Kern County approves sole-source contract for LGBTQ+ outreach after mixed public comment

Kern County'9s Board of Supervisors approved a sole-source agreement on June 16 to fund outreach and supportive behavioral-health services for LGBTQ+ residents, following staff testimony that the population had been identified in stakeholder processes as underserved and at elevated risk.

Allison Burrows, director of Behavioral Health Resources, told the board that stakeholder input and data pointed to higher rates of suicide, homelessness and barriers to care among LGBTQ+ youth in Kern County. She said the department had a statutory responsibility under the Behavioral Health Services Act to engage underserved populations and that the Center for Sexuality and Gender Diversity was identified through that stakeholder process.

Public commenters were divided. Several speakers urged the board to approve the contract on the grounds that outreach and supportive services can save lives and provide social and health services to vulnerable youth. One commenter also urged the board to ensure that funds be targeted to services rather than promotion. "Anybody that's experiencing mental hardship or any kind of physical difficulties should be cared for," said a public speaker, while asking that public funds focus on direct services.

Supervisor Perez moved to approve staff'9s recommendation and the board voted unanimously to authorize the agreement. Staff encouraged community members to participate in ongoing stakeholder meetings to help shape program details.

What happens next: Behavioral Health staff will implement the agreement and continue stakeholder engagement to define service priorities, reporting and use of funds.