Sacramento County launches assessment of In Home Supportive Services to improve program effectiveness

The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors convened on April 22, 2025, to address key issues affecting the community, including public safety and in-home supportive services. The meeting began with a presentation from a representative of the Antelope Business Community District, who highlighted the district's focus on security and maintenance since its formation in 2019. The speaker emphasized the effectiveness of their security measures, noting an average of six calls per day to their security team, which alleviates pressure on county sheriffs. The district successfully renewed its funding with over 80% approval, reflecting strong community support for its initiatives.

Following this, the Board moved to item 51 on the agenda, which involved a review of the fiscal year 2024-2025 for the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Public Authority. The discussion was led by John Kaczitza, the executive director of the IHSS Public Authority, who presented findings from an independent assessment conducted by ASR. This assessment aimed to evaluate the program's strengths and areas for improvement, particularly in response to feedback from providers and recipients.

Kaczitza outlined the mixed-method approach used in the assessment, which included interviews, surveys, and focus groups to gather insights on the program's effectiveness. He noted that while 70% of providers expressed satisfaction with the authority's support, there remains room for improvement. The Board members engaged in a dialogue about these findings, with some expressing concerns over the implications of the satisfaction rate and the need for clearer communication regarding the program's strengths and challenges.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the identified areas for improvement in the IHSS program, ensuring that the needs of the community are met effectively. The Board's discussions underscored the importance of ongoing evaluation and adaptation of services to enhance public safety and support for vulnerable populations in Sacramento County.