HomeMy WebLinkAbout20000932.tiff RESOLUTION
RE: APPROVE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR WELD COUNTY
COLORADO WORKS PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZE CHAIR TO SIGN
WHEREAS, the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado, pursuant to
Colorado statute and the Weld County Home Rule Charter, is vested with the authority of
administering the affairs of Weld County, Colorado, and
WHEREAS, the Board has been presented with a Memorandum of Understanding for
the Weld County Colorado Works Program between the County of Weld, State of Colorado, by
and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on behalf of the Department
of Social Services, and the Colorado Department of Human Services, commencing January 1,
2000, and ending December 31, 2000, with further terms and conditions being as stated in said
Memorandum of Understanding, and
WHEREAS, after review, the Board deems it advisable to approve said Memorandum of
Understanding, a copy of which is attached hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of
Weld County, Colorado, ex-officio Board of Social Services, that the Memorandum of
Understanding for the Weld County Colorado Works Program between the County of Weld,
State of Colorado, by and through the Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, on
behalf of the Department of Social Services, and the Colorado Department of Human Services
be, and hereby is, approved.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the Board that the Chair be, and hereby is, authorized
to sign said Memorandum of Understanding.
The above and foregoing Resolution was, on motion duly made and seconded, adopted
by the following vote on the 26th day of April, A.D., 2000, nunc pro tunc January 1, 2000.
BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
W LD COUNTY, COLORADO
ATTEST: 14/4// . ��� i% 44,, A
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�. iBarbara J. Pkmeyer, Chair
Weld County Clerk to th
11 yr • j Y;. . J. ;ile, Pro-Tem
Deputy Clerk to the Bo ll
Georg E. Baxter
APPROVED AST •
Dale K. Hall
County Attorn
Atat
Glen Vn and
2000-0932
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DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES O X A
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1 BO GREELEY,CO
Administration and Public Assistance(970)352-1551
iiiID Child Support(970)352-6933
C. MEMORANDUM
COLORADO
TO: Barbara J. Kirkmeyer, Chair Date: April 24, 2000
Board of County Commissioners
FR: Judy A. Griego, Director, Social Services `J 0
RE: Colorado Works Memorandum of Understanding Between the
Colorado Department of Human Services and the Board of County
Commissioners, Weld County, Colorado
Enclosed for Board approval is the Colorado Works Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) between the Colorado Department of Human Services and the Board of County
Commissioners, Weld County, Colorado.
The MOU meets the requirement of an annual performance contract between the parties
for the operation of the Colorado Works Program in Weld County.
1. The Weld County Department of Social Services recommends that the work
participation rates be left blank and be accompanied with a narrative that Weld
County will meet participation rates that meet the Federal participation rate minus
the caseload reduction factors.
2. The Weld County Department of Social Services recommends that the narrative
description for Weld County's plan for Calendar Year 2000 (Attachment A-O)
primarily reference the Board approved Section 6.000, Colorado Works in Weld
County and Child Care Policies and Procedures, Weld County Department of
Social Services Operations Manual. Section 6.000 would be included as part of
the MOU.
If you have any questions, please telephone me at extension 6510.
STATE OF COLORADO
COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
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Office of the Executive Director �� v �
1575 Sherman Street F' � l 81
Denver,Colorado 80203-1714
Phone: (303)866-5096 e'� ,,,✓i�w!
FAX: (303)866-4740
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Bill Olden.
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March 17,2000
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Commissioner Dale Hall, Chair
Weld County Board of County Commissioners
PO Box 758
Greeley,CO 80632-0758
Dear Commissioner Hall,
Enclosed is the final version of the Memorandum of Understanding(MOU)between the Colorado Department of
Human Services(CDHS)and each county to fulfill Section 26-2-715 C.R.S.that requires each party to enter into an
annual performance contract for operation of the Colorado Works program. As you know,both the Department and
Colorado Counties, Inc.(CCI)have reached agreement on this version of the MOU and we request that you sign the
MOU and retum it to the Department by April 30,2000.
As you can see,the work participation rates have been left blank in the MOU. The work participation rate for all
families for the period of January I - September 30,2000 is 40%. For the period of October 1 -December 31,2000
the rate is 45%. The two-parent rate is 90%for the entire year. Counties may choose to negotiate different rates;
however, in order to meet these federal performance standards,the statewide average for all county rates must"add
up"to these federal rates. If a county wishes to negotiate a rate lower than the federal rate,this can only be
accomplished if another county is willing to negotiate a higher rate to make up the difference. In these cases, it is
incumbent upon the counties to initiate negotiations between themselves and inform the Department.
Also enclosed are the attachments(Attachments A-O)that outline the requests for your county's plan for calendar
year 2000. We would like to receive a complete set for this year as soon as possible,but understand that it may be
difficult for all counties to do this by April 30th. We would appreciate receiving copies of these attachments as soon
as is reasonably possible. These attachments will also be e-mailed to you and your staff so that you may fill them
out electronically. If you don't receive an electronic version of the attachments,please call Dan Daly at(303)866-
5821 or send him an e-mail message to dan.dalv(state.co.us. Upon request,we will also mail you a disk of these
attachments. Please include a complete set of your county written policies in compliance with 5B99-071 for your
Colorado Works and Child Care Assistance Program as well. Once we have received your signed MOU along with
copies of your plan and policies,I will sign the MOU and return a signed copy to you.
