County Council reviews health system budget and hiring processes amidst staffing concerns

The County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the upcoming budget hearings, particularly focusing on the health and hospital systems. The meeting highlighted the need for a comprehensive report on service impacts due to recent deletions in health system codes and the future plans for reinstating these codes.

Supervisors emphasized the importance of understanding how these changes will affect services and expressed a desire for transparency in the budget process. There was a call for a detailed examination of proposed solutions presented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and discussions on how these solutions could be integrated into ongoing negotiations at the bargaining table.

Concerns were raised about staffing levels within the social services unit, particularly regarding the hiring of social workers. Officials clarified that there is no hiring freeze for social workers, although internal transfer processes are currently limited to prioritize critical staffing needs in emergency response and dependency investigations.

The board also discussed the importance of improving recruitment and onboarding processes to attract and retain talent in a competitive job market. Supervisors shared personal experiences with the hiring process and expressed a commitment to making it more efficient and welcoming for new employees.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the need for ongoing conversations about the county's child welfare reform and the connection between budget allocations and program effectiveness. Supervisors acknowledged the challenges of aligning budget discussions with the urgent needs of the community, particularly in serving vulnerable populations such as the unhoused.

As the board prepares for the budget hearings next week, the discussions underscored the necessity of strategic planning and collaboration to ensure that the county's health and social services can effectively meet the needs of its residents. The board plans to continue these conversations in future meetings, aiming for a more streamlined and responsive approach to public service.