Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: 4/5
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Michael P. Callagy, County Executive
Subject: Measure K Agreement with Ombudsman Services of San Mateo County to provide core services to residents of long-term care facilities
RECOMMENDATION:
title
Measure K: Recommendation to:
A) Adopt a resolution authorizing a grant agreement with Ombudsman Services of San Mateo County to provide core services to residents of long-term care facilities for the term of February 11, 2025 to February 10, 2026 in an amount not to exceed $150,000, and authorizing the County Executive, or designee, to execute the grant agreement; and
B) Approve an Appropriation Transfer Request (ATR) in the amount of $150,000 appropriating Measure K funds from Non-Departmental Services Reserves to Non-Departmental Services Miscellaneous Other Contributions in support of Ombudsman Services of San Mateo County.
body
BACKGROUND:
Ombudsman Services of San Mateo County (OSSMC) provides services to over 9,000 residents in 420 long term care facilities in San Mateo County through onsite monitoring and complaint investigation and resolution. It is a federally mandated program established in 2009 to ensure the protection of residents of long-term care facilities (including nursing homes, board & care, and care facilities for the physically and mentally disabled) through advocacy, direct intervention, and education. It is the only program in San Mateo County dedicated to advocating for the dignity and quality of life of people living in licensed residential care facilities for the elderly and skilled nursing facilities.
Ombudsman serves as a trusted resource for residents and family members to turn to for information and help resolving issues. Since 60% of the residents in these facilities have no visitors, the services Ombudsman provides are of immense value to this community. Their specially trained and state certified volunteers monitor, investigate and resolve cases involving long-term care residents. The volunteer ombudsmen regularly visit local facilities and speak directly with residents. The program ensures that every person living in a residential care or skilled nursing facility in San Mateo County has someone on their side under the belief that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, valued and supported, so they can enjoy their best quality of life. Ombudsman’s services are essential to preventing abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the County’s most vulnerable residents.
DISCUSSION:
The Ombudsman program, while federally mandated, relies entirely on state, county, and private funding to operate. Grant funding is critical to sustain its essential services and to address service gaps that have been identified within the San Mateo County community. This funding is pivotal in ensuring the most vulnerable residents, including elderly and disabled individuals in long-term care facilities, receive the comprehensive support they need. The Board previously approved a district-discretionary grant of $100,000.00 to the Ombudsman in May 2024 for the purpose of maintaining grantee’s existing essential services from May 2024 to June 30, 2025. The Board is requested to approve a grant of $150,000.00 in Measure K funds at this time in order to maintain grantee’s core services through February 10, 2026 and to allow grantee to expand its services as set forth below.
With adequate funding, the program can enhance its advocacy efforts in Advanced Healthcare Planning and Elder Abuse Prevention, both of which are essential to safeguarding the health, safety, and rights of at-risk individuals. Additionally, funding will allow the program to recruit, train, and meaningfully engage volunteers, amplifying its impact and building a more resilient support network for the community.
Investing in the Ombudsman program not only upholds a federally mandated service but also strengthens San Mateo County’s commitment to equity and holistic care for its most underserved populations, ensuring no one is left without the resources and advocacy they deserve.
PERFORMANCE MEASURE:
Performance Measure |
Target |
Continuity of Ombudsman services (such as visiting patients and responding to any concerns or complaints) to patients in long-term care facilities in San Mateo County. |
100% Complete |
The County Attorney’s Office has reviewed and approved the agreement and resolution as to form.
EQUITY IMPACT:
The Ombudsman program is a vital advocate for equity and dignity, ensuring that elderly and disabled residents in long-term care facilities have fair and equitable access to essential medical, social, and support services. By promoting resident-centered care, the program works to safeguard the rights and well-being of some of the most vulnerable members of the community.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The grant agreement will be funded from Measure K Reserves and there are sufficient Reserves for this request. There is no Net County Cost associated with this action.