HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2008Minutes approved
EVANSTON I`1ENTAL HEALTH BOARD
NtEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14, 2008
Members Present: Sue Canter, Carol Sittler, Jane Grover, Marcia Achenbach, Gil Krulee
Presiding: Jane Grover, Vice Chair
Staff: Harvey Saver, Casey Solomon
Community
Representatives: Mary Ann Kerns (Child Care Center of Evanston); Pam Thomas (Evanston/
Skokie Valley Senior Services); Willis Francis (Trilogy); Sandra Stumme
(Metropolitan Family Services); Martha Arntson (Childcare Network of
Evanston); Vincent Gillon (Carepoint)
Ms. Grover, Vice Chair, called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. in the absence of Ms. Walker, the
Chair of the Board.
I. INTRODUCTION AND CONIMUNITY COMMENTS
Ms. Grover called the meeting to order and asked the guests to introduce themselves.
1I. APPROVAL OF DECEMBER 13, 2007 MINUTES
Nis. Canter moved and Mr. Krulee seconded a motion to approve the December 13, 2007 minutes
as corrected. Motion approved unanimously (5 ayes — o nays)
III. UPDATE ON PROPOSED FY08-09 CITY BUDGET AND BUDGET HEARINGS
Ms. Canter reported that initially Alderman Tisdahl proposed a 10% reduction in the MHB's proposed
2008-09 allocations. The City Council adopted the recommendation in an initial vote. Ms. Canter said
that the City Council was initially considering a possible 25% cut to the Board's allocation budget, so
this would be a smaller blow. However, she pointed out that almost 586,000 was at stake, and that
10% of the Board's purchased services allocation budget was still too much money to take away from
the Board's funded agencies.
Ms. Canter continued that the 10% reduction had been proposed prior to the failure of the City's refer-
cndum on an increase in the property transfer tax in the February elections. The City had hoped that
the increase in the transfer tax would have helped offset sonic of the S140 million Fire and Police pen-
sion dcticit. She said she was concerned about the potential of deeper cuts for the Board's allocations,
given the community's rejection of that referendum. Ms Canter said she had been told that a number of
the funded agencies had met earlier in the week to discuss the proposed allocation reduction, and what
their response might be to it. She indicated that she thought that they planned to attend the next
Budget Workshop with their board members, and some of their service recipients, and respond to the
proposed funding reductions. She added that both she and Ms. Grover had each spoken before City
Council, at one of the workshops regarding the importance of MHB funding.
Ms. Grover said she was concerned about maintaining support for human services as a community val-
ue in the City Budget, and the concept of providing support and assistance for those who have a hard
February 14, 2008 Mental Health Board Meating Minutes Page 1
Minutes approved
time looking out for themselves. She said that at the last Budget Workshop, several representatives
from funded agencies made presentations to City Council about how the MHB's funding enables
Evanston to preserve a diverse community.
Ms. Grover said that a 10% reduction would reduce the figure in the City Manager's proposed budget
for MHB allocations from S859,000 to S773,100. She distributed several spreadsheets with MHB
funding history that the Allocation Committee request that Mr. Saver develop. The information illus-
trated that a 10% reduction would bring the MHB's funding just below the FY 1986-87 purchased ser-
vices allocations. One of the graphs highlighted that in the 1980's the MHB allocations accounted for
a bit more than 2% of the City's General Fund Budget; a 10% reduction would reduce it to approxi-
mately .8% of the General Fund.
Ms. Grover said that the 10% reduction will mean some very difficult decisions for the Board if it has
to reallocate its program funding. tits. Canter said she thought that the Allocation Committee would
want to evaluate each of the programs and develop new allocations, instead of prorating the 10% re-
duction to each of the programs. Ms. Grover agreed and said that the Allocation Committee would
convene to develop new recommendations, and would want individual Board members to provide their
thoughts on any changes in the allocations.
Ms. Grover said that the City Council still seemed to be a long way from resolving the difficult issues
in the FY08-09 City Budget. There have already been a few other program reductions that were dis-
cussed. The City Council also asking that a Blue Ribbon Panel be appointed to evaluate the actuarial
calculations about the City's under funding of the Police and Fire pension funds.
IV. REVIEW/ ADOPT CONTR.#CT POLICY GUIDELINES FOR FY08-09
Mr. Saver reviewed the information in his memo regarding the Policy Guidelines Governing Purchase
ojServices Agreements (Guidelines) for FY08-09. He explained that the document was the policy
statements and boilerplate language that accompanies all of the contracts with the MHB-funded agen-
cies. Some of the language has been required, over the years, by the City Council. In addition, some
of the clauses were incorporated, from time to time, at the recommendation of the Assistant Corpora-
tion Counsel.
Mr. Saver explained that the MHB's Administrative Procedures require that the Board must annually
be reviewed and adopted for use with purchase of service agreements for the coming year. They are
the Board's policies that guide the funding and monitoring process.
Mr. Saver reported that the thought the Guidelines were already sufficient to meet the needs of the
MHB for monitoring the purchased services contracts. He said, however, that the language of Section
5.5 requires the agencies to submit their annual financial audits to the Board "... within four months
of the end of the Provider's fiscal year. As a practical matter, many of the agencies' audits have not
been completed and accepted within that period of time. He said that staff was recommending that the
section be amended to read that the audit be submitted to the Board no later than two weeks of the
agency's Board of Directors accepting it.
1n response to Ms. Grover's question, there were no other questions or suggestions for revisions. Ms.
Achenbach moved and Mr. Krulee seconded a motion to amend the language of Section 5.5 of
the Contract Policy Guidelines to read "... audit must be submitted to the EAfHB within tivo
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Minutes approved
weeks of baring been accepted an behalf ojlfre PROs'IDER's Board nJDirectnrs." The motion
was approved unanimously (5 ayes - 0 nays).
Mr. Saver said that staff is already beginning to revise the information for the FY2008-2009 contracts.
The final information for the contracts will not be known until the City Council completes its delibera-
tions on the City's Budget. At the Board's direction, staff is reviewing all of the agencies' perform-
ance outcome measures. In addition, they are spending additional time to try to ensure that each of the
funded programs has useful outcome objectives to monitor in their contracts. The information was ini-
tially provided in the funding proposals during the fall, but some agencies did better than others. Mr.
Saver added that they are also following up on the issues that were raised in the Preliminary Proposal
Review about particular programs.
V. PLAN FOR BOARD DEVELOPMENT
Ms. Grover opened the discussion and said that the MHB has used Board Development for a number
of years as a means to educate themselves on a number of issues and ideas in their areas of responsibil-
ity in the community. The Board Development presentations have provided Board members an oppor-
tunity to learn more about the local agencies and various social service initiatives. She referred to Mr.
Saver's memo that addressed future Development programs.
Mr. Saver asked whether the MHB was still interested in pursuing a Board Development agenda. He
said that in the survey he circulated, there were very few suggestions this last time about possible top-
ics. In terms of scheduling, the Board might want to address the issue at the same time it considered
whether it was going to schedule agency visits as a part of its agenda. The two items will be difficult
to schedule around together, would require some additional planning and discussion about how to
change the Board's process, and would require additional time to organize due to the amount of time
each would require from both staff and Board members. Mr. Saver said that he had a conversation with
Ms. Walker, who expressed some reservations about taking on too many new things with the antici-
pated changes in the Board membership and staff support.
Ms. Canter said that she was in favor of both Board Development activities and Agency Visits, but
agreed it would be difficult to currently fit both on the Board's calendar. Ms. Sittler expressed concern
whether both would be achievable with all of the transitions that were occurring. Ms. Grover sug-
gested the Board might want to hold off on agency visits until all of the Board positions were filled.
The Board discussed various options for Board Development. Mr. Saver said that Sol Anderson from
the City's Youth Services Initiative was prepared to return and discuss the information that had been
previously scheduled. There was also a request to have the local Salvation Army provide a presentation
about their work.
Ms. Grover said it appeared that the Board wanted to pursue the second option identified in Mr.
Saver's memo, and to host Board Development on an ad hoc basis. She suggested trying to squeeze in
as much as possible before Mr. Saver's departure and requested that Mr. Solomon maintain the list of
suggestions for future presentations.
VI. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY
Agency Liaison Reports (Board Member Reports)
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PEER Services. Ms. Sittler said she recently visited the agency's offices. She had an opportunity to
review the surveys that some of the agency's staff was going to be administering to ETHS students for
their substance abuse prevention program. She said it was a very thorough survey. Ms. Mahoney talked
to her about the cash flow problem they were experiencing as a result of the delay in the payments
from the State of Illinois. Because of this, the agency %vas sometimes having problems meeting their
payable obligations. For the first time, the agency has had to borrow money from their line of credit at
the bank. The agency had a successful fund raiser that brought in about S30,000; they are planning a
fun wall: at the Botanical Gardens in June. Ms. Sittler said that she plans to attend one of their board
meetings, which are held third Mondays of odd months.
Mr. Saver explained that the prevention surveys were from the Evanston Substance Abuse Prevention
Council's social norms marketing campaign, Strength in Numbers (SIN), at ETHS. The MHB heard a
presentation about the program several years ago.
Center for Independent Futures (CIF). Ms. Canter said she was visiting CIF's program at ETHS
when the SIN surveys were being distributed. She was at the school to observe the Agency's Full Life
Planning Program being implemented. She saw the program in 2 classes and found it very interesting.
CIF is hoping that the program will be able to be offered to follow a participating student's entire high
school career. The goal is to aid the student to plan for and transition into life after school. CIF is
working with ETHS's staff to train them on how to assume responsibility for implementing the pro-
gram. She was very impressed with the classroom teacher's teaching skill; she was very good at get-
ting the students talking and engaged in the program. Ms. Canter said that the agency is also piloting
the program in other places. Jane Doyle, CIF's Executive Director, told Ms. Canter that the program
implementation is going a little bit slower than they had hoped. They have not always been able to
meet as often as they had planned. The program is going well but the OF staff wishes they were able
to have a little more time with the students.
Youth Job Center (YJQ. Ms. Canter said she also met with Sacella Smith, the Director at YJC. Ms.
Smith discussed the agency's increased outreach to prospective employers through hostingjob fairs.
The agency recently received a S50,000 grant for the Gap Corporation.
Family Focus. Ms. Canter said she would be meeting with Mary Wilkinson of Family Focus. Ms.
Wilkinson is the program's interim Director, and the Chair of its Advisory Board.
Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago / Evanston Community Defender. Mr.
Krulee reported that he recently visited both agencies. He discussed his observations and said he was
impressed with the services. Mr. Krulee comments that both agencies are making use of volunteer -
based legal representation.
Infant Welfare Society of Evanston, Ms. Achenbach reported on her visit to the agency. The Direc-
tor, 43egan Kashner, expressed concern that several of their young mothers in the Teen Baby Nursery
Program, decided to leave the program to pursue their GED at night school instead of completing high
school. Ms. Kashner said that this choice almost never works for these young women. Ms. Kashner
discussed this recent challenge with District 202's Superintendent, Eric Witherspoon, who was equally
alarmed by this trend. They agreed to work together to try to change the recent trend. The two also dis-
cussed the widespread challenge of older teens in the community who were having babies, as well as
the responsibilities of young fathers at the high school. The agency is gearing up for their annual fund-
raiser, scheduled for May 4. They recently had a visit from State Representative Julie Hamos.
February 14, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Mlnutes Page 4
SHORE: Community Services. lls. Achenbach said she visited SHORE in November. She made ar-
rangements for them to copy her on minutes and reports for their board meetings. She has been receiv-
ing those materials and finds them very informative. The agency is facing a small crisis relating to the
aging of the residents at the Brummel Town Homes. There is an increase in the demand for more ac-
cessible housing, which the agency is currently unable to meet. They are also facing issues related to
advanced medical needs for their aging residents. Like many other agencies, SHORE is experiencing
problems related to State funding. Though the new mass transit bill will save routes, it is going to in-
crease costs for SHORE, which is a mandatcd transporters for some of their clients. They rely upon
public transportation. They are also facing delays in payment due to the Governor delaying signing an
ICFDD bill that would mean a small increase in funding for SHORE Homes East and West. fir. Gul-
ley reported that SHORE has been facing funding delays of several months with their State contracts.
These delays are also connected to the expansion of the State's mandatory education age. It now per-
mits students to stay in school until their 22"d birthday. Ms. Achenbach said she received a copy of
SHORE's program outcomes study for 2007; the agency attained a very good score in reaching 34 of
their 37 objectives for the year. They are doing a tremendous amount of fundraising.
Trilogy. Ms. Achenbach reported that she was recently appointed as the interim Agency Liaison to
Trilogy, and met briefly with Willis Francis, the Program Director.
Child Care Center of Evanston. Ms. Grover reported that she visited the agency that morning. They
recently received obtained their NAESY accreditation. This is a national process and a difficult proce-
dure. She said she thought it was a huge accomplishment for the agency.
Metropolitan Family Services. Mr. Saver said that Ms. Gauthier was not able to make the meeting.
