COMMITTEE ON FAMILIES
MINUTES: APRIL 11, 2005
MEMBERS: CHAIR: Andrea Stewart Cousins, LEGISLATORS: Lois Bronz, William Ryan, OTHER LEGISLATORS: Judith Myers, Jose Alvarado, Bernice Spreckman
IN ATTENDANCE: CEO: Bill Randolph, Kevin Ryan, Andrew Neuman; DA: Judith Berger; DSS: Kevin Mahon, Anne Boyer, Nancy Travers; JOURNAL NEWS: Shawn Cohen, Laurie Nikolski, Harry Spreckman; STAFF: Sally Schecter
The meeting was called to order at 3:25 p.m. by Chair Andrea Stewart-Cousins.
On the motion of Legislator Bronz, seconded by Chairman Ryan, the minutes of December 20 and February 14 were approved.
Chair Stewart-Cousins explained because of unfortunate circumstances, the death of a young child, Theresa Smith, self reflections on the part of DSS and a Grand Jury Report, the Child Welfare League of America (CWLA) was asked by the County Executive to come in and evaluate the Department of Social Services. The Committee on Families was promised a report in March and we have now received it. Chair Stewart-Cousins introduced Commissioner Mahon. He talked about the department and said he welcomed reviews. CWLA’s report begins on Page 12 and ends on page 44.
Chair Stewart-Cousins pointed out that there were 20 recommendations. Commissioner Mahon said his department is doing a good job in a number of areas. The Commissioner then proceeded to go down the list of recommendations and comment on each one. Chair Stewart-Cousins had a number of comments and questions.
At the end of his presentation, Commissioner Mahon said his department is doing a good job and this report will enable them to do an even better job.
Chair Stewart-Cousins said the Families Committee needs to absorb the report. She asked for a copy of the Foster Care Manual and was informed that the CPS Worker Preventive Services and the Foster Care Manuals are available on line.
There was a question about the Differential Pilot in Peekskill and Mt. Vernon. It depends on the risk factor. They are working on alleviating anger and building trust. This will be built into the training unit and eventually this unit will encompass everyone.
Chair Stewart-Cousins asked that the Families Committee see all the changes that are being made and asked about the entire transition, when was it started and when will it be completed. Protecting the children is one of the most important things in the County. We need constant change, guidance, management, training and uniformity.
On the motion of Legislator Bronz, seconded by Chair Stewart-Cousins, the meeting was adjourned at 4:20 p.m.
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