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Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) recommending the Board:
1) Approve and authorize the Chair to sign a Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 Budget Transfer Request to increase federal revenue and appropriations for Fixed Assets in the amount of $68,000 (4/5 vote required); and
2) Approve the purchase of two (2) lobby kiosks to the fixed asset list using funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Technology Enhancements allocation through the California Health and Human Services Agency, Office of Systems Integration, Statewide Automated Welfare System Project (CalSAWS) to enhance customer service and streamline the welfare application process.
FUNDING: 100% Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation administered through the California Department of Health and Human Services Agency, Office of Systems Integration, Statewide Automated Welfare System Project (CalSAWS).
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DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND:
The County of El Dorado Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), Social Services Division programs include Adoptions, Adult Protective Services, CalFresh, CalWORKS, Child Welfare / Child Protective Services, County Medical Services Program, Foster Care, General Assistance, In-Home Supportive Services, Medi-Cal and Welfare-to-Work. HHSA is requesting a budget transfer to increase federal revenue and appropriations for fixed assets to purchase two lobby kiosks from CalSAWS that are integrated into the CalSAWS system, one for each of the Placerville and South Lake Tahoe locations.
The lobby kiosks will enhance customer service, reduce congestion in the lobbies, and increase automation for the applicant. Applicants and recipients will be able to apply for benefits, make appointments, and submit documents electronically without waiting for clerical or case manager assistance.
CalSAWS issued a letter allocating $68,000 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds that are designated for technology enhancements. The funds have been made available according to the letter dated March 7, 2023, and must be spent by September 30, 2023.
ALTERNATIVES:
Should the Board decline to approve this Budget Transfer Request, HHSA would not be
able to purchase the technology enhancements that could streamline processes for both staff and the community.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION:
N/A
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
N/A
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
Approve as recommended.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
There is no impact to the County General Fund. HHSA is requesting a budget transfer of $68,000 for the fixed asset purchase, to ensure sufficient appropriations in the FY 2022-23 Budget related to the ARPA Technology Enhancements allocation through the California Health and Human Services Agency, Office of Systems Integration, Statewide Automated Welfare System Project (CalSAWS). Appropriations have also been included in the FY 2023-24 Recommended Budget request, should the purchase cross over into the next fiscal year.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
1) Obtain signature of Chair on attached Budget Transfer Request.
2) Submit signed Budget Transfer Request to the Chief Administrative Office for processing.
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT:
Good Governance
CONTACT
Olivia Byron-Cooper, MPH, Interim Director, Health and Human Services Agency