He presented the comments she sent to him that morning about the Liaison agencies. Metropolitan
Family Services' Quarterly Report demonstrated strong progress toward their objectives. The agency
was also applying for some of the State funding for prevention services. The State is making more of
those funds available.
Thresholds. Mr. Saver indicated that Ms. Gauthier had also spoken to Thresholds. The agency re-
ported that they have been making considerable progress in reorganizing since they closed their shel-
tered workshop. Many of their Members have stayed with the Thresholds in their community -based
program; 4 people chose to go on to other workshop settings; 6 people have achieved competitive em-
ployment; and, S are seeking outside, competitive employment.
VII. EVALUATION OF AGENCY LIAISON ROLE AND POLICY
Mr. Saver reviewed the materials that were in the packet about the Agency Liaison role. He said that
the agenda item was one of Lis. Walker's initiatives. After a brief discussion about the role of the
Board Liaison, the Board decided to table the discussion until Ms. Walker was available to lead the
discussion.
VIII. REVIEW ASSESSMENT OF 2007 ALLOCATION PROCESS AND MATERIALS
Ms. Grover lead a discussion about the survey feedback that Board members provided about the
evaluation of the fall 2007 allocation process and documents. She thanked staff for taking the initia-
tive and facilitating the assessment.
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Ms. Grover said that she thought that the feedback had been very useful in past, and helped the Board
decide what changes to make in the allocation process. Ms. Achenbach said that she was satisfied with
the allocation process and materials, and thought that it was good enough without making any changes
this year. Ms. Canter noted that there had been a number of changes that came out of the evaluations
over the past few years. In response to Ms. Grover's question, the MHB recommended that an annual
survey be conducted every other year after the completion of the allocation process.
Ms. Sittler said that she initially had some concerns about United Way's involvement, going into the
allocation process. However, she reported that she enjoyed and appreciated their involvement and par-
ticipation in fall 2007. She said she thought it made for a better process. Ms. Canter said she thought
that having a dedicated co-chair from each (under assigned to a hearing room was very useful. She
added that the inclusion of the United Way during the Preliminary Proposal Review meeting provided
significant, valuable insight and an additional perspective.
Mr. Saver suggested that the MHB arrange to meet with the United Way representatives sometime in
the next few months to discuss the plans for the allocation hearings for next fall. Last year, with the
changes that the United Way was going through system -wide, there a combined proposal review was
even going to be possible. That system is continuing to evolve.
Mr. Saver pointed out that the MHB might be undergoing a number of changes in both its staff support
and Board membership in the coming months. He recommended that, given that there was general
Board member satisfaction with the last allocation process, the Board agree to not make any revisions
this year in the funding proposal format, the budget forms, the tools and scales for the funding guide-
lines and criteria, and the calendar for the fall 2008 process. In a consensus decision, the MHB
adopted Mr. Saver's recommendations.
IX. STAFF REPORT
Mr. Saver said that he had been requested to provide a transition plan to the Assistant City Manager
about the roles, functions and responsibilities of his position. In response to questions, he said that he
did not know how staff support was going to be provided to the MHB after he left the City. The De-
partment of Health and Human Services will likely be going through some reorganization after all of
the issues are resolved in the City Budget. He said lie was told that there could be some realignment of
jobs and responsibilities.
Mr. Saver reviewed a report from the Board packet about funding that conics to the community
through HUD's McKinney-Vento funds for homelessness. Last June he reported on Evanston's rec-
ommendations to HUD for dollars allocated for Evanston. The Evanston Alliance on Homelessness
rank -ordered and recommended 10 programs for rcne«,ai funding and 1 new program to HUD for a
total of S1,063,332. However, HUD only authorized funding for the 10 renewal programs for a total of
S963,175. The initial reports that were received were that Evanston's application did not receive a high
enough score from HUD to be eligible for new program funding this year. The Alliance had not yet
received information about where points were actually lost in the scoring of its application.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
February 14, 2008 (Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pape 6
Minutes approved
Casey Solomon
Secretary
Papa 7
February 14, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes
`Minufss recorder!
EVANSTON &iENTAL HEALTH BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 2008
Members Present: Sue Canter, Randy Walker, Carol Sittler, Gil Krulee, Anne Gauthier, Carl LaMell
Presiding: Randy Walker, Chair
Staff: Harvey Saver, Casey Solomon
Community
Representatives: Mary Ann Kerns (Child Care Center of Evanston); Pam Thomas (Evanston/
Skokie Valley Senior Services); Willis Francis (Trilogy); Sandra Stumme (Met-
ropolitan Family Services); Martha Arntson (Childcare Network of Evanston) ;
Martha Swoyer, , Claire Purkis (Housing Options); Michelle Martin (Center for
Independent Futures)
1. INTRODUCTION AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS
Ms. Walker called the meeting to order and asked the guests to introduce themselves.
II. APPROVAL OF FEBRUARY 14, 2008 MINUTES
Ms. Gauthier moved and Ms. Canter seconded a motion to approve the February 14, 2008 minutes
as corrected. Motion approved unanimously (5 ayes — o nays)
III. EVONDA THOMAS, DIRECTOR OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES, SPOKE
ABOUT CHANGES IN THE DEPARTMENT IN RELATION TO MR. SAVER'S RE-
TIREMENT
Evonda Thomas, the new Director of Health and Human Services (DHHS), joined the MHB, Ms. Thomas
said she thought that the recent City Budget Process was a very challenging one for both the elected offi-
cials as well as the MHB. She said that she was aware the Board might be feeling anxiety regarding what
type of continued staff support to expect with Mr. Saver leaving the City. She said that in the process 2
positions in the Department were eliminated, both Mr. Saver's as well as a division chief position. How-
ever, she said she was able to create a new position that will provide support to the Mental Health Board.
The position will be a Management Analyst and the roles have not yet been fully established.
Ms. Thomas said that she was expecting that the new position would likely play a different role in sup-
porting the MHB that what ;4ir. Saver had provided, She said that .Mr. Saver's role in providing staff sup-
port to the MHB had also evolved over the years. She continued that DHHS is trying to make the most of
limited resources and is undergoing a restructuring of roles, as well as getting some additional responsi-
bilities. Ms. Thomas said she wants to respect the work of the MHB and asked the Board members to help
her in understanding the support they need as the Department moves ahead. There have been a lot of
changes in roles historically in DHHS. As Director of the Department, she said she would not likely be
involved directly in the regular functions of the MHB. And as painful as this process is for the MHB, she
said she wanted the Board to know it is just as difficult for the entire Department during this period of
change. She said the DHHS and the City are committed to the services the MHB provides and will asked
Ms. Walker as the Chair to organize the Board's feedback about the needs and supports the Board has.
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She said she would consider the Board's feedback about the role, but is having to reorganize all of the
Department's roles and responsibilities.
Ms. Gauthier said that it would be helpful if the person pro%riding staff support is able to guide the Board
in a way that makes them feel that the ideas are their own. Ms. Walker asked whether the staff person
will have responsibilities in other areas of the DHHS and, if so, what percentage of their time will be allo-
cated to the MHB. GIs. Thomas said the individual will also have other responsibilities in the Department,
and she is not yet sure what amount of time will be allocated to the MHB. She said she was going to per-
form a needs assessment to know exactly what will be required in all areas before she would be able to
answer that question.
Ms. Walker said the MHB would organize a list of needs to forward to Ms. Thomas, and that it would be
determined collectively. She asked Board members to forward their comments and ideas to her. She said
Mr. Saver has been at the center of all of the Board's activities in recent years. Without the staff support,
she is concerned whether the Board would be able to perform at the same level they have been. Ms.
Walker said that, in addition, she has had concerns about the recent difficulty the Board has had in getting
new members appointed. Ms. Walker pointed out the MHB gained added responsibilities about 5-6 years
ago when they assumed responsibility for the funds the Human Services Committee previously allocated,
in addition to the MHB's funds. Ms. Walker said her works schedule would not allow her to serve as
Chair again, and she was concerned about whether anyone would be able to take that on that responsibil-
ity. Ms. Thomas said those arc the kinds of things that she would like to find out about and would not
know from reading minutes. She said she was only aware of the documented Board history, which is why
she is asking the Board to provide input to go forward.
Ms. Sittler asked what type of person the City wanted to fill the Management Analyst position. Ms. Tho-
mas said that as DHHS is restructuring all roles, she will need to look at exactly what is needed overall in
order to recruit for the position. Ms. Walker thought she would try to provide a composite of feedback and
input from all Board members within a week. Ms. Thomas said she didn't want to set a deadline and ap-
preciated the Board's comments. She thanked the Board for their time and said she would look forward to
hearing from them.
(Mr. LaMell joined the MHB at 7:20p.)
1V. "EVANSTON YOUTH INITIATIVE." SOL ANDERSON, YOUTH COORDINATOR,
CITY MANAGER'S OFFICE
Sol Anderson joined the MHB. Ms. Walker thanked him for freeing up his schedule and being; able return
to make a presentation. Mr. Anderson thanked the Board for the opportunity to provide an update and
said he wanted to review the changes and progress that had occurred since Sheila McCorkie presented to
the Board last spring about the Evanston Youth Initiative (EY).
Mr. Anderson reported that the EYI has been organized into four focus areas: engagement, employment,
community outreach, and restorative justice. Engagement involves finding ways to engage youth in local
government, as well as to engage them in participating in activities and events geared for youth. The
Evanston Youth Council is at the center of the focus of engagement. The Youth Council is a representa-
tive body that is similar in composition to the City Council. However, ideally it will include 2 youth from
every ward in the City to act as the voice of their own young constituents, and to help with program de-
velopment and event planning for the EYI. Ms. Gauthier said she saw a picture of the Youth Council in
the last issue of Highlights and noticed that there were no African -American young men on the Council.
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March 13, 2008 Mental HealtnuPage 2
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Mr. Anderson replied that he has been specifically focusing his recruitment efforts to try to bring in a few
representatives from that demographic group because it is a voice that is missing; he said that so far he
has not been successful. Ms. Gauthier said she was glad to see some males on the Council as that is a dif-
ficult group of teens and adolescents to get involved. Mr. Anderson said that overall the Youth Council is
very diverse, though they don't yet represent each City ward evenly.
Mr. Anderson said he was impressed with how well the ideas flow in the Youth Council. As a group, the
members are very strong, intelligent, and articulate; have focused on reaching out; and, have provided a
lot of ideas. The Youth Council meets Wednesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. They are currently working on 3
projects. First, a Youth -Police Assembly, which will focus on youth / police relations. It is providing
young people with a "question and answer" format with Police Officers. The Council has found the par-
ticipation informative and useful. They are also working with Superintendent Eric Witherspoon to organ-
ize something similar on a large scale at Evanston Township High School (ETHS). Instead of trying to do
an all school assembly, they are planning on starting with students in ETHS's Academy Program. Stu-
dents in the Academy Program generally have behavior issues and have had more encounters with Police
than the general student body. Ms. Gauthier said it sounded like a great strategy to create dialogue and
empathy on both sides. Mr. Anderson agreed and offered that the Police Problem Solving Team has done
a great job dialoguing with the youth, to the benefit of both sides.
The Youth Council is also orchestrating a "Battle of the Bands." The event will be one of the events in
the lames Park Summer Program series. It will showcase Evanston bands across 4 or 5 musical genres.
The Council will select 2 or 3 finalists from each category to perform at a final concert. Boocoo Cafe is
allowing the Teen Advisory Board to use their studio space to host preliminary auditions and is donating
studio time as a prize to the contest winners. The event will provide entertainment for youth and also give
talented youth a chance to showcase their skills. The Council is working with music stores and other or-
ganizations to get music -related prizes.
The Youth Summit will be held Saturday, May 13, from 10:30a to I:30p at the ETHS Cafeteria. It will
focus on the "New Face of Segregation and Discrimination in Evanston." Evanston youth will have a
chance to talk about how young people still tend to divide themselves along racial and economic lines in
different settings. Throughout the year, the Summit will provide students an opportunity to work across
the racial and economic divides and break down those walls.
The Youth Initiative Program is also hosting monthly free events at The Loft. One was just held this past
Friday. It was the Teen Gaming Extravaganza, and attracted about 50 — 55 teens. They were able to play
games and enjoy refreshments. The Parks and Recreation Division provided a bus and the Youth Initia-
tive division supplied the refreshments for this video game night. It drew kids from all of the City wards,
The idea behind these monthly events is to encourage kids to participate in social activities that are safe
and do not require a lot of money or travel.
In the focus area of Employment, Mr. Anderson said he is working with the Summcr Youth Employment
Director, Cam Hearth, and City's Inclusionary Specialist, Brian Barnes. They are developing a Youth
Employment Engagement Program. The group is working on partnerships within the City and with other
organizations to provide jobs and soft job skills to youth ages 18- 24. They are also starting to work with
ETHS' Career Pathways Program, which is a program to enhance applied science and technologies skills.
They will focus on 5 different strands: arts; communication; business management/ information systems;
environmental and natural resources; health sciences and human resources; and, industry and engineering.