Thank you for your interest and cooperation in this process.
S. rely,
s
xecutiv irector
cc: County Director Z I :I kid LE L4 G7
Enc. MOU
Attachments A-O
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
The State of Colorado Department of Human Services
and
The Board of County Commissioners of Weld County, Colorado
This Memorandum of Understanding (or "MOU") made this day of
, between the State of Colorado Department of Human Services (the
"Department") and the Board of County Commissioners of we 1 d County,
Colorado (the"County').
WHEREAS, the Department is the sole state agency having the responsibility to
administer or supervise the administration of the human services programs set forth in
§26-1-201, C.R.S. (1999); and
WHEREAS, the Colorado General Assembly enacted Senate Bill 97-120 in
response to the passage of the federal "Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity
Reconciliation Act of 1996" and thereby adopted the Colorado Works Program (the
"Works Program") and the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (the "Child Care
Program"); and
WHEREAS, §26-2-715, C.R.S- (1999), requires the Department and the County
to enter into an annual performance contract identifying the County's duties and
responsibilities in implementing the Works Program and the Child Care Program; and
WHEREAS,nothing in this MOU shall create a legal entitlement in any person to
assistance provided pursuant to the Works Program or the child care assistance provided
pursuant to the Child Care Program; and
WHEREAS, the parties understand and agree that the services and assistance
contemplated in this MOU are subject to available appropriations by the General
Assembly and the County, and neither party shall be obligated to provide services or
assistance if adequate appropriations have not been made; and
WHEREAS, the State Controller has approved execution of this MOU without
State Controller examination pursuant to the State fiscal rules.
NOW,THEREFORE, it is agreed that:
d17 O -O932
1. .MOU MEETS PERFORMANCE CONTRACT REQUIREMENT.
The parties hereto specifically agree that the provisions of this MOU in their entirety•
constitute compliance with the provisions of§26-2-715, C.R.S. (1999).
2. TERM.
The term of this MOO will be from January 1,2000 to and including December 31,2000.
3. DUTIES OF rut, COUNTY.
a) The County shall administer and implement the Works Program and the Child
Care Program using fair and objective criteria and in compliance with federal
law; and
b) The County shall not reduce the basic assistance grant administered pursuant to
§26-2-709, C.R.S. (1999), except as otherwise provided by law; and
c) The County shall not restrict eligibility or the provisions of services, nor shall it
impose sanctions, in a manner inconsistent with Part 7 of Article 2 of Title 26,
C.R.S. (1999), or the State Plan submitted by the Department to the federal
government pursuant to §26-2-712, C.R.S. (1999); and
d) For the term of this MOU from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2000, the
County shall achieve a work participation rate of * percent ( %) for all
families and a work participation rate of ** percent ( %) for two-
parent families. The percentages contained in this paragraph (d) represent the
maximum work participation rates to which the County may be held during the
term of this MOU. By agreeing to these rates, the Department acknowledges
that, to the best of its knowledge or ability to know at the time this MOU is
executed, achievement of these rates will allow the Department to meet any work
participation rates imposed on the Department by the federal government.
Further, the Department agrees to establish, automatically adjust, and transmit to
the County a correctly-determined pro-rata caseload reduction credit for the
County no later than thirty days after receipt of such information by the
Department from the federal government for use in negotiating an amendment to
* County shall achieve a participation rate that is equal to the Federal required
participation rate minus the appropriate caseload reduction factor for all families.
** The County will also achieve a participation rate for two-parent families that is
equal to the required Federal participation rate minus the appropriate caseload
reduction factor.
2 •
this MOU reflecting the reduction to the work participation rate caused by the
pro-rata caseload reduction credit; and
e) The parties acknowledge that the work participation rate is, as of the signing of
this MOU, the only performance goal identified pursuant to §26-2-712(4), C.R.S.
(1999); and
f) The County shall maintain the records, and shall permit the Department, its duly
designated agents and/or appropriate representatives of the federal government,
to inspect the records and shall make such records available to the Department as-
specified in §26-2-717, C.R.S. (1999). The County shall also continue to report
to the Department as required by §§26-2-716, 26-2-717, C.R.S. (1999), and shall
report to the Department in the future as required by law; and
g) The County agrees to provide the Department with written information as
specified herein. The County may, in its sole discretion, change the way in
which it implements the Works and Child Care Programs in any manner
consistent with state and federal law. The County agrees to provide the
Department with updated written information, when or if changes to these
Programs are made. At a minimum, the County agrees to provide information to
the Department as requested on Attachments A through O and the County agrees
to provide the County policies adopted by the County as required by §26-2-716
(2.5), C.R.S. (1999). The County agrees to provide the information and policies
specified in this paragraph (g) to the Department within thirty (30) days of their
adoption by the County; and
h) The parties expressly agree and understand that information and policies
provided by the County to the Department as set forth in paragraph (g) above are
for informational purposes and are provided to assist the Department in
discharging its responsibilities with respect to these Programs. Nothing in this
MOU gives the Departnient the authority to approve, deny or require any County
policies. The County acknowledges the Department's right to review, comment
upon or request reasonable additional information or clarification of any such
County policies or records. Such requests shall be made in writing and directed
to the County department of social services director. The County asserts that it
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will consider such comments in its implementation of these Programs without
being obligated to incorporate in its Programs any Department comments or
suggestions.
