommendations. Mr. Rowitz raised several issues about the way that an earlier City Council had lumped all oft he levies from different boards under the General Revenue Fund. He said he was concerned about fa:)w the MHB would ever be able to get additional funds, and avoid cuts. This ability to make those types of decisions was intended to be a part of the MHB's original charier. Currently, with the MHB's budget included under the General Revenue Fund, there are arbitrary limitations placed upon hew much money %Nils be allocated for mental health purpose. Mr. Rowitz said that he finds this v=.v unsatisfactory. In addition, the MHB Budget has been reduced over the last ten years and limited the MHB's ability to fund programs. Ms. Wiebe said she thought the MHB should review the documentation about the various changes, and the elimination of the MHB Levy. She said she thought the MHB should find out when it happened, how it happened, and why it happened. Ms. Reynolds commented that she thought the MHB had already looked at this information when Mary Helt-Gavin previously submitted a request to the City Attorney. She said she would not &--e to see effort taken up with this issue again when there is nothing that would be accomplished. In addition, the MHB has a number of other things that it should be working on at this time. Mr. Rowitz asked whether Evanston was the only community that overrode the 708 Board legislation? Mr. Saver said that he had no information about that. He indicated that most 708 Boards were enacted townships or counties, and not for municipalities. Mr. Rowitz said that the under he= rule the MHB lost control of its funds when the mental health levy was eliminated. He said he thought this might have changed the function of the MHB as a board. In response to a questiom be added that he thought the Community Mental Health Act permitted home rule communities additional jurisdiction over 708 Board activity. Ms. Wiebe said she wanted the %, 1HB to look at materials about its authority, and to understand what happened. Mr. Rowitz said he wanted to know how the MHB would ever be able to get an increase in the funds it had to allocate for services. Ms. Wiebe said that all of these were important questions, and that she would ask the Funding Policy Subcommittee to pursue them. Housing Policy. Ms. Wiebe said that she and Ms. Reynolds were the members on the Housing July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 ,VI Minutes recorded — not yet approved Policy Committee. At this time there is no Housing Report The Subcommittee will be looking at what type of information to provide to the MHB before submitting recommendations for policy revisions. Funding Task Force. Ms. Wiebe reported that Ms. Stroh, Ms. SittIer, and Mr. Tharayil agreed to serve on the committee that would develop recommendations about funding allocations w-i h staff. Substance Abuse Task Force. Ms. Stroh said she attended the last Task Force meeting- She complimented Mr. Rowitz and his graduate students for their work in developing some amazing program designs. Mr. Rowitz said that he and hate Mahoney, the Co -Chair, to summarize the Task Force's activities from the first year. V. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Quarterly Narrative Reports (1st Quarter) Ms. Wiebe said she was concerned about the agencies that were not submitting their reports on time. She asked whether there was anything the MHB could do to get the agencies to submit the reports in a timely manner. Mr. Saver gave a brief description of when the agencies are to submit their reports. He said that Ms. Baron typically calls and prompts the agencies for late billing information and service reports. He said that when the agency reports are not included in the Board packet it means that they are not being submitted on time. He said that the individual Liaison could feel free to ask their respective agencies about this when it happens. Mr. Rowitz said he thought the MHB needed a different type of Quarterly Report form. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that Board members developed the form. It was intended to address accountability issues that they were concerned about at the time the form was developed. Mr. Rowitz said he would like to develop a form that would allo«• the MHB to make comparisons from quarter to quarter. Now, the information provided is out of context. He also said that it might not be necessary to receive the reports as often because things do not change that quickly. Mr. Tharayil commented that, as a rather new MHB member, he finds the Quarterly Reports very helpful and is helping hint become familiar with the funded agencies. Ms. Wiebe suggested that at the end of the year the MHB set up a Committee to redo the Quarurty Narrative Report form because they are not related to the Agency Liaison functions and issues. Mr. Rowitz recommended that the MHB also look into providing a workshop on developing performance standards. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 6 x. Minutes recorded — not yet approved r. Agency Liaison Reports PEER Services. \is. Stroh reported that Kate 4iahoney alerted her that the Dimensions Pr+agt= may have to move out of St. Francis Hospital. They are already working on an alternative locamon for the groups. Ms. Wiebe introduced Susan Canter as the new MHB member. Her appointment was confirrmcd, but she has not yet been sworn in. She asked her to be the new Agency Liaison specifically:'or Dimensions. This is a very important newprogram for the MHB, and wYll be revrie«rd for fondling as a separate agency. Evansion/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh said the program received a pant from ¢be Rotary and the Illinois Department of Aging to use for special events for the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren group. One major concern has been staff' turnover. They have not been abfe to compete against higher salaries in the for -profit nursing home facilities. However, they will be completely staffed by Tuesday. Two staff members have been assigned to St. Francis Hospital and the staff person assigned to Evanston Hospital «rill be doing more in home visits. Family Focus. Ms. Kalish said she spoke with Delores Holmes and was advised that the agency received an S8,500 grant from Evanston Community Foundation for a program called "Ghing and Taking and Working It Out" for fourth and fifth graders. leis. Holmes advised that they are very clese to appointing a new executive director for Family Focus, Inc, who will be responsible for all their sites. On August S, Family Focus will be hosting a Gospel Festival and a parade through the community. V. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe recommended that the MHB have a retreat to discuss the role of the Board. and its responsibilities in making policy. She said that it was a good time because the MHB finally had a full complement. There was concern expressed that it might take a lot of work and be very draining to do something like that at the same time as the proposal review process. Ms. Reynolds suggested that it be an opportunity for all the MHB members to get to know each other. After extensive discussion, there was a consensus to have mini -retreat during starting at the dinner hour cm a weekday. It will be before the start of the funding process. Mr. Tharayil and Mr. Ro-vitz agreed to look into facilitators for a discussion about making policy. Several suggestions were also made to Mr. Saver about possible resources that the group might use that evening. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes . k Minutes recorded — not yet approved VII. AUGUST MEETING In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, the MHB decided not to have an August meeting. `The mod scheduled meeting will be September 14. VIII. STAFF REPORT Mr. Saver said the Human Services Committee would be meeting Monday, July 17. He said that the Arts Council is on the agenda, and that they «ill be talking with the HSC about issues of governance and control as they relate to the Arts Council. He said he -*vas under the impression that some of their concerns were similar to issues that the MHB had been raising. Mr. Saver said earlier he had provided Charles Smith, who is working with Etropolis Evanston, the computer files from the MHB's community resource directory. Mr. Smith worked with Virtuosity, the firm that is doing web page development for Etropolis, and they have been able to format the information about agencies for an informational section about social services on the Etropolis web page. Mr. Saver passed out a copy of a sample page from the site. He indicated that sometime in the next few months the all of the information from 77ds Might Help would be available on the Internet. It will be set up so each agency can regularly update their own information. There will also be spar for them to indicate upcoming events that they are having. Mr. Saver said that he is hoping that this system will also provide some shortcuts for updating all of the information in the directory, and make the printing of the next edition less burdensome. Meeting adjourned at 10:15. Respectfully submitted, Joan Barott July 13. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 6 �q Maim tes recorded .. not yet approved MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, JULY 13, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds, Thomas Tharayil, Susan Stroh, CArol Sittler, Victoria Kalish, Lonnie 1Viebe Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Staff: Harvey Saver, Joan Barott Community Representatives: Fancy Flowers, (Commission on Aging); Karen Wettymer (Metropolitan Family Services); Alexander Brown (Evanston/ Skokie Valley Senior Services); Bob Roy, Rana Patner-Brown (Evanston Community Defender); Joe Kestnbaum (St. Francis Hospital Comprehensive Mental Health Center); Susan Canter Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed the guests and asked that they introduce themselves. Ms. Wiebe commented that Lou Rowitz had finally completed and had published his most recent book. II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES JUNE 08, 2000 Ms. Wiebe indicated that, hearing no corrections, the June 8, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. III. AGENCY REVIEW • St. Francis Hospital Comprehensive Mental Health Center Ms. Wiebe invited Joe Kestnbaum, Director of St. Francis Hospital's Division of Behavioral Health, to the table. She reminded the Board that this was not a funding hearing but a meeting to become. more familiar with St. Francis Hospital's Comprehensive Mental Health Center. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 k ANnutes recorded — not yet approved __ W. Kestnbaum said he was aware that the MHB had several new members, and that his presentation would take this into consideration. Mr. Kesmbaum said the Center has four programs with which the MHB would be familiar. The Addiction Recovery Center (ARC) is an outpatient service for adults that specializes in alcohol and cocaine abuse. ARC is a small program with a staff offour. He said that the Dimensions Program is the first affiliation of this type for their programs. It is collaboration between St. Francis, Connections for the Homeless, and PEER Services. La Ofl:<cina Latina is a bilingual counseling program for the Hispanic families who either do not speak English or prefer have treatment in Spanish. Approximately 15% of clients at the hospital are' Hispanic. St. Francis has worked closely with St. Nicholas Church, which has a number of Hispanic, members. The Outpatient Psychiatric Care (OPC) is also funded by the State, and has two main components. The first is services for adults, children and adolescents from the community who have a %tide range of problems that are mild to severe in nature. This part of the program is not for the population with chronic mental illness. The second part of Outpatient Psychiatric Care includes clients who have a severe and persistent mental illness, and who have been in the State's psychiatric hospitals. This part of the program also provides counseling and medication management for individuals moderate levels of developmental disabilities. Mr. Kestnbaum said that individuals stay with this part of the program for a long time. He added that through OPC they provide individual, couple, and group counseling; medication assessments and monitoring; psychological testing; case management and referral services; and crisis intervention. Everyone receives an individualized assessment before they are placed into services in any one program. Ms. Wiebe asked if Mr. Kestnbaum if he foresaw any changes in the programs? Mr. Kestnbaum said the most immediate one was that he has hired a psychiatrist, Dr. Gilla Davis, as Chair for the Department of Psychiatry and Medical Director for Behavioral Health. He added that Dr. Davis was formerly with Evanston Hospital's Department of Psychiatry. Mr. Kestnbaum said that another possible change %%as that the Mental Health Senices might need to move out of the hospital complex and find a place elsewhere in the community. Mr. Kestnbaum passed out a flyer on the Group Services Program. He briefly discussed the group services and said that they are trying to build a greater variety and make them more prominent in their service array. Mr. Kestnbaum said that the primary focus of St. Francis Hospital's behavioral health services was to prevent mental illness, provide community education about mental illness, and to work with people who are the chronic mentally ill. He added that he continues to see a gap about education in the community around mental illness Mr. Rowitz commented that Evanston Northw,estem Healthcare (ENH) has reportedly made plans to move several of its programs to Highland Paris Hospital. He asked whether there was a chance that July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 x hUnutes recorded — not yet approved SL Francis would be moving any of its sendces? Mr. Kestnbaum said that Resurrection Hospital is interested in expanding its services throughout their system. not moving elsewhere. Resurrection recently purchased another mental health facility, ProCare, in Pro%7so Township. However, their services would not be moving out of Evanston. He pointed out that approximately'/. of their fimding is from the Office of Mental Health for Evanston. Ms. Wiebe asked how Mr. Kestnbaum's time w-as dix ided among programs? He explained that his responsibilities are divided between St. Francis Hospital and the West Lake Hospital. He said he wvauldn't be going to ProCare because they have their own structure. In addition, he said he is having less responsibility for inpatient services. Ms. Sittler asked what were the implications of ENH moving its inpatient psych unit to Highland Park Hospital. Mr. Kestnbaum said he thought it provided an opportunity for a dialogue in the community to ensure that people are still being served. Mr. Saver said ENH has also discussed the possibility of moving some of its outpatient psychiatric services into the community. He asked Mr. Kestnbaum if he were on the Mental Health Board what his recommendations would be for how the hospitals should be working together in the community? Mr. Kestnbaum said that St. Francis has a good relationship with ENH and their related programs. He said that he thought that the MHB was in an ideal position to use its influence to make sure that the hospitals are talking together as they make changes to ensure that the community's needs are continuing to be met. Ms. Wiebe noted that St. Francis is getting increasing referrals from Evanston Hospital. Mr. Kestnbaum said that there are always some referrals back and forth. It is often that people are "not clicking" at one place and having to go some place else. He said both hospitals try to cooperate. Mr. Saver asked what would change with Dr. Davis starting? Mr. Kestnbaum said that she would have to make her own decisions about that after she finds her way around and begins to understand their system. He said initially he expects better coordination over all their programs. He said he was expecting a new burst of energy and innovation in their system. Mr. Kestnbaum added that he would like to add to the psychiatric staff. Ms. Wiebe thanked Mr. Kestnbaum for his presentation. She asked him if he had any feedback for the MHB about their working relationship? Mr. Kestnbaum said he was not always real clearabout the MHB's priorities. He said he would like to know when and how they evolve. He added that he would like to see a period of stability in the membership on the Mental Health Board. • Evanston Community Defender Office Ms. Wiebe invited Bob Roy, Executive Director, and Rana Patner-Browtt, Director of Social Work Services, from the Evanston Community Defender (ECD) to the table. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 X � Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Roy distributed a brochure outlining the operations of ECD. The agency provides kTO aid social work services. They have invested their dollars in a type of service delivery that is L...,,,—:—g prevalent across the nation. Their goal is to have these two components work in a paramnhip from a not -for -profit platform. ECD also responds to the needs of individuals who need legal smices in areas of social and emotional issues. Mr. Roy pointed out that the MHB funds the social work services aspect of the program. He talked about the agency's approach in dealing with crisis intervention problems. In response to questions, Ms. Patner-Brown said she discusses goals and their hopes for the future with her clients. She discussed "Girl Tall:", a group approach that enables girls to talk to one another in a peer -counseling model. The agency has a support group for boys. They also have a group for unwed fathers, a fatherhood project, that involves the YMCA and the l Hav A Dream foundation. Mr. Rowitz commented that the uniqueness of the population is clear, as is the social netd. He pointed out, however, that there are a number of agencies in Evanston that are doing simil--r things for teenage girls. He asked whether there are any attempts made to reach out and work with some of the other groups and agencies in certain aspects of the program? He said, for example, thm Family Focus was doing a young fathers program. Ms. Patner•Brown said that they do work with other groups whenever they can. However, some of the services that each agency offers arc now entirely the same, or have the same goals. Ms. Reynolds asked whether everyone that ECD works with has to have a legal issue? Mr. Roy said that is not required for some of the support groups that are offered. Ms. Wiebe asked Mr. Roy to discuss what happens when a troubled youth %%ith serious problems is returned to the same family and same community that were supporting his problem behaviors. Mr. Roy said that it is very frustrating, and sometimes the problem starts all over. He said that ECD tries to intervene in the issue when plans are made for the child to be returned from placemenL He said that they advocate for a step-down plan or program that meets their needs. He indicated that they try to get involved as advocates in discharge planning for their clients. Mr. Roy added that there is a need for a group home for Evanston youth in another environment, such as a farm in Wisconsin, with headquarters in Evanston. Ms. Wiebe thanked Mr. Roy and Ms. Patner-Brown for their presentation. Ms. Wiebe said that this was the last agency review. The next time the MHB will see the agencies will be at the funding hearings. Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB needs to make a decision as to whether the Agency Review process is useful to the MHB. She added that the MHB could also ask the agencies for input about this process when they meet with them in December to get comments about the funding process July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 x Minutes recorded —not yet approved IV. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS Mental Health Board Funding Policy. Ms. Wiebe said that the recommendation• from the Subcommittee were enclosed in the packet. She said she appreciated the clarity and the c%vnacny of the recommendations from Ms. Grover and Ms. Stroh. Ms. Wiebe said she thought that there were some issues related to these policies that the NtHB had never had resolved in the request to the City Attorney 1 % years ago. She said she thought those should be answered before dealing with the Subcommittee's recommendations. Mr. Rowitz raised several issues about the way that an earlier City Council had lumped all of the levies from different boards under the General Revenue Fund. He said he was concerned about how the MHB would ever be able to get additional funds, and avoid cuts. This ability to make those types of decisions was intended to be a part of the MHB's original charter. Currently, with the MHB's budget included under the General Revenue Fund, there are arbitrary limitations placed upon how much money will be allocated for mental health purpose. Mr. Rowitz said that he finds this very unsatisfactory. In addition, the MHB Budget has been reduced over the last ten years and limited the MHB's ability to fund programs. Ms. Wiebe said she thought the MHB should review the documentation about the various changes, and the elimination of the MHB Levy. She said she thought the MHB should find out when it happened, how it happened, and why it happened. Ms. Reynolds commented that she thought the MHB had already looked at this information when Mary Helt-Gavin previously submitted a request to the City Attorney. She said she would not like to sec effort taken up with this issue again when there is nothing that would be accomplished. In addition, the MHB has a number of other things that it should be working on at this time. Mr. Rowitz asked whether Evanston was the only community that overrode the 708 Board legislation? Mr. Saver said that he had no information about that. He indicated that most 708 Boards were enacted townships or counties, and not for municipalities. Mr. Rowitz said that the under home rule the MHB lost control of its funds when the mental health levy was eliminated. He said he thought this might have changed the function of the MHB as a board. In response to a question, he added that he thought the Community Mental Health Act permitted home rule communities additional jurisdiction over 708 Board activity. Ms. Wiebe said she wanted the MHB to look at materials about its authority, and to understand %fiat happened. Mr. Rowitz said he wanted to know how the MHB would ever be able to get an increase in the funds it had to allocate for services. Ms. Wiebe said that all of these were important questions, and that she would ask the Funding Police Subcommittee to pursue them. Housing Policy. Ms. Wiebe said that she and Ms. Reynolds were the members on the Housing July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Policy Committee. at this time there is no Housing Report. The Subcommittee µill bc looking at what type of information to provide to the MHB before submitting recommendations for Policy revisions. Funding Task Force. Ms. Wiebe reported that Ms. Stroh, Ms. Sittler, and Mr. Thara,-il agreed to serve on the committee that would develop recommendations about funding allocations with staff. Substance Abuse Task Force. Ms. Stroh said she attended the last Task Force meeting. She complimented Mr. Rowitz and his graduate students for their work in developing some amazing program designs. Mr. Roµ-itz said that he and Kate Mahoney, the Co -Chaim to summarize the Task:.' Force's activities from the first year. V. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Quarterly Narrative Reports (Vt Quarter) Ms. Wiebe said she µas concerned about the agencies that were not submitting their reports on time. She asked whether there was anything the MHB could do to get the agencies to submit the reports in a timely manner. Mr. Saver gave a brief description of when the agencies are to submit their reports. He said that Ms. Barott typically calls and prompts the agencies for late billing information and service reports. He said that when the agency reports are not included in the Board packet it means that they are not being submitted on time. He said that the individual Liaison could feel free to ask their respective agencies about this when it happens. Mr. Rowitz said he thought the MHB needed a different type of Quarterly Report form_ In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that Board members developed the form. It v.-as intended to address accountability issues that they were concerned about at the time the form was developed. Mr. Rowitz said he would like to develop a form that would allow the MHB to make comparisons from quarter to quarter. Now, the information provided is out of context. He also said that it might not be necessary to receive the reports as often because things do not change that quickly. Mr. Tharayil commented that, as a rather new MHB member, he finds the Quarterly Reports very helpful and is helping him become familiar with the funded agencies. Ms. Wiebe suggested that at the end of the year the MHB set up a Committee to redo the Quarterly Narrative Report form because they are not related to the Agency Liaison functions and issues. Mr. RoN&itz recommended that the MHB also look into providing a workshop on developing performance standards. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 Minutes recorded -- not yet approved Agency Liaison Reports PEER Services. his. Stroh reported that Kate Mahoney alerted her that the Dimensions Pmgmnl may have to move out of St. Francis Hospital. They are already worming on an alternative location for the groups. Ms. Wiebe introduced Susan Canter as the new MHB member. Her appointment was confirmed, but she has not yet been sworn in. She asked her to be the new Agency Liaison specifically for Dimensions. This is a very important new program for the MHB, and will be reviewed for funding as a separate agency. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Senices. Ms. Stroh said the program received a grant from the Rotary and the Illinois Department of Aging to use for special events for the Grandparents Raising Grandchildren group. One major concern has been staff turnover. They have not been able to compete against higher salaries in the for -profit nursing home facilities. However, they will be completely staffed by Tuesday. Two staff members have been assigned to St. Francis Hospital and the stuff person assigned to Evanston Hospital will be doing more in home visits. Family Focus. Ms. Kalish said she spoke with Delores Holmes and %as advised that the agency received an $8,500 grant from Evanston Community Foundation for a program called "Giving and Taking and Working It Out" for fourth and fifth graders. Ms. Holmes advised that they are very close to appointing a new executive director for Family Focus, Inc. who will be responsible for all their ;1 sites. On August 5, Family Focus will be hosting a Gospel Festival and a parade through the community. } V. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe recommended that the MHB have a retreat to discuss the role of the Board, and its responsibilities in making policy. She said that it was a good time because the MHB finally had a full complement. There was concern expressed that it might take a lot of work and be very draining to do something like that at the same time as the proposal review process. Ms. Reynolds suggested that it be an opportunity for all the MHB members to get to know each other. After extensive discussion, there was a consensus to have mini -retreat during starting at the dinner hour on a weekday. It will be before the start of the funding process. Mr. Thararil and Mr. Rowitz agreed to look into facilitators for a discussion about making policy. Several suggestions were also made to Mr. Saver about possible resources that the group might use that evening. July 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 7 4. 719 16nutes retarded — not yet approved VII. AUGUST MEETING In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, the MHB decided not to have an August meeting. The next scheduled meeting will be September 14. VEU. STAFF REPORT W. Saver said the Human Services Committee would be meeting Monday, July I7. He said that the Arts Council is on the agenda, and that they %will be tall.-ing ,%N7th the HSC about issue3 of '. governance and control as they relate to the Arts Council. He said he was under the impression that some of their concerns were similar to issues that the MHB had been raising. Mr. Saver said earlier he had provided Charles Smith, who is working aith Etropolis Evanston, the computer files from the MHB's community resource directory. Mr. Smith worked with Virtuosity, the firm that is doing web page development for Etropolis, and they have been able to format the information about agencies for an informational section about social services on the Etroptolis web page. Mr. Saver passed out a copy of a sample page from the site. He indicated that sometime in the next few months the all of the information from This Might Help would be available on the Internet. It will be set up so each agency can regularly update their own information. There will also be space for them to indicate upcoming events that they are having. Mr. Saver said that he is hoping that this system will also provide some shortcuts for updating all of the information in the directory, and make the printing of the next edition less burdensome. Meeting adjourned at 10:15. Respectfully submitted, Joan Barott July 13, 2000 Mental Ficalth Board Meeting Minutes page a''- X Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, NNE 8, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds, Jane Grover, Carol Sitdcr, Vicky Kafish, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe staff: Harvey Saver, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Peter Illing (NTSW); Sandra Stumme, Karen Wertzmer (Metropolitan Family Services) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. L INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed the community representatives and asked that they introduce themselves. ' IL RECOGNITION OF DEPARTING SSA INTERN LISA HAMPTON Mr. Saver said Lisa Hampton was completing her internship, and that this was the last meeting she would be in attendance. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB wanted to recognize Ms. Hampton for all her enthusiasm and hard work. She said she had been a valuable resource for the MHB during the year. On behalf of the MHB, Ms. Wiebe presented her with a Sift and the following Resolution of the Evanston Mental Health Board: "Whereas. Lisa Hammon served as an intern u4th the E, vwwon Mental Health Board for the 1999-2000 academic year; Whereav, Lisa Hampton I as consistently undertaken all assignments with the Eiatrston Mental Health Board %Wth a great deal of enthusiavn, curd with mwt}' more hours than she could ever have imagined; Whereas, Lisa Hmnpton effectively represented the interests aml the business of the Etunsion Mental Health Board with a great deal of professionalism and integrity, June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 �x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Whereas, Lisa Hmnptort contributed valuable time and energy to the F.%warmr Alental Health Board on behalf the eitize►ts of Evanston, and to populations with special ►reerit Now; therefore be it resoled. that Lisa Hamplon is recognized for her cmrrributio►rs to the Evwiston Me►ual Health Board, and is hereby unanimousb- extended the support best ►ashes and respect of the Evanston Mental Health Board as she completes her professiorull education." Ms. Hampton thanked the MHB and said it had been a wonderful experience. She indicated that had heard a lot about this placement setting. She had wanted a lot from it, and she got it. She said it had been a real privilege to work with the MHB, and she enjoyed working with all of the Board members and the community agencies. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MAY 10, 2000 Ms. Wiebe indicated that, hearing no corrections, the May 10, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. IV. CONSIDERATION OF A "PROPOSAL TO UNIFY AND RESTRUCTURE THE SERVICES OF NTSW" Mr. Saver said NTSW's proposal to restructure their services %as being brought before the MHB because it created major changes in the program the MHB was funding. He indicated that the NM's contract policy guidelines will require a motion and an affirmative action by the MHB vvhen the new structure is in place in order to continue to fund NTSW during this fiscal year. Mr_ Saver indicated that NTSW is proposing a different program structure and activities, but it appears that First Step's functions and the objectives that are in the contract will continue to be implemented. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that the MFIB did not have to make a decision at this meeting because First Step is continuing to operate within the terns of the MHB's contract. However, a decision will need to be made before NTSW's proposal moves ahead if the MM is interested in continuing to fund NTSW this fiscal year. Separately, the MHB will be considering NTSW's funding proposal in the fall for the next fiscal year. Mr. Wing provided a brief history of NTSW. It was started in 1972 as a sheltered workshop. Shortly after that it developed a day program for seniors. In 1984, First Step was developed as a project with Albany Care (then the Ridgeview) to move people from Elgin Mental Health Center to the community. That program was established to work with people who had skill deficits and serious psychiatric symptoms. In 1997, the agency affiliated with Thresholds. This was done because the agency was struggling to get reaccredidation, and needed a cash flow guarantee. It was also becoming June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved increasingly expensive to develop documentation for the Medicaid system NTSW's current proposal came about because of a heightened need for accountability. The Office of Rehabilitation Services and the Office of Mental Health have clearly indicated that in a two-year time frame there will be no such thins as workshop services. Mr. Iilting commented that he was coming to the MHB to communicate NTSW's continued interest in participating in and serving the Evanston community, even though the proposal indicates that services will be consolidated at a sidle site on Monticello in Skokie. He said that the NIHB ,.vas the first group to hear the proposal. He a►ill be discussing it with ELAN the following %week and the United Way in July. Mr. Illing said he w-as also interested in presming NITS«"s funding streams. All of them will be essential for the restructuring to succeed. He added that, while NTSW will be serving the Evanston communiry. a different network monitors OMH-fiinded services in Skokie. Mr. Illing said that NTSW Industries and First Step are each narrow, targeted programs. But F"rrst Step is clinically superior. The psychosocial approach of that program provides strengths that a►ill enhance the job services. In addition, the vocational focus will provide First Step's clients somewhere to move to after they complete the First Step curriculum. Mr. filing said that they would be woridng to transform the workshop, and consumers would become more involved in the administration and operation. Ms. Reynolds asked where the State's directive about "no more workshops" came from? Mr. Illing said it started with the focus on least restrictive alternatives. The thought was that workshops were restrictive and limiting in their approach, and that a psychosocial approach, like First Step, was superior. Ms. Reynolds asked if the psychiatrist in the revised budget was there to provide services or to review and provide a signature for medication orders? Mr. filing said the position was intended to provide direct services. In response to Ms. Sittler, he added that the position would not be full-time, but only about 4 hours a week. Ms. Wiebe asked whether they are proposing to manage medications on site, given that many of the First Step clients are coming from the 1MD5? Mr. Illing said that the staff already does more than that. Part of the First Step curriculum includes education about how each individual can manage the medications for themselves. Ms. Wiebe asked whether this was a duplication of effort with what the individuals receive where they live? Mr. Illing said he didn't believe that this was being taught in the facilities. Learning about medications will be a major thrust for teaching individuals to be independent. Ms. Wiebe said she thought NTSW's proposal made a good case for the consolidation of services. She asked, however, what is the best model for this type of configuration? Mr. Illing said that NTSW would try to transform to what will be an acceptable service. The proposal is a conceptual design. The actual implementation will consider models that have a stronger consumer orientation. NTSW June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page x Minutes recorded — not yet approved will be researching innovative models for this type of programming. Mr. Rowitz said that he thought there were three major issues for consideration_ Fuse, the questions is whether it is okay to use Evanston dollars for Evanston residents for services delivered outside of Evanston, He said that Ise did not think the %, ERB's policies provided that restriction, but there may be some concern about this. He said he %tins personally concerned about this if the services were otherwise not available in Evanston. Second, Mr. Rowitz said he thought there %as some concern about sheltered workshops. Some see them as exploitative. Clients are paid minimum wage, and said that the funds dollars for work that is produced in the workshop did not go to the person doing the work. Mr. Kline said that NTSW would definitely have members working in free trade in the future in the workshop setting. Mr. Illing commented on the PSR approach. He said that three years ago O:`t-i funded an initiative to shift all day treatment services into ps-ychosocial rehabilitation. This is like First Step's programming. The focus is upon empowering and enabling individuals. This was the CONNECT98 funding. This has enabled First Step to collaborate with Trilogy, St. Francis Hospital, ENH and the II4)s in serving individuals with persistent mental illness. They have also been able to expand the numbers of individuals served. Mr. Saver pointed out that the PSR coIIaboration serving the Evanston community received a disproportionate amount of CONNECT98 funding because of the large number of IMD beds in Evanston. The major focus of that initiative was to provide PSR for individuals in facilities like Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Mr. Rowitz said the third concern is that workshops were originally for people who were not able to function in the community. Now those individuals are being sent into unsheltered settings. He said he thought that there were models for programs that provide more support, and provide individuals with the ability to function more independently in the community. Mr. Rowitz said he thought that NTSW would have to strongly consider some of these program designs. Mr. Rowitz said that he thinks NTSW is getting caught in the State's movemem to a different type of day programming for this target population. Ms. Wiebe said she thought the question is whether the MHB wants to be a part of that movement, and to support the State's initiatives. Ms. Reynolds said she was also concerned about where people can go who cannot function in supported employment, or need more support when the Iess restrictive setting is not working for them? Mr. filing said, in regards to the Evanston issue, that First Step would continue to use the Evanston IMDs as a primary referral source. NTSW Industries already has a number of people who got started in First Step, and are from the IMDs. In fact, NTSW's CONNECT98 money is negotiated every with the Evanston collaborative. Ms. Wiebe said that there is the residents that NTSW are serving will continue to be treated, but they ,will geographticalIy be transferred to another site. She asked Mr. Illing whether he thought that there June 08. