The Health and Human Services and Aging Committee on Wednesday moved an amendment to the OPTIONS independent‑living master contract to the full council.

Clerk-read Resolution R2025‑0324 would extend the contract period through March 31, 2027, and add funds so the master contract total does not exceed $7,237,500. Marcos Cortez and Natasha Petricola, director of the Division of Senior and Adult Services, described the program’s in‑home services: larger household chores, grab‑bar installation, medical‑appointment transportation, emergency response, personal care and home‑delivered meals designed to prolong a client’s ability to live at home.

Petricola identified two provider name changes — one because Cleveland Wash House was bought out by Blue Heron — and said providers met insurance requirements. She also said the county has reallocated some funds previously budgeted for rent at 1801 to this program, noting an amount of about $586,000 shifted into OPTIONS and an earlier $800,000 increase as well as a $400,000 addition arranged with council involvement.

Committee members sought clarification about whether services were lost; presenters acknowledged one provider that offered homemaking and personal care went out of business but said managed enrollment and reallocation allow the program to maintain service levels. The committee approved moving R2025‑0324 to the full council on second reading by voice vote.

Next steps: the amended master contract will proceed to the full council for further review and possible final approval; staff indicated a new RFP will be issued beginning April 1, 2027.