The program addresses issues in the professions in each area and discusses the types of skills and educa-
tion needed by professionals in those areas. Due to limited projects, the program was only able to place 2
youth this year.
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The Youth Employment Engagement team is also in the process of working with City of Evanston de-
partment heads to create opportunities to work %ith youth on various skill areas, and to expand training
opportunities. Additionally, they are working %%ith ETHS and Oak -ton Community College to develop and
expand vocational training program. The aging and retirement of the baby boomer generation has in-
creased opportunities in the skilled trade professions. They are also working to expand the curriculum for
youth participating in the Summer Youth Employment Program for more than one year.
Mr. Anderson said that daily he is involved in Community Outreach. He periodically visits the cafeteria at
ETHS, or rides with the Police Department's Community Outreach Team and talks with youth to learn
about their concerns and interests.
Finally, Restorative Justice is an approach that treats crime or infractions as offenses against the commu-
nity. In order to "make things whole," the entire community takes part in restoring what has been lost.
This approach involves working with the victim, the offender, and anyone else involved. It relics on me-
diation as a means of restoration. It helps perpetrators to understand that their actions have consequences
for the neighborhood, themselves, as well as the direct victims. Restorative justice systems have been
shown to greatly reduce recidivism rates. Chicago has a Restorative Justice Division in their Juvenile Jus-
tice Department. Non -restorative cases show a recidivism rate of 55%, it is approximately i 8% for cases
using the Restorative Justice Model, Mr. Anderson said that the model helps offending youth to connect
what they have done to the consequences of their actions. Frank Kaminski, former Chief of Police, was
the person who initiated the local program and sent some of his officers to be trained on the model. Addi-
tionally, ETHS has a Peer Jury that is based on these principles. It is thought that kids lash out due to lack
of understanding and this model really gets to the root of the issue.
Another issue that Mr. Anderson said he was looking into relates to a platform of the National League of
Cities, a consortium of elected city officials, that is examining early childhood development. It is focus-
ing on examining community -based agencies and looking at what they do and how it relates to youth
across developmental aspects. They are looking at the C&A LAN services, trying to create a culture of
youth services and making the most of limited funds to do more with less. Mr. Anderson said that he will
keep the MHB informed about the activities of hiss office.
In response to Ms. Sittler's question, Mr. Anderson said that he does not have staff but does have a sup-
port team, through the Police Department, Parks and Recreation, Human Relations, the Evanston Public
Library, and other city staff. In addition them are ? NWU students, and local organizations that are work-
ing with his office. Ms. Canter asked whether staff from agencies that serve youth, like ones funded by
the MHB, are on the Youth Services team. Mr. Anderson said he no, but he is dealing with Don Baker of
Y.O.U., as well as other through agencies his connection to the C&A LAN. All of the resources are ena-
bling him to tap into a vast knowledl;e and history.
The MHB thanked Mr. Anderson for taking the time to provide an informative presentation and asked to
be kept informed about his progress.
V. REPORT ON THE ADOPTED FY08-09 CITY BUDGET
Ms. Canter reported that City Council adopted the FY08-09 City Budget at the very end of February. In
the final budget, MHB funding was restored to the same level as last year at $844,000. She said that she
was happy that the initial, proposed cuts were not made, even though they did not get the MHB did not
receive the S15,000 increase that was in the City Manager's proposed Budget. That was much more posi-
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Minutes recorded
tive that the 10% and 25% reductions that had been discussed during the Budget deliberations. Ms. Canter
said that many of the Board's funded agencies sent representatives and clients to the Saturday, February
23 Budget Workshop. A number of agency directors also spoke at the Workshop. There were 60-70 peo-
ple in Council Chambers to advocate on behalf of the MHB's agency funding. Ms. Canter said she
thought the MHB should appreciate the agency's efforts to coordinate their activities to show support and
she thanked them for their efforts
VI. ALLOCATION COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FINAL FY08-09
PROGRAM ALLOCATIONS
Ms. Canter said that the Allocation Committee met with staff to discuss the Board's program allocations
after the City's 05-09 Budget was adopted. The MHB's final Budget of S844,000 was a 1.7% reduction
from the initial, proposed amounts. The Allocation Committee is recommending that the 1.7% reduction,
rounded to the nearest S100, be pro -raced to each of the MHB's 28 proposed program allocations.
Ms. Canter referenced the Committee's memo and indicated that the revised allocations would probably
best reflect values in the Board's decisions in the fall allocation process. The Committee also was not
comfortable reopening all of the decisions to start over for only a S 15,000 reduction.
Ms. Canter said that a change in the final MHB program allocations will require a motion and a Board
decision. Ms. Grover read the revised allocations and the respective changes (see attachment).
Mr. La Mell moved and Mr. Krulee seconded a motion to adopt the Allocation Committee's revised
FY08-09 program allocations as presented. Motion passed unanimously 7 aye - 0 no.
VIL BOARD DEVELOPMENT
Ms. Walker said she had read the notes of the discussion the MHB had at the previous meeting, when she
was absent, regarding how to pursue future Board Development activities. She said she wanted to confirm
the Board's intent. Her understanding was that Board Development in the future would be on an ad hoc
basis, and topics would be pursued as Board members expressed strong interest in them. Ms. Sittler con-
firmed the said that was correct and restated her desire to have the Salvation Army provide a presentation.
Ms. Walker suggested that Ms. Sittler invite them to present to the Board at the Ma meeting. Ms. Walker
said that the Board would need to step up in the future and be more active in organizing presentations for
Board Development.
VIII. DISCUSSION ABOUT BOARD AGENCY LIAISON ROLE & POLICY
Ms. Walker referred to the information in the packet about Board members' responsibilities as an Agency
Liaison. She said that she thought that the Board's responsibilities have grown, and at the same time each
Board members has done different things as Liaison. She said she had some concerns about the inconsis-
tency between members, as well as their level of commitment to the process. In the memo, Mr. Saver
pointed out that some of agency directors had also raised concerns as to whether the Board members or
their Agency Liaison were reading their reports. That Question was raised because there has been very
little comment or discussion about the information. Ms. Walker added that some Liaison are more active
about getting to meetings, visiting the program site and making contact with agency directors.
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March 13, 20D8 Mental Heatlh Board MeatJng MJnutes Aa90 5
Minutesrecorded
Ms. Walker said she wanted to start with the Board -Agency Liaison Guidelines thought it a good platform
for the MHB to discuss how the Liaison role should be implemented. Ms. Canter said that each agency
she has been Liaison to has had very different needs as expressed during the initial conversations with the
director. If an agency is having a problem, the Liaison she may hear from them more often. Ms. Canter
said that with fir. Saver leaving, the Liaison role might take on greater importance to the Board. In the
contract monitoring role, staff has had regular contact with the agencies, which the Board has not been
part of. Ms. Canter said she was expecting that the Board will need to take a more active role in support-
ing the agencies. She added that, at the very least, the Liaison role will need to be more involved with the
agencies until the new staff person supporting the MHB has had time to acquaint themselves with the
MHB's funded organizations.
Ms. Gauthier asked whether the Board had ever asked agencies what they would like from their Liaison.
Ms. Walker said Mr. Saver mentioned that possibility in the memo. He suggested anonymously surveying
agencies to assess their liaison needs.
Mr. LaMell said that he thought that agencies receiving small amounts of their budgets or the Board's
budget probably do not require as much monitoring as those receiving a larger dollar amount. Ms. Walker
said she was concerned about the idea that the Liaison might need to be more involved with their agencies
during and after the transition to new staff support. The amount of time required for Board duties has al-
ready grown significantly since she joined the Board.
Ms. Walker said that she already feels stretched by the current time that she has to put into the MHB, both
as a Liaison as well as the Chair. She said she was not sure whether she would be able to give her Liaison
agencies their fair share of time with her additional responsibility. Ms. Sittier suggested the possibility
that the MHB Chair not be required to act as Liaison when the Board is staffed at capacity, and there is a
full, 9-member Board. Ms. Walker spoke about how the demands on herself as a Board member have
grown since she joined, largely related to the Board taking over the Human Services funding. She feels
the time crunch and is concerned about the Boards continuing to operate effectively.
Ms. Walker said that she recently had a conversation with Mayor Morton regarding appointments to the
MHB. While it was a later agenda item, this is an appropriate place to discuss the information. She said
she was concerned about whether the MHB's appointments would be full anytime in the foreseeable fu-
ture. The Mayor explained that she has been having difficulty rousing enough interested, qualified appli-
cants to appoint to this Board, as well as other City boards and commissions. The Mayor said that in many
cases people are not qualified, not filling out applications after expressing interest, or not returning her
call when she follows up with their application. NIs. Canter said the Board could promote itself to indi-
viduals that might be interested in serving on the Board. In response to a question, Ms. Grover said that
anyone interested in making an application for any City board or commission position should contact
Mayor Motion's Office to get the forms. They can also be downloaded off of the City web page.
In response to Iris. Walker, Mr. Saver said at this point one the Board is down one position. However, Ms
Grover's term formally expired in November. Under the Board's charter, she is able to stay on the Board
until her position is filled by the Mayor. The next Board appointment will be for the position that has been
vacant for some time, so he does not know how long she will stay in her position until she is replaced.
The Board can also anticipate that Ms. Sittler's term is ending in mid -May. GIs. Walker noted that the
each vacant Board position means that Board members need to take on more Liaison assignments.
Ms. Walker dire-1-d the discussion back to the MHB Liaison role. She pointed out that Ms. Thomas pro-
jected that the Board will get staff support in the DHHS reorganization, but that person will also have ad-
ditional responsibilities. Mr. LaMell said he thought the Board members would need to be more involved
March 13, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pape 6
�Minufm recorded
with the Quarterly Reports and also more active in visiting agencies. Ms. Canter said she still believes the
Board should be thinking more in terms of an agency's needs varying over time and dependent upon their
current initiatives. The Liaison role ought to be individualized with each agency. She agreed that with
Mr. Saver leaving and the issue of staff support undecided, the MHB should be making more agency con-
tacts.
Mr. LaMell recommended that the MHB survey agencies regarding their support needs. Ms. Canter
thought it was also a good idea to address the Liaison role in the survey. Mr. LaMell suggested malting it
clear the Board was not seeking agency approval of any of the Board's processes, but rather asking for
input on the monitoring role. The Board requested that a report be provided at the April meeting. Mr.
Saver asked for members to email him within the next 2-3 days with their suggestions about the questions
in which they were interested.
Ms Walker recommended that Board members consider their own personal and professional networks,
and make phone calls to individuals who they think might be interested in serving on the MHB. She said
it was her impression from talking with Mayor Morton that she would move quickly on any appropriate
applications. The issue seems to be a lack of qualified applicants, and not a delay in the processing or ap-
proval of the applications. There is currently not a qualified pool of candidates for the Mayor to consider.
IX. AGENCY ACCOUNTABILITY
Board Member Presentations
Connections for the Homeless. Ms. Sittler said she met with Paul Selden, the Executive Director. She
had an opportunity to view the operations and had an informative discussion with Mr. Selden, who is still
relatively new to his role. She said she was planning to attend the Connections Board meeting the follow-
ing week.
Ms. Sittler said she was also planning to attend PEER Services' board meeting. She reminded the MHB
that Friday, May 2 is the Aging Well conference. She said she was still representing the MHB on the
planning committee for that event. The day will include a number of exciting activities, such as laughter
yoga, brain aerobics, and some excellent presenters. The closing event will be a presentation about "Im-
proving Life through Breathing." It was well -attended the last time it was a workshop at Aging Well. The
conference will be held at the King Home, 1555 Oak Ave. Ms. Sittler said that she was involved with
planning a workshop about programming in arts in Evanston. In addition to the conference, the Aging
Well Film Festival will be at Northwestern University's Block Gallery on May 7. Mr. Saver said that this
year is the I O'h Annual Aging Well event.
Family Focus. Ms, Canter reported that she met with Mary Wilkerson, Interim Director of Family Focus.
The agency is currently focusing a lot of energy on finding a new Program Managcr. Ms. Canter said she
was planning to attend one of their hoard meetings this spring. She said that she also plans to attend one
of Center for Independent Futures' board meetings.
X. REPORT FROM THE CHAIR
Ms. Walker reminded the MHB that the April 10 meeting would be Mr. Saver's last meeting with the
MHB as the Board's staff person. She said the MHB was going to have a celebration in his honor at that
March 13, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pape 7
Minutes recorded
meeting. Ms. Canter said "interested partice' are invited to attend the meeting, and may want to contrib-
ute their stories and experiences with Mr. Saver.
Xi. STAFF REPORT
Mr. Saver said he and Mr. Solomon have been going over a number of issues in anticipation of the staff
transition. He said that a part of this was trying to complete a number of items before he was gone to
make sure that they would not have to be dealt with for another year, after new staffing is in place to sup-
port the MHB. Staff closed out all FY07-08 Purchased of Service Agreements early this year. Addition-
ally, he and Mr. Solomon arc trying to complete the development and distribution of all the Purchase Ser-
vice Agreements for FY08-09 within the next few weeks. This year, there is considerably more time being
spent with several of the agencies about revising and refining their outcome objectives. Mr. Saver added
that he was working towards having all of the materials for the 2008 Allocation Process developed and
ready for distribution, so there will not be as much confusion as the Board might be anticipating during
the changeover in its staff support.
