Ruhel Boparai

The meeting included discussions on the Substance Use Disorder Prevention Youth-2-Youth conference, internship programs with UC Merced, and various certification and staffing updates within the department. The Consumer Advisory Committee shared success stories regarding client housing and employment and discussed upcoming local community events. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the BHSA Integrated Plan, covering the draft submission process to the State DHCS, requirements for Board of Supervisors' certification, and the expansion of the plan to include all behavioral health programs and funding streams. Additionally, the department provided updates on an upcoming MHSA audit, future collaborative reading projects, and various community event announcements.

The meeting included a Closed Session to discuss real property negotiation regarding 2490 Emma Street. The Regular Meeting covered numerous items, including multiple budget transfers for various departments such as Public Works, Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, and the Sheriff's Office. Actions included finding a public safety emergency regarding bunk beds at JLCC, adopting proclamations for "National Social Work Month" and "Senior Nutrition Month," and approving retroactive reinstatements of contracts related to the Pathways to Wellness Program. Several agenda items involved environmental review findings (Mitigated Negative Declarations) for bridge replacement projects. Additionally, the Board approved program location changes for Behavioral Health and Recovery Services, ratified grant application submissions, directed nuisance abatement liens, and authorized financing via Certificates of Participation (2026 COPs) for the County of Merced Road Rehabilitation Project. Board appointments were made to the Winton Cemetery District Board of Trustees and the Dos Palos Cemetery District Board of Trustees.

The board addressed various administrative and policy items, including a fiscal year mid-year budget report and a presentation on federal legislative updates. Actions taken included budget transfers for park and correctional facility projects, approval of various service contracts related to public health, behavioral health, and disaster recovery, and the ratification of personnel modifications. The board also adopted the Merced County Drought Resilience Plan, approved election-related funding agreements, conducted a public hearing regarding the closure of a community development grant program, and made several appointments to local commissions and boards.

The committee discussed community cultural considerations and supportive strategies, including challenges related to the political climate, language barriers, and access to care for mild to moderate mental health needs. Updates were provided on the upcoming Behavioral Health Integrated Plan, including requirements for public review and future hearings. The committee reviewed statewide behavioral health goals, such as increasing access to care, addressing homelessness, and improving employment services. Furthermore, the committee explored principles of trustworthiness and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of building sustainable relationships and shared decision-making. Finally, the committee discussed potential topics for future workshops, including resilience, trauma in minority populations, and youth engagement.

The meeting includes a public hearing to consider Minor Subdivision No. MS25-022 submitted by Daniel Hurtado, which involves a request to subdivide a parcel located on the west side of South Fresno Road. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission determine the project is categorically exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act and grant approval based on provided findings and conditions.