Seeing Red - More on cuts to CSTS

Here is a statement dated August 10, 2009, from Bob Guenzel, the Washtenaw County Administrator on budget reduction options for programs that receive county funds. One thing that is important to understand is that when Guenzel talks about non-mandated services, he means that the county is under no obligation to fund certain programs but has done so in the past because of the benefit to the community. The WCHO does have an obligation to continue providing services written into person-centered plans for people with developmental disabilities, even if they are no longer provided by Community Supports and Treatment Services (CSTS).

Guenzel says:

At last Wednesday's Ways and Means meeting I presented the Phase II 2010/11 budget reduction options to the Board of Commissioners. These options included the reduction or elimination of many worthwhile programs, and undoubtedly will directly impact the community and the organization.

It's important to remember, however, that these are only options at the present time -- not my recommendation. No decisions have been made. There are no easy choices, and over the next few months the Board will deliberate the proposed alternatives and determine where the necessary budget reductions will be necessary.

The largest amount of money to be saved, however, comes from mental health programs provided by Community Supports and Treatment Services (CSTS). According to Sally Amos O'Neal from customer services, up to 60 jobs may be cut from vocational and training programs such as day programs, enclaves, PACE programs, and job coaching.

Important dates in the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners budget process include:

• September 11th - 2010/11 Budget Adjustment Recommendations Phase II will be posted to the web
• September 16th - Guenzel will present his 2010/11 Budget Adjustment Recommendations Phase II to the Board
• November 18th - The Board is scheduled to adopt a balanced budget

Another document worth looking at if you want the gory details on possible cuts to various programs, how much money will be saved and how many people will be laid off, look here. Those specifically involving mental health are on pages 11 - 22.