Mr. Saver reported that he met with Vince Gillon, Carepoint's Executive Director, regarding the MHB
funding process. Mr. Gillon wanted to discuss how his agency might be able to apply for MHB funds for
FY09-10. Mr. Saver reviewed the Board's Administrative Procedures for agencies that are applying for
MHB funds for the first time. He said he expected that Carepoint might submit the necessary documenta-
tion before the June meeting to request an opportunity to seek MHB funding. At that time, the Board will
have the opportunity to decide how it wants to proceed with the agency's request. In response to a ques-
tion from Mr. LaMell, Mr. Saver said several agencies have gone through this process in recent years. In
the last 4 years the Board has welcomed proposals from 3 agencies and rejected one applicant agency.
Any agency has the ability to submit a letter to the Board under these procedures. However, the MHB can
decide at any point whether to close out the process. Previously, this has been done because of things like
a significant funding reduction in the previous year, questions about an agency's proposal, and concerns
about an agency wanting to rely too heavily upon MHB funding.
Mr. Saver reported that the Office of Cook County David Orr has been trying to recruit high school stu-
dents aged 17 and older, and in Suburban Cook County, to become Election Judges. Currently they are
recruiting for the November General Election. Youth that work as judges can cam S150 for one long work
day. He said he was approached because the initiative resulted in very few young people from Evanston.
He said he offered to host one initial meeting with interested agencies to see whether there would be some
way to reach out to Evanston kids and engage them in this civic function.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 PIN4.
Respectfully submitted,
Casey Solomon
Secretary
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March i3, 2Q081Nental Health t3oard Meeting Minutes Pape a
"x A
Anutes ncaded
EVANSTON .MENTAL HEALTH BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2008
Members Present: Sue Canter, Randy Walker, Carol Sittler, Gil Krulee, Anne Gauthier, Jane Grover,
Marcia Achenbach
Presiding: Randy Walker, Chair
Staff: Harvey Saver, Casey Solomon
Community
Representatives: Mary Ann Kerns (Child Care Center of Evanston); Sandi Johnson, Pam Thomas
(North Shore Senior Center; Evanston/ Skokie Valley Senior Services); Sandra
Stumme (Metropolitan Family Services); Martha Arntson (Childcare Network
of Evanston) ; Gerald Gulley, Carl Lieberman (SHORE): Helen Roberts Evans
(Former Director, Child Care Center of Evanston); Carol Henes (Former Men-
tal Health Board Member/Chair), Nancy Flowers (City of Evanston, Long
term Care Ombudsman)
1. INTRODUCTION AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS
Ms. Walker thanked everyone for attending and said she saw a lot of familiar faces. She called the meet-
ing to order and asked the many guests to introduce themselves. Said she the Board would review the
minutes, then host a sort of last supper in honor of Mr. Saver.
I1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Ms. Grover moved and Ms. Gauthier seconded approval of the minutes from the March meeting, Tile
March minutes were approved unanimously.
III. REMARKS IN HONOR OF MR. HARVEY SAVER
Ms. Randy Walker said this is Mr. Saver's last meeting with the Mental Health Board, after twenty-two
years it. She wanted to give everyone an opportunity to toast or roast him.
Ms. Walker began. She said that when she came onto the Board six years ago she had just turned thirty,
and did not know what she was getting herself into. Mr. Saver was her first contact after the Mayor's Of-
fice. He brought her in and did a very nice job orientating her to the Board and its processes.
Ms. Walker said is in awe, not only at what Haney does for the Board, but for all he does for the Com-
munity. She said that he stands apart for everyone she has worked with, including doctors, agency direc-
tors, and the US Attorney General, and that the City of Evanston has been incredibly fortunate to have had
him for the past twenty-two years. She is impressed with what she has seen him do over her six years on
the MHB. She said that Mr. Saver is irreplaceable; she does not know what the Board will do without
him. She will miss his sense of humor, and especially his funny e-mails. Ms. Walker said she will now
have to send herself a -mails to keep her account open. As a proud member of the community, as well as
from the perspective of Board member and now Chair, she thanked Mr. Saver for all he has done. Any-
one who has worked with Mr. Saver for five minutes or longer knows that he always goes above and be-
yond his job description. She said she is an awe of Mr. Saver and will greatly miss him.
April 10, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pace 1
Mlinutes recorded
Ms. Helen Roberts -Evans said that Ms. Kearns called her, and she had seen in the Roundtable, that this
would be Mr. Saver's last meeting. She had to come to say "thank you." She really, really, really en-
joyed working with him and always delighted in his sense of humor. She said that everyone dealing with
the type of issues these organization do needs comic relief. She is extremely grateful for all that support
Mr. Saver provided when she was Director for Child Care Center of Evanston, taking the time to meet
with her, answering her questions, and helping her through the whole funding process. She especially ap-
preciated the way he helped her through the funding process the first time. She said it has been a true,
true pleasure to work with Mr. Saver. She thanked him and wished him all the best.
Mr. Jerry Gulley, Executive Director of SHORE: Community Services, said that everyone has great re-
spect for Mr. Saver. He is a consummate professional and a great human being. He joked that he didn't
know about this sense of humor people have been mentioning. Mr. Saver was great at always getting him
the "income guidelines' early. Mr. Saver explained that Mr. Gulley was talking about the Low Income
Guidelines, which the City sets for use in the establishment of fees each year. The City usually makes
those available in May or June. Mr. Saver said that lie can anticipate that Mr. Gulley will contact him end
of January or early February asking for that data. He always made certain to share the data with SHORE,
as soon as it became available.
Nis. Sandra Stumme, Metropolitan Family Services/ Evanston, Executive Director, said she did not
know where to begin. Mr. Saver calls her at 8:30 am to make sure she made it to work. He calls at S pm
to see if she is still at work. She has never had the opportunity to work with someone who so strongly
wants them to do well and succeed with their grants. He will find any mistakes and advise them before it
becomes a disaster. They were very close to disaster the first couple years they sought funding. Fortu-
nately, Mr. Saver helped them to right those mistakes in time. Metropolitan Family Services greatly ap-
preciates all that he has done for them and all the other agencies.
Ms. Sandi Johnson from North Shore Senior Services said that she echoed what Ms. Stumme said. Mr.
Saver went over every detail. He always pointed mistakes out in such nice way that you did not feel stu-
pid. She said that Harvey should really be proud for the work that he has done, and what he has accom-
plished in the town that he lives in. As an Evanston resident she is very grateful to Mr. Saver.
Nis. Mary Gavin said that from the Board perspective, she also feels that very fortunate to have worked
with him. Mr. Saver helped her orientate to the demands of the Board and that he always retakes everyone
a little more comfortable. She always thought the he was pushing the Board in a good direction but al-
ways made them feel it was their decision. The Board is very grateful for the good direction and sound
advice he provided them as well as information he provided about the agencies. She said that as a resi-
dent, she is also very grateful for how lie has helped the community.
,Nis. Carol iienes said she `vas one of the people who interviewed Mr. Saver, when lie applied for Assis-
tant Director of Mental Health Services twenty-two years ago, and she still remembers that interview.
Mr. Saver is an incredible mental health advocate. He is persistently pushing for improvements. His en-
cyclopedic knowledge of the human services field, Evanston resources, and Evanston in general, are un-
matched. He would never say no to anybody, always provided exceptional staff support. if the did not
know the answer, he would always provide four or Five leads. ;GIs. Henes said that they both survived the
Unified Budgeting Process, which meant week upon week of long Thursday night meetings. She thanked
Harvey and said that she considers him a really good personal friend as well.
Ms. Jane Grover said it is her impression that Mr. Saver has more than anything, led the Board. He is
the quiet, behind the scenes, leadership of the Board, that no one is every particularly aware of. He has
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April 10, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 2
Minutes record*d
asked the Board to think and question, and not to assume anything. He asked them to think about best
practices in human services, measuring the impact of their funding, and has prodded them to think about
the hard questions, without telling actually them what those hard questions are. He has really asked them
to consider the larger universe of human services in the Evanston community. She said, think about
Board Development and Board Education and all the other things he has brought to the Board, outside the
parameters of the Board's by-laws and the agencies they fund. They have through and because of Harvey
seen this larger universe. He has asked them to reach beyond their own expertise and interests in doing
the work of the Mental Health Board. He has deepened and broadened the Board's understanding of the
Evanston community and its challenges, which makes the Board better decision makers. Harvey has done
much to enrich the Board and Ms. Grover is exceedingly grateful. He is the wizard behind the curtain.
He knows all the answers and runs the show.
Ms. Carol Sittler has been wondering who she is going to call at the City, once Mr. Saver has left. She
said anyone can call Haney when they need to know anything. Mr. Saver usually knows the answer or
can point you in the right direction. She remembers chaotic Committee meetings that wandered all across
the board. Mr. Saver always managed to write the minutes in such an organized and cohesive manner,
making sense of the chaos. She doesn't know anybody that talks any faster than Mr. Saver and has
learned to appreciate that. The Board was proud to have seen Harvey through one his big life situations,
when he received his transplants, and were so relieved when he came back after being gone for a quite a
while. She cannot imagine the Board without him and said that is why she is going to leave in a couple of
months. Ms. Sittler thanked Haney and said she really appreciated working with him.
When she was first appointed to the Mental Health Board, Ms. Sue Canter said she had no idea what to
expect or what was expected of her. Now, over seven years later, she has become so much more knowl-
edgeable about the Board, the City of Evanston, non -for -profits in general and the whole area of health
and human services. Her enlightenment is largely due to Harvey's guidance, leadership, and vast knowl-
edge in these areas. He has been such a wonderful resource and support to the Board, and the funded
agencies as well other organizations and individuals in need within, and outside of Evanston. She wished
that she had tracked the number of times she said "Ask Harvey." over the years. She knows that his shoes
will be very difficult, if not impossible, to fill. She shared an anecdote about a former colleague of hers,
who had a daughter with very serious mental health problems. She told them to "ask Harvey" and they
called him at the City. They are still talking about the help he provided, more than three years later.
Happily, the daughter is doing much better and in a good place. Ms. Canter wished Mr. Saver the best in
his retirement. She hopes that he has a chance to sit back relay and enjoy some fun for a while. She said
it has been more than a pleasure to work with him.
Ms. Marcia Achenbach said that she did not think she would have a lot to say, only having been on the
Board several months yet. However, she said she is grateful to him for helping her get a good start. He
helped her help a church associate, who was dealing with a senior alcoholic family member. He was able
to help and connect that individual with one of PEER's programs for older adults. Ms. Achenbach said
that Ms. Megan Kashner from Infant Welfare Society asked that someone rip Harvey about his use of
puns.
Ms. Anne Gauthier said she was speechless with admiration.
Mr. Gil Krulee said that one of thing that is not apparent to outsiders is how well and smoothly the Board
gets along. Mr. Krulee said the Board working together so well largely due to Mr. Saver's calming influ-
ence.
April 10, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pape 3
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Als. Nancy Flowers said she has had the pleasure of working with Mr. Saver for ten years. She had come
:o the City not ever having worked in government before, and had never staffed a board or commission.
She said that as her partner in crime over those years, Mr. Saver was her wonderful guide in terms of
functioning in the City and finding resources. She said the Mr. Saver and she had celebrated many joys
and faced many challenges together and it has been a pleasure.
1V. BOARD RESOLUTION
Ms. Walker said that Ms. Grover wrote a Board Resolution in honor of Mr. Saver, and without his help.
Nis. Walker presented the following:
In recognition and appreciation of Harvey Saver.•
ll'ltereas, Harvev Saver has served the residents of trite City of Evanston
with extraordinary passion and insight for 22 years as assistant Director ojMental Health Services;
JPI erects, Harvey Saver has employed his considerable skills as a social worker.
administrator, coalition builder, networker, and community convener
to support the work and mission of the Afentul Health Board,
Whereas, Harvey Saver has enriched the work of the Mental Health Board
with his broad historical perspective and unequaled knowledge about all human services in Evanston
and driven by an abiding desire to bring best practices
and meaningful objectives to Evanston 's human services, and,
Whereas, throughout his tenure ivith the City of Evanston, Harvey Saver has
rendered essential support and offered invaluable guidance to the Mental Health Board,
such that the Boards accomplishments are in fact Harvey's achievements.
Now; therefore, in recognition of Harvey Saver's innumerable contributions,
the Evanston Mental Health Board herebv arpresses its gratitude to Haney Saver
for his arceptional service to the Mental Health Board,
to the Citv of Evanston, and to its residents,
and especially to those residents with the quietest voices and the greatest needs.
Enthusiastic applause followed.
