Dereck Criner

The meeting featured the introduction of two new board members and community advocacy regarding the continuation of the Community Participation Program. Financial reports for April were reviewed, highlighting favorable operating expense variances and year-end projections. Additionally, the Board received an update on the progress of the CRC project, including funding details and construction timelines. The Executive Director reported on an upcoming visit from the DBHDS Commissioner, and the Nominating Committee presented a slate of candidates for board officer positions to be voted on in the next meeting.

The board reviewed and adopted the FY2026 proposed operating and capital budgets, which include cost-of-living adjustments, employee bonuses contingent on Medicaid revenue, health insurance appropriations, and staffing changes involving both new positions and the elimination of vacant ones. Members also received the May financial report, discussed the implementation of the Marcus Alert protocol, and received updates on the First Street ICF Group Home construction progress. Additionally, the board held elections for the slate of officers for the upcoming term.

The meeting included a presentation on the history and regional roles of Deaf Services within mental health care. Financial reports for July and August were reviewed and approved, alongside an update on the FY25 financial audit progress. The board received updates on a successful negotiation for healthcare insurance renewals, moving dental coverage to Anthem. Executive director reports covered progress on Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, Medicaid redesign, and grant proposals for the Opioid Abatement Authority. New business included board member training requirements, an overview of the employee engagement survey, a update on the Valley Community Outreach board, and the initiation of a client survey. Finally, the board approved paving work for the First Street Home project.

The board received a presentation on the Prevention Services Department’s programs, including suicide prevention and mental health promotion. Fiscal reports for the fiscal year ending June 2025 were reviewed, showing a total fund balance of approximately $23 million, and an update on the financial audit process was provided. Additionally, the board discussed the Medicaid redesign readiness survey, the status of the CRC project, and potential grant opportunities. New business included the distribution of board composition forms, the approval of a new contract for the Executive Director for the upcoming fiscal year, and the approval of a new member for the VCO Board. Finally, the board reviewed progress on the First Street Home project and approved additional funding for necessary change orders.

The board reviewed and approved the financial reports for February and March, noting strong liquidity and disciplined expense management despite revenue falling under budget. The board received an update on the CRC project, including the submission of an Opioid Abatement grant proposal. Additionally, the Nominating Committee for board officers was appointed, and an update regarding the First Street Home was provided.