4. DUTIES OF THE DEPARTMENT.
a) The Department shall oversee the implementation of the Works Program
statewide, and in connection therewith, shall develop, in consultation with the
Counties, standardized forms that shall streamline the application process,-
delivery of services, and tacking of participants; and
b) The Department will monitor the County's provision of basic assistance grants,
and if necessary, perform those duties set forth in §26-2-712(5)(e), C.R.S.
(1999); and
c) The Department shall develop and provide training for Works Program staff as
required by §26-2-712(7), C.R.S. (1999); and
d)(i) Actions subject to sanction or remediation. Subject to the other
limitations set forth herein, the Department may impose sanctions or develop a
remediation plan as provided in this MOU if the actions of the County result in
the County:
(A) Failing to maintain the minimum cash assistance grant to a family in which
the single caretaker of a child under six years of age has not complied with work
requirements due to an inability to obtain needed child care as determined by the
County or in violation of federal law.
(B) Misusing federal or state Works Program or Child Care Program funds,
including receipts or recoveries that are not reported, where a federal or state law
or regulation enacted before the use of the funds requires the funds to be spent-in
a different way. County Works Program and Child Care Program funds that are
misused will not qualify toward meeting the County maintenance of effort or
County share requirements.
(C) Failing to satisfy work participation rates as contained in this MOU.
(D) In violation of state or federal law, reducing the basic assistance grant,
restricting eligibility or the provision of services, or imposing sanctions in a
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manner inconsistent with state law or a state plan, which is in compliance with
federal law.
(E) Failing to comply with any other provision of the Colorado Works Program if
such failure causes the Department to incur a federal fiscal sanction.
(ii) Limitations on Sanctions for Failure to Meet Work Participation Rate.
(A) If the Department is sanctioned by the federal government for failing to meet
the state work participation rate, the Department may impose a sanction on the
County as provided in paragraph 4(d)(iii) of this MOU. However, if the federal-
government does not sanction the Department and the County fails to achieve the
negotiated work participation rate for the County, then the provisions for a
remediation plan contained in paragraph 4(d)(iv) apply. In any case in which the
Department is considering a sanction or remediation plan for the County due to
the County's failure to achieve its work participation rate, the Department shall
first follow the procedures for determining whether the County made a good faith
effort to achieve its work participation rate as outlined in paragraph (B) of this
paragraph (ii).
(B) The Department shall not impose a sanction on the County for the County's
failure to meet its work participation rate if the Department determines that the
County made a reasonable and good faith effort towards meeting its work
participation rate. In making this determination, the Department, without
limitation, shall consider documentation of the following: Implementation of a
County defined and approved process for moving clients through the welfare to
work system using the full range of countable federal work activities,
implementation of a County procedure for encouraging participation at the
required number of hours, such as incentives for meeting individual responsibility
contract (IRC) hour commitments, an assessment and an IRC for all Works
Program participants, accurate and timely data entry of COIN and CACTIS
systems for all Works program participants, including proper coding and work
participation data tracking,any other documentation which may demonstrate good
faith effort, and County identification of problems in performance and
implementation of an action plan to improve performance. The Department shall
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r.
investigate and make a determination as to whether the County has made such a
reasonable and good faith effort prior to imposing any sanction or remediation
plan for this reason. The Department shall not sanction or develop a remediation
plan for the County's failure to meet its work participation rate unless the
Department has found that the County did not make a reasonable and good faith
effort towards meeting its work participation rate.
(iii) Sanction Procedures when Department has been Sanctioned. In any instance
where the Department determines that the County has failed in an obligation-
specified in paragraph 4(d)(i) of this MOU, causing the Department to incur a fiscal
sanction and the Department is considering a fiscal sanction against the County, the
Department shall proceed as follows:
(A) The Department shall provide the County thirty (30) days written notice of
the proposed sanction before imposing any fiscal sanction. Such written notice
shall include: 1) All of the reasons for the imposition of the sanction; 2)
Documentation specifying how the sanction was calculated, and documentation
supporting the amount of the sanction; 3) A specific indication of what constitutes
a remedy or correction that will allow the County to avert the sanction, if any
remedy or correction is possible; and 4) An acknowledgement that if the County
remedies or corrects the sanctionable action as set forth in the notice, a sanction
will not be imposed by the Department. The corrective action contained in the
notice shall be specific to the action giving rise to the sanction, and shall not
extend beyond such violation. Upon receiving such notice, the County shall have
the opportunity within thirty (30) days to contest, explain, offer evidence of
mitigating factors, and/or submit a plan to correct the alleged failure before the
Department imposes the sanction.