Mr. Saver said he was very touched and thanked everyone. He said he was a little overwhelmed and at a
loss for words. He said that it had been a fascinating experience working for City government. Some
people may not be aware of his initial background was working for state government and running several
agencies. Before coming to the City of Evanston, he had the experience of presenting a budget proposal
for an agency he was running to a large group of funders. He doesn't think she remembers it, but Carol
Henes happened to be one of the members on that Unified Budget Committee at the time. He said that
this experience was very tough and that being a new Director, he found it a strange experience. He said
that the type of questions he got asked where very challenging and he ended up feeling brutalized by the
whole experience.
April 10, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Pape 4
Mints recorded
When he came to the City, two years later, he was speaking to another agency's Board president and say-
ing that he felt that he was now on the other side of the barricade. His friend assured him that it does not
have to be like that. He found it a very strange experience. He said that at times he has been alternately, a
funder, a monitor, a reviewer, a confidante, a reminder, a collaborator, and someone who has to jump on
and question something that has been done. He has both supervisor and supervised by many in the room.
He has worked with a number of them on conferences. He said that these multiple types of involvement
have given him great deal of appreciation of the work being done. He said he really appreciates everyone
giving him the opportunity to work with, serve along side of, be served by, and serve everyone.
He said he is not retiring. He is taking advantage of this opportunity to take it easy for a little while, walk
his dog and ride his bike, as he thinks about the next steps. He is going to try and make some sense out of
the wonderful experience of the past twenty-two years serving the community.
Mr. Saver took the opportunity to express his appreciation to Mr. Jay Terry. He said that Mr. Terry pro-
vided excellent support after he received his transplant. Mr. Terry gave him so much llcxibility during
the time he was undergoing dialysis. Everyone else at the clinic asked Mr. Saver why he was working
and he couldn't understand why he would not. He said that he couldn't have done it without the support
Mr. Terry provided. He appreciates his encouraging him to take the time he needed to recover. He said
that he is not ]caving Evanston and is looking forward to seeing some folks around town, as long as it is
not about funding issues.
Ms. Walker asked ,tiMr. Jay Terry if he wanted to say anything to bid Mr. Saver farewell. Mr. Terry said
that he understood that there was a month of activities planned in honor Mr. Saver. He said that when
Harvey was honored by the Mental Health Association of the North Shore, prior to the event everyone
asked Mr. Terry to make certain that Mr. Saver was roasted. Mr. Terry said it looks like a payback is on
its way. Mr. Terry said that he has had a mutually supportive relationship with Mr. Saver, over the past
nineteen years. Mr. Terry said that Harvey was very supportive and gave him everything he needed, from
day one, and he is very grateful to him. He said it is a great loss for the City. However, he told Mr. Saver
that work is ovc }tcd.
V. MOTION TO DEFER APRIL AGENDA TO MAY.
Ms. Grover moved to defer the all of the Board's April agenda to the Board's May meeting. Ms. Gauthicr
seconded. The Board approved the motion unanimously.
V1. MOTION TO ADJOURN
Ms. Grover moved to adjourn, seconded by Ms. Canter. Meeting adjourned.
The members of the Mental Health Board and agency representatives celebrated Mr. Saver for the next
hour and a half.
Respectfully submitted,
Casey Solomon
Secretary
Apol W, 2008 Mental Health Board Meeting Minutes Page 5
EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Members Present: Sue Canter, Randy Walker, Carol Sittler, Gil Krulce, Anne Gauthier,
Ada Kahn
Guests: Willis Francis (Trilogy), Martha Arntson (Childcare Network of Evanston)
Staff: Carla Bush, Casey Solomon
INTRODUCTION AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS
Ms. Walker and the Board warmly welcomed Ada Kahn as a new Board member, and
asked her to tell everyone a little bit about her background. Ms. Kahn said that she had
worked IS years on the Skokie Board of Health. She has a private counseling practice out
of Rush North Shore. She also consults on Community Health Education. Ms. Kahn said
she has published several self-help books and mentioned her book Phobias, Fears and
Anxieties.
Ms. Walker requested that Mr. Solomon send her the most current Board member
biography information. She would like to make certain that it is updated with all of the
changes occurring.
Ms. Canter welcomed her. She told her that she has really enjoyed working on the Board.
She said that it has been a lot of work but well worth it. Ms. Sittler, whose term is ending
this month, said that she had met a lot of very sharp people, working with the Board.
APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 10, 2008 MINUTES
Anne Gauthier moved and Mr. Krulee seconded approval of the April minutes. The April
10, 200E Minutes were adopted unanimously (6-0).
NOMINATING COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
The nominating committee recommended Ivls. Achenbach as the new Chair of the City of
Evanston Mental Health Board and asked Ms. Walker to be the Vice Chair. Ms.
Achenbach was out of town and not present to accept the nominating committee's
recommendation.
Minutes Submitted —not yet approved
DISCUSSION ABOUT AGENCY SURVEY RESULTS ABOUT MENTAL
HEALTH BOARD -AGENCY LIAISONS
Ms. Canter said the feedback was interesting and that for the most part favorable. Ms.
Walker noted that many agencies had commented that Mr. Saver had been a great help to
them and they often contacted him with questions or updates, before contacting their
Board liaison. She also observed that agencies had commented that each of the liaisons
with which they had worked, had very different styles and approaches in dealing with
their agency. Ms. Walker was concerned that agencies get what they need from the
Board, especially with Mr. Saver retiring. She wants to make certain that the Board
thrives with continued integrity.
Ms. Canter said that it seems agencies want the Board's support to meet their unique
needs. She noted that several had mentioned that they felt Board members did not know
much about their organization. Mr. Krulee mentioned that it takes time to get to know an
agency.
Ms. Walker said that some agency people said they felt the Board just repeated
information in their Quarterly Reports during the Agency Report section of the meetings.
Ms. Canter had also noticed that the agency directors seemed to want the Board Members
to comment on the reports. She said that it is probably something the Board could and
should do, seeing that the agencies put a lot of effort into reporting to the Board. Mr.
Krulee suggested that agencies could identify what they want discussed.
Ms. Canter noted that a lot of agency directors did not think that their agency board
meetings had a lot of MHB relevant information. Many did not seem interested in having
MHB members attend their board meetings. She stated that one reported an experience in
which a Mental Health Board Member disclosed some confidential information they
learned at the agency's board meeting. Ms. Canter said she tries to comply with the
requests of her agencies. As an example. she said that Ms. Wilkerson from Family Focus
had requested that she postpone attending the March board meeting, as there would be no
MHB relevant matters discussed. Ms. Sittler said that she has found attending agency
board meetings very informative. She said that observing how one board interacted has
gotten her interested in working with that board once her MHB term is up. She said that
Mr. Saver had recommended that a committee of the Board review the survey results.
Ms. Walker said she liked the idea of a committee reviewing and providing
recommendations based on the feedback. I'lic Board asked Ivis. Bush tier feelings about
the Quarterly Reports and whether the City required them. She said that she was not
aware of the City policy with the Board, but that that there has been an increased interest
in measures and objectives. She said that she has to submit similar reports for all of her
,grants. She said it is a lot of work but she finds it also helps her to sec wliat tNpc of
progress her programs are making and what areas might need improvement.
Mr. Krulee commented that with the agencies all so different it would be difficult to find
suggestions that work across the board, but volunteered to be on the review committee.
2
Minutes Submitted —not yet approved
Ms. Walker will ask Ms. Achenbach if she is interested in sitting on that committee; if
not she will herself. She would like to hear the committee's findings at the June meeting
and asked that the item be on the MHB Agenda for June.
AGENCY QUARTERLY REPORTS
Center for Independent Futures
Ms. Canter discussed Center for Independent Futures. She said that Ms. Martin at CIF
said that the program has been very successful and that (ETHS) Evanston Township High
School wants to expand the program. She said that there are some issues that ETHS
would like to address. The High School would like students to be met with more
regularly. They feel that some students are loosing track, meeting only every few weeks.
They are trying to do outreach to raise community awareness.
In response a question, Ms. Canter said that schools are now mandated to provide
transition programs for graduating special education students. She said the CIF model
seems to surpass those requirements. She believes that ETHS will take the program over
next year.
Youth Job Center
The agency is doing well, the agency's follow through has improved significantly over
the past couple of years under Ms. Smith's direction. In addition to the Gap grant, they
recently received S30,000 from Grand Victoria. The agency has expanded its client base
to 900.
Family Focus
The agency did not provide any data this quarter.
Connections for the Homeless
Ms. Sittler said that Connections for the Homeless was able to find housing and services
for a man they discovered had been living in his car for the past rive years. She attended
their Board meeting. She said she is very impressed with the way that the agency's new
director, Paul Seiden is running the organization.
RECRUITMENT OF NEW BOARD IMEMBERS
Ms. Sittier announced that she would continue on the Board through July, in order to
provide an opportunity for the Mayor to fill the Board vacancies. Ms. Canter reminded
the Board to let people know there are vacancies on the Board and to contact the Mayor if
they are interested in joining. Ms. Kahn asked how members are appointed to the Board.
She said that she had read a notice in the Roundtable requesting applicants for City
Boards and Commissions, including the Mental Health Board. She promptly contacted
Ms. Thomas, who explained the mission and purpose of the Board, and told her that she
should contact the Mayor if interested. Ms. Kahn said there was a delay before she heard
3
Minutes Submitted —not yet approved
any response to her interest. Ms. Canter said that changes at the City may have
contributed to the delay in appointments.
REPORT ON 10'h ANNUAL AGING WELL
Ms. Sittler reported that the I0`s Annual Aging Well, held at the King Home, Friday, May
2"', was very successful. This year's event was even better attended than in previous
years. There were over 150 attendees at this year's conference for older adults, their
families, and professionals, which focused on strategies for successful aging. Mayor
Morton provided the keynote speech. The mayoral opening was followed by Laughter
Yoga, which got everyone up and moving. She said there were many fascinating sessions
offered including foreclosure prevention and frauds, self-image, local arts, sexuality and
aging, and lesbian, and aging issues specific to gay, bisexual, and transgcnder
individuals. She was able to attend both of the sessions hosted by Long Term Care
Ombudsman and Community Wellness Division Manager, Nancy Flowers; Long Term
Care 101 and Mortgages, Financing; and Fraud. Ms. Sittler and Ms. Ferraro, from the
Levy Center, were responsible for orchestrating the Showing Off the Arts in Evanston,
which featured Evanston arts organizations discussing art offerings in the City. She said
the Older and Gray: Older and Gay offering provided a lot of information on challenges
that same sex partners face, such as inheritance complications when a partner passes
away. This year's Aging Well Film Festival, Ten More Good Years, also dealt with
human rights. The film, shown almost a week after the conference, examined the aging
experiences of gay, lesbian and transgender seniors. Unfortunately, a severe rainstorm
reduced attendance by 113 over previous years.
CHAIR REPORT
Ms. Walker asked if Ms. Sittler might be able to meet with Ms. Kahn in the next week.
She would like Ms. Sittler to mentor Ms. Kahn, while she is still with the Board.
Ms. Kahn asked i f there was a heavier workload during a certain part of the year. Ms.
Walker explained that the autumn is the most intensive time for the Board. The agencies
supply their funding requests in September and the Board is busy studiously reading the
requests. She explained that the hearing take place in Octobcr. Ms. Sittler reminded Ms.
Walker that with Ms. Kahn joining and her leaving, someone should revisit the agency
liaison distributions again.
Ms. Walker noted that this was Mr. Solomon's last meeting as he is moving to a position
in the Human Resources department_ tits. Walker thanked Mr. Solomon for his work
supporting the Board and wished him luck in his future endeavors.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting; adjourned at 8:26 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Casey Solomon
4
10
EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
Thursday, .Lune 12, 2008
Members Present: Marcia Achenbach, Chair, Sue Canter, Gil Krulee, Carol Sittler,
Randy Walker
Guests: Barbara Levin (community member); Pam Thomas (Evanston/ Skokie Valley
Senior Services)
Staff. Nancy FIowers, Milcah S. Baraona
INTRODUCTION AND COIN MUNITY COMMENTS
Pam Thomas announced that she will be present only one more meeting, as she will be
retiring from her position at Evanston/ Skokie Valley Senior Services in six weeks. She
also informed the group that Liz Gordon will be present at the July meeting. Barbara
Levin said that she was a member of the community who was attending as an interested
party.
APPROVAL OF THE MAY 8, 2008 MINUTES
The Board did not receive the minutes until actual meeting, so the approval was deferred
until July l0`h
STAFF REPORT
Ms. Walker asked Ms. Achenbach to serve on a subcommittee to review strategies to
improve Board member relationships with their assigned agencies. Ms. Achenbach
questioned what the group's thoughts were on this issue. Ms. Walker stated that board
members were inconsistent in the effort they put into their contacts with assigned
agencies. Ms. Sittler said that board members are concerned, although not distressed
about this pattern. After Ms. Achenbach received feedback, Ms. Walker reiterated her
invitation to tits. Achenbach to sit on a sub committee with Mr. Krulee to review
strategies to improve Board's commitments to their agencies. Ms. Achenbach
acknowledged that as a new Board member, she too has struggled with these issues, and
gladly accepted the invitation to serve on a subcommittee with Mr. Krulee.
