Bernalillo County revises juvenile cost‑of‑care agreement with Sandoval County, retains cost‑of‑care revenue

Bernalillo County commissioners approved the introduction of a revised intergovernmental agreement (IGA) on Jan. 13 that will change the county’s juvenile cost‑of‑care arrangement with Sandoval County.

Director Tamara Markantel said the 2009 agreement previously yielded about $1,069,000 from Sandoval County and required Bernalillo County to remit 70% of revenue from other cost‑of‑care contracts back to Sandoval. Under the revised agreement introduced Jan. 13, Sandoval County’s contribution would be lowered to $700,000 and Bernalillo County would retain all cost‑of‑care revenue generated by the youth services center. Staff estimated Sandoval placements average one to two youth per month.

Commissioners pressed on risk and liability concerns — specifically whether Bernalillo County would assume liability for incidents involving out‑of‑county youth housed in the facility. Staff said they would research liability provisions and report back to commissioners before final action. The revised agreement and accompanying budget resolutions were moved and passed on unanimous voice votes.

Why it matters: the county operates one of three juvenile detention centers in the state and is a regional provider; retaining cost‑of‑care revenue will increase general‑fund receipts but reduces Sandoval County’s payment. Commissioners asked staff to provide additional detail on daily cost‑of‑care calculations and any liability exposure associated with housing out‑of‑county youth.

The commission approved the introduction and related budget motions and moved the item toward final approval.