(B) If the County corrective action plan has not eliminated the performance
problem, the Department shall negotiate a County remediation corrective action
plan (RCAP) with the board of County commissioners for the County. The
RCAP shall be designed not as a punitive measure, but, instead, as an effort to
further the mutual goal of the Department and the County to achieve successful
operation of MOU-related programs. The negotiated RCAP shall include a
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sufficient deployment of resources, which may include fiscal resources, over a
specified period of time agreed to between the Department and the County to •
meaningfully attempt to correct the performance problem. If the agreement
includes deployment of fiscal resources, the County shall determine the source of
such fiscal resources. Such fiscal resources expended by the County shall not be
considered a "financial sanction" as contemplated by section 26-2-716(4)(b),
C.R.S. (1999). The amount of the resources committed shall be: Mutually agreed
• upon, adequate to meaningfully attempt to correct the performance problem, and-
shall not exceed the amount for a fiscal sanction calculated by the Department in
paragraph 4d(iii)(A). The RCAP shall be agreed to within thirty (30) days of
failure of the corrective action plan specified in paragraph 4d(iii)(A). In the event
the Department and County cannot agree to a RCAP, the Department shall be
authorized to proceed with the sanction against the County as identified in
paragraph 4d(iii)(A).
(C ) If the County fails to correct the action, and a sanction is imposed, the
Department may impose a sanction for the failure of the County in an amount no
greater than the fiscal sanction imposed by the federal government against the
Department. Additionally, the amount of said sanction cannot exceed the funds
spent by the Department for a sanction incurred because of the County's failure to
meet its obligation. If the Department has incurred a sanction due to the failure of
more than one County to meet its obligations, the County shall only be sanctioned
for its share of the sanction incurred by the Department.
(D) The Department agrees to provide the County with all documents received
from the federal government related to any proposed or imposed federal sanction
within twenty (20) days of receipt by the Department, together with all
Department documents related to the actions giving rise to that federal sanction,
or which relate to the sanction process.
(iv) Remediation Procedure. In any instance where the Department determines that
the County has failed in an obligation specified in paragraph 4(d)(i) of this MOU, the
Department has not incurred a fiscal sanction and the Department is considering a
corrective action for the County, the Department shall proceed as follows:
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(A) The Department shall provide the County thirty (30) days written notice of
the proposed corrective action. Such written notice shall include: 1) All of the -
reasons for the corrective action; 2) Documentation specifying how the corrective
action was determined, and documentation supporting the justification of the
corrective action; 3) A specific indication of what constitutes a remedy or
correction that will allow the County to avert the corrective action, if any remedy
or correction is possible; and 4) An acknowledgment that if the County remedies
or corrects the performance problem identified in the notice, a corrective action-
will not be imposed by the Department. The corrective action contained in the
notice shall be specific to the performance problem giving rise to the corrective
action, and shall not extend beyond such performance problem. Upon receiving
such notice, the County shall have the opportunity within thirty (30) days to
contest, explain, offer evidence of mitigating factors, and/or submit a plan to
correct the alleged failure before the Department imposes the corrective action.
(B) If the County corrective action plan has not eliminated the performance
problem, the Department shall negotiate a County remediation corrective action
plan (RCAP) with the board of county commissioners for the County. The RCAP
shall be designed not as a punitive measure,but, instead, as an effort to further the
mutual goal of the Department and the County to achieve successful operation of
MOU-related programs. The negotiated RCAP shall include a sufficient
deployment of resources, which may include fiscal resources, over a specified
period of time agreed to between the Department and the County to meaningfully
attempt to correct the performance problem. If the agreement includes
deployment of fiscal resources, the County shall determine the source of such
fiscal resources. Such fiscal resources expended by the County shall not be
considered a "financial sanction" as contemplated by section 26-2-716(4)(b),
C.R.S. (1999). The amount of the resources committed shall be: Mutually agreed
upon, adequate to meaningfully attempt to correct the performance problem, and
shall not exceed the amount of resources identified in the corrective action notice
specified in paragraph 4d(iv) (A). The RCAP shall be agreed to within thirty (30)
days of failure of the corrective action plan specified in paragraph 4d(iv)(A). In
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the event the Department and County cannot agree to a RCAF, the Department
shall be authorized to proceed with the corrective action for the County as -
identified in paragraph 4d(iv)(A).
(C) The Department agrees to provide the County with all documents received
from the federal government related to any performance problem within twenty
(20) days of receipt by the Department, together with all Department documents
related to the actions giving rise to the performance problem, or which relate to
the remediation process.
e) The Department (or its duly designated agent) may assume the County's
administration and implementation of the Works Program and the Child Care
Program if the County deliberately or consistently fails to meet its obligations
under this MOU or under federal or state law pertinent to the Works Program or
the Child Care Program. The Department shall provide the County thirty (30)
days written notice before assuming these duties. Upon receiving such notice, the
County shall have the opportunity to contest, explain, offer evidence of mitigating
factors,or to correct the failure before the Department assumes the duties; and
f) The Department shall allocate the amount of moneys that are provided to the
County as part of the County's block grant for the purpose of its administration
and implementation of the Works Program pursuant to the formulas described in
§26-2-714, C.R.S. (1999). Payment of all money so allocated shall be made to
the County in accordance with §26-1-122(3)(b), C.R.S. (1999); and
g) The Department will, in consultation and in conjunction with the County, develop
or modify automated systems to meet the reporting requirements of §26-2-717,
C.R.S. (1999). However, if any automated system developed by the Department
is incompatible with any existing County system, and a reporting error or
discrepancy results, the Department shall not, for that reason, impose sanctions on
the County.