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 )t Minutes recorded — not yet approved was any reason why the MHB should be concerned about this move for Evansz-on residents' W— IIGng commented that he thought the proposed services will clink-alh• be impres ivc The staftii'nks it is better. And the staff is excited about the proposal. The cunvnt facility for Ftrct Step leaNvs a lot to be desired. At the new location, public transportation %%till be better. And Skokie has corn mined CDBG funds for the renovation of the workshop into a much more accommodating space Ms. Sittler asked whether First Step is serving anyone who is not from an INID Mr. llling said that as a result of the PSR collaboration, they have begun to see a couple of people from Catalyst at ENK and from St. Francis. He added that, in the future, NTSW projects that more than 5l -a of the people they serve in the consolidated program will be Evanston residents. Ms. Wiebe asked if that was likely to change? Mr. Wing said that they were more likely to see people from referr-Js from Thresholds, now that they are a part of their program. He said that the consolidated program in a more attractive setting was also likely to be attractive as a programming option for other people from the Evanston community. Mr. Rowitz said that what is being proposed creates a more exciting mix, and offers social contact with people from other communities. Mr. IlIing concurred and said that their cberrt base was more likely to have broader contacts. Nis. Sittler asked what would happen if the Evanston census began to drop? Mr. Illing said that this would be reviewed in the budget hearings_ He added that the change could also be for a positive reason. Mr. Rowitz commented that the goal should be for Evanston dollars for Evanston residents, and the enhancement of their quality of life. He said he did not think that the programs needed to be located within the boundaries of Evanston. Ms. Grover said the MHB could weave the issue into revised funding policies, or strictly deal with the issue based upon precedent. Ms. `V iebe said that, in her memory, the MHB had never funded an agency outside of the boundary of Evanston and to choose to do so would be a precedent. In response to tics. Wiebe's question, Mr. Saver said that he was not aware of the MM ever funding a service located outside of Evanston. However, two years ago, the MHB agreed to review a funding proposal from an agency located in Northbrook. The Board never had to confront the issue because the agency neglected to submit the funding request. Ms. Wiebe thanked Mr. IlIing for his presentation. She said the Nm would consider the issue of continuing to provide funding when First Step is prepared to make the changes. V. MENTAL HEALTH BOARD 2000 ALLOCATIOti PROCESS FOR FY200I-2002 Ms. Wiebe presented the recommendations from the Subcommittee. She said it was not clear about the purpose of meeting with the agencies before the funding process. The thought was that it would be too late to do anything with feedback that they might provide about the forms or the process. As a result, the Subcommittee recommended not to having a preliminary meeting with the agencies. Instead, it is being recommended that there be a meeting with the agencies during the following year, June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 �n Minutes recorded — not yet approved in December or January, to discuss the funding process and to get feedback that could be incorporated for the following year. In response to Ms. Kalish, Mr. Saver reviewed some of the recent changes in the funding process. He said that the Subcommittee thought that any agency questions about the budget forms or the proposal could be handled through technical assistance by staff. Mr. Saver said the language for the proposal narrative was reviewed at an earlier meeting. The copy in the packet also incorporates some changes recommended by Ms. Grover. Nis. R iebe commented that the target date for the distribution of the proposal packet would be sometime the week of July 10. She said any additional comments about the narrative should be forwarded to Mr. Saver as satin as possible. Mr. Rowitz said the narrative does not work very well for agencies that are proposing a shift in their program, a shift in their funding request, or requesting funding for a new program. Mr. Saver said there was additional information that was provided for these issues a number of years ago that was subsequently dropped from the packet. He said he would look into whether there were some minor changes that could be incorporated to provide for changes in a funding request. Ms. Wiebe said one change the Subcommittee is recommending is for the meeting on October 12. That is the night the MHB will be hearing the two agencies that are submitting proposals only to the MHB. The Subcommittee is recommending that the MHB also discuss all of the rest of the proposals that evening,, before the agency hearings. This will be an opportunity to discuss issues and questions, and raise questions for the agencies in advance. The questions will be distributed to the agencies beforehand so they can be prepared to respond to these issues at their hearing. This will require that all Board members read all of the proposals in advance and much earlier than in the past. Mr. Saver commented that there is going to be an extremely quick turnaround from the October 12 meeting in order to get the questions to the agencies before the October 21 hearing date. The MHB will have to encourage all the agencies to be at the October 12 meeting to hear the discussion. Mr. Rowitz said that the Subcommittee is recommending that there only be two concurrent hearings on Saturday, October 21, instead of three. This will enable each MHB member to hear half of the hearings. This was a complaint during last year's process. The hearing time will be reduced to thirty minutes. Mr. Rowitz commented that the agencies should only bring one or two representatives to the hearings. They will be starting the hearings at the regular time and ending a little later_ In response to Ms. Kalish, Mr. Saver said that all of these hearings are open meetings and anyone wanting to attend may do so. He added that all of the funding proposals are also public information and available for anyone to review. Ms. Wiebe said the past two years, staff developed initial funding recommendations. They were presented to the MHB for consideration and adoption. She said Mr. Saver pointed out that this resulted in a quick decis:an making process for the Board. However, it resulted in very little discussion by the Board about the actual decisions or recommendations, and little information for the agency about the decision. This process has only been handled this way for two years. The June 08. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 6 x Minutes raovrded —not yet approved Subcommittee is recommending that a group of 2-3 Board mer:*,.crs nvct %xith staff to discuss the proposals and develop the recommendations together. It would be a shams res;-orusibility. And the recommendations would be brought to the Board for discussion and adopti.xL In response to tics. Webe's question there was a consensus to use the new pnvzMures outlined by the Subcommittee. Ms. Wiebe said she would be soliciting individuals to wort; on the task four to develop funding recommendations. Ms. Sittler volunteered Ms. Wiebe said she would also tall: with the Board members who were not present at the meeting. V1. SGBCONlMi rrEE REPORTS Nominating Committee. Mr. Rowitz reviewed the Nominating Committee's report for MHB Officers for 2000-200I. Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to elect Lonnie Wiebe as Chair and Ellen Reynolds as Vice -Chair for the Mental Health Board's 2000-2001 program year. There were no other nominations from the floor. Motion pissed unanimously 6 Bye — 0 no. Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Rowitz said he and Kate Mahoney would write the final report for Phase 1 of the Substance Abuse Task Force this summer. Mr. Rowitz extended an invitation to all MHB members to the !.ine 22 meeting at 7.00 p.m. This will feature presentations about two model prevention program that have been developed with Evanston in mind. Students in a Masters in Public Health program at UIC developed the program guidelines. Mr. Rowitz said that the Task Force would continue in the fall with the issue of MISA (dual diagnosis). There will be recommendations that come out of this for the MHB to consider Housing Policy. his. reported that she and Ms. Reynolds met with :fir Saver to begin to review considerations for an updated MHB Housing; Policy Statement. She reviewed some of the concepts that will be considered, and said that the Committee will be working to develop a clear, inclusive policy for the MHB's populations of concern. She added that the Committee might want to do some Board educat-'A:a about the related issues before providing a draft of the policy for initial consideration. MHB Funding Policy. Ms. Grover said that she and Ms. Stroh met with 41r Saver to begin to revise the Board's funding policies. She said that they determined that the current policies are irrelevant or redundant v-iui current policies or practices. Ms. Grover discussed the parameters the Subcommittee is consider::.g new policies. Mr. Rowitz suggested that the Subcommittee consider the issue of geographical boundaries in relation to services. There was a general discussion about this issue. Ms. Sittler commented that New Trier Township has a very strict policy related to this. Mr. Saver said he would check into this and see how they handle the issue. June 08, 2000 Mental Health ward Meeting Minutes Pays 7 k Minutes recorded — not yet approved VII. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB has had a lot of changes recently. In addition, there is one more position that is waiting to be filled by Mayor Morton- She said that she likes the way the new Board is coming together. Ms. Wiebe asked Board members to let her know whether they will be available in August. Generally, the 1`ffffl does not meet in August. They will make that decision at the July meeting. VIII. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Agency Liaison Reports Housing Options. Ms. Sittler commented that the Director of Housing Options took her on a tour of all their buildings and apartments. She said she was impressed with the maintenance of the buildings and the beautiful landscaping. She added that she thought the programs were of high quality and well integrated into the community. his. Sittler reported that she attended Housing Options' Board meeting and though: that they had a very vital and active board. She said that she was very impressed with their plans for a new program for the scattered site housing for persons who are homeless and mentally ill. Family Focus. Ms. Kalish, met with Delores Holmes, who gave her a tour of the facility. The programs were impressive and exciting. She said that she went to the agency's annual Talent Show and thought it was delightful. She said she was particularly- impressed with the feeling of community that she experienced. Metropolitan Family Services. Ms. Reynolds said she met with the agency's local Advisory Board. They are planning a fundraiser at the Botanical Gardens. She said she also attended a workshop about how MFS is providing their EAP programs. Ms. Wiebe reported that she attended a meeting with several local DD agencies. They are looking at ways to integrate some activities, and to pro%ide networ'.dng opportunities. Because of the timing, a number of agencies could not be represented. Ms. Hampton facilitated the meeting. Mr. Saver added that the group is considering sponsoring a legislative meeting in the fall. Trilogy. Ms. Wiebe said she spoke with Karen Helfrich, Program Director. Ms. Helfrich reported that the funding which is provided for their program by the \H-IB for social, educational, and cultural opportunities has provided a morale boost to the agency's clients. Ms. Helfrich stated residents of .June 08, 2000 Mental health Board Meeting Minutes Page a Minutes recorded — not yet approved Greenwood and Albany Care have also started coning to the pmgrant's atlernoon "coffees' and are becoming familiar with other people in the community. IX. UPDATES ELAN Planning for EPS Funds, Mr. Saver provided a recap and said the ELAN has been discussing how to revise its spending plan for State emergency psychiatric service (EPS) dollars that are controlled locally. Over a several month period, the ELANN discussed unmet needs and brought in new agencies to the group to talk about emerging issues. «'hat came out of this was a consensus that there was a primary need for a 24-hour a day/ 7 day a week, mobile crisis assessment response team in the community. Because ELAN did not have a lot of money to invest in the service, the decision was made to go with an existing service, rather than trying to start a new program. ELAIN's funds will help build up and expand these services to the community. fir. Saver said the original conceptual design was developed and presented to ELAN by Frederica Fissell (Housing Options), Peter Illing (NTSW), and himself. This was shared earlier with the MHB. Trilogy submitted a proposal to provide the services. Mr. Saver reviewed the components of their plan. The final document that was agreed to by ELAN was included in the %IHB packet. Mr. Saver said that the State has already tentatively approved the proposal, and has approved the use of dollars for start-up. He said that the plan also includes having Trilogy serve as the EPS Banker for ELAN. Evanston Hospital, the current Banker, was in complete agreement with these arrangements. When everything is in place, Trilogy will be handling the management of the EPS dollars for inpatient beds for persons who are unfunded, as well as managing the dollars for emergency services. Ms. Wiebe said she was delighted to see this plan begin to take shape. She said she sat in on some of the discussions related to Trilogy's proposal and thought the ELAN plan was Well thought out. Adolescent Substance Abuse Workshop. Mr. Saver said there were approximately 80 attendees at the combined ESAPC/CRA LAIC' workshop. They were primarily professionals. During the evaluation, the planning group talked about doing something similar next year with a focus on parents. Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Harvey Saver Assistant Director June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 9 M Minutes recorded -- not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING NILYUTES THURSDAY, JUKE 8, 2000 Members Present: Laos Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds, Jane Grover, Carol Sitdcr, Vicky Kalish, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Lonnie 1Viebe Staff: Harvey Saver, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Peter Illing (NTSW); Sandra Stunune, Karen Wertzrner (Metropolitan Famih Services) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed the community representatives and asked that they introduce themselves. II. RECOGNITION OF DEPARTING SSA INTERN LISA HAMPTON Mr. Saver said Lisa Hampton was completing her internship, and that this was the last meeting she would be in attendance. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB wanted to recognize Ms. Hampton for all her enthusiasm and hard work. She said she had been a N-aluable resource for the MHB during the year. On behalf of the MHB, Ms. Wiebe presented her %iith a gift and the following Resolution of the Evanston Mental Health Board: "Whereas, Lisa Hampton served as an intent wills the Evanston Mental Health Board for the 1999-2000 academic year; Whereas, Lisa Hampton fuu consistently undertaken all assignments irith tine Evw1von Mental Health Board svith a great deal of enthusiasm, and with marry more )tours than she cmild eti er have imagined; Whereas, Lisa Hampton effectnely represented the interests and the business of the Eirntston Mental Health Board with a great deal of professionalism and integrity, June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pape ; Minutes recorded -- not yet approved ff liereas, Lisa Hampton contributed valuable time curd energy to the EtwWon �tfental Health Board on behalf the citizens of Eiwiston, and to populations with special needs. Noiv, therefore be it resolved, that Lisa Hampron is recognized for her conDIbutions to the Evanston Mental Healt/r Board mica is hereby uixnumously extended the supporx best wishes and respect of the Evanston Mental Health Board as slit, completes her professional educatio►r. " Ms. Hampton thanked the MHB and said it had been a wonderful experience. She indicted that had heard a lot about this placement setting. She had wanted a lot from it, and she got it. She said it had been a real privilege to work with the MHB, and she enjoyed working with all of the Board members and the community agencies. ' HL APPROVAL OF MINUTES MAY 10, 2000 Ms. Wiebe indicated that, hearing no corrections, the May 10, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. IV. CONSIDERATION OF A "PROPOSAL TO UNIFY AND RESTRUCTURE THE SERVICES OF NTSW" Mr. Saver said NTSW's proposal to restructure their services was being brought before the MHB because it created major changes in the program the NM was funding. He indicated that the MHD's contract policy guidelines will require a motion and an affirmative action by the MHB -when the new structure is in place in order to continue to fund NTSW during this fiscal year. Mr. Saver indicated that NTSW is proposing a different program structure and activities, but it appears that Furst Step's functions and the objectives that are in the contract will continue to be implemented. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that the MHB did not have to make a decision at this meeting because First Step is continuing to operate within the terms of the \M's contract. However, a decision will need to be made before NTSW's proposal moves ahead if the MHB is interested in continuing to fund NTSW this fiscal year. Separately, the MHB will be considering NTSW's funding proposal in the fall for the next fiscal year Mr. Ilfing provided a brief history of NTSW. It was started in 1972 as a sheltered workshop. Shortly after that it developed a day program for seniors. In 1994, First Step was developed as a project with Albany Care (then the Ridgeview) to move people from Elgin Mental Health Center to the community. That program was established to work with people who had skill deficits and serious psychiatric symptoms. In 1997, the agency affiliated with Thresholds. This was done because the agency was struggling to get reaccredidation, and needed a cash flow guarantee. It was also becoming June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 x Minutes recorded -- not yet approved increasingly expensive to develop documentation for the Medicaid system. NTSW's current proposal came about because of heightened need for accountability. The Office of Rehabilitation Services and the Office of Mental Health have clearly indicated that in a two-year time frame there will be no such thing as workshop services. Mr. I111ing commented that he was coming to the MHB to communicate NTSW's continued interest in participating in and serving the Evanston community, even though the proposal indicates that services will be consolidated at a single site on Monticello in Skokie. He said that the MHB was the first group to hear the proposal. He will be discussing it with ELAN the follo%%ing week and the United Way in July. Mr. Illing said he was also interested in preserving NTS«"s funding streams. All of them will be essential for the restructuring to succeed. He added that, while NTSW will be serving the Evanston community, a different network monitors OMH-funded services in Skokie. Mr. Illing said that NTSW Industries and First Step are each narrow, targeted programs. But First Step is clinically superior. The psychosocial approach of that program provides strengths that will enhance the job services. In addition, the vocational focus will provide First Step's clients somewhere to move to after they complete the First Step curriculum. Mr. Illing said that they would be working to transform the workshop, and consumers would become more involved in the administration and operation. Ms. Reynolds asked where the State's directive about "no more workshops" came from? Mr. Illing said it started with the focus on least restrictive alternatives. The thought was that workshops were restrictive and limiting in their approach, and that a psychosocial approach, like Furst Step, was superior. Ms. Reynolds asked if the psychiatrist in the revised budget was there to provide services or to review and provide a signature for medication orders? Mr. Illing said the position was intended to provide direct services. In response to Ms. Sutler, he added that the position would not be full-time, but only about 4 hours a week. Ms. Wiebe asked whether they are proposing to manage medications on site, given that many of the First Step clients are corning from the IMDs? Mr. Illing said that the staff already does more than that_ Part of the First Step curriculum includes education about how each individual can manage the medications for themselves. Ms. Wiebe asked whether this was a duplication of effort with what the individuals receive where they live? Mr. Illing said he didn't believe that this was being taught in the facilities. Learning about medications will be a major thrust for teaching individuals to be independent. Ms. Wiebe said she thought NTSW's proposal made a good case for the consolidation of services. She asked, however, what is the best model for this type of configuration? Mr. Illing said that NTSW would try to transform to what will be an acceptable service. The proposal is a conceptual design. The actual implementation will consider models that have a stronger consumer orientation. NTSW June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 �I Minutes retarded — not yet approved will be researching innovative models for this type of programming Mr. Rowitz said that he thought there were three major issues for consideration. First, the questions is whether it is okay to use Evanston dollars for Evanston residents for services delivered outside of Evanston. He said that he did not think the MHB's policies provided that restriction, but there may be some concern about this. He said he was personally concerned about this if the services were otherwise not available in Evanston. Second, Mr. Rowitz said he thought there was some concern about sheltered workshops. Some see them as exploitative. Clients are paid minimum wage, and said that the funds dollars for work that is produced in the workshop did not go to the person doing the work. 'Mfr. IIling said that NTSW would definitely have members working in free trade in the future in the workshop setting. Mr. IlIing commemed on the PSR approach. He said that three years ago OXIH funded an initiative to shift all day treatment services into psychosocial rehabilitation. This is like First Step's programming. The focus is upon empowering and enabling individuals. This was the CONNECT98 funding. This has enabled First Step to collaborate with Trilogy, St. Francis Hospital, ENH and the IMDs in serving individuals with persistent mental illness. They have also been able to expand the numbers of individuals served. fir. Saver pointed out that the PSR collaboration serving the Evanston community received a disproportionate amount of COIN'NECT98 funding because of the large number of MID beds in Evanston. The major focus of that initiative was to provide PSR for individuals in facilities like Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Mr. Rowitz said the third concern is that workshops were originally for people who were not able to function in the community. Now those individuals are being sent into unshehered settings. He said he thought that there were models for programs that provide more support, and provide individuals with the ability to function more independently in the community. Mr. Rowitz said he thought that NTSW would have to strongly consider some of these program designs. Mr. Rowitz said that he thinks NTSW is getting caught in the State's movement to a different type of day programming for this target population. Ms. Wiebe said she thought the question is whether the MHB wants to be a part of that movement, and to support the State's initiatives. Ms. Reynolds said she was also concerned about where people can go who cannot function in supported employment, or need more support when the less restrictive setting is not working for them? Mr. Illing said, in regards to the Evanston issue, that First Step would continue to use the Evanston 1MDs as a primary referral source_ NTSW Industries already has a number of people who got started in First Step, and are from the IMDs In fact, NTSW's CONNECT98 money is negotiated every with the Evanston collaborative. Ms. Wiebe said that there is the residents that NTSW are serving will continue to be treated, but they will geographically be transferred to another site. She asked Mr. Illing whether he thought that there June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 Minutes recorded — not yet approved w-as any reason why the MHB should be concerned about this move for Evanston residents? Mr. Illing commented that he thought the proposed services will clinica.ih be impressive. The staffthinks it is better. And the staff is excited about the proposal. The current facrfty for First S.cp leaves a lot to be desired. At the new location, public transportation will be better. And Skokie has committed CDBG funds for the renovation of the workshop into a much more accommodating -pace. Nis. Sittler asked whether First Step is serving anyone who is not from an IhtD. Ntr Illing said that as a result of the PSR collaboration, they have begun to see a couple of people from C: zalyst at ENH, and from St. Francis. He added that, in the future, NTSW projects that more than 50'r'8 of the people they serve in the consolidated program will be Evanston residents. his. Webe asked if that was likely to change? Mr. Illing said that they were more likely to see people from referrals fivm Thresholds, now that they are a part of their program. He said that the consolidated program in a more attractive setting was also likely to be attractive as a programming option for other people from the Evanston community. Mr. Rowitz said that what is being proposed creates a more exciting mix, and offers social contact with people from other communities. Mr. Kling concurred and said that their client base was more likely to have broader contacts. Ms. Sittler asked what would happen if the Evanston census began to drop? Mr. filing said that this would be reviewed in the budget hearings. He added that the change could also be for a positive reason. Mr. Rowitz commented that the goal should be for Evanston dollars for Evanston residents, and the enhancement of their quality of life. He said he did not think that the programs needed to be located within the boundaries of Evanston. Ms. Grover said the MHB could weave the issue into revised funding policies, or strictly deal with the issue based upon precedent. Ms. Wiebe said that, in her memory, the MHB had never funded an agency outside of the boundary, of Evanston and to choose to do so would be a precedent. In response to Ms. Wiebe's questiorL lair. Saver said that he was not aware of the MHB ever funding a service located outside of Evanston. However, two years ago, the MHB agreed to review a funding proposal from an agency located in Northbrook. The Board never had to confront the issue because the agency neglected to submit the funding reque--t. Ms. Wiebe thanked Mr. Illing for his presentation. She said the L%M would consider the issue of continuing to provide funding when First Step is prepared to make the changes. Y. MENTAL HEALTH BOARD 2000 ALLOCATION PROCESS FOR FY2001-2002 Ms. Wiebe presented the recommendations from the Subcommittee. She said it was not clear about the purpose of meeting with the agencies before the funding process. The thought was that it would be too late to do anything with feedback that they might provide about the forms or the process. As a result, the Subcommittee recommended not to having a preliminary meeting with the agencies. Instead, it is being recommended that there be a meeting with the agencies during the following year, June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 il Minutes recorded — not yet approved in December or January, to discuss the funding prtvw and ran get feedback that court be incorporated for the following year. In response to his. Kalish, Mr. Saver reviewed some of the m-ent changes in the funding prociess.. He said that the Subcommittee thought that any agency qucstion_• about the budget roans or the proposal could be handled through technical assistance by staty' Mr. Saver said the language for the proposal narrative was reviewed at an earlier rnecting. The copy in the packet also incorporates some changes recommended by Nis Grover. Nis. «'iebe commented that the target date for the distribution of the proposal packet would be sometime the week of July 10. She said any additional comments about the narrative should lv forwarded to Mr. Saver as soon as possible. Mr. Rowitz said the narrative does not work very wA for agencies that are proposing a shift in their program, a shift in their funding request, or requesting: funding for a new program. Mr. Saver said there was additional information that was provided for these issues a number of years ago that was subsequently dropped from the packet. He said he would look into whether there were some minor changes that could be incorporated to provide for changes in a funding request. Nis. Wiebe said one change the Subcommittee is recommending is for the meeting on October 12. That is the night the MHB will be hearing the two agencies that are submitting proposals only to the MHB. The Subcommittee is recommending that the MHB also discuss all of the rest of the proposals that evening, before the agency hearings. This will be an opportunity to discuss Issues and questions, and raise questions for the agencies in advance. The questions will be distributed to the agencies beforehand so they can be prepared to respond to these issues at their hearing. This will require that all Board members read all of the proposals in advance and much earlier than in the past. Mr. Saver commented that there is going to be an extremely quick turnaround from the October 12 meeting in order to get the questions to the agencies before the October 21 Fearing date. The MHB will have to encourage all the agencies to be at the October 12 meeting to hear the discussion. :fir. Rowitz said that the Subcommittee is recommending that there only be two concurrent hearings on Saturday, October 21, instead of three. This will enable each :tiiHB member to hear half of the hearings. This was a complaint during last year's process. The hearing time will be reduced to thirty minutes. Mr. Rowitz commented that the agencies should only bring one or two representatives to the hearings. They will be starting the hearings at the regular time and ending a little later. In response to Ms. Kalish, Mr. Saver said that all of these hearings are open meetings and anyone wanting to attend may do so. He added that all of the funding proposals are also public information and available for anyone to review. Ms. Wiebe said the past two years, staff developed initial funding recommendations. They were presented to the MHB for consideration and adoption. She said Mr. Saver pointed out that this resulted in a quick decis'on making process for the Board. However, it resulted in very little discussion by the Board about the actual decisions or recommendations, and little information for the agency about the decision. This process has only been handled this way for two years. The June 08, 2000 Mental Health Beard Meeting Minutes Page 6 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Subcommittee is recommending that a group of 2-3 Board members meet with staff to discuss the proposals and develop the recommendations together. It would be a shared responsibility. And the recommendations would be brought to the Board for discussion and adoption. In response to ,Ss. Wiebe's question there was a consensus to use the new procedures outlined by the Subcommittee. Ms. Wicbe said she would be soliciting individuals to work on the task force to develop furdipg recommendations. Ms. Sittler volunteered. Ms. Wicbe said she would also talk with the Board members who were not present at the meeting. VI. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS Nominating Committee. Mr. Rowitz reviewed the Nominating Committee's report for INUM Officers for 2000-2001. Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to elect Lonnie Wiebe as Chair and Ellen Reynolds as Vice -Chair for the Mental Health Board's 2000-2001 program year. There were no other nominations from the floor. Motion passed unanimously 6 aye — 0 no. Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Rowitz said he and Kate Mahoney would write the final report for Phase I of the Substance Abuse Task Force this summer. Mr. Rowitz extended an invitation to all MHB members to the June 22 meeting at 7:00 p.m. This will feature presentations about two model prevention programs that have been developed with Evanston in mind. Students in a Masters in Public Health program at UIC developed the program guidelines. Mr. Rowitz said that the Task - Force would continue in the fall with the issue of MISA (dual diagnosis). There will be recommendations that come out of this for the MHB to consider. Housing Policy. Ms. Wicbe reported that she and Ms. Reynolds met with fir. Saver to begin to review considerations for an updated MHB Housing Policy Statement. She reviewed some of the concepts that %%iIl be considered, and said that the Committee will be working to develop a c1ear, inclusive policy for the MITB's populations of concern. She added that the Committee might want to do some Board education about the related issues before providing a draft of the policy for initial consideration. MHB Funding Policy. i1-Is Grover said that she and Ms. Stroh met with Mr. Saver to begin to revise the Board's funding; policies. She said that they determined that the current policies are irrelevant or redundant v6im current policies or practices. Ms. Grover discussed the parameters the Subcommittee is consider,&:.g new policies. Mr. Rowitz suggested that the Subcommittee consider the issue of geographical boundaries in relation to services. There was a general discussion about this issue. Ms. Sittler commented that New Trier Township has a very strict policy related to this. Mr. Saver said he would check into this and see how they handle the issue. June 08, 2000 Mental Health 3iard Meeting Minutes Page 7 ,XI Minutes recorded — not yet approved VH. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB has had a lot of changes recently. In addition, there its one more position that is waiting to be filled by Mayor Morton. She said that she likes the way thte new Board is coming together. Ms. Wiebe asked Board members to let her know whether they will be available in Ausznw. Generally, the MHB does not meet in August. They will make that decision at the July meetirig. VIII. AGENCY ACCOUNT TABILITY ISSUES • Agency Liaison Reports Housing Options. Ms. S'ittler commented that the Director of Housing Options took her on a tour of all their buildings and apartments. She said she was impressed with the maintenance of the buildings and the beautiful landscaping. She added that she thought the programs were of high quality and well integrated into the community. Ms. Sittler reported that she attended Housing Options' Board meeting and though; that they had a very vital and active board. She said that she was very impressed with their plans for a new program for the scattered site housing for persons who are homeless and mentally ill. Family Focus. Ms. Kalish met with Delores Holmes, who gave her a tour of the facility. The programs were impressive and exciting. She said that she went to the agency's annual Talent Show and thought it was delightful. She said she was particularly impressed with the feeling of community that she experienced. Metropolitan Family Services. Ms. Reynolds said she met with the agency's local Advisory Board. They are planning a fundraiser at the Botanical Gardens. She said she also attended a workshop about how MFS is providing their EAP programs. Ms. Wiebe reported that she attended a meeting with several local DD agencies. They are looking at ways to integrate some actni ies, and to provide networking opportunities. Because of the tirring, a number of agencies could not be represented. his. Hampton facilitated the meeting. Mr. Saver added that the group is considering sponsoring a legislative meeting in the fall. Trilogy. Ms. Wiebe said she spoke with Karen Helfrich, Program Director. Ms. Helfrich reported that the funding which is prodded for their program by the ]`iI IB for social, educational, and cultural opportunities has provided a morale boost to the agency's clients. Ms. Helfrich stated residents of June 08, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 8 Minutes recorded - not yet approved Greenwood and Albany Care have also started Coming to the program's afternoon *coftces" and are becoming familiar with other people in the community. U. UPDATES ELAN Planning for EPS Funds. 