Ms. Walker asked if Evonda Thomas (Director of Health and Human Services) would be
present at the meeting, perhaps as a latecomer, as she and the rest of the group were
under the impression that Ms. Thomas would be attcndins,. Ms. Flowers said that Ms.
Thomas would not be present at the meeting, and then introduced Milcah Baraona as the
new Secretary of the Evanston Commission on Aging and the MMental Health Board. Ms.
Flowers then began to explain the restructuring of the Community Health Division, as
well as provide an update on the currently vacant position of the Management Analyst,
which will provide support to the Mental Health Board.
i
Ms. Flowers agreed to speak to Harvey Saver, former Assistant Director of Mental
Health Services about identifying necessary steps and timelines for the allocation process.
Ms. Achenbach acknowledged that this effort would be helpful. Ms. Sittler said that she
had been at an unrelated meeting at which time Ms. Thomas distributed an organizational
chart of the restructured Health and Human Services Department, and felt this visual
explanation would be helpful to the Board. Ms. Flowers agreed, and will provide Board
with copy.
Ms. Sittler then requested to know more about the presently unoccupied Management
Analyst position. Ms. Flowers said that Ms. Thomas is still working on the exact job
description, but that the occupant would offer support to the Board, as well as manage
various department grants. Ms. Walker was disappointed to note that considering the
general overview of duties that the position would provide considerably less support to
the Board than previously anticipated. Ms. Achenbach wanted to know who is currently
managing the grants and contacts while the position is vacant. Ms. Flowers stated that
Nicola Whyte (Executive Secretary- Health and Human Services Department) has been
executing that task while Ms. Baraona is getting oriented with department.
Ms. Achenbach wanted to know when proposals for next year would be due. Ms. Walker
believed the date to be October 19`h. Ms. Walker suggested that she, Ms. Flowers, and
Ms. Canter convene and discuss deadlines. Ms. Canter that they would have to do a lot of
proposal reviews, and offered to e-mail the group the review dates from last year. Ms.
Walker said that they would be unable to meet on Jewish holidays, which excluded
September 30`h (Rosh Hashana) and October 91h (Yum Kippur). Ms. Walker will use
proposal review dates from last year as a jump off for the upcoming year. Ms. Flowers,
Ms. Walker, and Ms. Canter will meet on June 251h to discuss proposal deadlines.
In view of the HHS reconfiguration, Mr. KruIee stated that he found Ms. Flowers' title of
Ombudsman to be ambiguous. Ms. Flowers then clarified that her official title is now
Division Manager -Community Health but that she will retain the duties of the Regional
Ombudsman along with her new title and role.
BOARD RECRUITMENT
The biggest concern that Ms. Walker expressed about the Board had to do with
recruitment issues, to which Ms. Achcnbach concurred. Anne Gauthier is no longer on
the Board, and Ms. Sittler will be vacating her position in July, leaving a huge gap in
membership. It was also noted that Carl La Mel planned to resign from the Board. Ms.
Walker said that she would inform him that he would need to submit a letter to the Mayor
re: his resignation from the Board.
The Board then began to discuss possible means of recruitment. The Mayor was offered
as an excellent community resource for identifying interested parties. Ms. Walker also
suggested the COE website with a link to the MHB as another means of drawing
attention to the Board. Ms. Walker shared with the group that she met a Bcth Emet
member who might be interested in joining, and will follow up on that interest in coming
weeks. She also noted that Beth Emet has an email distribution list with over 1000
recipients that would be a good way of informing a mass group of individuals at one
time. Ms. Walker then suggested that every Board member attempt to recruit at least one
person, as the funding process is coming up soon and the Board will need to be fully
seated in order to proceed. Ms. Canter volunteered to contact alderpersons and agencies
to see if their constituents or members, respectively, would be interested in joining the
Board. Everyone agreed that this proposal was a fantastic idea. Ms. Sittler suggested
putting an article in the Roundtable as a means of publicity. Ms. Flowers said that she had
spoken with Donna Stuckert, Community Information Manager, about sending e-mail
blasts to Evanston residents to inform them of openings on the Board.
In view of all of the recruitment efforts, Ms. Walker feels it necessary to articulate
exactly what the board does, as well as its responsibilities, and the significance of the
work involved. She feels that it is necessary for people to know that September -March is
the funding process, and that although it is certainly "do -able" is definitely intense and
can be overwhelming. The Board has lost several members recently. Ms. Canter noted
that these members had personal reasons for resigning. Ms. Achenbach pointed out the
intense time commitment that is involved, and felt that is important to inform any
potential candidates of this. Ms. Walker conceded that she too is struggling with the time
commitment, and that the Board is very time consuming, most significantly during
proposal review time. Ms. Walker will send an e-mail to individuals who may be
interested to encourage them to apply to the Board... Ms. Achenbach pointed out that the
MHB is beyond simply mental health, and the entire scope of the Board has changed over
time.
REPORT FROM THE CHAIR
Ms. Walker informed the Board that the June meeting would be her last meeting as Chair.
Ms. Sittler suggested that the Board send Ann Gauthier note of care. Ms. Walker
volunteered to take flowers and a card to Ms. Gauthier since they live within close
proximity to each other. Ms. Canter nominated its. Achenbach as the new Chair of the
Board, and Ms. Walker as Vice -Chair. Mr. Krulee moved to accept this recommendation,
and Ms. Sittler seconded. The motion was unanimously passed. Ms. Achenbach informed
the group that she would be in Sweden for the July meeting, so Ms. Walker agreed to
chair that meeting although Ms. Achenbach will do the preparatory legwork.
Ms. Achenbach then presented some agency updates:
The Infant Welfare Society of Evanston is concerned about teen moms entering GED
programs in lieu of returning to/entering ETHS. Family Focus is undergoing an increase
in their rent, which will adversely affect their teen nursery.
Shore- Jerry Gulley reports: United Way chose Shore to be a featured agency for its
annual campaign. The facility will also be "going green," which will mean that they can
now go after grants for sustainability.
Trilogy- Willis Francis gave a tour of the facility. Ms. Achebach was quite impressed at
Trilogy's recovery approach. She also mentioned a few of their programs, namely art
therapy, employment training, and recreational programs.
PEER Services- Agency has scheduled a walk at the Chicago Botanical Gardens on
Saturday June 141'.
Ms. Walker said that she was hoping to go to the Childcare Network Board meeting.
Ms. Walker noted poor agency representation during Board meetings. Ms. Walker then
began to question whether it was due to the summer months and people traveling more,
or if more needed to be done to encourage attendance at meetings.
In view of the time constraints on all of the Board members, Ms. Walker suggested
phoning and email check -ins with the agencies rather than in -person visits. Ms. Sittler
offered to orient new Board members as part of a transitional training. The meeting ended
with the group commiserating over the loss of Mr. Saver.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:58 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Milcah S. Baraona
EVANSTON MENTAL HEALTH BOARD
MEETING MINUTES
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Members Present: Randy Walker (Vice -Chair), Sue Canter, Gil Krulee, Ada P. Kahn,
Carol Sittler
Guests: Sandra Stumme (Metropolitan Family Services), Pam Thomas (Evanston
Skokie Valley Senior Services), Liz Gordon (Evanston Skokie Valley Senior
Services), Michelle Martin (Center for Independent Futures), Pam Downs (community
member), Rashad White (community member)
Staff: Nancy Flowers, Milcah S. Baraona
CALL TO ORDER AND APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES
In Ms. Achcnbach's absence, Ms. Walker called the meeting to order. The minutes of the
June 12, 2008 meeting were reviewed, and approved with minor corrections.
INTRODUCTION AND COMMUNITY COMMENTS
Pam Thomas introduced Liz Gordon as her successor at Executive Director of Evanston
Skokie Valley Senior Services. Rashad White is currently an intern in the City's Finance
Department. Pam Downs is a Loyola University Doctoral candidate who is visiting
various organizations' board meetings as part of a class assignment.
AGENCY LIAISON SURVEY RESULTS
Board members reviewed a report prepared by Mr. Krulee and Ms. Achenbach on the
role of the agency liaison and how that role is perceived by the staffof agencies funded
by the Mental Health Board. Ms. Sittler asked Mr. Kru lee if he expected the roles of
liaisons to change, based on the feedback received from agency staff. Mr. Kruiee said
that he recommended that board members discuss what modifications, if any, should be
made to the role, given agency feedback as well as the current size of the board and
changes in staff support.
Ms. Walker read aloud the recommendations from the survey, and commented that two
hot topics for the Board were reviewing funded agencies' quarterly reports and clarifying
why liaison attendance at agency meetings is necessary. Ms. Walker conceded that, other
than the agencies to which she is the liaison, she does not fully review agency quarterly
reports until the Fall allocation and proposal revie%v process. iris. Walker stated that each
liaison's discussion of their agencies' quarterly activities provided her with the same
information that she would obtain from her own review of the quarterly reports. Ms.
Canter said that the liaison should not reiterate the agency's report at the meeting, and
recommended that liaison reports include changes in the organization, and information
about whether the organization met, exceeded or failed to ntcet goals set forth in their
grant applications. Ms. Walker questioned the necessity of even, member reading each
quarterly report. Ms. Walker suggested that the Board should have a review on how to
report on reports, rather than reviewing how to react the reports, with the intent of
rQ
providing non -liaisons with a greater depth of understanding of all Board funded
agencies. Ms. Sittler recommended that the liaison should only report when the agencies
do not meet their goals. Ms. Canter commented that this rarely happens. Ms. Kahn
suggested that everyone give a short report, and Ms. Walker raised the possibility of just
doing highlights.
A copy of liaison assignments was distributed to board and audience members. Due to
the current board size, board members will be temporarily assigned to additional
agencies. Ms. Walker stated that some agencies may only receive phone calls instead of
site visits, due to the increased number of agencies assigned to each board member.
When new members are appointed, these agencies will be reassigned to the new
members.
Ms. Walker stated that liaisons periodically need to clarify to agencies why it is necessary
for the liaison to attend agency meetings. Ms. Walker said that a number of agencies
have questioned this practice in recent years. Mr. Krulec expressed interest in attending
at least one agency board meeting a year, not every meeting. Ms. Walker said meeting
attendance could include in -services and other regularly scheduled agency meetings. Ms.
Sittler said that a lot can be learned from attending agency meetings. Ms. Canter
mentioned that Board members should ask for permission to attend meetings, and Ms.
Walker stressed the need for confidentiality when members attend the meetings and in
sharing information with the Board. Ms. Flowers inquired as to the last time this issue
was raised. Ms. Canter and Ms. Walker stated that several agencies had expressed
concern that liaisons would share confidential information at Mental Health Board
meetings. Ms. Sittler stated that liaisons do not necessarily need to attend agency board
meetings to learn about agency operations and that attendance at other agency meetings
might meet both the MHB and agency's needs. Ms. Canter mentioned that Board
members should ask for permission to attend meetings and ask the agency if there is a
specific meeting that will give the liaison a general sense of the agency, and Ms. Walker
stressed the need for confidentiality when members attend the meetings and in sharing
information with the Board. Ms. Walker also confessed that she does not go to agency
board meetings, as her schedule does not allow her to extend herself in that capacity. She
conceded that is this is probably not fair to the agencies to which she is the liaison, but
that it was in important point to consider as the Board begins to recruit new members.
Ms. FIowers then inquired as to the last time liaison responsibilities were looked at as
regards the expectations, and the purposes behind the expectations his. Walker believed it
to be around the time when the Board took over the Human Services funding. Ms.
Walker suggested perhaps revisiting the issue, especially if it is something that
individuals feel strongly about. Ms. Canter added that there are other things a liaison
could do besides go to board meetings such as ntect with the agency's director, go on a
site visit, etc, and said that it was never written in stone that a liaison had to go to a board
meeting. Ms. Walker disagreed; she felt that it was one of the clear understandings that
attending Board meetings would be one of the responsibilities of a liaison. As the Board
will be undergoing restructuring with the intake of new members, IS. Walker and Ms.
Flowers agreed that revisions might be necessary.
2
BOARD RECRUITMENT
Ms. Walker reported that she and Ms. Achenbach met at length with Ms. Flowers to
discuss Board recruitment and how to transition Ms. Achenbach into the position of
Chair. Ms. Walker asked Ms. Canter about the status of her contact with the alderpersons,
and Ms. Canter said that she has not received any feedback as of yet. Ms. Settler reported
that an interested acquaintance of hers has not received a response from the Mayor's
office regarding joining the Board. Ms. Walker also received two favorable responses to
an a -mail that she sent to the Mental Health Association of the North Shore regarding
Board recruitment. One of the interested parties wished to speak with Ms. Achenbach
upon her return to get more information about the expectations and the time commitment
involved being a Board member. Ms. Walker said that the Board has put forth a
significant amount of effort to increase membership. Board members discussed plans to
contact the Mayor's office to stress the dire need of the Board to have more members.
