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Approve the appointments of Lesli Caldwell Houston and Danny Cotton to the Mental Health Advisory Board for terms to expire on February 24, 2023
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Published Notice Required? Yes _____ No __X__
Public Hearing Required? Yes _____ No __X__
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
The Department of Health and Social Services (H&SS) recommends that the Board of Supervisors approve the appointments of Lesli Caldwell Houston and Danny Cotton to the Mental Health Advisory Board for terms to expire on February 24, 2023.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Welfare and Institutions code section 5604-5604.5 specifies that the Board of Supervisors of each county shall appoint a Mental Health Advisory Board (MHAB) to provide input and feedback to the County Mental Health Director. The MHAB must include individuals who have experience with and knowledge of the mental health system. The board membership should also reflect the racial and ethnic diversity of the client population in the county. At least 20% of the membership must be a person with lived experience as a recipient of mental health services, and at least 20% must be a family member of an individual who is receiving or has received mental health services, to assure that different viewpoints are present.
The Solano County MHAB has been in existence since August 11, 1977, and currently maintains an active and diverse six-member roster, including one position filled by a member of the Board of Supervisors, currently Supervisor Brown. The MHAB is striving to achieve a membership of at least ten interested participants. This appointment will increase the membership to eight individuals. As required in the bylaws to affirm their commitment, both applicants have attended at least two board meetings as a member of the public. They have been interviewed and accepted by the membership committee.
Ms. Houston is a retired career Public Defender, most recently serving as the Public Defender for Solano County. In this capacity,...
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