4ir. Saver provided a recap and sail the ELAN has been discussing how to revise its spending plan for State emergency psychiatric service (EPS) dollars that are controlled locally. Over a several month period, the ELkN discussed urtmet needs and brought in new agencies to the group to talk about emerging issues. What came out of this was a cormensus that there was a primary need for a 24-hour a day/ 7 day a week, mobile crisis assessment response team in the community. Because ELAN did not have a lot of money to invest in the service, the decision was made to go with an existing service, rather than trying to start a new program. ELAN's funds will help build up and expand these services to the community. Mr. Saver said the original conceptual design was developed and presented to ELAN by Frederica FisseIl (Housing Options), Peter llling (NTSW), and himself. This was shared earlier with the MHB. Trilogy submitted a proposal to provide the services. Mr. Saver reviewed the components of their plan. The final document that was agreed to by ELAN' was included in the riHB packet. -Xin Saver said that the State has already tentatively approved the proposal, and has approved the use of dollars for start-up. He said that the plan also includes having Trilogy serve as the EPS Banker for ELAN. Evanston Hospital, the current Banker, was in complete agreement with these arrangements. When everything is in place, Trilogy will be handling the management of the EPS dollars for inpatient beds for persons who are unfunded, as well as managing the dollars for emergency services. ).is. Wiebe said she was delighted to see this plan Levin to take shape. She said she sat in on some of the discussions related to Trilogy's proposal and thought the ELAN plan was well thought out. Adolescent Substance Abuse Workshop. Mr. Saver said there were approximately 80 attendees at the combined ESAPCrC&-A LAN workshop. They were primarily professionals. During the evaluation, the planning g. oup talked about doing something similar next year with a focus on parents. Meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Harvey Saver Assistant Director June 08, 2GOO Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 9 X Minutes recorded —not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Susan Stroh, Thomas Tharayil, Jane Grover, Carol Sitder, Victoria Kalish, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe Chair Staff: Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Jay Terry, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Kate Mahoney, Michael O'Day, Bonnie Bean (PEER Services); Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Sandra Stumme, Karen Wertzmer (Metropolitan Family Services); Steven Strauss, Principal (Park School) Ms. Wiebe called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed Carol Sittler, the newest member of MHB. Ms. Sittler gave a brief overview of her professional background and history. Ms. Wiebe then asked the guests to introduce themselves. 11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES APRIL 13, 2000 MHB MEETING Ms. Wiebe indicated that hearing no corrections the April 13, 2000 MHB meeting minutes were accepted as submitted. Ill. AGENCY REVIEW: PEER SERVICES Ms. Wiebe welcomed Kate Mahoney, Executive Director of PEER Services, to the meeting. Ms. Mahoney introduced Michael O'Day and Bonnie Bean, who are members of PEER Services' Board of Directors. Ms. Mahoney provided an overview of PEER Services' programs. She said that that in the fall they will celebrate their 25'h year anniversary- All of PEER's services fit under the category of substance abuse May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 F1 Minutes recorded -- not yet approved problems. Their programs have a very specific niche in the community. PEER provides a very broad continuum of substance abuse prevention, education, intervention and treatment services. Ms. Mahoney described the agency's services. She said PEER has a prevention program that is funded through the State Department of Human Services. Recently the State made changes to this program, and the types of activities that were expected under their funding. PEER Services also has an Early Invention Program which targets kids in the middle school age in conjunction with YOU and Family Focus. This program was started 13-14 years ago. Ms. Mahoney said the Mental Health Board provided this program with funding and program support during its early start-up. PEER Ser%ices' Adult Treatment Program works with clients for heroin, cocaine, marijuana, and alcohol addiction. In addition, they have an HIV Risk -Reduction Program that targets persons that are substance abusers in helping them look at the connection of substance abuse and EN/AIDS. his. Mahoney said that PEER Services has a very active community education program, and tries to take advantage of every opportunity to provide people in the community with information regarding substance abuse. She added that she appreciated the work the Mental Health Board had been doing in substance abuse prevention through the Substance Abuse Task Force. Ms. Wiebe said that she was concerned about the Township's budget cut for the Adult Treatment Program when PEER Services has a five -month waiting list for services. Ms. Mahoney agreed that this was not good news. She commented that Evanston Township has had significantly fewer resources and is having budget problems. The funding reduction will create a $50,000 gap in PEER's funding. However, the Township staff saw PEER as a way of preventing people from going on the Township roles. At the same time, the Township roles have been reduced The agency will be looking at different ways to cope with the loss of funding while trying to maintain the same levels of service. There will be a small cost -of -doing -business increase of 2% beginning in July from the State that will help to cover some of the gap. The issue will be a complicated one with which to deal, because PEER's adult clients are largely individuals who were unconnected and with no resources. his. Mahoney said the agency is committed to maintaining adult treatment services. However, those services are not always as well received by the community. It will be a challenge to keep adult treatment available, and PEER Services would like to have treatment available on demand. But that is a challenge for the substance abuse field. Ms. Mahoney said that a large number of their adult clients report having started using and abusing substances at the age of 13. This points out the continued need for prevention and other early intervention services. Ms. Sittler asked about recent reports indicating that some 'individuals are abusing Ritalin. Ms. Mahoney said she had seen the reports, and thinks that there is some of that with kids. She commented that some kids are not taking their medication, but instead turning around the selling it to others as a street drug and making money from the deal. Some of these are kids at relatively young ages. Ms. Mahoney said that you couldn't simply try to scare kids about the use of some of these medications, such as Ritalin. If scare campaign were actually effective it might scare kids from taking the medications for their own prescribed regimen. PEER tries to reach kids that different medications can be helpful or harmful when it is prescribed May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 = x Minutes recorded — not yet approved for someone else. She said it is complicated talking with these kids because they are sceitg other chaldren taking these medications without any harm, so they conclude that them could not be sny danger for themselves. Nis. Mahoney said that, generally, we believe a lot more what -we see rather than what s=eone tells us. Mr. Ro►vitz asked what PEER Services' agenda and direction %vas for development for the next 4-_5 %•ears? Ms. Mahoney said they have started a prevention campaign using a normative education model The intention is to educate the community in order to shift norms about substance abuse. She Said she recently had an essay about this printed in the Evanston Review. It is an attempt to deal with the idea that some people see chemical experimentation as a normal part of adolescence and adolescent development. This idea sends mixed messages to kids. The campaign will use a number of structured questions around which to have parents in the community engage in dialogue. This wiII be used to gauge attitudes. Then PEER's staff will use state and national survey data to try to change and shift the attitudes. Ms. Mahoney said the biggest problem they have encountered is parents who have just given up and given in on the issue. This past year they have had the largest number of youth referrals from the middle schools, and more than ever before. They are seeing 11 and 12 year olds this year who are using large amounts of substances. Ms. Mahoney talked about a case of an I 1-year•old who was brought in for a drug test recently. She said he was using a number of substances without having any understanding of the implications of using drugs. Ms. Wiebe asked if the PEER Services Board is involved in community education. Ms. Bean said that as a rule they are not. Mr. O'Day reported that the agency's Board has gone through resurgence. There was a restructuring of the Board. They have been looking for more active, dynamic members who can look for resources and be knowledgeable about programs. The members' involvement is to do research and seek good quality people to be a functioning board, to provide support for all the agency's programs, and to give Ms. Mahoney all the support that she needs. Ms. Mahoney commented that the staff members who work for PEER Services indicated that they enjoy working at their facility. However, they can make more money elsewhere. The Board is reviewing salary ranges and seeing what can be done to retain people. It is a continual challenge to retain line staff. Ms. Mahoney thanked the MHB for the opportunity to come have a dialogue at a meeting like this. She also said that there would be a Book Fair at Barnes & Noble of Old Orchard on June 10. The proceeds will go to PEER Services. Mr. Roµitz said that his. Mahoney has been a Co -Chair of the Substance Abuse Task Force. He said the Task Force would be reviewing proposals about program designs for prevention services in Evanston. The Task Force will provide a report to the NIHB about its activities. In addition, MHB members will be invited to the Task Force meeting in June where the proposals Aif be presented. Ms. Wiebe thanked the representatives of PEERS Services for participating in the agency review. May 11. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 0 Minutes recorded — not yet approved IV, AFTER SCHOOL PROGRA LNUNG FOR CHILDREN WrM DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILrrIES: A CONVERSATION WITH STEVE STRAUSS, PRINCIPAL OF PARK SCHOOL Ms. Wiebe introduced Steve Strauss, Principal of Park School who has been invited to speak to the MHB on an informal basis "on after school programming for children with developmental disabilities." Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB recently met with SHORE and the Director of Shore School, to which she is the Agency Liaison. She said that she has a particular interest in developmental disabilities and the gaps the service system in Evanston. Mr. Strauss said that he and his staff have been seeing a need community -wide for kids with disabilities. He said that he thought the community has done a commendable job in providing educational services for all children, and has made reasonable accommodations for children with disabilities. There are many senvices available to students with disabilities throughout the community. The problems are after school aril when an older child leaves school. Mr. Strauss said that the services that are available he believes are fragmented. Mr. Strauss said that it is not unusual for both parents to work and this presents childcare problems. He indicated that after -school childcare is available if you have a child within the ages of 6-1 I . He raised the question about who is willing to provide after school care for that child when he is older and bigger, and has a disabling condition that may make it more difficult to manage his care? He added that all children ages 6-11 are eligible for after school child care. But if parents also want to have their child participate in recreational activities, they have to pay double. You cannot sign up for three days a week of childcare and two days a week for special recreation_ The system does not allow this. Mr. Strauss said there are variety of agencies in Evanston that provide wonderful programs, but some of their schedules conflict. Mr. Strauss said he had a vision of a collaborative program that would involve multiple agencies that would provide five day a week after school program. This would have all of the services provided under an umbrella, and in which the children could move from after school day care programs to special recreation program. The same staff would be able to follow the children through these programs. Mr. Strauss said he has spoken to special recreation programs in Evanston, as well as school age childcare. People are willing to talk about this, but a facilitator is needed to pull everyone together. He added that Evanston's Special Recreation programs have really come through more recently in response to special needs and unique situations. Mr. Strauss said that an additional problem is that agencies have budgets that are narrowly defined, or have specific program requirements. He said that his vision would be for a coordinated program for any child with a disability within the community. It may require a trading or battering of services. Mr. Strauss complimented Mr. Saver for his responsiveness to the various issues like this that are in the community. He said that he and one of Park School's social workers raised some issues with him recently. In response, a community group is going to be pulled together to begin to discuss some common concerns and issues May 11. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 W Minutes recorded — not yet approved for those who are serving the population in Evanston with developmental disabilities Mr. Strauss thanked the NM for allowing him to present his "dream". He Said that he car.x to the not as a School District employee, but as a resident who sees a human service need in the corturmniry He said that the childcare issues he discussed would need to involve agencies that currently sz-ry c, or $ might not currently serve children and adults with disabilities_ Special Recreation woWd have to be a hey player inasmuch as they have experienced and responsive staff. Representatives from the high schcw4 and the elementary districts would also have to be involved. Mr. Rowitz discussed several ideas about how to leverage resources in the community foc such a prugram� and how to make use of volunteers. He recalled that Evanston Township High School years ago had a program for students whereby students who were opting for social services or health careers would have a placement during part ofthe year and the summer. The provided seniors with some evp�erience, and got them interested in human service related jobs, Mr. Rowitz added that he sees a number of freestanding, programs that do not collaborate and need someone to be creative in pulling them all together. Mr. Terry said that the issue night also be looked at from a different perspective. He commented that the City is starting to take steps to come in to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) There is a full-time Inclusion Specialist on staff, and he thought this person should be included in this t)pe of planning. He added that all City Departments have been asked to do a self -evaluation in relation to the ADA. They City will develop a transition plan for coming into compliance with the ADA. Under the ADA, it is the responsibility of a fonder to make sure that services that are supported are accessible, and to ensure that persons with disabilities can access services. For the services that are funded through the Human Services Committee, the Mental Health Board, and CDBG there is a burden on the Or%. of Evanston to make sure those services are also available to children and adults with disabilities. This responsibility cannot be handed off to the agencies. Mr. Terry said his staff would be available to assist with this effort. Ms. Wiebe commented that coordination of a project like this is the biggest problem. She asked who the players might be in such an effort. Mr. Strauss asked the NM to consider supporting this through Atr Saver's office, He said he thought that would be a good first step in identifying which agencies and organizations to bring together to work on solutions. He added that Park School could provide transportation, and that he remembers how to drive the bus. Parents can pick their family members up after that at a recreational or after -school care program. In response to Mr. Saver's question, Mr. Strauss commented that he has done an informal assessment with the families at Park School. Park School's PTA is behind the concept and they are willing to be participants in whatever group that would come together. Individual parents are usually not as interested until they know that there is actually a service in place. It has taken them so long to organize whatever arrangements they have for their kids that, even if they are not totally satisfied, that they don't want to look for anythirm else. Ms. Stroh asked if the population to be considered would have to be severely mentally impaired. Ntr_ Strauss said if something like this were to be developed it would have to be available to any child with a disability. May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 X Minutes recorded — not yet approved Nis. Wiebe thanked Mr. Strauss for his presentation. V. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe said she requested that the summary from the Surgeon General's Report on mental II=S be included in the MHB packet. She commented on her enthusiasm for the information in the report_ Sbe said that this was the first report ever produced from the Surgeon General about mental health. Nis. Wiebe said that the report provides information about where the gaps in service are nationally. She indicated that the MHB is not always terribly aware of the gaps, or receiving information about the gaps. She enewrzsed all of the Board members to read and become familiar with the information. Mr. Rowitz said that the Department of Public Health also has a number of recommendations about menW health in Health People 2010. VI. SUBCOMMITTEE REPORTS Funding Process. Ms. Wiebe commimted that the Funding Committee was unable to meet prior to the meeting. She said she asked Mr. Save< to synthesize information and comments from the Board about the funding process as a way of moving the discussion ahead. She referred to the memorandum and recommendations in the packet. In response to Ms. Stroh, Mr. Saver pointed out the major areas ,%fwe changes and revisions are being recor=ended. He said a number of the recommendations were in response to the MHB's comments about wanting additional information in the proposals. He said that some of the items were incorporated in the agency budget format in the past. Much of it is information that the age cks already report. However, it is not provided in a format that would permit the MHB to see trends or changes in the services that any individual program was providing. A change in one form would enable the N11M to see how an agency performed in relation to its original projections. Nis. Wiebe reviewed the options for the hearing schedule. She said that, based upon last year's schedule, the MHB members would be expected to read all the proposals. However, each Board member would orihy attend four hearings. There would be three hearings held concurrently. The MHB would meet after & hearings to discuss what they heard at each hearing. At a separate meeting the MHB would vote on the funding recommendations for each program. Mr. Saver pointed out that proposed schedule included an additional step that was a staff recommendation. He said he was suggesting that one or m o Board members meet with staff to review all of the information and develop the funding recommendations, rather than have staff develop the recommendations alone. In response to Ms. Kalish's questions, Mr. Saver and Ms. Wiebe reviewed the MHB's funding process. Mr. Saver said that, for the first time during his tenure, two years ago the MHB staff was asked to develeg funding recommendations. He said that the process moved much more quickly for the Board. But there was May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting .Vinutes Page 8 Minutes recorded —not yet approved very little specific input from the Board about issues and concerns related to the fun&ng decisicm. And there was very little discussion by the Board about the staff recommendations. Ultimately- it %vas the Board's decision about the specific program funding allocations. And there were some: Board changes to the recommendations. But he indicated that he though there would be a more thorough Miew oftl�e issaxs if there were Board members involved in the development of the funding recommendations. Ms. Wiebe said in the interest of time the Subcommittee would review the information and repo to the MHB at the June meeting. Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Rowitz said that the Task Force would be de%-�doping a series of recommendations to the MHB about prevention services. There will be information about some types of projects that the MHB might want to encourage agencies to consider. He said his gaduate studmts developed two proposals for projects that were specific for implementation in Evanston. The Task Force will be reviewing presentations about the proposals at a future meeting. Board members will be invited. Housing Policy. Ms. Wiebe said that she has been reviewing earlier information about the NM's Housing Policy with Ms. Hampton. She said she and Ms. Reynolds would be meeting to begin to discuss a new framework for the policy, and would be providing a report at the next meeting. Nominating Committee. Mr. Rowitz reported that he and Ms. Grover had contacted all MHB members about the Board positions. He pointed out that many of the Board members were new. Mr. Rowitz said the Committee was recommending that the Chair and Vice -Chair be retained for another year. They are nominating Ms. Wiebe for Chair and Ms. Reynolds as Vice -Chair. He said that Ms. Reynolds had been out of town, and that he still needed to contact her see if she would accept the nomination. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Mr. Saver said that, based upon the NM's Procedures, the nominations would be voted. on at the June meeting for positions to take effect at the July meeting. VII. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Agency Liaison Reports Evanston Community Defender. Ms. Grover met with Bob Roy and Rana Patner, the Social Worker, to discuss the agency. Mr. Roy reported that one attorney is currently on leave. Trilogy. Ms. Wiebe met with Karen Helfrich, of the Evanston Office, and Jim Graham, Executive Director. Ms. Wiebe commented it was interesting to learn about their program and their relationship to the .NiHB since they are a new agency. Ms. Helfrich reported that she has been making new Evanston contacts Kith other agencies. Mr. Graham said he was very excited about future plans, and the relationship with the INM. Mr. Graham reported that he has been working on putting together a proposal to the Evanston Local Area Network for new emergency psychiatric services for the community. Ms. Wiebe asked Mr. Saver to May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 7 k Minutes recorded -- not yet approved provide the details of the program. Mr. Saver gave a brief description of the proposed new program. He said the ELAN was looking for ways to more effectively use its allocation of EPS fiends. After a number of meetings wish ELAN members and other agencies in the community, a need was identified for a 24-hourlseven-day- a -week, mobile crisis assessment response team. After identifying the service components that were needed, ELAN asked Trilogy to develop a plan to provide the service. They are currently developing the details and will be presenting them to the LAN. ELAN thought that Trilogy was the best agency to provide the service because they already were providing the same service it Rogers Park. It will be more cost efficient to enable them to expand their service into Evanston, rather than asking an agency to start something from scratch. ELAN only has $48,000 to provide the service, so it was thought that this wound enable the dollars to stretch the furthest. Mr. Saver said the plans were developed based upon the bes: information available. However, there were a number of questions about the size and nature of the population to be served that could not be addressed. This new service will enable ELAN to develop a better understanding of the crisis needs in the community. Evanston Hospital. Mr. Saver said he met with Dr. Fred Miller, Chair of Psychiatry at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare (ENH), to discuss some of their plans for reorganization and relocation of their psych services. He said that several days prior to that meeting he had already received calls from three agencies in the community about the hospital's proposed plan to move all of their inpatient psych beds to Highland Park Hospital. Mr. Saver said that he and Dr. Miller discussed this plan at some length. He indicated that a number of factors seem to be coming in to play: (1) concern that the current inpatient location is not the best location; (2) ENH is looking for additional space for specialty services in Evanston Hospital and is moving what they can in to the community, or to other locations in their network; (3) ENH is planning for the needs of their network, and not just one community; (4) the Highland Park unit might provide them with the ability to develop some specialty inpatient units that are not currently available; (5) Highland Park Hospital's inpatient beds have never been full. Mr. Saver said Dr. Miller indicated that the plans are not for the immediate future, ben could be 1.5-2 years down the road. Mr. Saver said that the proposed move raises a number of questions for the community. In response to a question, he said he did not think that DMH was currently aware of these plans, and did not know how they would respond in relation to the Crisis Intervention Services that they fund at ENH. Ms. Kalish said it would be important to find out whether ENH would have any Medicaid beds Highland Park Hospital. Mr. Saver said Dr. tifiller indicated that the plans had not yet been fully worked out. As an example, it was not clear what would happen to an individual's choice if they came to the ER for assessment, needed hospitalization, and did not want to go to Highland Park. Mr. Rmkitz commented that he believes very few hospitals are going to be community based in the future. It will be increasingly more difficult to get hospital to plan for local community issues when they are becoming parts of larger networks. Ms. Wiebe asked Mr. Saver about next steps in following up on this issue. MY. Saver said he was encouraged by Dr. Miller to have a continued dialogue about this matter. N r. Saver said he indicated to Dr. Miller thought that the MHB might be interested in weighing in on the issue in some formal way, and might try to garner community comment about the proposal. There was a consensus of the Board to follow-up May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 8 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved on this issue and to hold some type of community forum about the proposed mo%-e. A1s. Wicbe directed Mr. Saver to start to think about the type of forum that might be convened. VHI. HOMELESS CONTINUUM OF CARE Ms. Wiebe pointed out that this year's Homeless Continuum of Care (COC) was in the packet. Thus is a required part of an agency's application to HUD for homeless funding. The funding from IIUD to this community is a very large amount of money for housing. Ms. Wiebe commented that it is a concern to her that the NM is not part of the planning process. She said that she thinks the NM should begin to have a representative on the Homeless Task Force. The document points out the need for a community strategy for serving all homeless people. Mr. Saver commented that the COC was reviewed and approved by the Human Services Committer. Mr. Terry and Claire McCarthy Peterson, Chair of the Task Force coordinated the planning for this year's COC. Mr. Saver added that Paul Singh, Mr. Terry's Intern from SSA, did an incredible amount of work to pull together the infon-nation and data in the Continuum of Care. Mr. Saver suggested that MHB members read this report, and that it provided a comprehensive picture of this service sector. Mr. Terry commented that Evanston has an extensive array of services. However, when HUD reviews a community's COC, they expect to find a system that takes a homeless individual off the street and diriects them through an array of supportive services and puts them into permanent housing_ Evanston has a very good street outreach program, a good overnight shelter; comprehensive supportive services; substance abuse, employment, and mental health counseling. However, Evanston does not have a substantial number of transitional or permanent housing units for the population. In order to be eligible to even submit the COC, the City has to produce a very comprehensive, voluminous document called a Consolidated Plan, This Plan has to be approved by HUD. The current plan was sent back for significant modifications. Mr. Terry said that this is the first time that a so many City staff has been involved in developing this document. He said that he, Mr. Saver, Mr. Singh and other City staff have been putting in hundreds of hours to develop the COC and the Consolidate Plan. It has meant that a number of other priority projects have been at a standstill for some time. Ms. Wiebe, Ms. Kalish, and Ms. Stroh indicated they would be interested in being involved with either the Homeless Task Force or one of its subcommittees. Mr. Saver said he would check schedules and put these individuals in contact with the respective chairs of the subcommittees. X. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S/STAFF REPORT Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council. Mr. Saver commented that he had been asked to Chair the Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention Council in the coming year. In addition, this coming year PEER Services is going to commit some of their prevention staff time to working with the Council. May 11, 2000 Mental Health Boatd Meeting Minutes page 9 X Minutes recorded — not yet approved Evanston Township. Mr. Terry said it was likely that all of the agencies that are funded by Evanston Township will probably lose their funding this year. Currently there is a S400,000 gap in the Ti-mwhip. Budget between revenues and expenses, and the City Council will be wrestling with how to close dlis gap. It is a particularly difficult question inasmuch as Evanston Township is subject to Illinois tax cap laws. The Human Services Committee will be taking this issue up at the next meeting. Panhandling, Mr. Terry commented that the Human Service Committee has begun to wrestle again with the question of panhandling, and whether City Ordinances need to be amended to deal with the isme. Mr. Terry stated that this came up in response to an impassioned pitch from the business community. Recently, downtown businesses have been suffering some adverse effects. Air. Tent' said that most of the research on panhandling in Evanston has indicated, for the most part, that the individuals involved are neither homeless nor mentally ill. They do, however, have a strong substance abuse background. Department Reorganization. Mr. Terry said that C. Louise Brown, Director of the Health Department, is retiring at the end of June. He indicated that it is not likely the City will be filling this position immediately. Mr. Terry said it is likely he will be expected to assume those responsibilities, in addition to his other responsibilities. He reported that this, will no doubt, necessitate a staff reorganization of his department. He said that a staff retreat is planned with the department's managerial staff to begin to consider the issues. Mr. Terry said he would keep the MHB informed on this matter. Meeting adjourned at 10:15 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott May 11, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 10 EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2000 Members Present: Louis Rowitz, Ellen Reynolds, Susan Stroh, Tom Tharayil, lance Grover, Vicky Kalish, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Chair Lonnie Wiebe Staff.. Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Bill Russell, Carl Hampton (The Family Instiitute) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. The meeting was held at The Family Institute at 618 Library Place in Evanston. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS Ms. Wiebe welcomed Vicky Kalish, the newest member of MHB. Ms. Kalish gave a brief statement about her background and her interest in the mental health field. Ms. Wiebe reported that, in addition to Ms. Kalish, Carol Sittler was also appointed as a new member of the MHB, but was unable to attend the meeting tonight. Ms. Wiebe reported that Marsha Mehen has resigned from the MHB. II. AGENCY REVIEW: THE FAMILY INSTITUTE Bill Russell, Director of Community Programs, and Carl Hampton, Coordinator of Programs at Evanston Township High School and Director of Early Childhood Programs, joined the,%*M. Ms. Wiebe reviewed the purpose of the intensive agency review, and reminded the MHB that the meeting was not intended to be a repeat of the funding process. She asked Mr. Russell and Mr. Hampton to discuss what The Family Institute is doing specifically in regards the program the MHB is funding, and what they see as future issues and concerns. Mr. Russell thanked the MHB for their continued financial support and welcomed the MHB to their facility. Mr. Russell said the location is the headquarters of The Family Institute where administration, research and educational programs are run. Along with those, clinical services are provided there. The Family Institute has been in this building for approximately 4 years. Since 1989, The Family Institute has been involved with Evanston residents through the services it donates for clients of the Evanston Family Focus program. Mr. Russell said that the MHB has funded The Family Institute since 1996 in providing services to multi- problem families. They have continued the same program and are providing services to children and families at -risk. The services provided include outreach to families, indi%idual psychotherapy, case 0 management and coordination, assessments and referrals. Services are provided at The Family Institute site, Evanston Township High School, or in client homes, depending on what is most convenient. They take a family system approach. It is problem -centered, and focuses on developing a good alliance with the client and family based upon an assessment of their strengths. Mr_ Russell said The Family Institute is a culturally sensitive institution, and they work with families from a wide cultural background. This year they a=ticipate working with 50-60 families in the MHB-funded program; 40 of them «iU be new families. Based upon their previous client profiles, he said that roughly 50% of the clients would be African -Americans, 20 percent Latino, and l0% multi -national. The average length of stay is 15 - 16 sessions, which has grown since the program started. The evaluation surveys completed by clients have reported a high degree of satisfaction with the agency's services. Mr. Russell reported that there has been some change in staffing for the program. Don Johnson led and was replaced by Carl Hampton, who is coordinating the services. He added that a Spanish spealdng therapist was hired for 8 hours a week on this to work with Hispanic families, and will be working in the home as well as at the high school. The funding is more diversified than in the past, %%ith funding coming from the following: 59,850 from MHB; 56,110 from Evanston Township High School; and $6,110 from The Family Institute. While the MHB's funds are a smaller percentage of the budget, they are important because they are leveraging the other funds. Mr. Russell said The Family Institute wants to be a strong contributor to the community of Evanston. He added that their relationship with the MHB is an important one, and they want to increase their communication with the Board. The Family Institute has a commitment to serve Evanston families who are economically disadvantaged, and cannot afford mental health services. Mr. Hampton commented that The Family Institute has been involved with Reba Day Nursery and has had discussions with the YMCA Pre -School Program about providing services to some of their children and families. In response to a question, he said that they do see the younger siblings of their clients at ETHS, either at the agency or in the home. Ms. Wiebe asked whether their relationships with Family Focus and Y.O.U. were ongoing? Mr. Hampton stated they continue to operate their program at Family Focus. They have a working relationship with Y.O.U. where some of their alumni are on staff. They have a number of shared cases. But they no longer have a staff person who is assigned to work at the agency. Mr. Hampton said that ETHS has asked them to do more work in groups as the number of students who are referred into The Family Institute services grows. They have tried to find a way of seeing more of the students at once. They expect to do more groups next year. The Family Institute has become more involved in working with the night school this year. Often the students enrolled at the night school are those who have been asked to leave the day school programs for behavioral issues. The Principal of the night school, Mike Wynn, has asked the agency to consider doing groups with some of his students on issues like anger management and conflict resolution. Ms. Wiebe asked whether the groups at ETHS would involve families? Mr. Hampton said that was not in the plan. So far, the focus has been upon individual students. They could offer some groups around parenting issues, if there was a request for that. He said that the groups have not yet started, but are still in the planning phase. He said he thought they might start in May. Mr. Russell followed up to say the agency was planning on increasing its involvement with Latino families. He said he thought the service would be pm%ided primarily in the home, Mr. Rtmsdl said that in the 6rture they would like to provide services at another site in Evanston, such as at a day cam center. HoN%xvcr, they will have to get funded to provide that sen ice. Mr. Saver asked whether The Family Institute has worked ,%tiith Evanston Hospital's Bridges Program at ETHS? hir. Hampton said that there had not yet been the occasion. However. the stag in the clinic at ETHS have discussed pulling together a team of all the outside agencies to discuss what each ether is doing at ETHS, e.g., Youth Job Center, Youth Services Bureau, The Family Institute, Evanston Northwestern Healthcare (ENH). Mr. Russell said it was his understanding that The Family Institute is recri\tnu referrals for kids whose families are low income. That is not necessary for the Bridges Progam. hie Stroh said that the ETHS staff also would refer to ENH's Bridges Program if the individual youth %vere thought to need medication management. Ms. Stroh asked Mr. Hampton to highlight some of the special needs of students he has worked with at ETHS, and what kinds of intervention h~e has attempted with them. Mr. Hampton gave an example of a young man who was in school trouble, was having declining school performance, and having intense problems with his parents. The Court has mandated family therapy. One of The Family Institute workers has been seeing him this boy about five months and has developed a very good relationship. But the student is resistant to working with his parents. The worker from The Family Institute is serving as an advocate, and supporting the youth's strengths, and eventually trying to get the family in. Forcing the issue of mandated family therapy would have set the youth back in his treatment. It is important that he first work through a number of his own issues, and the family can come in later. The worker saw the youth as the center of the treatment and is working to«-ards the point of involving the famih _ Mr. Hampton discussed another scenario. He said a number of students that they are seeing have single parents. He said in one such case, one side of the family is involved with a number of social service agencies, and is feeling overwhelmed and dealing with financial problems. The other side of the family is rather wealthy. The Family Institute worker has been trying to focus upon the youth's health and strengths. The young person initially presents as a hard-core kid. But the worker is starting to be able to deal with his feelings of abandonment and loss, and resentment at being ignored by the wealthier side of the family. Ms. 