j_cdc_2018a_2018-01-09t08:07:57z0 Hearing Summary

The committee was called to order. A quorum was present. Mr. Reggie Bicha, Executive Director, Department of Human Services (DHS), provided an overview of an FY 2018-19 proposal to relocate the Grand Junction Regional Center, and to close the current center's campus. Director Bicha was joined by Ms. Sarah Wager, Director of Administrative Solutions, and Mr. Mark Wester, Director for the Office of Community Access and Independence. Committee members received a packet of presentation slides, prepared by DHS Staff (Attachment A), and a written description of the proposal, prepared by Legislative Council Staff (Attachment B). Director Bicha responded to questions regarding the current census of the Grand Junction Regional Center. Director Bicha returned to explaining the process by which DHS plans to transition from the Grand Junction Regional Center to a number of group homes. Discussion ensued regarding the values of various properties involved in the proposal.

Ms. Wager provided input on the property transaction issue. Director Bicha returned to briefing the committee on the Grand Junction Regional Center transition proposal. Mr. Wester responded to questions regarding the staffing implications associated with building four, six-bedroom homes to replace the regional center's residential space. Discussion ensued on this point, and the various options for building group homes.

Director Bicha returned to briefing the committee on the Grand Junction Regional Center transition proposal. Director Bicha responded to questions regarding the timeline for the transition. Director Bicha outlined all of the options considered for transitioning out of the regional center. Discussion ensued regarding the merits and detriments of the various options.

Director Bicha continued to discuss the various options available for transitioning away from the Grand Junction Regional Center campus. Ms. Wager responded to questions regarding the value of the campus. Director Bicha discussed the funding scheme for the project. Discussion ensued regarding the costs associated with the transition and operating the new group homes. Director Bicha discussed the day programming functions for the residents once DHS moves them from the regional center. Discussion followed regarding how to best transition these programs.

Director Bicha wrapped up by reiterating the plan selected by DHS for transitioning away from the Grand Junction Regional Center. Discussion ensued regarding the options available for the use or disposal of a DHS-owned property at 29 Road in Grand Junction.

The committee recessed.