Weber County pitches combined forensic social work and reentry program to seek state opioid funds after pilot shows reduced recidivism
Loading...
Summary
County presenters asked commissioners to back a combined forensic social work and reentry appropriation to the state: a one-year ask of $1,452,000 (about $1,000,000 from the state) that program leads say produced a 45% reduction in one-year reincarceration and over $1 million yearly operational savings in pilot data.
Program leads told the Weber County Commission on Jan. 5 they want to combine two successful pilots—defense-based forensic social work and a reentry services team—into a single program to pursue state opioid-related appropriations.
"We've had 2 successful 2 year pilots... these programs created a 45% reduction in 1 year reincarceration rates at Weber County Correctional Facility, and over $1,000,000 in operational savings annually," presenter Daniel Field said, summarizing the pilot outcomes.
The combined program budget submitted for discussion totals $1,452,000 per year. Field and others said the ask assumes roughly $1,000,000 in state funding with local match supplied by existing county-funded positions (such as a reentry services supervisor and a medication-assisted-treatment coordinator). Field said the county would act as the grant administrator and fiscal agent.
Staff proposed a fee-for-service arrangement so neighboring counties that send clients to the program would pay an agreed local share; commissioners repeatedly stressed they must secure buy-in from Davis, Box Elder, Morgan and other counties before committing a county match.
Commissioner discussion emphasized political and fiscal constraints at the state level. One commissioner noted state agencies are projecting a 5% revenue cut and urged caution in expecting large state appropriations this session. Commissioner Eddie said opioid settlement funds could be the most feasible route if general fund appropriations are likely to be limited.
Commissioners asked program staff to: (1) trim the combined budget to reduce the county footprint, (2) secure commitments or letters of intent from neighboring counties and from Representative Ward's office, and (3) return quickly with a refined appropriation request. Several commissioners expressed support for pursuing opioid funds and continuing to pursue other state assistance for public defenders.
Next steps: staff to engage county partners, refine budget, and coordinate a legislative appropriation approach with local legislators; commissioners set a short timeline for county partner buy-in.