Ms. Kahn mentioned that the individuals who run the Beth Fmet Mental Health
Conference might perhaps be interested, and suggested contacting them. Ms. Sittler
asked Ms. Flowers if the lack of members is a general problem with the Boards and
Commissions, or if it was unique to the Mental Health Board. Ms. Flowers said that this
is a common problem to boards in general, and expressed that the Commission on Aging
went through as similar struggle to fill positions a number of years ago. Ms. Flowers
stressed the need of the Board to do as much outreach as they can, and she indicated that
she has contacted Donna 5tuckert (Community Information Coordinator) to alert her of
the critical need to advertise for potential members.
ALLOCATION PROCESS
Ms. Flowers distributed the schedule for the distribution of the Mental Health Board
Funding Application including the date for submission of the completed application, and
dates for the allocation hearings. Ms. Walker stated that October 2nd would be the
proposal review. Board members come to this meeting having reviewed the proposals,
with any questions they wish the agencies to respond to or clarify. The October 1 Ga'
hearing is for those agencies only funded through with MHB funds, while October 18'h
hearing if for those agencies funded by both the United Way and the MHB. At the
November 13the meeting the Allocations Committee will make their recommendations to
present to the board.
The date for application submission is September 5, 2008 at 4 p.m.
CHAIR REPORT
Ms. Walker had nothing to report, as she had already spoken at length about recruitment
STAFF REPORT
Ms. Flowers reported that the Management Analyst position was posted, and the Board
agreed that it was a good sign, although there was no target date of hire. Ms. Flowers also
distributed the flow chart for the restructured Health and Human Services Department,
and explained each division's function. Ms. Flowers also shared with the Board that she
met with Mr. Saver (Former Assistant Director of Mental Health Services) to discuss the
proposal process. As in past year's the application will be on the City web site as well as
3
sent out in hard copy to all funded agencies. She informed the agencies present that Ms.
Baraona (Secretary II, Community Health Division, Evanston Health and Human
Services Department) would be the individual to whom the quarterly reports should go,
and she thanked them for their patience at this time of restructuring and change.
Additionally, she mentioned that the agencies might receive a request for additional
materials as division graduate student interns finish revising area mental health resources.
CONCLUSION
Ms. Canter wished to wish Ms. Thomas well on her retirement, and said that she was one
of the best attendees the Board has ever seen, both points to which the Board
unanimously agreed. Ms. Flowers also expressed appreciation for Ms. Thomas's
dedication in driving all the way from her home in Des Planes to the Commission on
Aging's meetings on the first Saturday of each month. Additionally, Ms. Walker added
that the Board will be celebrating Ms. Sitticr's and Ms. Grover's service on the MHB at
the September meeting.
Meeting Adjourned at 8:10 pm. The next meeting of the Mental Health Board is
scheduled for September 11, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Milcah S. Baraona
4
EVA,YSTOti ,NiENtAL HEALTH BOARD.NIINUTES
September 11, 2008
Evanston Civic Center, Rm. 2402
1 Present:
2 Marcia Achenbach, Chair
3 Randy Walker, Kce Chair
4 Sue Canter
5 Ada Kahn
6 Gil Krulec
7 Staff Present:
8 Nancy Flowers
9 Milcah S. Baraona
10 Guests:
11 Martha Arnston, Childcare Xrmork ojEvanston
12 Don Baker, Youth Organkations Umbrella
13 Willis Francis, Trilogy
14 Liz Gordon, Evanston/Skokie Valley Senior Services
15 Jane Grover, Community member
16 Sandi Johnson, Community member
17 Jordan Luhr, North Shore Senior Center
18 Laura Sabino, Housing Options
19 Harvey Saver, Community• member
20 Carol Sitticr, Community, member
21 Sandra Stumme, Metropolitan Family Services
22 The meeting was called to order at 7:03pm.
23 Introductions and Community Comments
24 Ms. Achenbach commented that this was her first time chairing a Mental health Board meeting.
25 Ms. Achenbach thanked Ms. Walker for chairing the last board meeting in her absence, and
26 acknowledged her hard work during the past year when the Board went through many changes,
27 including the retirement of Haney Saver (former Assistant Director of Mental Health Services
28 for the City of Evanston).
29 Recognition of.lane Grover and Carol Sittler
30 Ms. Achenbach began the recognition ceremony by stating that although she had only been on the
31 board for one year. she admired Jane Grover's (former Mental health Board member) tenacity.
32 Nis. Achenbach described tics. Grover's presentations to the City Council advocating
33 maintenance of Mental health Board funding when the Council recommended reductions in the
34 Board's budget. She stated that Carol Sittler (former Mental health Board Member) was a good
35 example of the manner in which board members should embrace agency liaison assignments and
36 hoped to emulate her in this retard. Other Board members were invited to share their thoughts.
37 Ms. Canter read from a pre -prepared statement about Ms. Grover and Ms. Sittler. Ms. Achenbach
38 opened the floor to the guests for comments. his. Johnson commented that the two former
39 members' questions were always respectful and that they were great community servants. Ms.
40 Walker said that Ms. Grover was the Chair when she and Mr. Krulee came aboard, and in
41 addition to doing a wonderful job orienting them to the Board, Ms. Grover taught her to look at
42 her responsibilities more proactively and take the initiative in approaching the Council when it
43 came to funding issues. Ms. Stumme thanked both Ms. Grover and Ms. Sittler personally for their
M
I work, as they were both liaisons to her agency. Additionally, she thanked Ms. Grover for being an
2 excellent advocate for social service agencies in general. Mr. Francis thanked both Ms. Sitticr and
3 Ms. Grover for their willingness to orient him to the Board's responsibilities. Ms. Arnston
4 thanked Ms. Sittler for asking her to clarify the process and daily function of her agency. She also
5 thanked Ms. Grover for recognizing childcare as a mental health issue.
6 Next, the Board entertained comments from the honorees. Nis. Sutler stated that she enjoyed
7 working with the Board, and shared fond memories of her experiences with the Board. Ms.
8 Grover stated that although she did not miss the Board's meeting room, nor did she miss the
9 agendas, that she profoundly misses the Board members, and that it was not until she left that she
10 realized how much of an impact the Mental Health Board has on Evanston. Both she and Ms.
I I Sittler were very pleased with their gifts of appreciation from the Board.
12 Review and approval ormay 8 and July 10 Minutes
13 The minutes of the May 8`s meeting were APPROVED with editorial changes (Motion: Kruiee,
14 Second: Achenbach). The minutes of the July 14's meeting were APPROVED with editorial
15 changes (Motion: Walker, Second: Canter).
16 Board Recruitment and Agency Liaison Assignments
17 Ms. Achenbach reported that the Board will have four new members at the October meeting. The
18 City Council has approved the new candidates; the Board will have a full component of nine
19 members soon.
20 Ms. Achenbach reviewed the Board agency assignments to make sure that everyone was aware of
21 and in agreement with them. The Board acknowledged agreement on this issue.
22 Questions
23 Members discussed the process of developing questions for the funding hearings and read the
24 standard questions from last year. Ms. Achenbach and Ms. Canter wished to change the "fee for
25 services" question to a question about the impact of funding reductions. it was noted, for
26 example, that PEER Services lost S300,000 in state funding for their drug treatment program.
27 Agency Accountability
28 • Agency Liaison Reports
29 Ms. Achenbach began by sharing her reports with the Board. She reported that she is a liaison for
30 SHORE and mentioned that they have an accessible garden that is in poor condition. Ms.
31 Achenbach is a master gardener at the Botanical Gardens and arranged to meet nvith Botanic
32 Garden staff to have the expense and labor of garden repair covered. She also reported that she
33 visited the Infant Welfare Society where she learned that Megan Kashner was resigning. Ms.
34 Achenbach pointed out that her purpose in going to agency board meetings is not to get the "nitty
35 gritty" of the agency, but to see holy they work. She reported that the Infant Welfare Society is
36 very functional, and that they, do well.
37 Ms. Kahn met with Ms. Stummc of Metropolitan Family Services to become better acquainted
38 with their services. She stated that her meeting with Peter Illing at Thresholds allowed her to
39 assist the organization to access the services of the Evanston Community Media Center. Ms.
40 Walker reported her communication with Paul Selden (Connections for the I lomeless), who
41 reported that outside of a lack of funds, the organization is doing well. and reported that their
42 hours of service have doubled in the past year, and their client base is up 67%. Ms. Walker also
43 addressed a possible discrepancy with the Trilogy Collaboration, and the number of clients that
44 was projected in their proposal objective. Mr. Willis said that he would speak with David
45 Daskovsky (Trilogy) and make sure that the confusion was addressed at the upcoming hearings.
2
I Finally, Ms. Walker reported that Youth Organizations Umbrella had seen an increase in their
2 crisis cases and unusually high staff turnover. She also summarized her contacts with Housing
3 Options.
4 Ms. Canter reported meeting with Michelle Martin from the Center for Independent Futures, and
5 was pleased to report that their Full Life Model is doing ►veil. They report much success with the
6 ETHS students in their program. She also said that they have not met their objective to get
7 families and community members involved, due to the high school's requirement that community
8 members fulfill a background check requirement prior to program involvement. However, Nis.
9 Canter reported that the Center for Independent Futures plans to implement this objective fully in
10 the present 2008-2009 school year, and that their life skills planning goal includes instructing
11 their clients in cooking, job searching, and other tasks that would make them fully functioning
12 adults. Ms. Canter also reported meeting with Dorothy Williams ( Family Focus) and commented
13 on how many improvements have been made in the agency and how warm and welcoming the
14 building looks now. his. Canter also noted that while they met their goals, the organization did
15 not include a summary in their reports. Finally, Ms. Canter reported that the Youth Job Center of
16 Evanston received numerous grants totaling a significant amount of money in their fourth quarter.
17 Mr. Krulce reported that he has two long term liaison assignments, and two temporary
18 assignments. One of his assignments, the Child Care Network of Evanston is doing well, but the
19 executive director resigned and was replaced with an external candidate. He also reported that
20 PEER Services is experiencing some difficulty with finances. Mr. Krulee talked briefly about the
21 services that the Evanston Community Defender provides, and about the Legal Assistance
22 Foundation. He concluded by saying that both agencies are concerned about the retirement of Mr.
23 Saver as well as with the loss of finances.
24 • Agency Quarterly Reports
25 Ms. Achenbach reported that she read the reports carefully and that she enjoyed them because it
26 reminded her of all the wonderful things that are going on in the community, despite being in the
27 midst of the administrative stage of the proposal process. Mr. Baker (YOU) reported that he was
28 as pleased with what they learned, as he was with what they have accomplished. The Board and
29 guests were saddened to learn that PEER Services lost 5346,000 in funding, and might have to
30 consider eliminating one of their programs. Evanston/Skokic Valley Senior Services was
31 successful in meeting all of their goals. Ms. Achenbach expressed that it was heartwarming that
32 as a result of Trilogy meeting all of its goals, their clients are able to enjoy productive lives.
33 Final Preparation for Fall Allocation Review Process
34 • Appointment of Allocation Committee
35 Ms. Canter and Ms. Achcnbach will serve on the allocation committee. At this point, Ms.
36 Achenbach asked committee members to review their funding packets for completeness.
37 Report from the Chair
38 Ms. Achenbach reported that she plans on attending the I luman Services Committee meeting.
39 The Board will report to this Committee for the budget hearing.
40 Staff Report
41 At the request of the Board, the history of the Clean Air Act was given, particularly its impact on
42 Albany and Greenwood Care, the two licensed long term care facilities that serve persons with
43 mental illness. It was reported that the Management Analyst position has been filled, and that this
44 staff member would be in place to assist with the funding hearings and the allocation process.
45 Ms. Achenbach interjected that this allocation process would be used to orient new Board
46 members into the process, although the commitment level and expectations for them would not be
kcl
I high. Ms. Flowers reported that staff are currently submitting budget projections for the next
2 fiscal year, and that, to assist in the planning process she has submitted the same allocation as this
3 past year. Ms. Flowers summarized the budget process. She also shared with the Board the City
4 Manager's commitment to staff that no full-time positions would be eliminated. Mr. Baker added
5 that there was a significant cut in funds at the State level in youth services.
6 Meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
7 Respectfully submitted by Milcah S. Baraons
4
Evanston Mental Health Board Minutes
November 13, 2008
Evanston Civic Center, Rm. 2402
1
Present:
2
Marcia Achenbach, Chair
3
Randy Walker, Vice Chair
4
Sue Canter
5
Geoffrey Cochran
6
Ada Kahn
7
Gil Krulee
8
Barbara Levin
9
Daniel Rosen
10
Gene Schlitx
11
Staff Present:
12
Evonda Thomas
13
Jonathan Webb
14
Milcah S. Baraona
15 Guests:
16 Martha Arntson, Childcare Network of Evanston
17 Don Baker, Youth Organizations Umbrella
18 Jane Doyle, Center for Independent Futures
19 Willis Francis, Trilogy Evanston
20 Liz Gordon, EvanstonlSkokle Valley Senior Services
21 Mary Ann Kearns, Child Care Center of Evanston
22 Naria Santa Lucia, Evanston Defender
23 Jordan Luhr, North Shore Senior Center
24 Laura Sabino, Housing Options
25 John Sellers, Community Member
26 The meeting was called to order at 7:00pm
27 Introductions and Community Comments
28 Following guest introductions, the Board entertained comments from the floor. Mr. Francis
29 provided a brief community report that the Evanston Coalition for Latina Resources is going
30 through the steps of becoming a 501 c(3) organization.
