SFHSS director highlights EAP support after library suicide, introduces new COO and dependent‑eligibility audit

Executive Director Abby Yant used the May 12 meeting to preview several operational items and to acknowledge frontline support after a recent local tragedy.

Yant said staff is preparing a draft strategic plan for board review in August and a final version for September. She described a phased dependent‑eligibility verification audit being rolled out as a pilot to about 600 members so staff can refine process and reduce disruption.

Operations and leadership: Yant introduced Ray Guillen as the new chief operating officer (fourth week on the job). Guillen said he brings HR and public‑sector experience and looks forward to working with staff and carrier partners.

EAP response and mental‑health work: Yant and commissioners discussed Mental Health Awareness Month and the Health Service System’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) response to an urgent request from the main public library following a suicide. Yant read a note of thanks describing EAP staff Jeanette Longton and Jeff Littner’s work facilitating two large sessions and follow‑up support. "Jeanette Longton and Jeff Littner were here yesterday morning at 08:30AM to engage scores of library personnel in 2 sessions," Yant said, reading the mayor’s office acknowledgment. EAP counselor Jeanette Longton told the board the team feels honored to serve and described the sessions as a “sacred space” for staff to grieve and receive licensed counseling.

Why it matters: the updates affect SFHSS operations and member services — the dependent‑eligibility audit has potential fiscal implications; the COO hire affects operational continuity; and EAP’s work is a near‑term response to staff trauma and a recurring city support responsibility.

What comes next: staff will return with the dependent‑eligibility pilot outcomes and the draft strategic plan in upcoming meetings; the board commended staff and EAP for their rapid response and outreach.