The city of San Diego extended its contract with Volunteers of America (VOA) to continue providing community services for the inebriated.
San Diego is aware of the negative impact public inebriation causes to the community and downtown tourist areas. The Police Department stated these instances are viewed as mental health and behavioral issues not warranting incarceration.
A “Sleep Off” is provided by VOA at a designated, drop-off center, as needed and as determined by the police. The center offers services that allow the inebriated a treatment bed for a minimum of four hours.
Once the individual is sober, the VOA Center provides resources such as counseling and materials related to alcoholism and other drug use.
The center operates 24 hours a day allowing Police drop-off. The VOA services an estimated 8,000 clients annually.
The extension will cost the city $130,000 in FY2011 and another $60,000 in FY2012. The total contract breakdown is shown below.
COST SUMMARY: Prior Agreement Cost
FY2009: $200,000
FY2010: $200,000
Future Agreement Cost
FY2011: $130,000
FY2012: $60,000
FY2013: $0
Total: $590,000
The city executed this service in 2009 under the direction and guidance of the Police Department. The approved resolution can be viewed here.
Louis Dettorre can be reached at ldettorre@publicCEO.com This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.