Linn County approves Anaheim Security renewal for Mental Health Access Center; funding covered by state contract

The Linn County Board of Supervisors approved a service agreement with the Anaheim Corporation to provide security assistance at the Linn County Mental Health Access Center.

Erin Foster, director of the Mental Health Access Center, described the item as "an updated contract for Anaheim Security work at the access center" and said, "It's technically a renewal. We've had services with them for several years." Foster told the board the contract timing was adjusted to move from a calendar-year ending contract to a fiscal-year ending contract and that the parties updated limited language on liability responsibilities and how notification works if either party ends the contract.

Foster said funding for the security services is part of the county's state funding arrangements: "This is actually part of our state funding that we have with HHS and the, Iowa PCA, the Administrative Services Organization. So all of it is reimbursed to Linn County through our contract that we have with the state." The board's discussion did not identify any additional local budgetary impacts.

Supervisor Marquardt praised the center's work and emphasized access details for residents: "The address is 501 13th Street Northwest, Cedar Rapids Iowa. It is located at the foothills of Roosevelt Middle School. ... You can also call there. Their phone number is (319) 892-5612." He described the center as a "safe and private place" that serves people across eastern Iowa and offers walk-in services regardless of insurance status.

An unidentified board member moved to approve and authorize Supervisor Kirsten to sign the service agreement retroactive to December 29; the motion was seconded and carried on a voice vote.

The board took no further formal action on the item beyond the approval and moved on to other business.