'Aliebe said that the agency reports about the number of sessions that each client is seen, and makes it sound as if being seen for more sessions is always positive. She asked if that was always the case, or whether that might just be indicative of more expensive treatment. Mr. Russell commented that their approach to cases is to think in terms of short-term, problem -focused therapy They try to keep their engagement with the client as short as possible. If that is not the case, then they look at other approaches. They do not try to carry over their cases from year to year. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB was more interested in outcome measures and asked if The Family institute could provide more outcomes in their reporting in the future. Mr. Russell said they would be happy to as they develop them. They are looking into the results of psychotherapy over time, and still trying to develop a format to use with clients in community settings, as opposed to the controlled clinic. They are trying to shorten the question format that is used with clients. They feel the longer form they currently use is a potential barrier to getting information. fir. Russell said that, by next year, The Family Institute hopes to have completed the development of a short form to present to its clients. He said the tool they are developing is something that could be shared with other agencies in the community. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Nth Hampton said the most prominent trend they are seeing at ETHS *39 is more girls involved in physical confrontations who have been referred as a result of behavior. This has been going on for some time, but the severity if their behavior is increasing. That is one reason that they are considering movement to groups for dealing with conflict resolution. Mr. Russell said that many referrals to The Family Institute project are typically for behavior. Mr. Tharayil said he has met with the agency as its Liaison and already discussed a munber of issues. Because he was new, he said he could not respond to questions about why The Family Institute's funding had decreased from the MHB. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB has changed the categories for its funding priorities. While the NM no longer has a category called "multi -problem families", The Family Institute continues to apply for funding under that category. It is not helping because there is no longer that category_ Last year the MHB asked the agencies to apply for funding by choosing the funding category under which they were applying, and to explain why they fell under that category.. The Family Institute chose two categories but did not state clearly why they were chosen, and the agency did not seem to fit in very well under one category. As a result, the MHB was confused about thee agency's priorities. Ms. Wiebe said, in addition, that she did not think that the agency was very well known by the MHB. At times, the NfHB Liaison has not been able to communicate with anyone at The Family Institute. Mr. Russell said he was interested in how to improve their relationship with the MHB, and to improve the communication. He said the Board's support and recognition was important for the agency's work in the community, and that he hoped to improve the relationship. He suggested that there be a prime contact person at The Family Institute to meet with the Agency Liaison, and said he would write a letter to the MHB advising whom that person will be. Ms. Wiebe thanked The Family Institute for their presentation said he appreciated the agency hosting the MHB meeting tonight. III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 10, 2000 Mr. Row'stz moved and Ms. Grover seconded a motion to approve the minutes of the February 10, 2000 MHB meeting. Ms. Wiebe indicated that the minutes were accepted with corrections. IV. REVIEW OF NOTES OF MEETING FROM MARCH 9, 2000 The MHB reviewed the notes of the March 9, 2000 meeting. Mr. Saver indicated that there had not been a quorum so there were no official minutes to approve. He indicated that notes from the meeting are distributed for informational purposes. V. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe reported that the two new Board members have been through orientation. With the loss of one Board member, it is necessary to reorganize the Agency Liaison assignments. Ms. Wiebe appointed Vicky Kalish to be the Liaison to Family Focus, and Carol Sittler the Liaison to Housing Options. X Ms. Wiebe requested that staff update the Liaison Est and diauibute an updatod telephone list to the Board members and the agencies. VH. REVIEW OF ADVOCACY LETTERS Mr. Saver reported that State Representative d Julie Hamas responded to the MHB's letter about the proposed State Budget and the MHB's recommendations. She indicated that she vms opposed to the Governor's proposed 1% increase for community agencies and %vas working in the Appropriations Committee to increase that allocation. Mr. Saver reviewed the letters sent to Senator Parker and Senator Ronen supporting HB 4017, that prohibits the imposition of the death penalty for a person diagnosed with menial retardation. He reported that Representative Hamos was one of the original sporsors of the Bill in the House. HB 4017 passed the House with only one dissenting vote. It was sent to the Senate Rules Committee, and appears to be bottled up there. It is too late for substantive bills to be reported out of Committee. In response to Ms. Reynolds' question, Ms. Grover reviewed the definition of mental retardation that was being used in the proposed legislation. Mr. Saver said that he would talk with Arc of Illinois about the bill, and continue to monitor the progress of HB 4017. He said he would report back to the MHB during the Fall Legislative session. VIL REPORT FROM SUBCOMMITTEE ON FUNDING PROCESS Mr. Rowitz reported for the Subcommittee that it was recommending changes in the definitions for the MHB's funding priorities. He said the major change was to make the language in each priority consistent, and to remove the overlap in some of the priority areas. He pointed out that there was little change in the most of the actual priority areas as a result of the changes. The significant revision was to eliminate the "High Risk" category and replace it with the priority area "Mental Health Programs for At -Risk Individuals and/or Their Families." Ms. Stroh said she thought the definitions for the funding categories fit much better than previously. She recommended removing some of the additional descriptors in the category for services for persons with mental illness, in order to make it similar in structure to the other priority areas. Mr. Rowitz reported that the Subcommittee thought that the M14B had locked itself in by identifying specific funding levels for each priority area in advance. He said the Subcommittee was recommending that the Board eliminate the funding levels, The MHB might want to annually fund a higher or lower total funding level for agencies that qualify under a priority, based upon the quality of the proposals submitted, the nature of the services being offered, and changing community need. If all of the funds were kept in a general pool, then the agencies applying for funding were competing for a portion of all of the funds, rather than just the funds in one category. The MHB could then fund the best projects regardless of the categories. It will be incumbent upon each agency to describe specifically in the proposal how it fits into a specific funding priority area. Ms. Grover moved and Ms. Reynolds seconded a motion to adopt the M13B funding priority areas for FY2001-2002 as revised, and to eliminate funding levels from the descriptions. Motion approved unanimously (7 aye - 0 no). x Mr. Rowitz discussed the Subcommittee's recommendation to have two Board members do an in-de;xh review each funding proposal in the fail, the Agency Liaison and one adds oral Board member. They wmid be responsible for reporting to the entire Board about the proposal, in place of an agency funding hearing. Mr. Rowitz provided some examples of how the proposed system might work. Ms. Wiebe said she rAW uncomfortable having only two Board members review each proposal. his_ Kalish asked how a Board member reading an application would be able to get questions answered about the proposals. Mr. Rowitz said that he thought it would provide for a more objective review of the proposals. He said d = with three concurrent hearings he wasn't certain that everyone was getting an of their questions answer: about each agency. As a result, he said he didn't think there was a thorough review of the proposals, and he wasn't sure that each agency was given a fair shake He said he thou¢itt it would be useful and more informative for there to be somebody ►vho was responsible for a more intensive review. They could, the provide an overview for the entire Board He added that the agency should provide all of the necessary information in the proposal. If the information was not sufficient, the re%iewers could either contact the agency. Or the Board could decide that only information provided in the proposal was to be considered Mr. Saver explained to the new Board members that the funding hearings have been held in conjunction with Evanston United Way. Representatives from each group participate in every hearing. He said that the - Board would need to let the United Way know if they want to change the arrangements. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that he has provided the MHB with recommendations for program funding allocations for the past two years. The MHB then reviewed and modified the recommendations before adopting them. He said that the process seemed to be one that enabled the Board to move through funding decisions more quickly. But he said he thought that the decisions seemed to be made with insufficient input from Board members He said he was concerned that the Board would have less opportunity to provide input if they did not have to read each proposal. Ms. Stroh commented that she would not like to be the spokesperson for all of an agency's issues during the funding process. She said she did not want to be in the position of possibly leaving something out in representing the agency to the Board, rather than the having each agency represent itself. She said she also thought the proposed process ran the risk of having Board members becoming cheerleaders for the proposals they present. Ms. Stroh added that she thought there was value in the hearings and being able to get additional information not included in the application. Ms. Grover and Mr. Tharayil both said they thought it would be useful to continue the hearings. Ms. Wiebe said that additional information about the agencies is obtained during the hearings. While a number of Board members have been though the hearings in the past, she said she thought the information would be very useful for all of the new Board members. Mr.. Saver said that there could be five new Board members by the time of the next allocation hearings. his. Stroh said the NM should consider some process that would enable them to provide information and concerns to staff after the hearings. She said this would be important if staff was going to be asked to make allocation recommendations to the Board, as in the past two years. Mr. Rowitz said that the Subcommittee also was recommending that the N. M have a kickoff meeting to explain the proposal process. That would be an opportunity for the MHB to also discuss their priorities, and what they were interested in. In conjunction with this, Mr. Rowitz said the Subcommittee thought the proposal needed to be revised to get additional information from the agencies. �t Ms. %Iebe said, due to the lateness of the hour, she was going to refer the proposal process back to the Subcommittee for further consideration_ She said she thought the discussion should be continued at the nad MHB meeting. She asked staff to prepare a timeline for the proposal process for the MHB to consider. VUL AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES Agency Liaison Reports Childcare Network. Mr. Tharayil said he met with the agency on Friday, March 10 to become familiar with what the agency was doing. Connections for the Homeless. Ms. Grover said spoke with the agency's new Director. They are trying to set up an appointment when their senior staff is available. his. Grover said she attended the reception for Mr. Sundblad. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh said the MISA program is up and running. The agency is having a benefit with a dinner and play. SHORE.. Ms. Wiebe commented she had attended a Board meeting at SHORE. She reported that she was very impressed by the agency's Board Chair, and thought he had a productive style in working with his Board members. SHORE is having a benefit April 9. SHORE has a new CILA in Evanston, located near Shore Homes East. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Wiebe reported that congratulations are in order to Alexander Brown. He recently became the father of little girl. Mr. Wiebe said Mr. Brown did report that this is the first time in a while that the agency has been fully staffed. Agency Quarterly Narrative Reports NTSW- Mr. Saver commented that the NTSW report indicated that they were considering the consolidation all of their services, including First Step, in one location. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB may have to consider whether it is willing to consider funding a program outside of Evanston_ Ms. Wiebe reminded the MHB members to follow the information in the Quarterly Narrative Reports. IX. UPDATES Family University. Mr. Saver had approximately 225 attendees. Thirteen agencies set up informational tables with resources. ESAPC/C&A LAN Prevention Workshop. Mr. Saver said this Prevention Workshop will be at the Evanston Township High School on Tuesday, May 16. There will be a five -person panel discussing what the recent trends have been in the community regarding adolescent substance use and abuse prevention. k x STAFF REPORT Mr: Saver said that Margueritte Adelman, President of the Mental Health Association North Slone, announced that she would be moving out of the area. He said he thought the community was losing a very important mental health advocate. He said she single-handedly started The Write Thing, a month newsletter about mental health issues and legislation. He distributed copies of the newsletter and inc5cated that the NM get on the mailing list, or could subscribe to the on-line version. Mr. Saver said that the City was notified that the Consolidated Plan it submitted to HUD was rr;ected. There were a number of other communities that this also happened to. The Plan is important because it is required by HUD for the community to be able to receive federal funding for a number of housing and homeless service programs. Mr. Saver said that a number of staff in the Community Devr1opmern Department and Health and Human Service have been reworking the documents for resubmission. Fie reported that a significant amount of his time has been tied up with the recisions, and will be until the project is completed. He said that, for the time being, there are a number of other projects that hake been put on hold. Mr. Saver reported that the Task Force on the Homeless did a point prevalence survey attempting to identify the needs of persons who are homeless in Evanston_ He pointed out that the report was inciu&-A in the Board packet. The majority of the work for the report was done by Frederica Fissell at Housing Options and the staff of Entry Point at Connections for the Homeless. his. 1Viebe commented that this Survey identifies social service needs of the homeless population.. She said the MHB should care" review the report and see in what areas the Board should be involved. Mr. Saver said the Board would be meeting with PEER Services at the May meeting. Meeting adjourned at 10:1 S P.M. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott �N" Unofficial record - lack of quorum EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD NOTES OF MEETING THURSDAY, NLARCH 09, 2000 Members Present: Susan Stroh, Thomas Tharayil, Jane Grover, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Lormie Wiebe, Chair. Staff: Haney Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton (Intern) Community Representatives: Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Matt Mills (Northwestern/htedill); Terrance Wimberly (Rimland Services); Sandra Stumme, Tana Paul (Metropolitan Famil} Services); Kathleen Murray, Erica Green, Dorothy Elfring, Takamasa Shell, Reko Warikata (University of Illinois/Chicago Campus) Ms. Wiebe convened the group at 7:35 p.m. at Metropolitan Family Services. 820 Davis Street, Suite 450. She reported that there were several Board members who would not be available, and so a quorum would not be present. As a result, no official business could be conducted I. INTRODUCTION'S AND COhLNIUNITY COMMENTS The members of the audience introduced themselves and were welcomed by the Board. Ms. Wiebe reported that Mr. Saver would be a little late due to his attendance at a community meeting about changes at Oakwood Terrace. Ms. Wiebe said that SIR Management owns Oakwood Terrace, and also owns Albany Care and Greenwood Care facilities. It is a long-term care facility for the senior population. The neighbors around Oakwood are concerned that Oakwood, which is applying to become eligible to bill for reimbursement from Medicaid and Medicare, is planning to shift the population they serve to pzrsons with mental illness, as well. Nis. Wiebe said that Alderman Bemstein is attending, as well as other staff from Health and Human Services. Ms. Wiebe commented that she would have liked to see a member of the MHB present but due to the present size of the board it was not feasible. Ms. Wiebe said that Ellen Reynolds' husband passed away. She added that Lou Rowitz's father- in- law was gravely ill and dying. Sh,- extended the Board's sympathy and concern to both of them. Ms. Wiebe reported that Paula Cofresi-Silverstein resigned from the MHB due to a conflict with a graduate school program with which she was enrolled. March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 1 Unofficial record - tack of quorum II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FEBRUARY 10, 2000 Ms. Wiebe stated there not being a quorum, the February 10, 2000, minutes, could not be accepted as submitted. They will be reviewed at the April meeting. III. AGENCY REVIEW: METROPOLITAN FAMILY SERVICES Sandra Stumme, Executive Director, and Tana Paul, Clinical Services Director, from Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) joined the Board. Ms. Stumme gave a background of the agency in Evanston, when they merged vdth Family Counseling Services. Metropolitan Family Services is a large agency with four locations. The Skokie and Evanston offices are linked. DuPage County and Southwest Cook County also have offices. This enables MFS to have flexibility and it gives MFS access to a variety of programs. Ms. Stumme provided handouts explaining the overall service's areas covered by MFS, and explained each program briefly. Ms. Stumme explained MFS's newest program, approximately two years old, a child and adolescent Mental Health Program. It is funded by the State, and no funding is requested for this program from the Mental Health Board. The contract is for Evanston Township and 'Maine Towr-ship. This is a program for children and adolescents who have just been diagnosed with a problem. or appear to be presenting symptoms and the parents are concerned that the child is having serious problems. If it is a low-income family MFS will work with them. MFS also uses Respite for this program, and this is paid for out of the Office of Mental Health dollars. htFS's Respite is more intensive and based on the diagnosis of the child, and incorporated as a part of a treatment plan. The Respite workers are carefully supervised so that everyone on the team is working towards the same goals. Ms. Stumme said that that MFS also owns and operates a camp, Camp Algonquin. that is opened to any child. Ms. Stumme said that their work is geared towards low-income families. Approximately 30 - 40 children attend the overnight camp for a week at a time. Ms. Stumme said she wanted to discuss the agency's outcome measures. The staff works with each individual or family to identify specific goals that they have to accomplish. At the errs of the year, MFS calls up all the files and tallies the outcomes. Tana Paul, who is with the Family Counseling Program, commented that they consider those goals that clients report as fully achieved and substantially achieved as positive outcomes. As an agency they aim at having 75% of their client reporting that they have substantially achieved their goals. They believe that this is a stood mark to aim for. This year they achieved that 75% level. MFS also works with families who are close to losing their children to DCFS for abuse and neglect issues. These families often present %%ith the same issues and are not very much diffemt. from the DCFS families. There is a high number. She discussed the program outcomes with these families. These services are more intensive, and generally the families are seen in their homes. MFS will go where they need to in order to engage them. March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 2 Unofficial record - lack of quorum Ms. Wiebe inquired as to how many clients MFS loses. Ms. Stumme said she think. the ia-%r a good turnout, and the only clients they do not see are the clients that do not aunt to be sc%= ;is. Wiebe said she thought that MFS is a model in their use of performance outcomes mca urcments among all the agencies the MHB funds. MFS has put a lot of work into it for various pmt . ,Lis. Wiebe asked what kind of an additional workload does this place on the agency, and %gill d3cre be any streamlining of the process? Ms. Stumme stated every one of the agency's programs mt= havve two outcome measures. It is difficult to find some of these measures which are both easy to apply and not too expensive. Ms. Sturnme said that the central agency would not provide f coding unIess they have this system of outcomes. Mr. Tharayil asked whether an assessment is done on the entire family when MFS does the initial assessment with a child who comes from an at -risk family? Ms. Stumme answered that MFS assesses the entire family. Ms. Stumme reported on several agency updates: • MFS's elder abuse program has seen a lot of growth. They had been registering 7-8 families a month. This has grown to 20-22 families per month. • MFS dropped their managed care contract last year. They are placing additional focus on the low-income population, now. • MFS is overwhelmed with the amount of case management. There are such a wide variety of additional needs and each case is so different in terms of what needs to get done. • MFS is receiving a lot of feedback on foster parents who are caring for their foster child's family, or are in the process of adopting and taking guardianship. • MFS has applied for a Section 8 housing program funding (the family self-sufficiency program). Mr. Tharayil asked if there are any restrictions in terms of reassessing client goals. Ms. Stumme stated that sometimes people leave and come back, and it would be done at that time. Ms. Wiebe commented that Ms. Stumme mentioned the need for the future is prevention. She asked whether there were any particulars she had in mind about how to approach prevention in the families in their caseload? Ms. Stumme said it is difficult, but they are continually looking for programs that will work. Ms. Stumme stated that MFS has struggled to become more financially solvent. MFS will continue to look at programs that come along and see where the agency is able to be effective. Additional growth is difficult because MFS's space at 820 Davis Street is coaxed out, and MFS really cannot afford more space. They must look at the space they have, and the best ways to use it. (Harvey Saver}oined the meeting at 8:25 p.m.) Ms. Wiebe thanked Metropolitan Family Services for presenting to the MHB, as well as hosting the March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 3 .W Unofficial record - tack of quorum MHB meeting tonight. Ms. Stumme thanked the MHB for their local support, because the programs they fund wetuld not otherwise happen. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Ms. Stu nme requested the NtHB assi�a mith the definition of "multi problem families". Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB has a committer working on the funding issues and how the MHB is going to define the funding categories. IV. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe reported that Paula Cofresi-Silverstein has resigned from the MHB, leaving the MHB with two vacancies. Ms. Wiebe wanted the MHB to be aware of the importance of what is happening in the community in relationship to mental health. She requested that the MHB members make themselves known when various issues pertaining to mental health arise in the community. V. HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE REFERENCE RELATED TO THE LONG TERM CARE ORDINANCE REVISIONS Ms. Wiebe said the Human Services Committee has requested a response to several issues they identified regarding the proposed Long Term Care Ordinance (LTCO) revisions. They asked both the MHB and the Commission on Aging to reply. Ms. Wicbe referred to .lay Terry's memo about the City's role and the role of the State regarding incidents and complaints. She said it appeared that the City would only be in an advisory role to the State of Illinois regarding any incident/complaint. The Dept. of Public HeaIth's decisions would be final. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said the decision to revise Evanston's monitoring process was implemented in the FY98-99 City Budget. A monitoring position was eliminated in the Health Department, and the State inspectors bean to license and monitor the Evanston facilities that year. The current process to revise the Evanston Ordinance is to determine what role the City «rill play, and how much oversight will be provided by the City, in implementing its own license for the long term care facilities. Ms. Grover inquired as to how effective the State's regulation and inspection processes are? Mr. Saver said that when the LTCO was last revised, beginning in 1988, the State's requirements and process were thought to be lacking. The MHB originally pushed for the revisions of the local LTCO because of its concerns about several incidents at the two MI facilities, and at Ridgeview Pa%ilion, what vvas then a nursing home for people with severe developmental disabilities. At the time the LTCO revisions were adopted, around 1990, the revised local LTCO was thought to be much more demanding. set higher expectations, and were more in line with the then current standards than was the State's licensing process. Mr. Saver said he has been informed that the State's licensing regulations have been updated and are thought to be as demanding as the Evanston Ordinance. Ms. Grover said it would be helpful to know whether anything is falling through the cracks in the Sixe's March 9, 2Q00 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unoff cial) Page 4 M Unofficial record - lack of quorum program. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that there are no special standards for nursing hi mes for Persons with mental illness, or institutes for mental disease. The City's (Winance and iffie State licensing standards review all nursing homes with the same standards. He said approximmely 16 months ago the staff at the State Department of Public Health issued a draft of rules for a separate licensing category under the Nursing Home Care Act for facilities primarily serving per -sans with mental illness, like Albany Care and Greenwood Care.) They ware to be called Re-idential Rehabilitation Facilities. He said it was his understanding that there v.-as input from the Office of Mental Health, Public Aid, and Public Health. The State held several hearings on the draft rules. Mr. Saver said he attended a hearing where only five people testified. There v.-as generally positive support from advocacy and mental health organizations. However, long-term care facilities were concerned with how they were going to be able to pay for the new requirements and additional responsibilities. Mr. Saver said there was no more public information about the proposed rule changes. He said he followed up with CBHAI and a legislator's staff to get additional information. The report he was given was that the long term care industry actively worked against the change in the licensing rules. He was informed that rather than set up new or separate licensing standards, the Department of Public Aid will do additional monitoring on quality of care issues at facilities like Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Ms. Wiebe provided a brief history about the purpose of Albany Care, and her familiarity with its relationship to the neighborhood and the neighborhood's concerns. She said it appears that in recent years things have been very quiet around Albany Care. The community seems to be living quite comfortably with its presence. At one time the MHB was more actively involved in communicating with both Albany and Greenwood, and provided feedback to them about a number of issues. Ms. Wicbe said she thought that if there were an incident the community would react immediately. Ms. Wicbe said that the ownership of both Albany Care and Greenwood Care is a for profit organization, SIR Management Corporation. They currently owm 10 LTC facilities including Oakwood Terrace in Evanston. Ms. Wiebe said she would like to see an MHB liaison with Albany Care and Greenwood Care. She commented that the Mental Health Association of the North Shore ( formerly Mental Health Association of Evanston) used to have programs at Albany Care. This provided a great service to the community, and thought the MHB could have a role with the facilities. Ms. Wiebe asked the Board to discuss the staff questions that were raised. and the issues that were raised by the Human Services Committee about the proposed LTCO revisions. In response to Ms. Wicbe, Mr. Saver explained the City's Long Term Care Ombudsman's role regarding the two Ml facilities. Ms. Grover and Mr. Tharayil recommended that the State continue its role in monitoring Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB should consider whether the cessation of regulation by the Evanston Health Department presented a risk to the community or to the two facilities' residents? She asked the MHB who should pursue the concerns of the neighborhood, and are there any concerns about the level of monitoring?" March 4, 2DOO Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 5 Unofficial record - lack of quorum Mr. Tharayil asked if any of the MHB-funded agencies oversee Alban- Care or Greenwood Care. Mr. Saver said NTSW/First Step has had a long-standing relationship with the facilities. Their population has always been approximately 98% indh iduyls from the two facilities. But this -Aw not monitoring or oversight of the facility programs. NTSW provides the services at their own site to the individuals. Other agencies have been in the facilities to provide various group and individuals therapeutic activities, but they are also not in the role of monitor. Mr. Saver said that the local M1 service providers are also involved in an initiative that was started by the State. It is referred to as CONNECT98 funding for psychosocial rehabilitation services (PSR). The State repackaged their day programming funds and put together guidelines for services that focused upon development rather than maintenance and warehousing. The State's major emphasis was for programming for people who were lining in the INIDs. Evanston got an increased allocation because of the number of IMD beds in the community. The State organized the funding so that groups of agencies would have to work together under to accomplish the PSR goals. Trilogy is the lead agency and banker for the local PSR consortium that includes NTSW, St. Francis Hospital CMHC and ENH Outpatient Psychiatry. Dr. David Daskovsky, an Evanston resident, is the Coordinator for the PSR services. Each of the agencies is providing a specific service or consultation to the overall project. The involved agencies meet monthly and discuss some of the programming issues for people who are receiving the PSR Services: become more familiar with each other's services; develop better communication with each other; and work at expanding, rather then duplicating, services. They have been able to bring more people from the facilities into active programs during the day. Some of the individuals from the IMD facilities are linked up with a case manager from Trilogy. St. Francis has run some active programming at Albany Care. Mr. Saver added that the new MHB funding for Trilogy would enhance their PSR programming. However, there is no one in the agencies involved in the PSR Consonium who is doing monitoring. However, their planning meetings do include programming staff from the IMDs. Mr. Saver said that it might be worthwhile to arrange a presentation about PSR for a Board meeting. Mr. Tharayil commented that it appears to him the MHB has been absent in relation to Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Mr. Saver commented that the MHB's only formal role under the City's Licensing Ordinance was limited to reviewing the training programs for staff at the IMDs. However. when the LTCO was revised in 1990, the MHB decided that they did not want to be in a monitoring role for the facilities. They believed that it was a conflict of interest with their role as advocates. Based upon the Board's interests, the MHB did have an active liaison role for a number of years. The liaison for Albany Care and Greenwood Care met on a regular basis with the directors of Albany Care and Greenwood Care, and provided feedback to the MHB. One liaison also worked actively with the director at Greenwood around some neighborhood issues that developed. Mr. Saver said for a number of years the MHB met infrequently with each of the Ml facilities. This was done in conjunction with the Commission On Aging's Long Term Care Committee. Ms. Wiebe commented at one time the issue of smoking outside the buildings w•as of concern to the neighborhood and the MHB thought this not to be a pressing issue. However, if something more than smoking outside the building came up, the MHB would take action. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 6 It UnofrwUi record - tack of quorum could not take action without a quorum, but said the NIHB would re`pond to the l luman -Service Committee regarding the LTC Ordinance. In response to Mr. Sa«r's question, the N1E113 cq�rcxsed interest in meeting with the COA/LTC Committee to discuss and review somN of the issu:s ia%Wvcd. Mr. Saver suggested scheduling a meeting with just a few members of caeh hoard. As. Grover volunteered to participate in this. V. MHB POLICIES Ms. Wiebe stated that Ms. Hampton provided the MHB a good summary of the MHB's policies. She said they were very old and had not been miewed or updated since 1987. She pointed out that three of the policies have to do with the MHB's funding policies and target populations. One of these policies is related to housing. Ms. Wiebe opined that the policies were central to the meaning of the identification of the MHB in the community. She said she thought that the Board needs to have up-to-date policies that represent what the MHB actually stands for today. She suggested that the MHB have two study groups. One group would work on three of these policies related to funding and target populations. The other would update the Board's policy on housing for people with special needs. The Board will be able to update or rescind the policies. Ms. Ni'iebe said that she would work on the housing work group. Ms. Stroh and Ms. Grover volunteered to work on the funding policies. VI. REVIEW OF ADVOCACY LETTERS The MHB reviewed the letters that were sent out to Evanston's State legislators in support of The Arc's budget proposals, and the "Do the Right Thing Campaign. - Ms. Wiebe discussed the Board's letters that were sent out about the cessation of the death penalty for people with a developmental disability. One letter,% as sent to Govemor Ryan, in response to his review of the State's death penalty, and copied to Evanston's State legislative delegation. The other was sent to Senator Leahy (VT) in support of his efforts at the federal level, and copied to Illinois' Senators and Congresswoman Schakowsky. Mr. Saver pointed out that HB4017 was passed in the State House on March 3. It amends the Criminal Code and prohibits the imposition of the death penalty upon a person with mental retardation. The Board requested that a letter be sent to Evanston's State Senators to express the position the MHB had already token supporting this position. VII. REPORT FROM SUBCOMMITTEE ON FUNDING PROCESS Ms. Wiebe reported that the Subcommittee had been meeting. Ms. Wiebe said the recommendations March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 7 k Unofficial record - lack of quorum would have to be reviewed by the entire Board. One thing the Subcommittee is recornmenditV is that the MHB establish priority funding areas, but not allocate an amount of funds to etch area as has been done in the past two years. Ms. Wiebe reported that there seemed to be very little hi. odcal context in the proposals. This issue was raised earlier by Board members who %%=led to see additional detail in the proposals. The Subcommittee will be looking at arms to expand upcm in the proposal format. Ms. Wiebe said that the Subcommittee was also recommending that every MHB member be responsible for doing an intensive review of two or three proposals. Having two Board members review each proposal would do this; the Agency Liaison would be one of the reviewers. 71He Hoard would be provided with a set of review criteria. Ms. Stroh commented that at one time the MHB had a set of criteria with which to review each agency program. She said she was concerned because the criteria did not apply to all agencies. Mr. Stroh said she thought itwould be helpful for each Board member to thoroughly study a limited number of agencies, but she wasn't clear as to how it would be done. Ms. Wiebe said that there are guidelines and criteria that have already been set up by other funding agencies. The MHB could draw upon these in developing their o%vn criteria and guidelines. She said that the Subcommittee would get back to the MHB with clarification of the questions that have been raised. VIII. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES • Agency Liaison Reports Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh stated that she has spoken with a number of clients who will be getting the audiological exams. The hearing aids trade available will be reduced or at no costs to the clients. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh said the agency has hired one staff member for the new Dimensions Program, and is looking for a second one now. Lisa Hampton commented that she went to Dimensions' training that was for the community. They expected to have approximately 45 attendees, but more than 80 people were in attendance. Ms. Hampton said there was a lot of good information provided about the MISA program. Ms. Wiebe commented that she was also at the training. It was exciting because a new program came from the MHB research and funding. She thanked Ms. Hampton for her contribution to this work. Connections for the Homeless. Mr. Saver said Connections for the Homeless has a new director, Will Sundblad, who started March 1. Ms. Grover said she had received an invitation to a reception for Mr. Sundibad and she will try and attend. SHORE. Ms. Stroh reported that she heard SHORE would be closing its school. Mr. Saver commented that SHORE will continue to have the Early Invention Program and the Adult Services March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page a x Unofficial record - lack of quorum located at the facility on Church Strxt Based upon the agency's reporting, it aprc= that their numbers will be going up because of the growth in the Early Intervention program, even after the school closes. Ms. Wiebe reported that she visited Shove Horne East, a residential program for 12 reside = She said she was greatly impressed with the cicanliness of the facility, and the good public relations it has. Childcare Network.1%1r.Tharayil said he would be visiting with this agency Friday. March 10. The Family Institute. W. Tharayil reported that he would be meeting next week with Bill Russell of the Family Institute. When Mr. Tharayil meets with Mr. Russell he will ask if they maybe interested in having the AMHB April 13. 2000 meeting there. Ms. Wiebe commented that it works very well for the MHB to meet at the various agencies. IX. UPDATES Substance Abuse Taskforce, Nis. Hampton reported that the Task Force established a timetable for the tasks and goals they wanted to accomplish. Their focus is to complete work on the primary prevention priority. She said that she and Kate Mahoney prepared a summary of the prevention services and activities in the community. The Task Force summarized the discussion and identified gaps for individuals who were transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, and also for seniors. Ms. Hampton said when Mr. Rowitz returns, at the next meeting the Task Force will fill out a prevention matrix for the community. Aging Well Conference. Mr. Saver said the plans for the Aging Well Conference were progressing on schedule. Ile said that he was developing a poster, and a flyer is being printed, to advertise the event. They will be distributed shortly. Mr. Saver said that space would be limited to the first 120 people to register. Based upon the experience last year, Mr. Saver said he did not think everyone interested would be able to be accommodated. Family University. Mr. Saver reminded the Board about the event, scheduled for Saturday, March 18. Ile said that twelve community agencies would be twelve agencies presenting resource information. Mr. Saver commented that .%4HB member are welcome to attend, but the target is high school parents and the parents of kids wfio will soon be entering high school. He added that the PTSA and the Boosters Club are financially supporting the event. ELAN Planning for EPS Funds. fir. Saver said that in the packet there was a copy of the services ELAN was proposing to develop with some of the community EPS allocation. ELAN will be reviewing the recommendations on the following Tuesday. He said that the EPS funds were to be used to avert or shorten a psychiatric hospitalization at a state facility. The recommendations are based upon information that has been provided by all of the service providers for adults with mental March 9, 2000 Mental health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 9 x Unofficial record - tack of quorum illness, who identified major gaps in community services. Information also •olicijed from Victim Services in the Police Department, Evanston/Skokic Vallee Senior Scrvicvs, Cormections for the Homeless, and Metropolitan Family Services. The proposal ELA\ will be rrvic%ving is for 24-hour mobile assessment and crisis intervention services. ELAN is proposing to ww appm%ximately S45,000 out of the S85,000 allocation of EPS funds for the commumity. 'Mr. Saver said thiat it was likely that ELAN will request Trilogy to expand these same services that it operatrs in Rogers Park to include Rogers Park. There is not enough money to build a progr-. n f vom scratch. \tr. fiver said that, before the State did away local area networks, there had been dL•cussion benrc<n the Evanston LAN and the Rogers Park LAN about how to have greater cooperation in service dclivery. n, ere was already a lot of overlap in clients. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that curremly Crisis Intervention at Evanston Hospital is not mobile and is a hospital- and telephone -bused service. At one time, Crisis was more mobile. Evanston Hospital's ACCESS program could also be called upon to do assessments in the community. This is no longer the case. Metropolitan Family Services does have 24-hour crisis intervention capacity, but this is only for their registered clients. Mr. Saver said that Board members were invited to attend the meeting and hear the discussion on the following Tuesday at 12 noon. X. STAFF REPORT The Homeless Task Force. Mr. Saver reported that the Task Force completed the point prevalence study for the Continuum of Care. He said that the report would be distributed to the Board. He said a lot of work was put into it to develop a comprehensive picture of wi►ere and how many people were being served at a single point in time. The majority of the work for the study was done by Frederica Fissell at Housing Options, and Margaret Norton and the staff of Entry Point at Connections for the Homeless. Based upon the information, the gaps analysis will be developed for the Continuum of Care. This information will be used to develop the priorities for the Continuum of Care, and to prioritize funding proposals for Evanston's funding from HUD for homeless services. City's Budget. Mr. Saver reported that the City Budget was adopted with very few changes from what was originally proposed in the draft Budget. There were some revisions made to revenue projections. The Budget was passed with a 4.5% tax increase on the City's portion of the tax bill. Oakwood Terrace, Mr. Saver reported on the meeting that evening at Oakwood Terrace. He said that when SIR Management purchased Oakwood Terrace several yens ago, there were rurnors in the surrounding neighborhood that they were going to convert it to a facility, for persons with mental illness. The neighbors were extremely concerned about this, particularly because of their relative proximity to Greenwood Care and Albany Care. SIR had always maintained that that was not their intent. Oakwood Terrace recently applied for Medicaid and Medicare certification so that residents who depleted their funds would be able to continue their care in the community. From the comments at the community meeting, it seemed that this, in concert with a number of concerns about issues related to facility maintenance; behavior of staff at the change of evening shifts; behavior of vendors and contractors in the surrounding community, and, the behavior of a person who had a brain injury March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 10 Unofficial record - tack of quorum and was very loud when the windows were open during the rc-cem wimn weather generated a number of rumors about the intention of the facility. Mr. Saver said that if the fwility were actually to become a facility for persons with mental illness, it would be classified by the State its an hind rie for mental disease, like Albany and Greenwood, and be ineligible for Medicaid reimbursern=L In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that, under State licensing as %yell as E%-anston's Ii,, i g ordinance, there is no difference between licensing requirements for a nursing horne for seniors and one for persons with mental illness. This was the issue he discussed in the agenda item about the Long Term Care Ordinance. Mr. Saver reported that, at the neighborhood meeting. SIR Management was asked for a written, formal commitment that they would not detelop Oakv«*d into a facility recruiting persons with mental illness. The SIR representative indicated that they could not do this legally because it would be considered to be discriminatory. But they insisted that they had no interest in developing another MI facility at the Oakwood site. They also said they thought it H-as too small for an MI facility. Mr. Saver said, however, that he personall3• thought it would be better programmatically to have a small facility for persons with mental illness rather than a large facility with hundreds of beds. Mr. Saver reported that Alderman Bernstein was in attendance at the community meeting. He addressed a number of concerns that the neighbors had presented about the behavior of the facility and the facility staff in the community. He pointed out changes he had already asked to have implemented. He also pointed out that SIR Management had made some changes right away, in response to concerns expressed at an earlier meeting about the same issues being discussed at that evening meeting. The Alderman did express his own concerns and said he would be helping keep an eye on the situation. Mr. Saver reported that the MHB meeting in April is scheduled to be at The Family Institute, 618 Library Place. Meeting adjourned at 10:15 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Motes (Unofficial) Page 11 X, Unofficial record -lack of quorum EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD NOTES OF MEETING THURSDAY, NtkRCH 09, 2000 Members Present: Susan Stroh, Thomas Tharayil, Jane Grover, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding:' Lonnie Wiebe, Chair. Staff.. Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton (Intern) Community Representatives: Alexander Bro,.,.n (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Servicesr, Matt Mills (Northwestern/Medil.I); Terrance Wimberly (Rimland Services); Sandra Stumme, Tana Paul (Metropolitan Family Services); Kathleen Murray, Erica Green, Dorothy Elfring, Takamasa Sheil, Reko Warikata (University of Illinois/Chicago Campus) Ms. Wiebe convened the group at 7:35 p.m. at Metropolitan Family Services, 820 Davis Street, Suite 450. She reported that there were several Board members who would not be available, and so a quorum would not be present. As a result, no official business could be conducted I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS The members of the audience introduced themselves and were welcomed by the Board. Ms. Wiebe reported that Mr. Saver would be a little late due to his attendance at a community meeting about changes at Oakwood Terrace. Ms. Wicbe said that SIR Management owns Oakwood Terrace, and also owns Albany Care and Greenwood Care facilities. It is a long-term rare facility for the senior population. The neighbors around Oakwood are concerned that Oakwood, which is applying to become eligible to bill for reimbursement from Medicaid and Medicare, is planning to shift the population they serve to persons with mental illness, as well. Ms. Wiebe said that Alderman Bernstein is attending, as well as other staff from Health and Human Services, Ms. Wiebe commented that she would have liked to see a member of the MHB present but due to the present size of the board it was not feasible. Ms. Wiebe said that Ellen Reynolds' husband passed away. She added that Lou RowitZs father- in- law was gravely ill and dying. She extended the Board's sympathy and concern to both of them. Ms. Wiebe reported that Paula Cofresi-Silverstein resigned from the MHB due to a conflict with a graduate school program with which she was enrolled. March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 1 k Unofficial record - lack of quorum II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FEBRUARY 10, 2000 Ms. Wiebe stated there not being a quorum, the February 10, 2000. minutes, could not be za=pted as submitted. They will be reviewed at the April meeting. III. AGENCY REVIEW: METROPOLITAN FA.tiIILY SERVICES Sandra Stumme, Executive Director, and Tana Paul, Clinical Services Director, from Metropolitan Family Services (MFS) joined the Board. Ms. Stumme gave a background of the agency in EwAztston, when they merged with Family Counseling Services. Metropolitan Family Smices is a large agency with four locations. The Skokie and Evanston offices are linked. DuPage County and Southwest Cook County also have offices. This enables MFS to have flexibility and it gives MFS access to a variety of programs. Ms. Stumme provided handouts explaining the overall services areas ccn,eyed by MFS, and explained each program briefly. Ms. Stumme explained MFS's newest program, approximately two years old, a child and adolescent Mental Health Program. It is funded by the State, and no funding is requested for this program from the Mental Health Board. The contract is for Evanston Township and Maine Township. This is a program for children and adolescents who have just been diagnosed with a problem, or appear to be presenting symptoms and the parents are concerned that the child is having serious problems. If it is a low-income family MFS will work with them. MFS also uses Respite for this program, and this is paid for out of the Office of Mental Health dollars. MFS's Respite is more intensive and based on the diagnosis of the child, and incorporated as a part of a treatment plan. The Respite workers are carefully supervised so that everyone on the team is working towards the same goals. Ms. Stumme said that that MFS also owns and operates a camp, Camp Algonquin, that is opened to any child. Ms. Stumme said that their work is geared towards low-income families. Approximately 30 - 40 children attend the overnight camp for a week at a time. Ms. Stumme said she wanted to discuss the agency's outcome measures. The staff works with each individual or family to identify specific goals that they have to accomplish. At the end of the year, MFS calls up all the files and tallies the outcomes. Tana Paul, who is with the Family Counseling Program, commented that they consider those goals that clients report as fully achieved and substantially achieved as positive outcomes. As an agency they aim at having 75% of their client reporting that they have substantially achieved their goals. They believe that this is a good mark to aim for. This year they achieved that 75% level. MFS also works with families who are close to losing their children to DCFS for abuse and neglect issues. These families often present with the same issues and are not very much different from the DCFS families. There is a high number. She discussed the program outcomes with these families. These services are more intensive, and generally the families are seen in their homes. MFS will go where they need to in order to engage them. March 9, 2000 Mental Health Boar! Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 2 K Unofficial record - lack of quon m Ms. Wiebe inquired as to how many clients N'IFS loses. his. Stumme said she thinks they iia:ve a good turnout, and the only clients they do riot see arc the clients that do not want to be seen- Ms. Wiebe said she thought that MFS is a model in their use of performance outcomes measure=xnts among all the agencies the NM funds. NiFS has put a lot of work into it for various programs. Ms. Wiebe asked what kind of an additional workload does this place on the agency, and will tht= be any streamlining of the process? Ms. Stumme stated every one of the agency's programs must have two outcome measures. It is difficult to find some of these measures which are both easy to apply and not too expensive. Ms. Stumme said th. z the central agency would not pro%ide funding mess they have this system of outcomes. Mr. Tharayil asked whether an assessment is done on the entire family when MFS does the initial assessment with a child who comes from an at -risk family? Nis. Stumme answered that MFS assesses the entire family. - Ms. Stumme reported on several agency updates: • MFS's elder abuse program has seen a lot of growth. They had been registering 7-8 families a month. This has grown to 20-22 families per month. • MFS dropped their managed care contract last year. They are placing additional focus on the low-income population. now. • MFS is overwhelmed with the amount of case management. There are such a wide variety of additional needs and each case is so different in terms of what needs to get done. • MFS is receiving a lot of feedback on foster parents who are caring for their foster child's family, or are in the process of adopting and taking guardianship. • MFS has applied for a Section 8 housing program funding (the family self-sufficiency program). Mr. Tharayil asked if there are any restricticros in terms of reassessing client goals. Ms. Stumme stated that sometimes people leave and come back, and it would be done at that time. Ms. Wiebe commented that Ms. Stumme mentioned the need for the future is prevention. She asked whether there were any particulars she had in mind about how to approach prevention in the families in their caseload? Ms. Stumme said it is difficult, but they are continually looking for programs that will work. Ms. Stumme stated that MFS has struggled to become more financially solvent. MFS will continue to look at programs that come along and see where the agency is able to be effective. Additional growth is difficult because MFS's space at 820 Davis Street is maxed out, and MFS really cannot afford more space. They must look at the space they have, and the best ways to use it. (Harvey Saver joined the meeting at 8:25 p.m.) Ms. Wiebe thanked Metropolitan Family Sen ices for presenting to the MHB, as well as hosting the March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 3 Unofficial record - tack of quorum MHB meeting tonight. Ms. Stumme thanked the NfHB for their local support, because the programs they fund wm4d not otherwise happen. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Ms. Stumme requested the Nit IR=iistwith the definition of "multi problem families". Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB has a committer vworking; on the funding issues and how the MHB is going to define the funding categories. IV. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe reported that Paula Cofresi-Silverstein has resigned from the MHB, leaving the MHB with two vacancies. Ms. Wiebe wanted the MHB to be aware of the importance of what is happening in the aon=unity in relationship to mental health. She requested that the MHB members make themseivm knnwrt when various issues pertaining to mental health arise in the community. V. HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE REFERENCE RELATED TO THE LONG TERM CARE ORDINANCE REVISIONS Ms. Wiebe said the Human Services Committee has requested a response to several issues they identified regarding the proposed Long Term Care Ordinance (LTCO) revisions. They asked both the MHB and the Commission on Aging to reply. his. Wiebe referred to Jay Terrys memo about the City's role and the role of the State regarding incidents and complaints. She said it appeared that the City would only be in an advisory role to the State of Illinois regarding; any incident/complaint. The Dept. of Public HeaIth's decisions would be final. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said the decision to revise Evanston's monitoring process was implemented in the FY98-99 City Budget. A monitoring position was eliminated in the Health Department, and the State inspectors began to license and monitor the Evanston facilities that year. The current process to revise the Evanston Ordinance is to determine what role the City will play, and how much oversight will be provided by the City, in implementing its own license for the long term care facilities. Ms. Grover inquired as to how effective the State's regulation and inspection processes are. Mr. Saver said that when the LTCO was last revised, beginning in 1988, the State's requiremem and process were thought to be lacking. The MHB originally pushed for the revisions of the local LTCO because of its concerns about several incidents at the two Nil facilities, and at Ridgevievv- Pa-.ilion, what was then a nursing; home for people %ith severe developmental disabilities. At the tinge the LTCO revisions were adopted, around 1990, the revised local LTCO was thought to be much more demanding, set higher expectations, and were more in line with the then current standards th= was the State's licensing process. Mr. Saver said he has been informed that the State's licrasing; regulations have been updated and are thought to be as demanding as the Evanston Ordinances Nis. Grover said it would be helpful to know whether anything is falling through the cracks in the State's March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 4 Unofficial record - tack of quorum program. In response to a question, iir. Saver said that there are no special standards for nursing hennes for persons with mental illness, or institutes for mental disease. The City's (Winance and rihc State licensing standards review all nursing homes with the same standards. He :said approximattely 16 months ago the staff at the State Department of Public Health issued a drab of riles for a s-parate licensing category under the Nursing Home Care Act for facilities primarily serving pem-,Ms with mental illness, like Albany Care and Greenwood Care.) They were to be called Res5dcntial Rehabilitation Facilities. He said it was his understanding that there wms input from the Q�fflce of Mental Health, Public Aid, and Public Health. The State held several hearings on the draft rules. Mr. Saver said he attended a hearing where only five people testified. There was generally positive support from advocacy and mental health organizations. However, long-term care facilitir_s were concerned with how they were going to be able to pay for the new requirements and a&jitional responsibilities. Mr. Saver said there was no more public information about the propos'd rule changes. He said he followed up with CBHAI and a legislator's staff to get additional information. The report he was given was that the long term care industry actively worked against the cfnnge in the licensing rules. He was. informed that rather than set up new or separate licensing standds, the Department of Public Aid uiIl do additional monitoring on quality of care issues at facilities like Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Ms. Wiebe provided a brief history about the purpose of Albany Care, and her familiarity with its relationship to the neighborhood and the neighborhood's concerns. She said it appears that in recent years things have been very quiet around Albany Care. The community seems to be living quite comfortably with its presence. At one time the MHB was more actively involved in communicating with both Albany and Greenwood, and provided feedback to them about a number of issues. Ms. Wicbe said she thought that if there were an incident the community would react immediately. Ms. Wicbe said that the ownership of both Albany Care and Greenwood Care is a for profit organization, SIR Management Corporation. They currently own 10 LTC facilities including Oakwood Terrace in Evanston. Ms. Wiebe said she would like to see an MHB liaison with Albany Care and Greenwood Care. She commented that the Mental Health Association of the North Shore (formerly Mental Health Association of Evanston) used to have programs at Albany Care. This provided a great service to the community, and thought the MHB could have a role with the facilities. Ms. Wicbe asked the Board to discuss the staff questions that were raised, and the issues th.-t were raised by the Human Services Committee about the proposed LTCO revisions. In response w Ms. Wiebe, Mr. Saver explained the City's Lone Term Care Ombudsman's role regarding the two MI facilities. Ms. Grover and Mr. Tharayil recommended that the State continue its role in monitoring Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB should consider whether the cessation of regulation by the Evanston Health Department presented a risk to the community or to the two facilities' residents? She asked the MHB who should pursue the concerns of the neighborhood, and are there any concerns about the level of monitoring?" March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 5 k Unofficial record - tack of quorum Mr. Tharayil asked if any of the MHB-funded agencies oversee Albany Care or Grccm,.x)&xi Care. Mr. Saver said NTSW/First Step has had a long-standing relationship with the facilities. Their population has always been approximately 98% individuals from the two facilities. But this %vas not monitoring or oversight of the facility programs. NTSW provides the services at their ov-n site to the individuals. Other agencies have been in the facilities to provide various group and individuals therapeutic activities, but they are also not in the role of monitor. Mr. Saver said that the local M1 service providers are also involved in an initiative that was started by the State. It is referred to as CONNECT98 funding for psychosocial rehabilitation services (PSR). The State repackaged their day programming funds and put together guidelines for services that focused upon development rather than maintenance and warehousing. The State's major emphasis was for programming for people who were living in the IMDs. Evanston got an increased allocation because of the number of IhID beds in the community. The State organized the funding so that groups of agencies would have to work together under to accomplish the PSR goals. Trilogy is the lead agency and banker for the local PSR consortium that includes NTSW, St. Francis Ilospital CMHC and ENH Outpatient Psychiatry. Dr. David Daskovsky, an Evanston resident, is the Coordinator for the PSR services. Each of the agencies is providing a specific service or consultation to the overall project. The involved agencies meet monthly and discuss some of the programming issues for people who are receiving the PSR Services: become more familiar with each other's services; develop better communication with each other; and work at expanding, rather then duplicating, services. They have been able to bring more people from the facilities into active programs during the day. Some of the individuals from the IMD facilities are linked up with a case manager from Trilogy. St. Francis has run some active programming at Albany Care. Mr. Saver added that the new MHB funding for Trilogy would enhance their PSR programming. However, there is no one in the agencies involved in the PSR Consortium who is doing monitoring. However, their planning meetings do include programming staff from the IMDs. Mr. Saver said that it might be worthwhile to arrange a presentation about PSR for a Board meeting. Mr. Tharayil commented that it appears to him the MHB has been absent in relation to Albany Care and Greenwood Care. Mr. Saver commented that the MI-IB's only formal role under the City's Licensing Ordinance was limited to reviewing die training programs for staff at the IMDs. However, when the LTCO was revised in 1990, the MHB decided that they did not want to be in a monitoring role for the facilities. They believed that it was a conflict of interest with their role as advocates. Based upon the Board's interests, the MHB did have an active liaison role for a number of years. The liaison for Albany Care and Greenwood Care met on a regular basis with the directors of Albany Care and Greenwood Care. and provided feedback to the MHB. One liaison also worked actively with the director at Greenwood around some neighborhood issues that developed. Mr. Saver said for a number of years the MHB met infrequently with each of the MI facilities. This was done in conjunction with the Commission On Aging's Long Term Care Committee. Ms. Wiebe commented at one time the issue of smoking outside the buildings was of concern to the neighborhood and the MHB thought this not to be a pressing issue. However, if something more than smoking outside the building came up, the MHB would take action. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 6 Unofficial record - tack of quorum could not take action without a quorum, but said the MHB would respond to the Human Service Committee regarding the LTC Ordinance. In response to Mr. Saver's question, the MHB used interest in meeting with the COA/LTC Committee to discuss and review some of the issues involved. Mr. Saver suggested scheduling a meeting with just a few members of each board. NL�. Grover volunteered to participate in this. V. MHB POLICIES Ms. Wiebe stated that Ms. Hampton provided the MHB a good summary of the Nm's policies. She said they were very old and had not been reviewed or updated since 1987. She pointed out that three of the policies have to do with the MHB's funding policies and target populations. One of these policies is related to housing. Ms. Wiebe opined that the policies were central to the meaning of the identification ofthe MHB in the community. She said she thought that the Board needs to have up-to-date policies that represent what the MHB actually stands for today. She suggested that the MHB have two study groups. One group would wort: on three of these policies related to funding and target populations. The other would update the Board's policy on housing for people with special needs. The Board will be able to update or rescind the policies. Ms. Wiebe said that she would work on the housing work group. Ms. Stroh and Ms. Grover volunteered to work on the funding policies. VI. REVIEW OF ADVOCACY LETTERS The MHB reviewed the letters that were sent out to Evanston's State legislators in support of The Arc's budget proposals, and the "Do the Right Thing Campaign." Ms. Wiebe discussed the Board's letters that were sent out about the cessation of the death penalty for people with a developmental disability. One letter was sent to Governor Ryan, in response to his review of the State's death penalty, and copied to Evanston's State legislative delegation. The other was sent to Senator Leahy (VT) in support of his efforts at the federal level, and copied to Illinois' Senators and Congresswoman Schakowsky. Mr. Saver pointed out that HB4017 was passed in the State House on March 3. It amends the Criminal Code and prohibits the imposition of the death penalty upon a person with mental retardation. The Board requested that a letter be sent to Evanston's State Senators to express the position the MHB had already taken supporting this position. VII. REPORT FROM SUBCOMMITTEE ON FUNDING PROCESS Ms. Wiebe reported that the Subcommittee had been meeting. Ms. Wiebe said the recommendations March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 7 k Unofficial record - lack of quorum would have to be reviewed by the entire Board. One thing the Subcm mittec is recommending is that the MHB establish priority funding areas, but not allocate an amount of funds to each area, as has been done in the past two years. Ms. Wiebe reported that there seemed to be very little historical context in the proposals. This issue was raised earlier by Board members who Nv nted to see additional detail in the proposals. The Subcommittee %sill be looking at arras to expand upon in the proposal format. Ms. Wiebe said that the Subcommittee was also recommending that every MHB member be responsible for doing an intensive review of two or three proposals. Having two Board members review each proposal would do this; the Agency Liaison would be one of the reviewers. The Board would be provided with a set of review criteria. Ms. Stroh commenced that at one time the MHB had a set of criteria with which to review each agency program. She said she was concerned because the criteria did not apply to all agencies. Mr. Stroh said she thought it would be helpful for each Board member to thoroughly study a limited number of agencies, but she wasn't clear as to how it would be done. Ms. Wiebe said that there are guidelines and criteria that have already been set up by other funding agencies. The MHB could draw upon these in developing their own criteria and guidelines. She said that the Subcommittee would get back to the MHB with clarification of the questions that have been raised. Vill. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES • Agency Liaison Reports Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh stated that she has spoken with a number of clients who will be getting the audiological exams. The hearing aids made available will be reduced or at no costs to the clients. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh said the agency has hired one staff member for the new Dimensions Program, and is looking for a second one now. Lisa Hampton commented that she went to Dimensions' training that was for the community. They expected to have approximately 45 attendees, but more than 80 people were in attendance. Ms. Hampton said there was a lot of good information provided about the MISA program. Ms. Wiebe commented that she was also at the training. It was exciting because a new program came from the MHB research and funding. She thanked Ms. Hampton for her contribution to this work. Connections for the Homeless. Mr. Saver said Connections for the Homeless has a new director, Will Sundblad, who started March 1. Ms. Grover said she had received an invitation to a reception for Mr. Sundlbad and she will try and attend. SHORE. Ms. Stroh reported that she heard SHORE would be closing its school. Mr. Saver commented that SHORE will continue to have the Early Invention Program and the Adult Services March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 8 Unofficial record - lack of quorum located at the facility on Church Street. Based upon the agency's reporting, it appears that their numbers will be going up because of the growth in the Early intervention program, even after the school closes. Ms. Wiebe reported that she visited Shore Home East, a residential program for 12 residents. She said she was greatly impressed with the cleanliness of the facility. mad the good public relations it has. Childcare Network. Mr.Tharayil said he would be visiting with this agency Friday, March 10. The Family Institute. Mr. Tharayil reported that he «nuld be meeting next week with Bill Russell of the Family Institute. When Mr. Tharayil meets with Mr. Russell he will ask if they maybe interested in having the MHB April 13, 2000 meeting there. Ms. %-9ebe commented that it works very well for the MHB to meet at the various agencies. Ix UPDATES Substance Abuse Taskrorce. Ms. Hampton reported that the Task Force established a timetable for the tasks and goals they wanted to accomplish. Their focus is to complete work on the primary prevention priority. She said that she and Kate Mahoney prepared a summary of the prevention services and activities in the community. The Task Force summarized the discussion and identified gaps for individuals who were transitioning from adolescence to adulthood, and also for seniors. Ms. Hampton said when Mr. Rowitz returns, at the next meeting the Task Force will fill out a prevention matrix for the community. Aging Well Conference. Mr. Saver said the plans for the Aging Well Conference were progressing on schedule. He said that he was developing a poster, and a flyer is Ee'ing printed, to advertise the event. They will be distributed shortly. Mr. Saver said that space wocild be limited to the first 120 people to register. Based upon the experience last year, Mr. Saver said he did not think everyone interested would be able to be accommodated. Family University. Mr. Saver reminded the Board about the event, scheduled for Saturday, March 18. He said that twelve community agencies would be twelve aV encies presenting resource information. Mr. Saver commented that MHB member are welcome co attend, but the target is high school parents and the parents of kids who will soon be entering high school. He added that the PTSA and the Boosters Club are financially supporting the event. E"N Planning for EPS Funds. Mr. Saver said that in the packet them was a copy of the services ELAN was proposing to develop %%ith some of the community EPS allocation. ELAN will be reviewing the recommendations on the following Tuesday. He said that the EPS funds were to be used to avert or shorten a psychiatric hospitalization at a state facility_ The recommendations are based upon information that has been provided by all of the service providers for Adults «ith mental March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 9 a Unofficial record - task of quorum illness, who identified major gaps in community services. Information was also solicited from Victim Services in the Police Department, Evanstan/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Connections for the Homeless, and Metropolitan Family Services. The proposal ELAN will be reviewing is for 24-hour mobile assessment and crisis intervention services. ELAN is proposing to use approximately 545,000 out of the $85,000 allocation of EPS funds for the community. Mr. Saver said that it was likely that ELAN will request Trilogy to expand these same services that it operates in Rogers Park to include Rogers Park. There is not enough money to build a program from scratch_'Mr. Saver said that, before the State did away local area networks, there had been discussion between the Evanston LAN and the Rogers Park LAN about how to have greater cooperation tut service delivery. There was already a lot of overlap in clients. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that currently Crisis Intervention at Evanston Hospital is not mobile and is a hospital- and telephone -based se7vioc. At one time, Crisis was more mobile. Evanston Hospital's ACCESS program could also be called upon to do assessments in the community. This is no longer the case. Metropolitan Family Ser%ices does have 24-hour crisis intervention capacity, but this is only for their registered clients. Mn Saver said that Board members were invited to attend the meeting and hear the discussion on the following Tuesday at 12 noon. X. STAFF REPORT The Homeless Task Force. Mr. Saver reported that the Task Force completed the point prevalence study for the Continuum of Care. He said that the report would be distributed to the Board. He said a lot of work was put into it to develop a comprehensive picture of where and how many people were being served at a single point in tune. The majority of the work for the study was done by Frederica Fissell at Housing Options, and Margaret Norton and the staff of Entry Point at Connections for the Homeless. Based upon the information, the gaps analysis will be developed for the Continuum of Care. This information will be used to develop the priorities for the Continuum of Care, and to prioritize funding proposals for Evanston's funding from HUD for homeless services. City's Budget, Mr. Saver reported that the City Budget was adopted with very few changes from what was originally proposed in the draft Budget. There were some revisions made to revenue projections. The Budget was passed with a 4.5% tax increase on the City's portion of the tax bill. Oakwood Terrace. Mr. Saver reported on the meeting that evening at Oakwood Terrace. He said that when SIR Management purchased Oakwood Terrace several years ago, there were rumors in the surrounding neighborhood that they were going to convert it to a facility for persons with mental illness. The neighbors were extremely concerned about this, particularly because of their relative proximity to Greenwood Care and Albany Care. SIR had always maintained that that was not their intent. Oakwood Terrace recently applied for Medicaid and Medicare certification so that residents who depleted their funds would be able to continue their care in the community. From the comments at the community meeting, it seemed that this, in concert with a number of concerns about issues related to facility maintenance; behavior of staff at the change of evening shifts; behavior of vendors and contractors in the surrounding community; and, the behavior of person who had a brain inlay March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting dotes (Unofficial) Page 10 Unofficial record - tack of quorum and was very loud when the windows were open during the tet-,ent, ww-tn weathcr gamed a number of rumors about the intention of the facility. Mr. Saver stud that if the facility were :amrally to become a facility for persons with mental illness, it would be classified by the Sate as an institute for mental disease, like Albany and Greenwood, and be ineligible for Medicaid minibur t. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that, under State licensing as well as l vamst-on's lk-=sing ordinance, there is no difference between licensing requirements for a nursing; home a-tr scn&-cs and one for persons with mental illness. This was the issue he discussed in the agenda item ah>w the Long Term Care Ordinance. Mr. Saver reported that, at the neighborhood meeting. SIR Marmp ment was asked for a written, formal commitment that they would not develop Oak-\%iW into a facility recruiting; persons with mental illness. The SIR representative indicated that they could not do this legally because it would be considered to be discriminatory. But they insisted that they had no interest in developing; another MI facility at the Oakwood site. They also said they thought it vacs too small for an MI facility. Mr. Saver said, however, that he personally thought it would be better programmatically to have a small facility for persons with mental illness rather than a large facility with hundreds of beds. Mr. Saver reported that Alderman Bernstein was in attendance at the community meeting. He addressed a number of concerns that the neighbors had presented about the behavior of the facility and the facility staff in the community. He pointed out changes he had already asked to have implemented. He also pointed out that SIR Management had made some changes right away, in response to concerns expressed at an earlier meeting about the same issues being discussed at that evening; meeting;. The Alderman did express his own concerns and said he would be helping keep an eye on the situation. Mr. Saver reported that the MHB meeting in April is scheduled to be at The Family Institute, 618 Library Place. Meeting adjourned at 10:15 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott March 9, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Notes (Unofficial) Page 11 Minutes recorded —not yet approved Members Present: Presiding: staff: Community Representatives: EVAINSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD 1►IEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2000 Susan Stroh, Marsha Mehen, Thomas Tharayil, Jane Grover, Louis Rowitz, Lonnie Wiebe Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton Gerry Gulley, Deborah Braun, Arthur Buehler (SHORE: Community Services) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. at Shore School, 2525 Church Street 1. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS The members of the audience introduced themselves and were welcomed by the Board. 1I. AGENCY RENUW: SHORE COMMUNITY SERVICES Arthur Buehler (President), Jerry Gulley (Executive Director), and Deborah Braun (Director of Shore School) joined the Board. Mr. Buehler stated that SHORE serves over 333 persons in the Evanston community and surrounding communities with a staff of more than 100. and a budget of approximately S4.5 million. Mr. Buehler told of the early history of SHORE. He said in 2001 SHORE will have been in service 50 years. Mr. Gulley commented that he had been with SHORE 30 years, and described his background with the agency. Ms. Braun said she had been the Director of the Shore School for 2 years. Mr. Rowitz said the M1413 looked forward to SHORE's next 50 years, and asked what could the MHB see for the future of SHORE. Ms. Braun said that there would be continuous, significant growth in the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) program that serves children from birth to 3 years of age. These children range from at -risk infants with drug or alcohol exposure to children with mild to severe developmental delays. This past year there was a 65% increase in the number of children served. Thus far, this fiscal year the ECI program has served more kids than in the entire past fiscal year. Ms. Braun added that the Adult Program at Shore School was also expanding significantly. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes . Page I Minutes recorded — not yet approved Ms. Braun explained that the ECI program has been expanding as a result of a State law in 1998 that requires that early intervention services be provided at no cost for families of children 0-3 who are experiencing developmental delays. The State created a central referral system. Locally this is handled through Child and Family Connections. Physicians are now Iegally required to provide referrals for all parents if their child has a developmental delay. As a result, Shore has seen an increase in referrals in this manner. Ms. Wiebe asked how this has affected the agez- cy's staffing? Ms. Braun stated that Shore School has had to increase staff with specific training, and credentialed under the State system They have hired an outpatient therapist and a manager for the EIC program. In addition, they have contracted with an occupational therapist and a physical therapist. Mr. Rowitz asked what the impact of inclusion has been upon the school -age program. Ms. Braun said that the school program there has been a lack of new referrals They had 14 students 3 - 21 years old; 6 graduated last year, and there have not been any new referrals coming in due to inclusion programming in the public school system. However, while the numbers are down in the school program, Shore School is serving many more individuals in the 0-3 and adult programs that more than make up for the decline in the school age population. Mr. Gulley added that he expected most programs for school -age kids to close, except for children with the most extreme behaviors. Mr. Rowitz asked if SHORE could develop after school programs? Mr. Gulley said that they offer an after school program to the children who attend Shore School. Mr. Gulley commented that SHORE used to offer after school programs for the community, but transportation became a problem for them, and the logistics were difficult. The public school system will transport kids home from the public school, but will not transport them to their home after they come to after - school programming at Shore School. Mr. Buehler added that March 1 there will be an Adult Senior Program opening at SHORE's training center. The agency has considered moving the training center to Shore School, Mr. Saver asked about SHORE's plans for housing expansion? Mr. Buehler said the agency has just finished a rehabbing home in Skokie, and will be opening a five -bed CILA on Church Street. The housing will be for persons with severe disabilities who have physical problems. NIT. Buehler added, however, that it is hard to find staff for this program. The employment situation is diflicult because there is a good economy and available jobs. SHORE is finding their competition from companies like McDonalds and Starbucks, insofar as salary rates. People are needed with degrees and education, but the salaries SHORE can offer are very low. Mr. Buehler said the State of Illinois does not adequately fund these services. They simply do not provide enough money. He added that Illinois is only 45`h in what it provides for persons with developmental disabilities, and yet is 7'h in individual income. In this year's proposed State Budget, these types of services are not even mentioned. He said SHORE is doing everything that it can in talking with legislators to get more money for staff, because the better staff you have the better care you can give. Mr. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 h Minutes recorded —not yet approved Gulley pointed out that there is a S200 fee to do mandated background checks to investigate Persons applying for the positions Many of these persons them heave or do not show up. SHORE has staff that sometimes worts m-o or three shifts. The agency is finding that need grows in inverse proportion to the ability to find staff. Mr. Gulley said that there are approximately 1,000 special education students graduating from Illinois public schools every year that will, at some point, need supervised residential supports. Fie said he did not know where the staff was gang to come from for these programs Mr. Saver said that the NIHB was going to view The Are of Illinois' educational video "What Are We Waiting For?" after SHORE's presentation. The video addresses some of the issues that are being raised by Mr. Buehler and Mr. Gulley. Ms. Wiebe commented that the Mental Health Board funds Shoe School and Residential Services. She asked if the Shore School is mostly closed out due to mainstreaming in schools how would the agency suggest areas that they would like to see the Mental Health Board assist? W. Gulley said the cost center the NM funds and that Ms. Braun iupennses includes the Early Childhood Intervention Program services for the 3-21 population and the adult services for people who are older than 21, If the program for the 3-21 schoal population disappear, the cost center and Shore School «711 continue to function with the rapid growth in the Early Childhood Intervention Program and the growth in the Adult Center. The �M will not see any decrease in the number of people being served. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said if the current tread continues, it is likely that SHORE will be reporting an increase overall in the number of adults and kids being served. Ms. Wiebe asked Mr. GuIIey to wrap up their presentation. He indicated that the need for housing continues to grow. In SHORE's short-range and Iong-range planning processes, as soon as they finish one CILA they have their eye an the need to begin to start another one, The last one took five years to gather the resources to do it. There have been people on SHORE's waiting list for housing for 10-15 years. In response to Mr. Rowitz, Mr. Gulley said that there are a few individuals in their program that are dually diagnosed with devel-opmental disabilities and mental illness. This is not a specialty of SHORE to concentrate on this They work with these individuals because of the primary diagnosis of mental retardation or developmental disabilities. The mental illness is a secondary condition, but that SHORE does not have a specialized program for this. Those individuals who also have a need for psychiatric counsehm and medications are referred to a small program that is provided by St. Francis Comprehensive Mental Health Center that specializes in this dual diagnosis. Mr. TharayiI commented on the agency's aging population and asked what steps SHORE has taken to prepare for their needs" Ms. Braun replied that there is a senior program at SHORE's Morton Grove training facility. This may be moved to Evanston Most of these people have been in SHORE's work center and now are "retired" from active programming. They do arts and crafts, go on outings, and do anything else that might be non -vocational. February 10. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Saver inquired about the impact of places like the Rosemont Casino on personnel beinF 3ured towards jobs offering higher salaries? Mr. Gulley stated that they would probably feel this indirectly. Ms. Braun added that the staff working for SHORE who have been around for awhile are working for something more than money, and are looking for satisfaction out of theiriab. Ms. Braun also commented that SHORE's staff has been going to the Evanston Health Department and doing screenings and evaluations for their programs during Well Baby and Immunization Clinics. (At this point, The Arc of Illinois' video "What Are We Waiting For" was presented.) Ms. Wiebe said the issues raised during the video would be discussed at a later point during the meeting Ms. Mehen complimented SHORE and said that a number of years ago she worked for the Second Time Around Resale Shop. Mr. Gulley said that the Second Time Around Shop is flow solely owned and operated by SHORE. Ms. Wiebe thanked SHORE for their presentation, as well as for frosting the MHB meeting that night. IIL APPROVAL OF MINUTES JANUARY 13, 2000 Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Mehen seconded a motion to approve the minutes of the January 13, 2000 MHB meeting. Ms. Wiebe indicated that hearing no corrections the minutes were accepted as submitted. IV. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. Wiebe reported that she had added a new standing item to the agenda, and anticipated having a report from the Chair at every meeting. Board Vacancies. Ms. Wiebe reported that she had spoken with Mayor Morton about the vacancy on the Board. She said the Mayor encouraged Board members to write to the Mayor if they know of someone who is interested in serving on the MHB. Items for Future Consideration. Ms. Wiebe pointed out that the Agenda has a new section, "Items for Future Consideration". She asked Board members to use this section to bring up items they wish to have placed on the agenda. They should contact either the Chair or Mr. Saver to discuss the item, and what background material might need to be developed in the future to consider the item. MID Facilities. Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB had earlier expressed interest in having a February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 X Minutes recorded — not yet approved meeting with the DAD facilities in Evanston. She made reference to the recently released Surgeon General's Report on Mental Illness, and said that it might be useful to have a community meeting around this subject with the local IMD facilities. Long Term Care Ordinance (LTCO). Nis. Wiebe discussed the packet of background information concerning the LTCO. She made reference to Mr. Saver's cover memo, and said the Human Services Committee was asking that the AIHB review the minutes of their January 31 meeting and respond to questions that were raised about licensing issues related to facilities for persons with mental illness. Ms. Wiebe said she had extensive background with what was Ridgeview, and now is Albany Care. She was a neighbor. And she had been a service provider in the 80's, working in a community program that saw many people who were homeless or mentally ill. The Ridgeview was always an important resource in the community for their housing needs. She said that she had recently spoken with a Main Street merchant with whom she was familiar about the impact of Albany's residents on the area. He said that, while there had been some difficult moments, he thought that the merchants in the area had gotten used to it. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB, as stewards of the mental health issues for the community, will need to determine whether the City's licensing procedures for long term care facilities should consider services for persons with mental illness in a different light than from those at other facilities. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB would consider the issue when the minutes from the HSC meeting are available for review. Capital Punishment for Persons with Developmental Disabilities. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB had previously taken a position with regards to capital punishment for persons with developmental disabilities (DD). She said the MHB advocated with Governor Edgar to stay the execution of Anthony Porter when there were questions about his mental capacity. He was subsequently exonerated of charges. The Board also argued that Illinois should pass a law barring execution of individuals with DD, as many other states have done. Ms. Wiebe pointed out that Governor Ryan recently suspended capital punishment in Illinois because of the number of people who had been determined to be wrongly convicted. She suggested that it provided the MHB with the opportunity to follow up on this issue again. Mr. Rowitz moved and his. Grover seconded a motion to send a letter to Governor Ryan to thank him for suspending and reviewing the issue of capital punishment and encouraging the State to abolish it for persons with developmental disabilities. Motion approved unanimously. Staff was directed to develop and send a letter from the MHB to thank Governor Ryan and express the Board's concerns. Ms. Grover said that Senator Leahy recently introduced legislation at the federal level to limit the death penalty for persons with developmental disabilities. INis. Grover moved and Ms. Mehen seconded a motion to send a letter to Senator Leahy to support his efforts to limit the federal death penalty when it is imposed upon persons with developmental disabilities. Motion approved unanimously. Staff wad directed to write the letter to Senator Leahy for the MHB to review and approve at the March meeting. Ms. Grover volunteered to help draft language for the letter. February 10, 2DOO Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5- ox Minutes recorded — not yet approved V. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES ■ Agency Liaison Reports Housing Options. Ms. Mehen reported that she and lair. Saver would be meeting with Housing Options on the February 15. NTSW. Mr. Rowitz reported that he would be meeting with NTSW on February l 1. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh said that she spoke with Kate Mahoney. She reported that they bave hired the first person for the Dimensions Program. Ms. Stroh distributed a flyer from Dimensions for community training on February 29 about "Current Trends in Dual Diagnosis Treatmew"_ PEER Services has also received funding for two of their staff to participate in training at Rutgers University about alcohol and drug treatment for adolescents. Rutgers is also going to provide ongoing consultation about the issue for PEER. Ms. Mahoney also reported that she would be meeting every two months as a part of Governor Ryan's initiative. She will be sharing notes with other groups around the State such as PEER Services. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh said that Alexander Brown reported they had received private funding for hearing tests and hearing aids for low-income elderly. Their charge will also be to identify those who need the services, and to provide transportation and counseling to make the services available. SHORE. Ms. Wiebe said she would be going to the March SHORE Board meeting. She said she ahs has also been in touch with Mr. Gulley to see if he might know of a person with a special interest in developmental disabilities who would be interested in being involved on the NGM. She said the MHB has not had such a person as such for some time. Ms. Wiebe reported that she thought this person had submitted and application for membership with the Mental Health Board. Connections for the Homeless. Mr. Saver commented that Connections for the Homeless has hired a new Executive Director, Will Sundblad, who will be starting full-time on March 1 Trilogy. Ms. Wiebe said that she has already been in contact with Karen Helfrich at Trilogy, and is looking forward to developing the new relationship with the agency. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page Ic Minutes recorded — not yet approved • Agency Quarterly Reports Mr. Saver pointed out that the report from Connections for the Homeless indicated that Dr_ Liz Brumfield, formerly with Evanston Hospital Outpatient Psychiatry, has retained her relationship with the shelter. She will continue to provide psychiatric consultation and medication management at Hilda's Place one day a week. Mr. Rowitz commented that NTS%V's quarterly report indicated that the agency was studying the unification of all of their services at one location. He said he would follow up and discuss what this might mean for the First Step program. V1. MHB 2000 WORK PLAN Ms. Wiebe reviewed the draft work plan for the MHB for 2000. She pointed out acti►ides for which there are already Board members involved. Ms. Wiebe pointed out the activity "Be opportunistic as issues arise", and said that the Board should be aware of this as various issues presented themselves throughout the year. Mr. Rowitz commented that a year ago the MHB spoke about having some board development activity during the year. Mr. Saver said the MHB identified Iast year two objectives related to board development. The MHB will be reviewing MHB policies and procedures. In addition, the MHB indicated that it would review Board member duties and responsibilities. He said both were included in the work plan. He said Ms. Hampton would be working on the review of policies and procedures. She will be providing information about policies at the March meeting to begin the discussion. Mr. Saver said he would be looking for direction from the Board about how to proceed regarding the review of Board member duties and responsibilities. Mr. Saver said one of the MHB's objectives for the year was to host a community forum on mental health consumer issues. He said that, with the national elections coming up, this might provide an opportunity for the MHB to work with other with regard to mental illness. He said that might be an opportunity to do a forum on the Surgeon General's Report that his. Wiebe earlier mentioned. VII. UPDATES 2'4 Annual Aging Well Conference. Mr. Saver commented that the planning for the Aging Well Conference is continuing on track. He said he made arrangements for Mayor Morton to do welcoming remarks for the conference. There will be an opening address by Rev. James Wade from Ebeneezer A.M.E. Church. After his address, each of the conference participants will be invited to participate in a one -hour workshop. Nancy Flowers, Long term Care Ombudsman has February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pagel 0 Minutes recorded — not yet approved made arrangements for Margo Schreiber, Director of the Illinois Department on Aging, to provide a closing address. Substance Abuse Task Force- Mr. Rowitz reviewed a draft of the minutes from the January 20 Substance Abuse Task Force meeting. Included with the draft is a beginning list of local prevention programs and activities. The list is being annotated to show what each of the prevention activities is doing. Mr. Rowitz said the majority of the programs are for children and youth, but that there was some interest in looking at what type of prevention activities might be needed for seniors related to the abuse of medications. He said the next Task Force meeting will be on February 24. What Are We Waiting For? Ms. Hampton distributed a pamphlet from The Arc of Illinois. It described the issues and the Iegislative campaign that were discussed in the video that was presented earlier in the evening. %is. Hampton reported that a meeting was convened with most of the agencies and organizations that deal with developmental disabilities in the community. There were eleven people from the following organizations: Park School, Special Services/District #65, Community Alternatives Unlimited, National Lekotek Center, SHORE Community Services, and Resources for Living, Inc. District 202/Special Education was not able to attend but was interested in participating. The video was previewed and they discussed how the information might be used with the community. \4s. Hampton reported that all of the groups were interested in showing the video to small groups of the families that they serve. Some had, or will follow up with legislators. Ms. Hampton said she will be making copies of the video and distributing it to the participants. Mr. Saver pointed out that the NM has been a long-standing member of The Arc of Illinois. He said that The Arc is encouraging active support for their efforts with the State legislature this year. After Board discussion, Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Mehen seconded a motion to send letters of support for the "Do The Right Thing Campaign" and the Arc of Illinois' recommendations for the State's 2000-2001 Budget to Evanston's State Senators And Representatives. Motion approved unanimously. Ms. Hampton said two other issues were raised at the meeting. The group thought it would be useful to have a community forum with candidates running, for the upcoming State legislative positions, and ask them to address some of the issues raised in the video. The forum would happen either in the late spring or early fall. The other issue was that the members of the group were interested in convening some type of ongoing network for the agencies that are working with developmentally disabled individuals and their families, in order to talk about ongoing and emerging issues in the community. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that staff would be following; up on this and organizing an initial meeting. Mr. Saver commented that a number of years ago there were regular, regional planning meetings around developmental disability issues through, what was then, the Governoes Planning February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page a x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Council on Developmental Disabilities. Mr. Saver said staff would follow up with the interested groups to determine what the forum for the meetings. He said one issue that has already bec a raised was Park School's difficulty on obtaining after school programs and after school daycare for their students. Mr. Saver said he thought that Steve Strauss, Principal at Park School, would be interested in meeting with the MHB to discuss the issue and talk about what type of response might be developed in the community. He said he would talk with Ms. Wiebe about scheduling this for a future meeting. Family University. Mr. Saver reviewed the information about Family University, which will be at ETHS on Saturday, March 18. The theme is "The High School years: Opening Doors Together." He commented that any MHB member is welcomed to attend. The target is high school families and families of kids who will be entering high school in the fail. The ETHS PTSA and the Boosters Club are providing major support for the event. Mr. Saver said he and Kate Mahoney are recruiting agencies to set up information tables and make materials available that would be of interest and relevant to the high school population and their parents. Vill. REVIEW OF CONTRACT POLICY GUIDELINES FOR FY2000-2001 Mr. Saver explained that the MHB Procedures require that the Board review the Contract Policy Guidelines every year and either amend them or adopt them for use with the Purchase of Service Agreements. Mr. Saver said every two -three years the Guidelines are also submitted to the Corporation Counsel for review. Ms. Grover asked when the last time the Contract Policy Guidelines were amended? Mr. Saver responded there were a number of minor, technical and grammatical changes that were made in 1999. It has been a number of years since there have been any substantial changes. Mr. Rowitz moved and his. Mehen seconded a motion to adopt the Contract Policy Guidelines for use with Purchase of Service Agreements for FY2000-2001. Motion approved unanimously. tX. STAFF REPORT Anizter Center Residential Care Home. Mr. Saver said that the new residential care home being constructed by Anixter Center is almost completed. Mr. Saver said A.nixter's Director reported that they should be ready for operation in March or April. The home «ill be for 8 children with severe developmental disabilities and some degree of physical limitations. Mr. Saver said that this was the first home to submit an application for a Residential Care Home License under the City's licensing ordinance that was adopted last June. He said he would notify the hiHB when the agency was having its open house. The Homeless Task Force. Mr. Saver reported that the Homeless Task Force continues to meet. Part of the Continuum of Care process involves a point prevalence survey and needs February 10. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 9 K� Minutes recorded — not yet approved assessment, and the development of, what HUD calls, " a "gaps analysis." A survey was implemented two weeks ago with the various providers, merchants and businesses that have contact with the homeless population to identify how many people were receiving services, and what type of services are needed. The staff at Entry Point conducted the survey, and staff from Connections for the Homeless and Housing Options are processing the information and developing a report for the Task Force. Mr. Rowitz requested that copies of the data be made available when the report is prepared. Rice Children's Home. Mr. Saver reported that previously the NIUB was informed that the Director of Rice Children's Center indicated that the facility would be closing this spring. Recently, Children's Home and Aid Society hired a new Executive Director. Mr. Saver said he was informed that the new Director made a commitment to find a way to find the population and funds to sustain the residential center's operations, so the organization decided to keep the facility open. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that he was not aware whether there was an anticipated shift in the population to be served. March Meeting. The March ,%M meeting is scheduled to be at Metropolitan Family Services, 820 Davis Street. Ms. Wiebe said she thought it was useful to meet at agencies, when possible. Mr. Rowitz agreed, and said he would like to find other ways to meet in the community and outside of the Civic Center. How Much Is Enough? Ms. Wiebe commented on the amount of information that the Board receives in the monthly packet, and said that it was sometimes overwhelming. She encouraged Board members to consider how much information they wanted in the monthly packets, and how much they are willing to read. She also encouraged members to let staff know if there was additional information that they would find useful. ,is. Wiebe said Board member should also feel free to bring in their own articles and information items, either to the Board meetings or to, have transmitted in the monthly packet. Meeting adjourned at 9:40 PAU Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott February 10. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 10 Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD DECISIONS OF AiEETING THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2000 1. Agreed to send a letter to Governor Ryan to thank him for suspending and reviewing the issue of capital punishment and encouraging the State to abolish it for persons with developmental disabilities. 2. Agreed to send a letter to Senator Leahy to support his efforts to limit the federal death penalty when it is imposed upon persons with developmental disabilities. 3. Agreed to send letters of support for the "Do the Right Thing Campaign" and the Arc of fiRnois' recommendations for the State's 2000-2001 Budget to Evanston's State Senators and Representatives. 4. Adopted the Contract Policy Guidelines for use with Purchase of Ser%ice Agreements for FY2000-2001. February 10, 2DDO Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 11 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MINUTES THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2000 Members Present: Susan Stroh, Marsha Mehen, Thomas Tharayil, Jane Grover, Louis Rowitz, Lonnie Wiebe Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Staff: Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Gerry Gulley, Deborah Braun, Arthur Buehler (SHORE: Community Services) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. at Shore School, 2525 Church Street I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS The members of the audience introduced themselves and were welcomed by the Board. II. AGENCY REVIEW: SHORE COMMUNITY SERVICES Arthur Buehler (President), .Terry Gulley (Executive Director), and Deborah Braun (Director of Shore School) joined the Board. Mr. Buehler stated that SHORE serves over 333 persons in the Evanston community and surrounding communities .%ith a staff of more than 100, and a budget of approximately S4.5 million. Mr. Buehler told of the early history of SHORE. He said in 2001 SHORE will have been in service 50 years. 41r. Gulley commented that he had been with SHORE 30 years, and described his background with the agency. Ms. Braun said she had been the Director of the Shore School for 2 years. Mr. Rowitz said the MHB looked forward to SHORE's next 50 years, and asked what could the MHB see for the future of SHORE. Ms. Braun said that there would be continuous, significant growth in the Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) program that serves children from birth to 3 years of age. These children range from at -risk infants with drug or alcohol exposure to children with mild to severe developmental delays. This past year there was a 65% increase in the number of children served. Thus far, this fiscal year the ECI program has served more kids than in the entire past fiscal year. Ms. Braun added that the Adult Program at Shore School was also expanding significantly. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 Al Minutes recorded — not yet approved Nis. Braun explained that the ECI program has been expanding as a result of a State law in 1998 that requires that early intervention services be provided at no cost for families of children 0-3 who are experiencing developmental delays. The State created a central referral system_ Locally this is handled through Child and Family Connections. Physicians are now legally required to provide referrals for all parents if their child has a developmental delay. As a result, Shore has seen an increase in referrals in this manner. Nis. Wiebe asked how this has affected the agency's staffing? his. Braun stated that Shore School has had to increase staff with specific training, and credentialed under the State system. They have hired an outpatient therapist and a manager for the EIC program. In addition, they have contracted with an occupational therapist and a physical therapist. Mr. Rowitz asked what the impact of inclusion has been upon the school -age program. his. Braun said that the school program there has been a lack of new referrals They had 14 students 3 - 21 years old; 6 graduated last year, and there have not been any new referrals coming in due to inclusion programming in the public school system. However, while the numbers are down in the school program, Shore School is ser-ving many more individuals in the 0-3 and adult programs that more than make up for the decline in the school age population. Mr. Gulley added that he expected most programs for school -age kids to close, except for children with the most extreme behaviors. Mr. Rowitz asked if SHORE could develop after school programs? Mr. Gulley said that they offer an after school program to the children who attend Shore School. Mr. Gulley commented that SHORE used to offer after school programs for the community, but transportation became a problem for them, and the logistics were difficult. The public school system will transport kids home from the public school, but will not transport them to their home after they come to after - school programming at Shore School. Mr. Buehler added that March 1 there will be an Adult Senior Program opening at SHORE's training center. The agency has considered moving the training center to Shore School. Mr. Saver asked about SHORE's plans for housing expansion? Mr. Buehler said the agency has just finished a rehabbing home in Skokie, and will be opening a five -bed CILA on Church Street. The housing will be for persons vrith severe disabilities who have physical problems Mr. Buehler added, however, that it is hard to find staff for this program. The employment situation is difficult because there is a good economy and available jobs SHORE is finding their competition from companies like McDonalds and Starbucks, insofar as salary rates. People are needed with degrees and education, but the salaries SHORE can offer are very low. Mr. Buehler said the State of Illinois does not adequately fund these services. They simply do not provide enough money. He added that Illinois is only 45d' in what it provides for persons with developmental disabilities, and yet is 7 h in individual income. In this year's proposed State Budget, these types of services are not even mentioned. He said SHORE is doing everything that it can in talking writh legislators to get more money for staff, because the better staff you have the better care you can give. Mr. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Gulley pointed out that there is a S200 fee to do nundatrd background checks to hvwvs igate persons applying for the positions. 41any of these pertAms then leave or do not show up. SHORE has staff that sometimes works two or three shifts. The agency is finding that nerd grunts in inverse proportion to the ability to find waft. Mr. Gulley said that there are approximateh 1,001) special education students graduating Blom Illinois pub& schools even year that will, at some point, need supervised residential supports. He said he did not know where thr statt'was going to come from for these programs. Mr. Saver said that the MHB was going to view The Arc of Illinois' educational video "What Are We Waiting For'?" after SHORE's presentation. The video addresses some of the issues that are being raised by Mr. Buehler and Mr. Gulley. Ms. Wiebe commented that the Mental Health Board funds Shore School and Residential Services. She asked if the Shore School is mostly closed out due to mainstreaming in schools how would the agency suggest areas that they would like to see the Mental Health Board assist? Mr. Gulley said the cost center the MHB funds and that Ms. Braun supervises includes the Early Childhood Intervention Program, services for the 3-21 population, and the adult services for people who are older than 21. If the program for the 3-21 school population disappear, the cost center and Shore School will continue to function with the rapid growth in the Early Childhood Intervention Program and the growth in the Adult Center. The MHB will not see any decrease in the number of people being served. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said if the current trend continues, it is likely that SHORE will be reporting an increase overall in the number of adults and kids being served. Ms. Wiebe asked Mr. Gulley to wrap up their presentation. He indicated that the need for housing continues to grow. In SHORE's short-range and long-range planning processes, as soon as they finish one CILA they have their eye on the need to begin to start another one. The last one took five years to gather the resources to do it. There have been people on SHORE's waiting list for housing for 10-15 years. In response to Mr. Rowitz, Mr. Gulley said that there are a few individuals in their program that are dually diagnosed with developmental disabilities and mental illness. This is not a specialty of SHORE to concentrate on this. They work with these individuals because of the primary diagnosis of mental retardation or developmental disabilities. The mental illness is a secondary condition, but that SHORE does not have a specialized program for this. Those individuals who also have a need for psychiatric counseling and medications are referred to a small program that is provided by St. Francis Comprehensive Mental Health Center that specializes in this dual diagnosis. Mr. Tharayil commented on the agency's aging population and asked what steps SHORE has taken to prepare for their needs? Ms. Braun replied that there is a senior program at SHORE's Morton Grove training facility. This may be moved to Evanston. Most of these people have been in SHORE's work center and now are "retired" from active programming. They do arts and crafts, go on outings, and do anything else that might be non -vocational. February 10. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 A Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Saver inquired about the impact of places like the Rosemont Casino on personnel being lured towards jobs offering higher salaries? A4r. Gulley stated that they would probably feel this indirectly. Ms. Braun added that the staff working for SHORE who have been around for mfile are working for something more than money, and are looking for satisfaction out of their job - Ms. Braun also commented that SHORE's staff has been going to the Evanston Health Department and doing screenings and evaluations for their programs during Well Bab} and Immunization Clinics. (At this point, The Arc of Illinois' video "What Are We Waiting For" was presented.) Nis. %8 iebe said the issues raised during the video would be discussed at a later point during the meeting' Ms. Mehen complimented SHORE and said that a number of years ago she worked for the Second Time Around Resale Shop. Mr. Gulley said that the Second Time Around Shop is now'., solely owned and operated by SHORE. Ms. Wiebe thanked SHORE for their presentation, as well as for hosting the MHB meeting that' night. III. APPROVAL OF Mi WTES JANUARY 13, 2000 Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Mehen seconded a motion to approve the minutes of the January 13'. 2000 MHB meeting. Ms. Wiebe indicated that hearing no corrections the minutes were accepted as submitted. I IV. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR Ms. NN iebe reported that she had added a new standing item to the agenda, and anticipated having a report from the Chair at every meeting. Board Vacancies. Ms. Wiebe reported that she had spoken with Mayor Morton about the vacancy on the Board. She said the Mayor encouraged Board members to write to the Mayor if they know of someone who is interested in serving on the MHB. Items for Future Consideration. Ibis. Wiebe pointed out that the Agenda has a new section, "Items for Future Consideration". She asked Board members to use this section to bring up items they wish to have placed on the agenda. They should contact either the Chair or Mr. Saver to discuss the item, and what background material might need to be developed in the future to consider the item. IMD Facilities. Ms. Wiebe commented that the MHB had earlier expressed interest in having a February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 Minutes recorded — not yet approved meeting with the IMD facilities in E%m=on. She made reference to the recently released Surgeon General's Report on Mental Illness, and said that it might be useful to have a community meeting around this subject with the local LNID facilities. Long Term Care Ordinance (LTCO). Ms. Wiebe discussed the packet of background information concerning the LTCO. She made reference to Mr. Saver's cover memo, and said the Human Services Committee was asldnc that the MHB review the minutes of their January 31 meeting and respond to questions that v.-ere raised about licensing issues related to facilities for persons with mental illness. Ms. Wide said she had extensive background with what was Ridgeview, and now is Albany Care_ She was a neighbor. And she had been a service pro-,ider in the 80's, working in a community proerm that saw many people who were homeless or mentally ill. The Ridgeview was always an important resource in the community for their housing needs, She said that she had recently spoken with a Main Street merchant with whom she was fan�liar about the impact of Albany's residents on the area. He said that, while there had been some difficult moments, he thought that the merchants in the area had gotten used to it. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB, as stewards of the mental health issues for the community, will need to determine whether the City's licensing procedures for long term care facilities should consider services for persons with mental illness in a different light than from those at other facilities. Ms. Wiebe said the MHB would consider the issue when the minutes from the HSC meeting are available for review. Capital Punishment for Persons with Developmental Disabilities. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB had previously taken a position with regards to capital punishment for persons with developmental disabilities (DD). She said the MHB advocated with Governor Edgar to stay the execution of Anthony Porter when there were questions about his mental capacity_ He was subsequently exonerated of charges The Board also argued that Illinois should pass a law barring execution of individuals with DD, as many other states have done. Ms. Nviebe pointed out that Governor Ryan recently suspended capital punishment in Illinois because of the number of people who had been determined to be wrongly convicted. She suggested that it provided the NM with the opportunity to follow up on this issue again. Mr. Rowitz moved and Nis. Grover seconded a motion to send a letter to Governor Ryan to thank him for suspending and reviewing the issue of capital punishment and encouraging the State to abolish it for persons with developmental disabilities. Motion approved unanimously. Staff was directed to develop and send a letter from the MHB to thank Governor Ryan and express the Board's concerns. Ms. Grover said that Senator Leahy- recently introduced legislation at the federal level to limit the death penalty for persons with developmental disabilities. Ms. Grover moved and Nis. Mehen seconded a motion to send a letter to Senator Leahy to support his efforts to limit the federal death penalty when it is imposed upon persons with developmental disabilities. Motion approved unanimously. Staff wad directed to write the letter to Senator Leahy for the NM to review and approve at the March meeting. Ms. Grover volunteered to help draft language for the letter. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 Minutes recorded — not yet approved V. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY ISSUES = Agency Liaison Reports Housing Options. Ms. Mehen reported that she and Mr. Saver would be meeting with Housing Options on the February 15. NTSW. Mr. Rowitz reported that he would be meeting with NTSW on February 11. PEER Services. Ms. Stroh said that she spoke with Kate Mahoney. She reported tho they have hired the first person for the Dimensions Program. Nis. Stroh distributed a flyer frog Diffwmsions for community training on February 29 about "Current Trends in Dual Diagnosis Treitmern"_ PEER Services has also received funding for two of their staff to participate in trairizag at Rutgers University about alcohol and drug treatment for adolescents. Rutgers is also going to provide ongoing consultation about the issue for PEER. Ms. Mahoney also reported that she would be meeting every two months as a part of Governor Ryan's initiative. She will be sharing notes with other groups around the State such as PEER Services. Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services. Ms. Stroh said that Alexander Brown reported they had received private funding for hearing tests and hearing aids for low-income elderfy. Their charge will also be to identify those who need the services, and to provide transportwion and counseling to make the services available. SHORE. Ms. Wiebe said she would be going to the March SHORE Board meeting. She said sbe ahs has also been in touch with Mr. Gulley to see if he might know of a person Kith a special interest in developmental disabilities who would be interested in being involved on tre: NUTB. She said the NM has not had such a person as such for some time. Ms. Wiebe reported that she thought this person had submitted and application for membership with the Menzel Health Board Connections for the Homeless. Mr. Saver commented that Connections for the Homeless has hired a new Executive Director, Will Sundblad, who will be starting full-time on Ni- ,.h 1. Trilogy. Ms. Wiebe said that she has already been in contact with Karen Helfrich aE Trilogy. amd is looking forward to developing the new relationship with the agency. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pis Minutes recorded — not yet approved ■ Agency Quarterly Reports Mr. Saver pointed out that the report from Connections for the Homeless indicated that Dr. Liz Brumfield, formerly with Evanston Hospital Outpatient Psychiatry, has retained her relationship with the shelter. She gill continue to provide psychiatryc consultation and medication management at Hilda's Place one day a week. Mr. Rowitz commented that NTSW's quarterly report indicated that the agency was studying the unification of all of their services at one location. He said he would follow up and discuss what this might mean for the First Step program. Vl. b1HB 2000 WORK PLAN Ms. Wiebe reviewed the draft wort: plan for the MHB for 2000. She pointed out activities for which there are already Board members involved. Ms. Wiebe pointed out the activity "Be opportunistic as issues arise", and said that the Board s1bould be aware of this as various issues presented themselves throughout the year. Mr. Rowitz commented that a year ago the MHB spoke about having some board development activity during the year. Mr. Saver said the MHB identified last year two objectives related to board development. The MHB will be reviewing MHB policies and procedures. In addition, the MHB indicated that it would review Board member duties and responsibilities. He said both were included in the work plan. He said Nis. Hampton would be working on the review of policies and procedures. Shemill be providing information about policies at the March meeting to begin the discussion. Mr. Saver said he would be looking for direction from the Board about how to proceed regarding the review of Board member duties and responsibilities. Mr. Saver said one of the MHB's objectives for the year was to host a community forum on mental health consumer issues. He said that, with the rational elections coming up, this might provide an opportunity for the MHB to work with other with regard to mental illness. He said that might be an opportunity to do a forum on the Surgeon General's Report that Ms. Wiebe earlier mentioned_ V11. UPDATES 2' Annual Aging Well Conference. Mr. Saver commented that the planning for the Aging Well Conference is continuing on track_ He said he made arrangements for Mayor Morton to do welcoming remarks for the conference. There will be an opening address by Rev. James Wade from Ebeneezer A.M.E. Church. After his address, each of the conference participants will be invited to participate in a one -hour workshop. Nancy Flowers, Long term Care Ombudsman has February10, 200o Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 7 k Minutes recorded — not yet approved made arrangements for Margo Schreiber, Director of the Illinois Department on aging, to provide a closing address. Substance Abuse Task Force. Mr. Rowitx reviewed a draft of the minutes from the January 20 Substance Abuse Task Force meeting. Included with the draft is a beginning list of local prevention programs and activities. The list is being annotated to show what each of the prevention activities is doing. Mr. Rowitz said the majority of the programs are for children and youth, but that there was some interest in looking at what type of prevention activities might be needed for seniors related to the abuse of medications. He said the next Task Force meeting will be on February 24. What Are We Waiting For? Ms. Hampton distnbuted a pamphlet from The .Axc of Illinois. It described the issues and the legislative campaign that were discussed in the video that was presented earlier in the evening. Ms. Hampton reported that a meeting %vas convened with most of the agencies and organizations that deal with devclopmental disabilities in the community. There were eleven people from the following organizations: Paris School, Special Services/District #65, Community Alternatives Unlimited, National Lekotek Center, SHORE Community Services, and Resources for Living, Inc. District #202/Special Education was not able to attend but was interested in participating. The video was previewed and they discussed how the information might be used with the community. Ms. Hampton reported that all of the groups were interested in showing the video to small groups of the families that they serve. Some had, or will follow up with legislators. Ms. Hampton said she will be making copies of the video and distributing it to the participants. Mr. Saver pointed out that the MHB has been a long-standing member of The Arc of Illinois. He said that The Arc is encouraging active support for their efforts with the State legislature this year. After Board discussion, Mr. Rowitz moved and Ms. Mehen seconded a motion to send letters of support for the "Do The Right Thing Campaign" and the Are of Illinois' recommendations for the State's 2000-2001 Budget to Evanston's State Senators and Representatives. Motion approved unanimously. Ms. Hampton said two other issues were raised at the meeting. The group thought it would be useful to have a community forum with candidates running for the upcoming State legislative positions, and ask them to address some of the issues raised in the video. The forum would happen either in the late spring or early fall. The other issue was that the members of the group were interested in convening some type of ongoing network for the agencies that are working with developmentally disabled individuals and their families, in order to talk about ongoing and emerging issues in the community. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that staff would be following up on this and organizing an initial meeting. Mr. Saver commented that a number of years ago there were regular, regional planning meetings around developmental disability issues through, what was then, the Governor's Planning February 10. 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 8 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Council on Developmental Disabilities. Mr. Saver said staff would follow up with the interested groups to determine what the forum for the meetings. He said one issue that has already berm raised v s Park School's difficulty on obtaining after school programs and after school day=e for their students. Mr. Saver said he thought that Steve Strauss, Principal at Park School, would be interests-S in meeting with the MHB to discuss the issue and talk about what type of response might be developed in the community. He said he would talk with Ms. Wiebe about schedu5ing this for a future meeting. Family University. Mr. Saver reviewed the information about Family University, which wiX be at ETHS on Saturday, March 18. The theme is "The High School years. Opening Doors Together." He commented that any MHB member is welcomed to attend. The target is high school families and families of kids who will be entering high school in the fall. The ETHS PTSA and the Boosters Club are providing major support for the event. Mr. Saver said he and Kate Mahoney are recruiting agencies to set up information tables and make materials available that would be of interest and relevant to the high school population and their parents. VIII. REVIEW OF CONTRACT POLICY GUIDELINES FOR FY2000-2001 Mr. Saver explained that the MHB Procedures require that the Board review the Contract Policy Guidelines every year and either amend them or adopt them for use with the Purchase of Service Agreements. Mr. Saver said every two -three years the Guidelines are also submitted to the Corporation Counsel for review. Ms. Grover asked when the last time the Contract Policy Guidelines were amended? Mr. Saver responded there were a number of minor, technical and grammatical changes that were made in 1999. It has been a number of years since there have been any substantial changes. Mr. Rowitz moved and his. 1liehen seconded a motion to adopt the Contract Policy Guidelines for use with Purchase of Service Agreements for FY2000-2001. Motion approved unanimously. IX. STAFF REPORT Anixter Center Residential Care Home. Mr. Saver said that the new residential care home being constructed by Anixter Center is almost completed. Mr. Saver said Anixter's Director reported that they should be ready for operation in March or April. The home will be for 8 children with severe developmental disabilities and some degree of physical limitations. Mr. Saver said that this was the first home to submit an application for a Residential Care Home License under the City's licensing ordinance that was adopted last June. He said he %vould notify the Nffm when the agency was having its open house. The Homeless Task Force. Mr. Saver reported that the Homeless Task Force continues to meet. Part of the Continuum of Care process involves a point prevalence survey and needs February 10, 20DO Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Ipave 9 .X Minutes reeorded — not yet approved assessment, and the development of, what HUD calls, " a "gaps analysis." A survey %%us implemented two weeks ago with the various providers, merchants and businesses chit Ln%-- contact with the homeless population to identify how many people were receiving seni�, xnd what type of services are needed. The staff at Entry Point conducted the survey, and stzTfi-om Connections for the Homeless and Housing Options are processing the information and developing a report for the Task Force. Mr. Rowitz requested that copies of the data be made available when the report is prepared. Rice Children's Home. Mr. Saver reported that previously the NM was informed that the Director of Rice Children's Center indicated that the facility would be closing this spring. Recently, Children's Home and Aid Society hired a new Executive Director. Mr. Saver said he was informed that the new Director made a commitment to find a way to find the popuLion and funds to sustain the residential center's operations, so the organization decided to keep Lbe facility open. In response to a question, Mr. Saver said that he was not aware whether there was an anticipated shift in the population to be served. March Meeting. The March MHB meeting is scheduled to be at Metropolitan Famii - Services, 820 Davis Street. Ms. Wiebe said she thought it was useful to meet at agencies, when possm'ble. Mr. Rowitz agreed, and said he would like to find other ways to meet in the community and outside of the Civic Center. How Much Is Enough? Ms. Wiebe commented on the amount of information that the Board receives in the monthly packet, and said that it was sometimes overwhelming. She encmnMed Board members to consider how much information they wanted in the monthly packets, and how much they are willing to read. She also encouraged members to let staff know if there was additional information that they would find useful. Ms. Wiebe said Board member should also feel free to bring in their own articles and information items, either to the Board meetings or to have transmitted in the monthly packet. Meeting adjourned at 9:40 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Joan M_ Barott February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 10 Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD DECISIONS OF MEETING THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2000 1. Agreed to send a letter to Governor Ryan to thank him for suspending and reviewing the: issue of capital punishment and encouraging the State to abolish it for persons with developmental disabilities. 2. Agreed to send a letter to Senator Leahy to support his efforts to limit the federal death penalty when it is imposed upon persons with developmental disabilities. 3. Agreed to send letters of support for the "Do the Right Thing Campaign" and the Arc of EEnois' recommendations for the State's 2000-2001 Budget to Evanston's State Senatots and Representatives. 4. Adopted the Contract Policy Guidelines for use with Purchase of Service Agreemems for FY2000-2001. February 10, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 11 Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING AILNUTES THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2000 Members Present: Ellen Rgmolds, Susan Stroh, Marsha Mehem Thomas TharaA L4nie Wiebe, Louis Rowitz Presiding Lonnie Mriebe, Chair Staff: Jay Terry, Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Sandra Stumme (Metropolitan Family Services); Helen McCarthy, Chris Baer (Childcare Network of Evanston); Sally Hoit (Psych oEd uca tio nal Services); Dr. Fred Miller (Evanston Northwestern healthcare Department of Psychiatry) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. 1. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS The members of the audience introduced themselves and were welcomed by the Board. fI. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DECEMBER 09,1999 Ms. Wiebe asked for corrections to the December 9, 1999 MHB meeting minutes. Hearing none, she indicated that the minutes would be accepted as submitted. Ih. AGENCY REVIEW: CHILDCARE NETWORK OF EVANSTON Helen McCarthy (Executive Director) and Chris Baer (Program Director) from Childcare Network of Evanston (CNE), and Sally Hoit of PsychoEducational Services, joined the MHS. Ms. Wiebe reviewed the purpose of the intensive agency review, and reminded the MHB that the meeting was not intended to be a repeat of the funding process. Ms. McCarthy reviewed the purpose of CN'E's Children's Mental Health program. She said the agency began its project in March 1999 in response to a special initiative from the NM to serve high -risk children in the community. The funding came about as a result of the closing of Rice January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page t Minutes recorded -- not yet approved Community Counseling Services. The NfRB recogized there were stM children who were in need of mental health services who were in day care settings Ms. McCarthy said the Children's Mental Health Ser-.ices are a part c- a larger prosuam CNE provides for all 15 day care programs that are affiliated with CNE A Q,aality Enhancement Grant , from the State supports the larger program. The proje%:t brings additiccul services on site at the centers to help teachers, families, and children These services have =—wed from e,ctra staffing in individual centers, to occupational therapy and physicJ therapy. tit ith The additional funds from the MHB, CNE contracts with Metropolitan Family Services and Ps o:,hoEducational Services to provide expanded consultation to teachers in the classroom, to prov t& therapy for children, and to provide family counseling. The services are provi6M at the childcare centers. These are cases where the child needs help, or the teacher needs help in developing strameaies to handle the child.; (Sandra Stumme, Metropolitan Family Services, joined the agency presenters.) Ms. McCarthy reported that all referrals into the program have come Tom the childcare teachers or staff. Since the beginning of July CNE has provided services to 27 different children in ten of their affiliated child care centers. Nineteen of those cases are currently active. Ms. Baer commented that most of the families that are referred are single parent heads of household. A number of the children have been in a foster care setting Some of the families have had a relationship with DCFS. These children have had extremely difficult behaviors in the classroom, are very aggressive, and have displayed a lack of impulse control. It is very hard to keep these children in a child care center without immediate intervention. Of the kids in the program, 15 have required additional services. The %AHB funds have bought the clinical time necessary to get a handle on the other problems, as "I Ibis. Baer said when she receives a call from a center that she goes to observe the classroom and to meet with the staff' Having the funding and available, additional services has been e-,aremely helpful This has provided the time to explore other things that may be going on with a child Ms. Hoit commented that her business, PsychoEducational Services, contracts with CNE to provide support to the teachers in the classroom, as %yell as to intervene with the kids. Ms. Hoit said that the members of her group had all previously worked for Early Childhood Development Center and are familiar with the issues in the childcare centers. Most of their work is on site, and they do a lot of play therapy with the children. She said by playing with the child and listening to them, and having them tell their own story, they are able to diagnose problem areas and effective areas in which to intervene. This has been an extremely successful approach. Ms. Hoit said some of the events behind the children's problems are difficult births, lack of adequate medical care, drug -related issues, and family stressors. She pointed out that research has shown that children who are under a great deal stress have an excess of certain hormones This can be very debilitating and affect the way they behave. If they are able to relieve some of the stress, the children are able to be more self-controlled and focused, and be more ready for school. January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 2 X Minutes recorders —not yet approved _ Ms. Stumme commented that the workshop on outcome measures that the MOB had sponsored that afternoon had been well received. She said it made her think about bow the Children's Mental Health Services had been performing. The staff at Metropolitan Family Services has enjoyed their role and the ability to work with CNE in this way. It is a struggle for any agency to get to where the kids are or where their families are. The Children's Mental Health Services have provided the perfect opportunity for agencies working together to offer supports. She reported that the agencies are seeing children who need the support services to be able to manage and continue within the daycare setting, and then in grade school. Some of these kids have been dealing with marry extreme situations in their home. Some of these children have serious problems. Ms. Stumme commented that they feel good about having had the ability to get the families involved. In response to Ms. Stroh's question, Ms. Hoit provided a case example where there had been an intervention and the child and family benefited from the services. Ms. Mehen complimented Childcare Network for their written reports. She asked how CNE determines whether the families' goals are accomplished? his. Hoit said that before starting to work with a family they discuss what outcomes they are looking for. Information is obtained from the parent about whether an intervention has made a difference, based upon their goals. The therapist and the teacher are also asked whether there has been a change. Ms. Stumme said that the goals are written goals as they start the treatment process with the family. Ms. McCarthy said the program was most useful when the parents are involved, and the focus is not solely on the child in the classroom. Mr. Rowitz said he was familiar with issues that have arisen where parents are reluctant to provide permission for agencies to work with their kids. He commented that sometimes parents become upset with the results or an assessment and can bring suit against a number of agencies, and asked how CN'E deals with this type of issue. Nis. McCarthy stated that they tell the parents that they do not keep records that are sent on with the children to the school system. Many parents are concerned have their children receive services because they are afraid they will be given a label that «ill follow them into grade school. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Ms. McCarthy commented that the information in the workshop on outcome measures that afternoon was not entirely new to her. She said, however, that it made her think that the agencies involved in the Children's Mental Health Services programs should come back together as a team to consider what were initially identified as the projected outcomes. She said she thought it was time to reconsider whether they were focusing on the correct outcome measures. Nis. Baer summarized by saying that all of the children that they have provide services for have been kept in childcare. This has been a god outcome because it means they are not, for instance, having to stay at their aunt's house watching TV all day. The staff is able to continue to observe January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 Minutes recorded —not yet approved the children, to provide services and interventions, and to stay in contact with their families. Ms. McCarthy added that it has also enabled the parents to continue to work -- Ms. Stumme said Metropolitan Family Services had also been recommended for state funds that were a part of the RFP for Children's Mental Health Services. She said X1FS was to provide more intense mental health services for children with more serious conditions. One question the NM originally had was what the need was going to be after Rice Community Counseling Services closed their doors. She said they have had referrals for a minimal number of children who actually need to be diagnosed and have intensive mental health services. Currently they have only four children on that part of their caseload. Ms. Stumme said it doesn't appear that the need is going to be greater than the funds that are available. Ms. Wiebe thanked the agencies for their presentation. iIV. DISSCUSSION WITH DR FRED MILLER, DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY, EVANSTON NORTHWESTERN HEALTHCARE Dr. Fred Miller, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare, joined the MM. Ms. Wiebe told Dr. Miller that the MHB was interested in hearing an update about changes in his department, and how this is fitting into the community needs, She also explained that the MHB was interested in how his department and the NI II-IB might work together. Dr. Miller commented that he has been Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for a little over a year. It is a good and solid department that is serving the community. It is linked to Northwestern's Medical School. They are trying to develop a department that more the caliber of a university medical center. They have been trying to target specific centers of excellence in their development. These include child and adolescent psychiatry, women s mood disorders, anxiety disorders, medical psychiatry, neuro-psychiatry, and care of the severe and persistent mentally ill. Dr. Miller said that ENH is very landlocked for the purposes of development and program expansion at ENH. Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has been going through an expansion, but some of the physical space is moving to Glenbrook and Highland Park Hospitals. They are expanding their services, and now have three distinct programs and three full time child psychiatrists. Connections is a new program that is targeted at earls, intervention, teen pregnancy, teen substance abuse, and violent behavior in adolescents, The program provides both a group and individual format. It is housed in ENH's Glenlake facility. The Therapeutic Day School is expanding from 20 to 25 children. This program also moved to the Glenlake facility, with larger classrooms and better space. Dr.111511er. said the Bridges Program is also serving the child and adolescent population. It is funded to serve the Evanston community. The services are primarily located in Evanston January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page Minutes recorded — not yet approved Township High School, to help with early identification of children in the classroom with problem behaviors. Two social workers have been hired. One of them will also be working with the 3-6 year old population. Dr. Miller said that it was an eye opener for him as he became familiar with the programs for care for the persistent and seriously mental ill. The Catalyst Program is an excellent day program that teaches coping skills for this population. He said the OPC services were a program that had lost its bearings and needed some work. That program had treated a broad array of individuals with medication management, case management and individual therapeutic services. This was for people who had not secured other funding and vv-ere defined by their economic status rather than by their diagnosis or treatment. They are continuing to offer these services, but they are tightening up the program with a focus on individuals who have a diagnosis of serious and persistent mental illness. Dr. Miller said he thought ENH had not been dealing with some of their issues, like case management, as well as some of the community -based agencies. Their department will now focus on developing best practices and unique treatments in this area, and help the information about these approaches ripple out to the community. Ms. Wiebe asked how ENH was going to ripple state of the art treatment to the community? Dr. Miller said they would offer workshops and education to other mental health specialists who are interested. Ms. Reynolds asked if the Northwestern Medical School is tied to Evanston Hospital as a training site? Dr. Miller said that the name change did not represent a change in the relationship between Evanston Hospital and Northwestern University. They have a merged residency program, and residents spend an equal amount of time at both medical facilities. However, they are completely separate and not an integrated health delivery system. Ms. Stroh said ETHS is now having trouble getting students out to day treatment services, and a number of other adolescent services have been moved out to Glenview. She asked about what services were left at ENH in Evanston for kids? Dr. Miller stated there is a bus service to get kids to the programs in Glenview, but there have been some problems. There was space available in Glenview and no services, and ENH needed to provide something there. It is a 3-hospital system, and until recently there were no psychiatric services available at Glenbrook Hospital. They were also running out of space at the Evanston Iocation. However, there is a commitment to adolescent psychiatric services being in Evanston. C&A Psychiatry is their fastest growing program. Dr. Miller added that they want to develop the services at all sites for all three hospitals. Ms. Wiebe asked how his department decided the particular needs around which to grow the department? Dr. Miller stated their services were pretty all encompassing. He said they were interested in developing expertise and opportunities based upon the interests of their staff. In response to Ms. Wiebe he added that ENH was interested in community need, but that it was difficult to get a picture of ENH's context with the rest of the community. He said he was interested in where his department is not doing things as well as others, and whether there were programs from which they should divest themselves. January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 En Minutes recorded — not yet appro�red Mr. Rowitz raised a concern about how new programs get developed based upon the specializations of ENH's staff? He asked how Evanston Hospital would respond if the needs related to an area in which they did not presently have expertise? Dr. Miller commented that i11 someone from the community were to say there was a specific need, he would be interested im considering trying to respond to this. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB was interested in developing ways to provide feedback to the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Muller commented that he would be interested in having regular contact for the purposes of planning with the %M. He said he has a monthly departmental meeting, which is very open on the fourth Monday every month, and that an MHB member cziuld attend and have a regular report. Ms. Wiebe said Dr. Miler's staff has an open invitation to attend any of the MHB meetings, and thanked Dr. Miller for taking part in the MHB meeting V. AGENCY LUISON ASSIGLNIVIENTS Ms. Wiebe reported that the LNQIB's Agency liaison assignments change every year. She reviewed the options for liaison assignments from the Board packet. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Mr. Saver said that when the MHB discussed the revision to the Long Term Care Ordinance last September there was discussion about reactivating a hafson relationship with the two I1%4D facilities, AIbam• Care and Greenwood Care. There was a consensus of the Board not to have a formal relationship, such as an Agency Liaison. Ms. Nfebm said she regularly reads both facilities' newsletters and is impressed with the range of programming that is offered. She said that she would Iike to see the programs and become more familiar with them. Mr. Saver said that the Board might want to consider having a Board meet+mg at one of the facilities, or arranging a tour and speaking with the staff. That was something the MHB used to do annually to be kept up-to-date with the issues with which the facilities were dealing. Ms. Wiebe polled the Board members about which agencies they wanted to be the Liaison. Mr. Saver said he would distribute the list of assignments to both the MHB and the agencies after bts. Wiebe talked with Board members who had not made selections. Mr. Saver said this would be a good time for the MHB to begin to contact their agencies. He solid they would soon begin to develop the FY00-01 contracts. This is an opportunity for the Board members to become familiar vith their agencies' outcome objectives and measures, before they - are finalized. Ms. Wiebe said she thought an important part of the Agency Liaison role was to become familiar with their agencies' performance outcome measures. She said that at the workshop on Measuring Outcomes that afternoon there were a number of people who were interested in performance outcome. She said the MHB has tried to urge its funded agencies to bring this information to them January 13, 2GOO Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pages Minutes recorded — not yet approved VI. REVIEW OF CONTRACT .POLICY GUIDELINES FOR FY2000-2001 Mr. Saver reviewed the materials in the packet about the Policy Guidelines Governing Purchmse of Services Agreements. This is the boilerplate language that accompanies all of the MHB's contracts with community agencies. The NffM's Administrative Procedures require the MHB to annually review and reaffirm or revise the Guidelines, and adopt them for use with purchase of service agreements for the coming year. He said that, typically, this should be completed no, hater than the February meeting. Nis. Wiebe asked the MHB to review the information and let Mr.. Saver know if there were arty changes that they wanted to recommend. She said the Guidelinxs would be considered for adoption at the February meeting. VII. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT Mr. Terry provided the following reports: Human Services Committee The Human Services Committee met last Thursday to consider the agency funding recommendations for the corning fiscal year. They voted to allocate the same amount that each agency got this past year. The Human Services Committee will meet January 31, 2000. The agenda for that meeting will include the amendments to the Long Term Care Ordinance. During the past year the State of Illinois has performing most of the investigation and licensing inspection. The amendments will codify what is currently being done. The City writ have a local presence, but it has been reduced greatly. Rice Center. The Rice Center has made an announcement that they are closing effective June 30, 2000. The residential program has been losin.Q money for CHASI for some time. Homeless Task Force. The Homeless Task Force has been meeting on a monthly basis. The State of Illinois has announced two new, small grants. CPM will be receiving an additional $23,000 through one of them for some shelter improvements. Both the State and Federal governments are now requiring the local continuum of care groups to review and rank funding proposals before they go are submitted. This :+-ould provide an opportunity for the'%iHB to sec applications that are going in to either funding source, and have some voice in the proposal rankings. Mr. Saver involved in the Proposal Review Work group. The City of Evanston, through various spokespersons and various forums, has raised concerns for a number of years that homelessness is a regional issue. A regional approach is needed in dealnmg with homelessness, given that all the people from Chicago travel up here. There has been some action on this front. Mr. Terry has been meeting with representatives of the City of Chicago; Cook County Department of Planning; and Lzl;e, DuPage, and McHenry Counties on regional January 13, 200o Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 7 k Minutes recorded -- not yet approved issues. What has tome out of this is a major request for proposal for a one time study that w0w1d be a census and needs assessment, and include the development of a census methodology for 211 the persons who are homeless in the region. This is going to be an attempt to identify who these individuals are. The project will be funded though 70% - 30% funding split. Seventy percent will be funded by three major foundations: Chicago Community Trust, Donnelly Foundation, and McCormick Foundation. Thirty percent will be funded by a number of units of all the local governments. The City of Evanston's share is S2,500. These funds vilI come out of Health and Human Services' budget and Mr. Terry %vill discuss this with the Human Service Committee meeting January 31, 2000. FY2000-2001 City Budget. The City Manager, as required by law, issued the proposed Budget by December 31. At this point, all of the programs and services of the \M are in the Budget. The Budget calls for a 9.5% property tax increase and a 25% sewer rate increase. The City Manager issued a memorandum to the City Council in which he summarized the changes that are in the budget. He submitted an additional memorandum in which he outlined all of the services that are provided by the City of Evanston and that are not provided by other North Shore Communities. Mr. Terry said the City Manager's position on the Budget is that he has done as much fine-tuning as he can. 1f the City Council is interested in not having a property tax increase or sewer rate increase, the Council will have to look at major program cuts, as opposed to taking 5% here and there from different line items. The memo identifies the services provided in Evanston that are not provided in other communities, beyond the basics, e.g., police, fire, streets and sewers, and Sanitation. The MHB is on the list, along with almost all of the programs in the Department of Health and Human Services. The list has caused anxiety among staff. The City Council will be meeting every Saturday between now and March 1, 2000 to develop the Budget. There will be a public budget hearing February 7, 2000. VII. BOARD SOCIAL FUNCTION Ms. Mehen extended an invitation to all of the MHB members to a "get to know you dinner" at her home. The Board agreed to Tuesday, February 8, VILL STAFF REPORT Mr. Saver provided the following reports: Outcome Measures. The PBS satellite workshop on Outcome Measures was held that afternoon. The MHB, CDBG, and Evanston united Way cosponsored the event. There were approximately 45 people in attendance. 1t was an interesting presentation and offered the subject at an introductory level. The videotape and training program will be made available to agencies for staff January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 8 Minutes recorded — not yet approved training for people who could not attend. EPS Funds. Emergency Psychiatric Services funds were allocated to local communities by the Department of Mental Health when local area networks were developed about seen -eight }va ago. The funds are to help avert a psychiatric hospitalization in a State facility, or to help someone transition out of the state facility more quickly. Communities developed different strategies for the use of these funds. Locally, Evanston has used most of its funds to pay for inpatient hospitalizations for unfunded individuals at either Evanston Hospital or St. Francis Hospital. Evanston has never spent all the money it has had available. The LAN is going through a planning process, and is considering other issues that are the group does not think are being responded to very well. One of the major concerns that is being considered is what happens to those persons who repeatedly bump up against the system, are taken to an ER for assessment and are not able to be hospitalized. They leave, and there is no ability to follow up, at this point. But the person might still be in need of some service. The group is looking at various models, and is looking at data from relevant agencies to determine the level of need. It is likely that the group will identify some of the EPS funds for inpatient hospitalization, and use the other funds to purchase, develop or enhance some services that would provide greater service mobility and more aggressive outreach for individuals that are not being served well, or following through the cracks. Mr. Saver reminded the MHB that the February meeting would include the agency review of SHORE. He said he thought the meeting would be at one of SHORE`s Evanston locations. Meeting adjourned at 9:27:35 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Joan M. Barott January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 9 Minutes recorded — not yet approved EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD MEETING MUWTES THURSDAY, JANUARY I3, 2000 Members Present: Ellen Reynolds, Susan Stroh, Marsha Mehem Thomas Tharayil, I.aczrae Wiebe, Louis Rowitz Presiding: Lonnie Wiebe, Chair Staff: Jay Terry, Harvey Saver, Joan Barott, Lisa Hampton Community Representatives: Alexander Brown (Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services); Sandra Stumme (Metropolitan Family Services); Helen McCarthy, Chris Baer (Childcare Network of Evanston); Sally Hoit (Psych oEdu cational Services); Dr. Fred Miller (Evanston Northwestern Healthcare Department of Psychiatry) Lonnie Wiebe, Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. I. INTRODUCTIONS AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS The members of the audience introduced themselves and were welcomed by the Board. - II. APPROVAL OF MINUTES DECEMBER 09, 1999 Ms. Wiebe asked for corrections to the December 9, 1999 NM meeting minutes. Hearing none, she indicated that the minutes would be accepted as submitted. 111. AGENCY REVIEW: CHILDCARE NETWORK OF EVANSTON Helen McCarthy (Executive Director) and Chris Baer (Program Director) from Childcare Network of Evanston (CNE), and Sally Hoit of PsychoEducational Services, joined the NIHB. Ms. Wiebe reviewed the purpose of the intensive agency review, and reminded the MHB that the meeting was not intended to be a repeat of the funding process. Ms. McCarthy reviewed the purpose of CNE's Children's .Niental Health grogram. She said the agency began its project in March 1999 in response to a special initiative from the MHB to serve high -risk children in the community. The funding came about as a result of the closing of Rice .January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 1 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Community Counseling Services, The MHB recognized there were still children who were in need of mental health services who were in day care settings. Ms. McCarthy said the Children's Mental Health Services are a part of a larger program CNE provides for all 15 day care programs that are affiliated with CNE. A Quality Enhancement Grp from the State supports the larger program. The project brings additional services on site at the centers to help teachers, families, and children. These services have ranged from extra stalling in individual centers, to occupational therapy and physical therapy. With the additional funds from the MHB, CNE contracts with Metropolitan Family Services and PsychoEducational Services to provide expanded consultation to teachers in the classroom, to provide therapy for children, aad to provide family counseling. The services are provided at the childcare centers. These are cases where the child needs help, or the teacher needs help in developing strategies to handle the chW. (Sandra Stumme, Metropolitan Family Services, joined the agency presenters.) Ms. McCarthy reported that all referrals into the program have come from the childcare teachers or staff Since the beginning of July CNE has provided services to 27 different children in tea of their affiliated child care centers. Nineteen of those cases are currently active. Ms. Baer commented that most of the families that are referred are single parent heads of household. A number of the children have been in a foster care setting. Some of the families have had a relationship with DCFS. These children have had extremely difficult behaviors in the classroom, are very aggressive, and have displayed a lack of impulse control. It is very hard to keep these children in a child care center without immediate intervention. Of the kids in the program, 15 have required additional services. The lLQ-1`B funds have bought the clinical time necessary to get a handle on the other problems, as well. "m his. Baer said when she receives a call from a center that she goes to observe the classroom and to meet with the staff. Having the funding and available, additional services has been extremely helpful. This has provided the time to explore other things that may be going on with a child. Ms. Hoit commented that her business, PsychoEducational Services, contracts with CNE to provide support to the teachers in the classroom, as well as to intervene with the kids. Ms. Hoit said that the members of her group had all previously worked for Early Childhood Development Center and are familiar with the issues in the childcare centers. Most of their work is on site, and they do a lot of play therapy with the children. She said by playing with the child and listening to them, and having them tell their own story, they are able to diagnose problem areas and effective areas in which to intervene. This has been an extremely successful approach. Ms. Hoit said some of the events behind the children's problems are difficult births, lack of adequate medical care, drug -related issues, and family stressors. She pointed out that research has shown that children who are under a great deal stress have an excess of certain hormones. This can be very debilitating and affect the way they behave. if they are able to relieve some of the stress, the children are able to be more self-controlled and focused, and be more ready for school. January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Ms. Stumme commented that the workshop on outcome measures that the MHB had sponsored that afternoon had been well received. She said it made her think about how the Children's Mental Health Services had been performing. The staff at Metropolitan Family Services has enjoyed their role and the ability to work with CNE in this way. It is a struggle for any agency to get to where the kids are or where their families are. The Children's Mental Health Services have provided the perfect opportunity for agencies working together to offer supports. She reported that the agencies are seeing children who need the support services to be able to manage and continue within the daycare setting, and then in grade school. Some of these kids have been dealing with many extreme situations in their home. Some of these children have serious problems. Ms. Stumme commented that they feel good about having had the ability to get the families involved. In response to Ms. Stroh's question, Ms. Hoit provided a case example where there had been an intervention and the child and family benefited from the services. Ms. Mehen complimented Childcare Network for their written reports. She asked how CNE determines whether the families' goals are accomplished? Ms. Hoit said that before starting to work with a family they discuss what outcomes they are looking for. Information is obtained from the parent about whether an intervention has made a difference, based upon their goals. The therapist and the teacher are also asked whether there has been a change. Ms. Stumme said that the goals are written goals as they start the treatment process with the family. Ms. McCarthy said the program was most useful when the parents are involved, and the focus is not solely on the child in the classroom. Mr. Rowitz said he was familiar with issues that have arisen where parents are reluctant to provide permission for agencies to work with their kids. He commented that sometimes parents become upset with the results or an assessment and can bring suit against a number of agencies, and asked how CNE deals with this type of issue. Nis. McCarthy stated that they tell the parents that they do not keep records that are sent an with the children to the school system. Many parents are concerned have their children receive ser%ices because they are afraid they will be given a label that will follow them into grade school. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, his. McCarthy commented that the information in the workshop on outcome measures that afternoon was not entirely new to her. She said, however, that it made her think that the agencies involved in the Children's Mental Health Services programs should come back together as a team to consider what were initially identified as the projected outcomes. She said she thought it was time to reconsider whether they were focusing on the correct outcome measures. Ms. Baer summarized by saying that all of the children that they have provide services for have been kept in childcare. This has been a god outcome because it means they are not, for instance, having to stay at their aunt's house watching TV all day. The staff is able to continue to observe January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 3 x Minutes recorded — not yet approved the children, to pro%ide services and interventions, and to stay in contact with their fanulies. Ms. McCarthy added that it has also enabled the parents to continue to work. Ms. Stumme said Metropolitan Family Services had also been recommended for state funds that were a part of the RFP for Children's Mental Health Services. She said MFS was to provide more intense mental health services for children with more serious conditions. One question the MHB originally had was what the need was going to be after Rice Community Counseling Services closed their doors. She said they have had referrals for a minimal number of children who actually need to be diagnosed and have intensive mental health services. Currently they have only four children on that part of their caseload. Ms. Stumme said it doesn't appear that the need is going to be greater than the funds that are available. Ms. Wiebe thanked the agencies for their presentation. IV. DISSCUSSION WITH DR. FRED MILLER, DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY, EVANSTON NORTHNVESTERN HEALTHCARE Dr. Fred Miller, Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare, joined the MHB. Ms. Wiebe told Dr. Miller that the MHB was interested in hearing an update about changes in his department, and how this is fitting into the community needs. She also explained that the \'H-IB was interested in how his department and the MIHB might work together. Dr. Miller commented that he has been Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for a little over a year. It is a good and solid department that is serving the community. It is linked to Northwestern's Medical School. They are trying to develop a department that more the caliber of a university medical center. They have been trying to target specific centers of excellence in their development. These include child and adolescent psychiatry, women's mood disorders, anxiety disorders, medical psychiatry, neuro-psychiatry, and care of the severe and persistent mentally ill. Dr. Miller said that Eti'H is very Iandlocked for the purposes of development and program expansion at ENH Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has been going through an expansion, but some of the physical space is moving to Glenbrook and Highland Park Hospitals. They are expanding their services, and now have three distinct programs and three full time child psychiatrists. Connections is a ne-w program that is targeted at early intervention, teen pregnancy, teen substance abuse, and violent behavior in adolescents. The program provides both a group and individual format. It is housed in ENH's Glenlake facility. The Therapeutic Day School is expanding from 20 to 25 children. This program also moved to the Glenlake facility, with larger classrooms and better space. Dr. Miller said the Bridges Program is also serving the child and adolescent population. It is funded to serve the Evanston community. The services are primarily located in Evanston January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 4 Minutes recorded — not yet approved Township High School, to help with early identification of children in the classroom with problem behaviors. Two social workers have been hired. One of them will also be working with the 3-6 year old population. Dr. Miller said that it was an eye opener for him as he became famifiar with the programs for care for the persistent and seriously mental ill. The Catalyst Program is an excellent day program that teaches coping skills for this population. He said the OPC services were a program that had lost its bearings and needed some work. That program had treated a broad array of individuals with medication management, case c=agement and individual therapeutic services. This was for people who had not secured other funding and were defined by their economic status rather than by their diagnosis or treatment. They are continuing to offer these services, but they are tightening up the program with a foes on individuals who have a diagnosis of serious and persistent mental illness. Dr. Miller said he thought ENH had not been dealing with _come of their issues, like case management, as weft as some of the community -based agencies. Their department will now focus on developing best practices and unique treatments in this area, and help the information about these approaches ripple out to the community. Ms. Wiebe asked how ENH was go'mg to ripple state of the art treatment to the community? Dr. Miller said they would offer workshops and education to other mental health specialists who are interested. Ms. Reynolds asked if the Northwestern Medical School is tied to Evanston Hospital as a training site? Dr. Miller said that the name change did not represent a change in the relationship between Evanston Hospital and Northwestern University. They have a merged residency program, and residents spend an equal amount of time at both medical facilities. However, they are completely separate and not an integrated health delivery system. Ms. Stroh said ETHS is now having trouble getting students out to day treatment services, and a number of other adolescent services have been moved out to Glenview. She asked about what services were left at ENE in Evanston for kids? Dr. Miller stated there is a bus service to get kids to the programs in Glenview, but there have been some problems. There was space available in Glenview and no services, and ENH needed to provide something there. It is a 3-hospital system, and until recently there were no psychiatric services available at Glenbrook Hospital. They were also running out of space at the Evanston location. However, there is a commitment to adolescent psychiatric services being in Evanston. C&A Psychiatry is their fastest growing program_ Dr. Miller added that they want to deve:op the services at all sites for all three hospitals Ms. Wiebe asked how his department decided the particular needs around which to grow the department? Dr. Miller stated their -,er%ices were pretty all encompassing. He said they were interested in developing expertise and opportunities based upon the interests of their staff. In response to Ms. Wiebe he added that ENH was interested in community need, but that it was difficult to get a picture of ENH's context with the rest of the community. He said he was interested in where his department is not doing things as well as others, and whether there were programs from which they should divest themselves. January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5 .x Minutes recorded — not yet approved Mr. Rowitz raised a concern about how new programs get developed based upon the specializations of ENH's staff He asked how Evanston Hospital would respond if the needs related to an area in which they did not presently have expertise? Dr. Miller commented that if someone from the community were to say there was a specific need, he would be interested in considering trying to respond to this. Ms. Wiebe said that the MHB was interested in developing ways to provide feedback to the Department of Psychiatry. Dr. Miller commented that he would be interested in having regular contact for the purposes of planning with the MHB. He said he has a monthly departmental meeting, which is very open on the fourth Monday every month, and that an NM member COW attend and have a regular report. Ms. Wiebe said Dr. Miller's staff has an open invitation to attend any of the MHB meetings, and thanked Dr. Miller for taking part in the ,%M meeting. V. AGENCY LIAISON ASSIGNMENTS Ms. Wiebe reported that the NM's Agency Liaison assignments change every year. She reviewed the options for liaison assignments from the Board packet. In response to Ms. Wiebe's question, Mr. Saver said that when the MHB discussed the revisions to the Long Term Care Ordinance last September there was discussion about reactivating a liaison relationship with the two IIVM facilities, Albany Care and Greenwood Care. There was a consensus of the Board not to have a formal relationship, such as an Agency Liaison_ Ms. Mehea said she regularly reads both facilities' newsletters and is impressed with the range of programming that is offered. She said that she would like to see the programs and become more familiar with them. Mr. Saver said that the Board might want to consider having a Board meeting at one of the facilities, or arranging a tour and speaking with the staff. That was something the MHB used to do annually to be kept up-to-date with the issues with which the facilities were dealing. Ms. Wiebe polled the Board members about which agencies they wanted to be the Liaison. Mt. Saver said he would distribute the list of assignments to both the MHB and the agencies after Ms. Wiebe talked with Board members who had not made selections. Mr. Saver said this would be a good time for the MHB to begin to contact their agencies. He said they would soon begin to develop the FY00-01 contracts. This is an opportunity for the Board members to become familiar %vith their agencies' outcome objectives and measures, before they are finalized. Ms. Wiebe said she thought an important part of the Agency Liaison role was to become familiar with their agencies' performance outcome measures. She said that at the workshop on Measuring Outcomes that afternoon there were a number of people who were interested in performance outcome. She said the MHB has tried to urge its funded agencies to bring this information to them. January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes page 6 Minutes recorded — not yet approved V1. REVIEW OF CONTRACT POLICY GUEDELINES FOR FY2000-2001 Mr. Saver reviewed the materials in the packet about the Policy Guidelines Governing Purchase' of Services Agreements. This is the boilerplate language that accompanies all of the MHB's contracts with community agencies. The NM's Administrative: Procedures require the MHB to annually review and reaffirm or revise the Guidelines, and adopt them for use with purchase of service agreements for the coining year. He said that, typically, this should be completed no later than the February meeting. Nis. Wtebe asked the MHB to review the information and let Mr. Saver know if there were any changes that they wanted to recommend. She said the Guidelines would be considered for adoption at the February meeting. V1I. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT Mr. Terry provided the following reports: Hnmarr Services Committee. The Human Services Committee met last Thursday to consider the agency funding recommendations for the coming fiscal year. They voted to allocate the same amount that each agency got this past year. The Human Services Committee will meet January 31, 2000. The agenda for that meeting will include the amendments to the Long Term Care Ordinance. During the past year the State of Illinois has performing most of the investigation and licensing inspection. The amendments will codify what is currently being done. The City will have a local presence, but it has been reduced greatly, Rice Center. The Rice Center has made an announcement that they are closing effective June 30, 2000. The residential program has been losing money for CHASI for some time. Homeless Task Force. The Homeless Task Force has been meeting on a monthly basis. The State of Illinois has announced two new, small grants. CPM will be receiving an additional S23,000 through one of them for some shelter improvements. Both the State and Federal governments are now requiring the local continuum of care groups to review and rank funding proposals before they go are submitted. This would provide an opportunity for the MHB to see applications that are going in to either funding source, and have some voice in the proposal rankings. Mr. Saver involved in the Proposal Review Work group. The City of Evanston, through various spokespersons and various forums, has raised concerns for a number of years that homelessness is a regional issue. A regional approach is needed in dealing with homelessness, given that all the people from Chicago travel up here. There has been some action on this front_ .fir. Terry has been meeting with representatives of the City of Chicago; Cook County Department of Planning; and Lake, DuPage, and McHenry Counties on regional .January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes pa$eT Minutes recorded — not yet approved issues. W1= has come out of this is a major request for proposal for a one time study that would be a census and needs assessment, and include the development of a census methodology for, am the persons who are homeless in the region. This is going to be an attempt to identify who these individuals are. The project will be funded though 70% - 30% funding split. Seventy percent will be funded by three major foundations: Chicago Community Trust, Donnelly Foundation, and McCormick Foundation. Thirty percent will be funded by a number of units of all the local governmems. The City of Evanston's share is $2,500. These funds will come out of Health aid Human Serrdces' budget and Mr. Terrywill discuss this with the Human Service Committee meeting January 31, 2000. FY2000-2001 City Budget. The City Manager, as required by law, issued the proposed Budget by December 31. At this point, all of the programs and services of the MHB are in the Budget. The Budges calls for a 9.5% property tax increase and a 25° o sewer rate increase. The City Manager is.�ued a memorandum to the City Council in which he summarized the changes that are ' in the budm. He submitted an additional memorandum in which he outlined all of the services that are prodded by the City of Evanston and that are not provided by other North Shore Communities. Mr. Terry said the City M-nager's position on the Budget is that he has done as much fine -toning as he can. If the City C.. ancil is interested in not having a property tax increase or sewer rase increase, the Council will have to look at major program cuts, as opposed to taking 5% here and there from different line items. The memo identifies the services provided in Evanston drat are not provided in other communities, beyond the basics, e.g., police, fire, streets and sewers, and Sanitation. The MHB is on the list, along with almost all of the programs in the Departmem of Health and Human Services. The list has caused anxiety among staff. The City Council will be meeting every Saturday between now and March 1, 2000 to develop the Budget. There will be a public budget hearing February 7, 2000. VII. BOARD SOCIAL FUNCTION Ms. Mehen extended an invitation to all of the MHB members to a "get to know you dinner" at her home. The Board agreed to Tuesday, February 8. VIII. STAFF REPORT Mr. Saver provided the following reports: Outcome Measures. The PBS satellite workshop on Outcome Measures was held that afternoon The MHB, CDBG, and Evanston United Way cosponsored the event. There were approximately 45 people in attendance. It was an interesting presentation and offered the subject at an introductory level. The videotape and training program will be made available to agencies for staff January 13,2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes PaQea Minutes recorded — not yet approved training for people who could not attend_ EPS Funds. Emergency Psychiatric Smices funds wrre allocated to local communities by the Department of Mental Health when local area networks were developed about scven-eight yrsrs ago. The funds are to help avert a psychiatric hospitalization in a State faci ity, or to help someone transition out of the state facility more quickly Conunu cities developed different strategies for the use of these funds. Locally, Evanston has used most of its funds to pay for inpatient hospitalizations for unfunded individuals at either Evanston Hospital or St. Francis Hospital_ Evanston has never spent all the money it has had available The LAN is going through a planning process, and is considering other issues that arc the group does not think are being responded to very well_ One of the major concerns that is being considered is what happens to those persons who repeatedly bump up against the system, are taken to an ER for assessment and arc not able to be hospitalized. They leave, and there is no ability to follow up, at this point. But the person might still be in need of some service. The group is looking at various models, and is looking at data from relevant agencies to determine the level of need_ It is likely that the group will identify some of the EPS funds for inpatient hospitalization, and use the other funds to purchase, develop or enhance some services that would pro%ide greater service mobility and more aggressive outreach for individuals that are not being served well, or following through the cracks. Mr. Saver reminded the MHB that the February meeting would include the agency review of SHORE. He said he thought the meeting would be at one of SHORE's Evanston locations. Meeting adjourned at 9:27:35 P.M. Respectfully subrnitted, Joan M. Baron January 13, 2000 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 9