Special Notice / Hearing: None__
Vote Required: Majority
To: Honorable Board of Supervisors
From: Supervisor David J. Canepa, District 5
Supervisor Noelia Corzo, District 2
Subject: Appointments to the Behavioral Health Commission (fka Mental Health and Substance Abuse Recovery Commission)
RECOMMENDATION:
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Recommendation for appointments to the Behavioral Health Commission, each for an initial partial term ending September 30, 2026:
A) Sidhartha Palani; and
B) Rubi Garcia; and
C) Lavanya Poreddy, representing Public member.
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BACKGROUND:
The Behavioral Health Commission reviews and evaluates the County's mental health and substance abuse disorders needs, services, facilities and special problems. The Commission advises the Board of Supervisors and the Behavioral Health and Recovery Services Director on any aspect of the local mental health program, reviews and approves procedures used to ensure citizen and professional involvement at all stages of the planning process and submits an annual report to the Board of Supervisors on the needs and performance of the County's mental health system.
The Commission consists of up to 22 members, 19 of whom are appointed by the Board of Supervisors representing family members, consumers/clients, veterans, professionals and interested residents. With respect to the remaining three members, one shall be a member of the Board of Supervisors, and two shall be members of the County's Youth Commission. By State law, at least 50% of the 19 members appointed by the Board must be consumers or family members of consumers of mental health services.
DISCUSSION:
At the recommendation of the reviewing committee of the Behavioral Health Commission, Sidhartha Palani and Rubi Garcia are being recommended to serve in client seats. Lavanya Poreddy is being recommended for appointment to serve as the Board-appointed Public member.
Sidhartha Palani is a committed community servant and accomplished techno...
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