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5. DISCRETIONARY MATTERS REMAIN THE SAME.
The parties agree that all portions of Senate Bill 97-120 that grant discretion to either •
party regarding the administration of the Works or Child Care Programs in the County
shall not be affected by the execution of this MOU.
6. SEVERABILITY.
To the extent that this MOU may be executed and performance of the obligations of the
parties may be accomplished within the intent of the MOU, the terms of the MOU are-
severable, and should any term or provision hereof be declared invalid or become
inoperative for any reason, such invalidity or failure shall not affect the validity of any
other term or provision hereof. The waiver of any breach of term hereof shall not be
construed as a waiver of any other term,or of the same term upon subsequent breach.
7. INTEGRATION OF UNDERSTANDING.
This MOU is intended as the complete integration of the understanding between the
parties concerning the matters negotiated between them and incorporated in this MOU.
No prior or contemporaneous addition, deletion, or other amendment hereto shall have
any force or effect whatsoever unless embodied in writing. No subsequent notation,
renewal, addition, deletion, or other amendment hereto shall have any force or effect
unless embodied in a written amendment executed by the parties.
The parties,however,recognize the nature of the relationship between the County and the
State. This relationship is governed more broadly by pertinent provisions of the Colorado
Constitution and of state statutes and rules, including lawful rules promulgated by the
State Board of Human Services. The parties further recognize that this MOU is not
intended to supersede or change the relationship between the County and the State as
established by any legal authority.
8. NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARY.
Except as herein provided otherwise, this MOU shall inure to the benefit of and be
binding upon, the parties and their respective successors and assigns. It is expressly
10
understood and agreed that the enforcement of the terms and conditions of this MOU, and
all rights of action relating to such enforcement, shall be strictly reserved unto the -
Department and the County, to the extent permitted by law. Nothing contained in this
MOU shall give or allow any claim or right of action whatsoever by any other third
person. It is the express intention of the Department and the County that any such person
or entity, other than the Department or the County, receiving services or benefits under
this MOU shall be deemed an incidental beneficiary only.
9. DISPUTE RESOLUTION.
A. Disputes arising prior to the execution of the MOU
If the parties are unable to reach agreement concerning the inclusion of, or wording of,
provisions of the MOU, either party may refer the dispute to the State Board of Human
Services for resolution pursuant to the provisions of section 26-2-715(3), C.R.S. (1999).
B. Disputes arising after the execution of the MOU
The parties shall work in good faith to resolve a dispute arising from any provision of this
executed MOU. If the parties are unable to resolve such dispute, any of the following
options is available:
1. Either party may ask the Governor to review a disputed issue. Such
review must be initiated by notice provided to the Governor and other party by
certified mail. Such notice must indicate that the parties are deadlocked on the
dispute, and further negotiations between the parties are not likely to be
productive. Such notice shall also contain a copy of the executed MOU, an
outline of the issue(s) involved and a summary of the parties'respective positions.
The Governor may establish a review process, and shall provide a non-binding
resolution based on the actions and equities of each situation. The Governor has
the discretion to decide whether or not to review the dispute or whether to
delegate the review of the dispute to a third party not directly involved with the
dispute. The Governor need not state a reason for refusing to review a dispute or
for delegating it to a third party.
2. By agreement of both parties, the parties may refer the matter to a dispute
resolution panel for non-binding mediation. The dispute resolution panel will
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consist of three members: One selected by the County, one selected by the
Department, and one selected by the other two members of the panel. The parties .
shall provide the panel with the information necessary to consider the dispute.
Farh party shall pay for its own costs and attorney fees, and shall share equally in
any fees paid to panel members. The panel's decision shall be made by a majority
vote of its members.
3. By agreement of both parties, the parties may request that the State Board
of Human Services mediate a dispute arising following the execution of the-
MOU. If the State Board agrees to such non-binding mediation, the provisions of
section 26-2-715(3), C.R.S. (1999) concerning time limits and final effect of the
State Board's decision shall not apply.
None of these options shall be a jurisdictional prerequisite to legal action by either party.
MARVA LIVINGSTON HAMMONS
STATE OF COLORADO
DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Executive Director
COUNTY OF WELD COLORADO,
by • d through the BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Barbara J. Kirlrmeyer, : A
(04/267200 Zea
C 1J
r}1 yY
ATTEST:
l: eBoard
DATE: 04/26/2000
12
Colorado Works Program Plan, 2000
for
WELD
County
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
NAVIGATION/SUMMARY OF REQUIREMENTS • -
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
Circle an answer to each one of the following questions.
a. Will you provide optional types of payment methods as described in State rules to be used for
payment of basic cash assistance grants?
(Yes) No If yes,complete Attachment B
b. Will you provide County Optional Other Assistance to recipients of basic cash assistance
grants?
(Yes) No If yes,complete Attachment C
c. Will you provide Optional State Diversion Grants(Statewide Diversion)?
(Yes) No If yes,complete Attachment D
d. Will you provide a County Optional Diversion Program?
