Bernalillo County

The meeting includes a presentation on the DWI Detox Program and a discussion regarding the annual program review and survey. Old business covers updates on the Behavioral Health Authority, including discussions on opioid settlement funds, the Behavioral Health Reformation and Investment Act regional plan, and division updates. The board will also discuss its annual workplan.

The Board approved the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for two major initiatives. The first project provides funding for road resurfacing and maintenance services within District 4. The second project authorizes the purchase of approximately 35 vehicles to replace aging units for public safety and general county fleet operations, including vehicles for the Sheriff's Office, Fire and Rescue, and the Metropolitan Detention Center.

The meeting commenced with a roll call to establish a quorum. Key discussion points included establishing procedures for learning the new virtual meeting system, as there were initial difficulties admitting one member. The board approved the minutes from the previous session, noting feedback regarding the level of detail in the minutes, which will be summarized more concisely going forward. A significant portion of the meeting addressed the Sheriff's Office's decision to return to participation in the television program 'Patrol Live' (also referred to as 'Live PD'). The board discussed the need to review contracts related to this participation, referencing concerns raised in the 2022 annual report. They resolved to inquire with the County Attorney's office regarding contract availability and decided to place a formal discussion item on the next agenda. Finally, the board discussed logistics for the next meeting, confirming it will occur on the third Friday of the month, and considered hosting it at the Public Safety Academy, potentially followed by a voluntary tour, due to its suitability for including Sheriff's Office training and recruiting staff.

The meeting commenced with roll call, noting the absence of several members, including the resignation of one member and notification of absence from others. The board proceeded to approve the minutes from the September 8, 2023 meeting as written. Public comment was brief, with no individuals signed up to speak. The Sheriff's Office provided an update on Behavioral Health initiatives, including ongoing partnership activities with Care Campus, which involved participating in a fundraiser and ensuring deputies utilize Care Campus resources like detox services. An expansion of the Peer Support training program for officers was discussed, noting the involvement of the new chaplain who is also undergoing related training. A major initiative focuses on increasing the number of deputies trained in Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training across all shifts and specialized units. There was extensive discussion regarding the review and approval of Draft Three of the 2023 Annual Report. Concerns were raised about the accuracy and tone of language pertaining to a previous incident involving the Sheriff's takedown of an individual, specifically regarding whether the report editorialized community reactions and whether prior recommendations from the 2022 report should be explicitly included or linked for the County Commission. The board agreed to address substantive language changes through a vote and that Minority Reports are permissible.

The meeting began with an order of business, following a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance. Commissioners discussed agenda changes, including a motion to defer item 8C (a joint air quality control board appointment) and motions to pull item 8C off the consent agenda for discussion and to add item 8F to the agenda for consideration. The body recognized National Public Works Week (May 21st through May 27th, 2023), with several Commissioners expressing appreciation for the dedicated efforts of Public Works professionals in maintaining and improving county infrastructure. Following this, Commissioner Benson led a recognition ceremony for DECA students who placed in the top 20 nationally. The Extension Office provided an update on programming, including the hiring of new Family Consumer Science and Horticulture agents, upcoming classes such as Kitchen Creations and diabetes education, and preparations for the 4-H Fair. The presentation also detailed support for school garden efforts across the county, including collaboration with APS and preparation for a School Garden Conference to revitalize programs post-COVID, and highlighted the mental and health benefits of gardening.