31 Introduction of New Board Members
32 The November meeting was the first time that the Board was fully seated in quite a while. All
33 Board members provided information about themselves and their experience as it relates to the
34 mental health community.
35 Ms. Achenbach acknowledged Nancy Flowers (Evanston Health and Human Services
36 Community Health Division Manager) for her significant contributions and heroic effort to the
37 Board during its transition.
38 Additionally, the Board agreed that it would accept all correspondence electronically, with the
39 exception of those that may present a printer issue due to size, i.e. 11 x 17" documents.
I Review and Approval of September 11, 2008 Meeting Minutes
2 Ms. Walker moved to approve the minutes, and Ms. Levin seconded. The minutes were
3 unanimously approved with editorial corrections.
4 Agency liaison assignment
5 his. Achenbach informed the Board that liaison assignments were made earlier this year than
6 usual so that new members can begin their duties immediately. Liaison assignments were made
7 and liaison duties were highlighted. Liaisons should contact their old assignment to bid farewell,
8 introduce the new liaison and share information with the new liaison regarding any notable
9 issues. Mr. Webb and Ms. Baraona were asked to distribute contact information and assignments
10 (old and new) to Board members and contact information and assignments to the agency.
11 Additionally, his. Achenbach noted that as time goes on, the Board will reconsider the duties and
12 see if there is any need for change or improvement. Agencies will be asked to provide feedback
13 regarding this process.
14 Adoption of Allocation Recommendations for FY09-10 ,N fental Health Board community
15 Purchased Services
16 Ms. Canter summarized the allocation recommendations and explained the allocation process to
17 the new members. She stated that the allocation committee makes recommendations, presents
18 them to the Board for approval and if necessary, further discussion, and then votes.
19 Ms. Canter explained the rationale for denying the Youth Job Center's funding and awarding it to
20 PEER Services. YOUTH JOB CENTER HAS BEEN SUCCESSFUL IN FUNDRAISING AND
21 THE MHB FUNDING REPRESENTS ONLY A TOKEN AMOUNT. The allocation committee
22 felt that PEER has been extremely hard hit by financial hardship and historically, adolescent and
23 adult treatment are difficult programs to get funded. The money would be of significantly more
24 use to them.
25 Ms. Walker raised a concern about the Evanston Community Defender's Social Work Program,
26 which the Board noted is a good program in concept, but has been quite pfobit-m tie
27 INCOSISTENT. Ms. Walker recommended that the funding for that program be eliminated and
28 given to the Collaborative Supportive Housing Program instead. Although she was disappointed
29 that they were not able to meet their objectives, a point Ms. Canter said was addressed in the
30 funding hearings as being due to a lack of funds, Ms. Walker was impressed that the agencies
31 were avant garde in their collaboration process and that they greatly impact the community. Ms.
32 Canter added that t4w4ess-ef- Wing -far the Defender I[AS BEEN ENCOURAGED TO
33 EXPLORE COLLABORATION WITH OTHER AGENCIES. wim
34 ibere are et# m�.tics. Walker said that
35 while they have made noticeable improvements over the years, it unfortunately has not been to
36 the Board's expectations.
37 Ms. Walker moved that the Board eliminate funding for the Defender's Social Work program,
38 and award it to the Collaborative Supportive Ilousing Program, and Mr. Schultz seconded the
39 motion. The motion was unanimously approved and carried.
40 Ms. Walker moved that the Board approve the recommendations of the allocation committee,
41 with the noted changes. The motion was unanimously approved.
42 Agency Accountability- Agency Liaison Reports
I .THERE
2 WERE NO LIAISON REPORTS AS CONTACT WAS MADE THROUGH THE HEARINGS.
3 Mr. Walker acknowledged the hard work of Ms. Achenbach and Ms. Canter. In tum, Ms. Canter
4 and his. Achenbach acknowledged the work of Mr. Webb.
5 Report from the Chair
6 Ms. Achenbach announced that she and Ms. Canter would be going to MEETING WITH Rolanda
7 Russell (Interim City tiianager) to defend the Mental Health Board budget using the following
8 rationale: 1) it keeps people out of jail and off the streets, and 2) the City of Evanston has the
9 moral responsibility of being committed to mental health services. A brief discussion about the
10 Blue Ribbon Panel report took place, the Mental Health Board was not mentioned directly in this
11 report. Mr. Schiltz added that with the deteriorating economy, there will be an increased need for
12 mental health services. ALTHOUGH MHB FUNDS ARE CURRENTLY INTACT, IT IS
13 POSSIBLE THAT A CUT MAY BE RECOMMENDED. Ms. Achcnbach asked the Board to
14 think of ways to persuade the City Council and the City Manager to understand the value of the
15 services that the Mental I iealth Board funded agencies provide. Ms. Walker thought it would be a
16 good idea to collaborate with the agencies to advocate protecting their funding. Nis. Canter noted
17 that the agencies' presence at the budget hearing last year made a significant impact and thanked
18 the over 75 attendees for their support. Ms. Walker again reiterated the need to take a proactive
19 approach at defending the funding now, rather than waiting for the budget to be cut and then
20 chalIenging the decision later. Afler learning from Ms. Thomas that Mr. Webb's time
21 commitment to the Board would only be about 25% of all of his duties and obligations, Ms.
22 Achenbach again stressed to the Board that they would need to do any necessary leg work to
23 defend their activities.
24 Stair Report
25 Mr. Webb reported that he, along with some of the agencies were interested in streamlining the
26 accountability reporting process, and that he is going to be addressing the issue in upcoming
27 weeks. Additionally, he mentioned that he has been in discussion with Donna Stuckert
28 (Community Information Coordinator) to create a Mental Health Board listserve, so that the
29 Board and mental health community can get connected to other pertinent City events and
30 committees.
31 Meeting was adjourned at 8:14pm
32 Respectfully submitted by Milcah S. Baraona
Evanston Mental Health Board Minutes
December 11, 2008
Evanston Civic Center, Rm. 2402
1 Members present-
2 Marcia Achenbach (Chair)
3 Randy Walker (Vice -Chair)
4 Sue Canter
5 Geoffrey Cochran
G Gil Krulce
7 Barbara Levin
8 Gene Schiltz
9 Guests present:
10 Martha Amtson (Childcare Network of Evanston)
11 Willis Francis (Trilogy
12 Liz Gordon (Evanston Skokie Valley SeniorSerrices)
13 Sandra Stumme (Metropolitan Family Services)
14 Dorothy Williams (Family Focus)
15 Staff present-,
16 Jonathan Webb
17 Milcah S. Baraona
18 Introductions and Community Comments
19 Ms. Achenbach called the meeting to order at 7:01pm. Ms. Williams was thanked for Family
20 Focus's earlier submission of its accessibility plan.
21 Review and Approval of November 13 .Niinutes
22 Ms. Cantor suggested several amendments to the minutes. Considerable discussion occurred
23 regarding whether or not the suggested changes accurately reflected the sentiment of the Board at
24 that time. Nis. Cantor expressed concern that the current recording appears to be too defensive
25 and aggressive, regarding the potential budget cuts since these cuts have not yet been mentioned
26 at the Council level. Additionally, she mentioned that great effort has been made to develop a
27 relationship with all parties involved in the funding process and that since minutes are public
28 record, recording; the defensive approach to the funding discussion with the higher levels from an
29 aggressive standpoint, may damage that relationship. leis. Walker felt that the minutes accurately
30 reflected the sentiment of the group at the time and as a matter of public record, the language
31 should not be adjusted. The general consensus was that the Board's relationship with other groups
32 was extremely important, but minutes should not be amended after the fact to soften a meetings
33 sentiment, unless the recording is inaccurate.
34 Mr. Schiltz moved to approve the November 1 , minutes and Ms. Walker seconded. The minutes
35 were unanimously approved with editorial changes.
36 Plan for Future
37 Ms. Walker noted that she was extremely disappointed in the number of agencies that did not
38 bring; board members to the hearings as well as the decline in agency attendance at meetings. This
39 seems to be a disturbing change in atmosphere among the agencies. Ms. Achenbach asked for
40 suggestions in addressing this concern, and Ms. Walker suggested that this be considered in the
I allocation process and should affect how monies are allocated. Ms. Stumme pointed out that the
2 package that is currently distributed to agencies has no board member attendance requirement.
3 Mr. Webb was asked to explore this and make recommendations for any additions. Ms. Walker
4 commented that the entire allocation process .vent very well, and she particularly enjoyed
5 collaborating with the United Way to generate the review questions for the hearing. Mr. Webb
6 mentioned that there needs to be further clarification as to how the rating system affects
7 allocations, and per the Board's request, Mr. Webb will modify this.
8 Llasion Role
9 Ms. Achenbach discussed the Agency Liaison Guidelines and the Board discussed the necessity
10 of attending, agency board meetings, and the frequency and methods with which contact is
11 maintained with the agencies. Some concern was expressed with the monthly meeting
12 requirement. Many larger grants don't require as much contact and for those individuals with
13 multiple agencies this can become quite cumbersome. It was explained that the frequency not
14 only helps Board members to remain abreast of the agency activities, but a close and important
15 relationship is established. Suggestions were made that although face to face contact is the most
16 beneficial, phone call or email communication is sufficient.
17 Committee Report on Agency Liasson Survey
18 Ms. Achenbach said that per the survey she and Mr. Krulee conducted, some agencies expressed
19 concern about the MHB member attendance at agency board meetings. Ms. Canter suggested
20 asking the agencies if they mind liaisons attending their board meeting and to which meetings
21 they should come. After a discussion from the Board and audience about whether this is
22 appropriate, Ms. Achenbach asked Mr. Webb to research non-profit board meetings and the Open
23 Meetings Act.
24 Ms. Achenbach reported that another issue is the belief by the agencies that the Board does not
25 read the quarterly reports because they are not being commented on. Ms. Achenbach suggested
26 that this issue be tabled and no changes made to the liaison roles pending the immersion of the
27 new Board members to the process. Ms. Walker expressed a concern that by tabling this it may
28 suggest to agencies that their voices weren't heard. Ms. Achenbach reiterated her position that it
29 is worth while to allow the new talent on the Board to experience the current process and when
30 changes are made the suggestions from the senior board members, as well as the agencies and the
31 newer board members can be taken into consideration.
32 Agency Liaison Assignments
33 Mr. Cochran reported that he spoke with Youth Organizations Umbrella and PEER Services and
34 he will wait until after the start of the new year to visit. Ile also reported that YOU was
35 enthusiastic about him coming to board meetings, while PEER seemed a bit taken aback. Mr.
36 Schiltz reported visiting Laura Sabino (l lousing Options Executive Director) and said their
37 meeting went very well. Ms. Levin made appointments to visit YWCA and SI IORE. Ms. Canter
38 said that she would be going to Infant Welfare Society in the near future.
39 Plan for Future— Community Education
40 The Board continued by discussing Mr. Saver's work of promoting the Board's presence in the
41 community, and solicited input from the agencies as to how to continue this work. Ms. Arntson
42 offered a few suggestions, and Ms. Achenbach asked the agencies if they would mind if the
43 Mental liealth Board collaborated with them on projects/outreach. Agency liaisons were asked to
44 gather this information from their agencies and gauge whether they are interested in project
45 collaboration. The consensus was that these projects can be things that are already being done that
46 we sponsor in name alone, provide letters of support for, or assist in offering meeting space for,
I etc. These types of things would go along way for the MHB and for the agencies. A few
2 suggested partnerships include:
3 • Power of the Brain conference
4 • Naomi Cohen Conferences
5 • Aging Nell Conference
6 • Evanston Early Childhood Community Collaboration
7 • Mental Health Association of the North Shore
8 • Evanston AIliance on Homelessness
9 • Program on Bullying Youth in Schools
10 • Substance Abuse Action Council
I 1 a Annual Health and Human Resources Fair
12 The agencies represented agreed to contact the MHB about these opportunities as they present
13 themselves.
I4 Report from Chair
15 Ms. Achcnbach reported that in January, the Board will have to submit conflict of interest forms.
16 She also reported attending the Human Services Committee meeting and learning a lot about their
17 functions.
18 Staff Report
19 Mr. Webb raised the issue of Legal Assistance Foundation being delinquent in their monthly
20 submissions and the Board discussed the possible ramifications of this. Mr. Webb acknowledged
21 Family Focus' submission of their accessibility plan, and concluded his report with announcing
22 the next Human Services Committee meeting date, January 5, 2009 at 7pm.
23 Meeting was adjourned at 8:42p
24 Respectfully submitted by Mileah S. Baraona