Carteret County approves startup funds for Alzheimer�27s respite program at Leon Mann Center

The Carteret County Board of Commissioners voted Feb. 16 to appropriate $19,000 to start an Alzheimer27s respite program at the Leon Mann Center, approving funds to hire a part-time program director and prepare a one-day-per-week, four-hour nonmedical program intended to give caregivers short-term relief.

Shelley Ashley, who led the staff presentation, described the program as "not adult day care" but a respite offering focused on activities and socialization for residents with Alzheimer27s. Ashley said the model the county reviewed across other North Carolina programs is intended to start conservatively and expand if demand grows; she said the program would be scheduled by appointment and carry a $40 participation fee.

Dr. Randall Williams and Ashley told commissioners the tentative timeline calls for hiring a director by April 1, three months of volunteer recruitment and a planned opening on July 1 if the board approves start-up funding this fiscal year. Ashley said the county will need roughly 40 volunteers and about 10 volunteers on a program day to operate the model safely.

Commissioner Waldroup moved to appropriate the $19,000 amendment to cover startup costs and hire a part-time program manager; Commissioner Quinn seconded the motion. After discussion about whether to delay until budget season, the board voted and the motion carried.

County staff told the board the Home and Community Care Block Grant is a likely long-term sustainment source once the program is running but will not cover start-up expenses. Staff also noted certain facility adaptations are required, including alarmed exits and comfortable seating to accommodate participants with wandering risk.

Next steps include posting the part-time program director position, recruiting volunteers, and returning to the board with more detailed budget information during the upcoming budget process.