A resolution requesting the Director of the Department of Social Services and the Metropolitan Social Services Commission to hold a public hearing before the Metropolitan Council prior to transferring any services as part of the implementation of the Maximus audit recommendations for the Social Services Department.

WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Government contracted with Maximus to conduct a performance audit of the Metropolitan Social Services Department; and

WHEREAS, Maximus released its Social Services performance audit report in May 2004, which identified a number of services and programs that were being duplicated by other Metro agencies or nonprofit organizations, and made certain recommendations regarding the transfer of certain services provided by the Social Services Department; and

WHEREAS, some of the changes to the Social Services Department recommended by Maximus involves the transfer of the Knowles Home to the Hospital Authority, the transfer of parts of Family Services to the Metropolitan Action Commission, and transfers in the Homemaker and Nutrition Services programs; and

WHEREAS, many citizens that would be affected by these proposed changes, as well as Members of Council, have expressed serious concerns about the transfer of these essential services from the Metro Social Services Department; and

WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that a public hearing be held before the Metropolitan Council prior to the transfer of any services currently provided by the Social Services Department to ensure that all affected citizens have an opportunity to express their concerns.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

Section 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Director of the Department of Social Services and the Metropolitan Social Services Commission to hold a public hearing before the Metropolitan Council prior to transferring any services as part of the implementation of the Maximus audit recommendations for the Social Services Department.

Section 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a certified copy of this Resolution to Ms. Gerri Robinson, the Executive Director of the Social Services Department, and to each member of the Metropolitan Social Services Commission.

Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Brenda Gilmore