(Yes ) No If yes,complete Attachment E
e. Does your county contract for services to be provided for Colorado Works participants?
(Yes ) No If yes,please list the service(s)provided and the contractor(s).
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.012
Employment Services of Weld County
•
Instructions
• Complete this attachment for the initial plan and for any amendments to a plan.
ATTACHMENT A
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
•
Attachments A—0
BASIC CASH ASSISTANCE -
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
Basic Cash Assistance Grant is the amount of grant paid to eligible families in accordance with statewide
eligibility criteria in effect on July 16, 1996,as modified,and that is provided on a monthly basis or as
vouchers,protective payments,or as a lump sum payment. Lump sum payments are cash assistance
payments paid in multiples of two to six monthly cash assistance amounts paid in a single payment.
Complete to indicate if you will use optional payment methods for the basic cash assistance grant as
authorized in 26-2-709(1 Xc)of SB 120.
I. Are you implementing optional payment methods? (Yes) No
If yes,describe the type of payment methods to be used for the basic cash assistance grant,as
described in State rules. Include conditions for authorizing lump sum payments,vendor
payments at the request of participants and vendor payments for protective services.
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.002.3
.4
2. Will you close cases for refusal to cooperate with program requirements? (Yes) No
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.011
Instructions
• Complete this attachment if the county will use optional payment methods for basic cash
assistance grants.
ATTACHMENT B
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
OTHER ASSISTANCE .
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
Are you implementing this option? (Yes) No
If yes,
a. Type of services or benefits to be provided:
Cash (Yes) No
Services (Yes) No
b. List the services you will be providing. They should be different from those you listed in
attachment C.
• See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.010, 6.027 .
c. Describe the criteria used to determine what and when assistance is to be provided:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.010, 6.027
Instructions
• Complete this attachment if the county will provide any assistance through the Works
Program in addition to basic cash assistance to eligible participants.
ATTACHMENT C
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—O
•
OPTIONAL STATE DIVERSION GRANTS(STATEWIDE DIVERSION) -
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
I. Are you implementing this option? ( Yes) No
If yes,
a. ' Describe the criteria to determine the need for diversion:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.007
•
b. Will you use vendor payments? (Yes ) No
•
c. Describe the circumstances under which;and the services you will provide as in-kind
services in lieu of cash:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.007.3
d. Describe the criteria for determining the length of time the participant will not apply for
basic cash assistance or diversion:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.007.5
e. List the type of services that you will be providing. If none,indicate so:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.007.2
Instructions
• Complete this attachment if the county will provide optional state diversion grants
(statewide diversion)through the Works Program in addition to bask cash assistance to
eligible participants.
ATTACHMENT D
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
•
COUNTY OPTIONAL DIVERSION PROGRAM
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
1. Are you implementing this option? (Yes) No
If yes, See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.008
a) Type of services or benefits to be provided:
Cash (Yes) No
Services (Yes) No
b) List the services you will be providing:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.008
c) Describe the payment conditions that will be imposed,such as family size,dollar limits,
time limits,restrictions etc
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.008.3
d) Eligibility criteria for participants which must include the maximum allowable income:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.008.1C
Instructions
• Complete this attachment if the county wilt have a separate county optional diversion
program in addition to basic cash assistance to eligible participants
ATTACHMENT E
(Colorado Works Program)
•
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—O
•
JOB READINESS
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT (i o
f aolicable)
Colorado Works applicants and recipients are required to be engaged in a work activity once they have
been determined job ready or once the parent or caretaker relative has received assistance under the
Program for 24 months. For purposes of meeting this requirement,the applicant or recipient may
participate in the work activities listed in SB 120 and state rules or any other work activities designed to
lead to self sufficiency as determined by the county and outlined in the participant's IRC.
1. Please describe your county definition of job ready:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.006. 12
2. Will your county automatically exempt participants from work activities based on the age of their
youngest child? (Yes) No
If yes,please circle the maximum age of the child(in months)that will result in exemption of the
participant:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 II
Other-Please describe:
12 weeks
3. Your county definition of able to participate in work activity using fair and objective criteria:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.005 and 6.006
4. Your county dispute resolution policy for clients to contest county decision:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.011.4
5. Your assessment process. Attach all forms that are utilized.
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.003
6. Your IRC development process. Attach all forms that are utilized.
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.004
Instructions
•- Complete this attachment for the initial plan and for any amendments to a plan that affect
job readiness.
ATTACHMENT
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance
•
Attachments A_O Program
m
•
OVER WORK ACTIVITIES
COUNTY:
DATE OF AMENDMENT if livable
SB 120 and state rules list work activities. County may designate additional work activities that the
allow clients to utilize in meeting the 24 month requirement.
they will
I. Please indicate with an "X"the work activities in SB 120 and state rules
order for individuals to meet the 24 month requirement.
your county will utilize in
X Unsubsidized Employment
X Subsidized private sector employment
—x_ Subsidized public sector employment
__x_ Work Experience
__I_ On-the-Job Training
___JC_ Job Search/Job Readiness
Community Service Programs
Vocational Educational Training
Provision of Child Care for a Participant in a Community
XX Job skills Training Directly Related to Employment
Education Directly Service Program
X Satisfactory Related to Employment
attendance at Secondary School or GED
2. The work activities in addition to those in 5B 120 and state rules
for individuals to meet the 24 month requirement:
your county will utilize in order
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.006.33
3. lfCommuni
ry Service is indicated in Item la above,define the activities which will be included in
your county's community service programs in addition to those listed in Volume III at 3.625.AG).
