Commission approves grievance policy, transportation contract and multiple grants to expand local services

At its Oct. 4 meeting the San Francisco DAS Aging Services Commission approved several action items by unanimous roll-call votes, including formal adoption of a consumer grievance process and authorization of contracts and grant modifications to maintain and expand services.

Mike Zogg presented Program Memorandum No. 33 (the department’s consumer grievance process), noting the California Department of Aging requested formal commission adoption of the longstanding policy. Zogg said most grievances are resolved at provider level and DOS typically tracks 10–20 second-level grievances per year; commissioners asked staff to clarify filing timeframes and contact information on provider notices. The commission adopted the policy.

Sandra Teixeira requested authorization to contract with Bridal Trans for high-risk transports for the Public Conservator and Adult Protective Services for 1/1/2024–6/30/2025 in an amount not to exceed $200,000. Commissioners queried whether Care Court might increase demand; Teixeira said staff will monitor petitions and return if an amendment is needed. The contract was approved.

The commission also approved a new ADRC grant for Supervisorial District 6 to the Independent Living Resource Center of San Francisco for $134,000 (plus 10% contingency) to cover services through 6/30/2024; presenters noted ILRCSF’s language capacity and experience serving seniors and people with disabilities. Finally, DAS approved a modification to the Self Help for the Elderly senior-escort program to add $404,000 (revising the total to not exceed $3,344,000) to expand services citywide in response to safety and mobility needs.

All items were approved unanimously by roll call. Staff committed to follow up on timeframes and signage in the grievance memorandum and to monitor service demand related to Care Court and escorts programming.