Hood River County approves $304,150 LEAD deflection program to expand crisis intervention

The Hood River County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Sept. 16 to create the Hood River/Wasco LEAD deflection program, approve associated positions and accept a $304,150 award from the Oregon Criminal Justice Commission to fund the effort.

Jamie Hepner, Hood River County parole and probation director, presented the LEAD proposal during the work session, describing it as a deflection program intended to connect people with behavioral-health and social services instead of arrest when appropriate. The staff packet contains program details and the proposed budget adjustment.

Commissioner Moretti moved to approve the program; Commissioner Muenzer seconded. The Board’s recorded vote was five in favor, none opposed. The motion authorized creation of the positions and a budget adjustment to reflect the $304,150 award.

The decision authorizes county staff to implement the program steps identified in the presentation and to proceed with hiring for the approved positions. No additional details about hiring timelines or the specific positions were provided in the public record beyond the packet materials.