Commissioners approve housing agreement with SPHS Connect for homeless services

The Washington County Board of Commissioners convened on February 6, 2025, to address several key agenda items primarily focused on funding agreements and contract adjustments related to human services and behavioral health.

The meeting commenced with a motion to approve a funding request from the human services department for a renewal agreement with SPHS Connect, Inc. This agreement, amounting to $16,334, is designated for permanent supportive housing services for eligible homeless individuals and families. The funding will cover the period from January 1, 2025, to August 30, 2025, and includes unreimbursed costs from December 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. The motion received unanimous approval from the commissioners.

Next, the board discussed final year-end contract adjustments for behavioral health and developmental services. The first adjustment involved agreements with the Care Center and Centerville Clinics, increasing the contract authorization to $1,352,944 for the period from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. This adjustment also required no additional county funds, and it was similarly approved.

The commissioners then reviewed another contract adjustment with Healing Bridges, which raised the authorization amount to $55,634 for the same fiscal period. This motion was also passed without opposition.

Lastly, the human services department requested approval for a shelter agreement with Sri Ranchovy Associates, aimed at providing emergency shelter hotel vouchers for eligible homeless residents. This agreement, effective from February 6, 2025, to June 30, 2025, has a contract authorization limit of $30,000, funded through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services homeless assistance program, with no county funds required. The motion was approved unanimously.

In summary, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations through various funding agreements and contract adjustments, all of which were passed without dissent. The next steps will involve the implementation of these agreements to enhance services for the community.