Laserfiche WebLink
Ms. Smith explained there are approximately 25 0 children in out-of-home placement <br />currently in Cass County. Approximately 68 are in kinship placement, and 50 of those are <br />in process of terminating parental rights. RSR Human Services Zone Director Lynn Flieth <br />explained that in January, the Child Welfare supervisors presented on the complex issues <br />that agencies are facing regarding place children out of the home. The Children's Cabinet, <br />which includes legislative members and the Lieutenant Governor, is showing interest and <br />concern in the barriers, but admit they are unsure of potential solutions. <br />Staff were asked if Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch (DBGR) or the West Central Juvenile <br />Detention Center (WCJDC) in Moorhead, MN would be an option for placements. Ms. <br />Smith explained the agency routinely submits applications for DBGR, but a third-party <br />referral is required. Ms. Flieth also explained many are not accepted into DBGR due to <br />disqualifying characteristics, such as cognitive impairments and sexualized behaviors. To <br />be placed at WCJDC, a minor would need significant criminal charges filed against them. <br />When asked, both Ms. Smith and Ms. Cowley reported seeing much more complex issues <br />with families to include mental health, chemical dependency, and domestic violence. <br />Families are more mobile and have less supports in the community. <br />Ms. Kommer inquired if there was anywhere that currently had a best practice model that <br />was showing any promise. Ms. Flieth responded that she was not aware of one. <br />Chair Bollinger expressed her gratitude to all Family Service staff for their work and to Ms. <br />Smith and Ms. Cowley sharing with the Board. <br />Ill. Personnel Update <br />Heather Collins, Executive Staff Officer, provided a brief update regarding current open <br />positions. There have been five resignations since Feb ruary 2022, with three new staff <br />beginning today in Family Services. There are 12 positions in varying stages of hiring and <br />onboarding. Ms. Collins reported to be continually busy with all activities related to this <br />process. It was asked if the agency continues to receive several applicants for these open <br />positions and whether the turnover is slowing down. Ms. Collins expressed optimism in <br />the quality of applicants continuing but states it is hard to tell whether the turnover is <br />slowing down. She will be working on getting updated statistics for the Board members. <br />IV. Director's Report <br />Chair Bollinger submitted the updated Zone Plan to the State. The plan was originally <br />approved in 2020. Being there were no major changes, there was not a need for Zone <br />Board approval. <br />Chair Bollinger attended a the COVID and Safety Net Innovation (CASI) TA Initiative site <br />launch meeting on March 2nd and 3rd. Cass County Human Service Zone, RSR Human <br />Service Zone, Agassiz Valley Human Service Zone, Southeastern North Dakota Community <br />Action (SE N DCAA) and Job Service -Fargo have been selected to be part of the nationally <br />project that focuses on identify gaps and addressing barriers to families accessing TANF <br />and other resources.