N/A
Instructions
• Complete this attachment for the initial plan and for any amendments to a plan that will
affect work activities.
• (County Option) Please attach copies of county client assessment and individual
responsibility contract forms.
• ATTACH
(Colorado WorMENT G
ks Program)
•
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—O
SANCTIONS AGAINST CASH ASSISTANCE _
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if aoolicable)
I. Please answer the following questions:
a. List and describe the reasons for sanctions against Cash Assistance in your county:
•
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.011
b. Minimum number of months sanctions shall be imposed in your county for cash assistance
(sanction must be imposed for a minimum of one month for the first and second and three
months for the third). The county may choose other minimum sanction periods as shown
below,circle your answers:
First sanction: (I ) 2 3
months
Second sanction: (I.) 2
months
Third sanction:
(3) 4 5 6 months
c. List and describe the good cause provisions for not imposing sanctions:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.005
d. Describe the process for establishing good cause:
See Colorado Works in Weld County Plan Section 6.005
Instructions
• Complete this attachment for the initial plan and for any amendment to a plan that affect
sanctions against cash assistance.
ATTACHMENT H
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
OUT-OF-WEDLOCK BIRTH RATIO
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
The federal welfare reform law requires each state to have a plan to reduce out-of-wedlock pregnancies with
special emphasis on teenage pregnancies for calendar years through the year 2005. Senate Bill 97-120 requires the
State Department to establish and monitor statewide goals for the reduction in the incidence of out-of-wedlock
pregnancies. This program is not required to be implemented by any county. To meet these requirements,the
State requests the following information from each county to be provided at the option of the county. States that
are successful in reducing out-of-wedlock births may qualify for up to$25 million in incentive payments.
Counties may be a recipient of these funds which may in part be allocated to counties based on their performance
in this area.
1. Do you currently have a plan in place or will you be implementing a plan to accomplish these
goals? Yes (No )
a. If yes,please describe your plan briefly,including but not limited to:
i Availability of resources to accomplish the goals;
ii The specific methods and strategies designed to reach your targeted goal;and
iii Specific populations that will be targeted or reached by your program;
2. Please describe any of the programs,services or activities in your county that may contribute to a
reduction in out-of-wedlock births:
Exhibit A is taken from the Colorado Vital Statistics 1998 report and is attached here to assist you in
determining your out-of-wedlock ratio and target reduction percentage if applicable.
3. Computation of out-of-wedlock birth ratio:
a) Total number of out-of-wedlock births to county resident population during calendar year
1998:
b) Total number of births to county resident population during calendar year 1998:
c) Out-of-wedlock birth ratio=(Total number of out of wedlock births+total number of births)
d) Target percentage amount of reduction for calendar year 2000:
e) Number of induced pregnancy terminations to county resident population during calendar
year 1998:
f) Rate of induced pregnancy terminations in calendar year 1998=(Number of induced
pregnancy terminations a total number of births)=
g) Expected rate of induced pregnancy terminations in the county resident population during
calendar year 2000=
•
Instructions
• Completion of this attachment is optional for each county as described above.
ATTACHMENT I
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
•
Attachments A—O
•
STATUTORY RAPE EDUCATION
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT (if applicable)
Federal welfare reform legislation requires each state to conduct a program that provides education and
training on the problem of statutory rape designed to reach State and local law enforcement officials,the
education system,and relevant counseling services. This program is not required to be implemented by
any county. To meet these requirements,the State requests the following information from each county to
be provided at the option of the county:
I. Do you currently have a plan in place or will you be implementing a plan to accomplish these
goals? Yes (No )
If yes,please describe your plan briefly including:
a) Availability of resources to accomplish the goals:
b) The specific methods and strategies designed to reach your targeted goal:
c) Specific populations that will be targeted or reached by your program:
d) Number of individuals and agencies to be contacted during 1/1/00 to 12/31/00:
2. Please describe any other activities in your county that provide education in this area:
Instructions
• Completion of this attachment is optional for each county as described above.
ATTACHMENT J
(Colorado Works Program)
Colorado Child Care Assistance Program Plan, 2000
for
WELD
County
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
ELIGIBILITY INCOME LEVELS •
COUNTY: 'DATE OF AMENDMENT (if applicable)
I. Maximum Federal Poverty Income level selected by the county is t R 4 %(fill in the
percentage).
2. Complete the Maximum Monthly Income amounts below to indicate your county's maximum
income eligibility:
Family Size Maximum Monthly Income
2
1,734
3
2.180
4
2,628
5
3.076
6
3,521
7
-3,969
8 •
4,417
9
4,863
ATTACHMENT K
(COLORADO CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM) •
•
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—O
•
APPLICATION PROCESS
Page I of 2
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT (if applicable)
Describe the process involved for Colorado Works and Low-Income families to apply for child care. The
description must include:
1. How parents are informed of the availability of child care and of available child care options:
a. Colorado Works families:
Applicants are informed at the time of inquiry for Colorado Works and
again at the time of initial application for Colorado Works. Necessary
paperwork is explained and assistance provided to determine appropriate
options.
b. Low-Income families:
Applicants for any type of public assistance are informed of all
available and appropriate programs including Low Income Child Care.
