Title
Probation Department recommending the Board:
1) Make findings in accordance with El Dorado County Ordinance Code, Chapter 3.13.030 (B) that specialty skills and qualifications not expressly identified in County classifications are involved in the performance of the work;
2) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign retroactive Agreement for Services 8502 with George Mason Research Foundation for the provision of evidence-based practice application training for the term of March 2, 2024, through March 1, 2027, for a not-to-exceed amount of $75,802; and
3) Authorize the Purchasing Agent, or designee, to execute further documents relating to Agreement for Services 8502, including amendments which do not increase the maximum dollar amount or term of the Agreement, and contingent upon approval by County Counsel and Risk Management.
FUNDING: General Fund 100%.
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
Since December of 2019, the Probation Department (Probation) has been contracting with George Mason Research Foundation (George Mason) for evidence-based practice (EBP) application training for Probation staff. Probation’s Mission Statement of “Providing Public Safety through Collaborative Partnerships and Innovative Practices in Corrections, with Accountability and Compassion,” is a foundation of Probation’s strategic objective to implement EBP.
EBPs are skills, techniques, strategies, policy initiatives, or core intervention components using current research and the best available data to increase the likelihood of efficient and effective correctional services and favorable outcomes.
Probation staff training on EBP is achieved through coaches’ training, which focuses on general coaching strategies with an emphasis on working relationship skills, client engagement skills, and risk management skills. The coaches' training consists of webinars and in-person or online trainings. E-learning is also provided, which consists of account setup and maintenance, monthly completion summaries, and grade reports. Training will enhance skills needed for effective coaching and mentoring of justice-involved individuals in EBP and motivational interviewing.
Agreement 5432 with George Mason expired on March 1, 2024. Probation began the contract process for a new agreement with George Mason on November 15, 2023. There were numerous communications between Probation and George Mason, especially to agree on a mutually beneficial Scope of Services and Compensation for Services. Draft agreement reviews were completed by Probation on February 7, 2024, and George Mason on February 9, 2024. This retroactive item was processed to be brought before the Board as soon as practicable after that date.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could choose not to approve this Agreement. Vendor’s services enhance Probation staff’s knowledge, skills, and abilities as agents of change to continue carrying out Probation’s Mission and achieve the goal of reducing recidivism and future victimization.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
County Counsel
CAO RECOMMENDATION
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no General Fund impact or increase to Net County Cost. Funding for this item is included in Probation’s FY 2023-24 budget and will be included in subsequent years’ budgets.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1) Obtain signature of Chair on two (2) originals of Agreement 8502.
2) Forward one (1) fully executed document to the Probation Department, Attn: Jackie S. Cook, Administrative Analyst; for finalization and distribution to vendor.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Workforce Excellence
CONTACT
Jackie S. Cook, Administrative Analyst, 530-621-5588