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Douglas County approves $350,000 agreement with TESSA to operate domestic-violence safe house
Summary
The county approved a master services agreement with TESSA to operate a newly purchased domestic-violence safe house (22 beds) in an undisclosed location; the contract includes trauma-informed services, housing navigation and a 24/7 hotline through Dec. 31, 2025, with a maximum county liability of $350,000.
The Douglas County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved a 2025 master services agreement with TESSA to operate a domestic-violence safe house in Douglas County. The contract sets a maximum county liability of $350,000 for shelter operations and supportive services through Dec. 31, 2025.
Steven Dodgill, community programs administrator, explained the county purchased a facility on Nov. 5, 2024 to expand capacity for domestic-violence (DV) shelter services. Staff described the safe house as a trauma-informed facility with a 24/7 hotline, supportive services that include housing navigation and community referrals, and shelter capacity designed to accommodate families.
Staff materials and Dodgill said the shelter provides 22 beds (20 regular beds plus 2 emergency beds) and will offer structured stays of up to seven weeks, trauma-informed transitional services, and navigation support to help survivors secure permanent housing. Dodgill said TESSA was recommended because of its experience managing DV shelters and its partnerships with law enforcement and community organizations.
Anne Markley, chief executive officer of TESSA, joined the meeting virtually and thanked the board for the opportunity to partner, praising the county92s decision to create a co-located shelter and wraparound services.
Action: The board voted to approve the master services agreement with TESSA by unanimous vote.
Implementation notes: TESSA will provide monthly reports to Douglas County that track utilization, referrals and outcomes. Staff said the county hopes the shelter will increase safety, access to housing and crisis response for survivors in Douglas County.
