Board orders external review of Kern County Child Protective Services after death of child; unanimous vote

The Kern County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to proceed with contracting to conduct an independent external review and gap analysis of Kern County Department of Human Services (DHS) Child Protective Services (CPS) following public testimony about apparent systemic failures and a recent grand jury report.

DHS Director Lito Murillo told the board the department requested the review to identify gaps, strengths and opportunities for improvement after "the tragic loss we've all endured," referring to the child whose death prompted public outcry. Murillo said the department would return to the board with a provider recommendation if the board approved exploring contracts.

"This is just more than a procedural step. It's a pledge to closely examine our processes and procedures, identify ways to improve, and do everything possible to safeguard the children in our community," Murillo said.

Nut graf: The review will…