20210405-002a: PSC Recommendation in support of Mental Health Services — original pdf

Recommendation

PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION 20210405-002a April 5, 2021 Recommendation that City Council Support Improvements to Mental Health Services Date: Subject: Motioned by: Chair Rebecca Gonzales Seconded by: Commissioner Ramirez Recommendation: The Public Safety Commission recommends that the City Council take action to support the findings of the report outlining the gaps and opportunities for improvement of mental health services for Austin’s first responders. Description of Recommendation to Council: City Council passed Resolution No. 20190619-092 directing the City Manager to develop a report outlining the gaps and opportunities for improvement of mental health services for our first responders. Therefore, The Public Safety Commission recommends that the Austin City Council move forward with the recommended improvements to the mental health services including: • • • Establish a City-sponsored fund to retain a psychiatrist for first responders. Establish protocol for Mental Health days. Specialized training for public safety leadership on handling mental health issues for first responders. Develop and administer training on social-justice-informed mental health care. Hire 2 Full-Time employees to assist psychologists and Peer Support coordinators. Additional funding for Peer Support activities. Revisit departmental policies to accept the use of CBD oil for first responders. Implement annual behavioral health check-ins for first responders. Increased funding allocation for Dr. Tania Glenn & Associates, PA. Coordinate a joint statement from City leadership, Associations, and Department management that commits to limitations on sharing mental health treatment information and that seeking therapy will not have negative repercussions on a first responder’s career. • • • • • • • Rationale: The Public Safety Commission believes the mental and physical health of our first responders is key to the safety of the citizens of Austin. Vote: For: 6 (Commissioners Ramirez, Lane, Sierra-Arevalo, Bernhardt, Hausenfluck, Gonzales) Against: 1 (Commissioner Webber) Abstain: 0 Absent: 1 (Commissioner Enyioha) Attest: [Staff or board member can sign] __________________________________