Outreach efforts concerning the Low Income Program are coordinated with
schools, community agencies and other staff/programs within the
Department of Social Services. The department's phone system is also
equipped with information on the Low Income Child Care Program and how
to apply.
2. Where and how are applications made?
a. Colorado Works families:
Individuals apply directly with the Colorado Works staff at time of
intial application or any time, thereafter, as the need arises.
b. Low-Income families:
Individuals may attend one of the department's two weekly orientations
or schedule an individual appointment, if orientation times conflict
with work or school schedules. Individuals may be seen with or without
a scheduled appointment.
ATTACHMENT L
(COLORADO CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM)
•
' Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
APPLICATION PROCESS
Page 2 of 2
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT (if applicable)
3. Indicate the length of time a Low-Income applicant must wait to: •
a. Get an appointment for eligibility determination:
Individual may be seen immediately, depending on circumstances, but
no longer than 3 days
b. Receive notice that s/he is eligible for child care assistance after the Low-Income application
is completed: An individual is informed at the time of the interview if
they are eligible for Child Care Assistance and the amount of parental
fee they must pay. The. only exception to this would be if the individual
has not supplied staff with adequate information to determine eligibility.
If request is by mail, applicant is notified within 2-7 days.
c. Receive a certificate after the application is completed and a provider has been selected:
2-7 days
4. Who completes child care eligibility determinations?
a. Colorado Works families:
Colorado Works technicians
b. Low-Income families:
CCCAP technicians
ATTACHMENT L
(COLORADO CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
PARENTAL EDUCATION .
COUNTY: DATE OF AMENDMENT(if applicable)
Parental education is defined as consumer information that promotes informed child care choices.
a. Describe the parental education component in your county. Identify the specific types of
parental education materials and methods used,such as pamphlets,workshops,referral to
resource and referral agencies, etc. For Colorado Works and Low-Income families:
For both Colorado Works and Low Income families, the application packet
supplies basic information regarding eligiblity. It also explains the
difference between exempt and non-exempt providers and informs individuals
how to apply for assistance. At the time if the initial interview,
individuals are given the brochure "Parent Information and Resource Packet".
This brochure explains client responsibilities, how to apply for child
support, information on the Earned Income Credit program, how to select
a child care provider, and information on other community resources.
All clients are referred to our Resource and Referral Agency if they
need assistance in locating a child care provider. Low Income brochures
are available at our reception desk. CCCAP Supervisor attends meetings in
schools, migrant facilities to discuss programs and how to apply.
b. Describe how and when families receive information on child care choices for Colorado
Works and Low-Income families:
For Colorado Works and Low Income families, the application packet for
Child Care Assistance contains an explanation of the options they may
choose from for Child Care. It is also reviewed at the intake interview
for both programs. Clients who need assistance finding a child care
provider are referred to our Resource and Referral Agency.
c. What procedures are in place to ensure all families receive parental education:
At time of application, family is given a pamphlet "Parent Information
and Resource Packet", and are encouraged to read it thoroughtly. The
"Client Responsibility Form" is reviewed at this time with the client
that explains their responsibility to pay parental fees, work with the
provider on any disputes, and to report all changes to technician.
ATTACHMENT M
(COLORADO CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado A Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments
PROVIDE TES
DATE OF AMENDME (if apnlicah
NTle
COQ?
I. Complete the following information on county rate limits for each type of care and age of
children:
Licensed Indicate with Iva' Indicate with
Centers Ind
cate with if rates Homes an X if rates Esem t an X if rates
(daily tea) an X are different (daily rates) are different
are different (daily rates) from current
from state from state county
defined rates defined rates defined rates
Under 2 yrs old .11.00
IIN
yrs ol
d IMMIIIMIISOver Z ld
Alternate Care* allanann
Under 2 yrs old
Alternate Care* illanann
Over 2 yrs old
Before&After
School Age 5.50
(part time only) 111
13.00
*Alternate Care: child care during non-traditional hours such as weekends and evenings.
2. Provide justification that ensures county negotiated rates provide CCCAP families with the same
access to child care that private pay families have:
Each child care provider contracting with the ndepartmeltatoes serve
rve.Low
ach
Ipncome Child by Care Pg°themfiscalients must agreement,sensures that they understand that
the
byco signing rgr rates in excess of
the Low Income Program recipient parent cannot be charged agreement also
the rates indicated on. the fiscal agreement. The fiscalage /etialso
ensures that no provider can charge Low Income Program
rogramdparents/r
nts
rates greater than the provider charges private
viduals.
ATTACHMENT N
(COLORADO CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM)
•
ld' Colorado Works Program and Colorado
A hip Care Assistance Program AttachCHILDCARE AVAILABILITY
•
•
DATE OF AMENDMENT if aoolicablel
CO_UNT1'�
Federal regulations require single parents with a child under six for whom childcare is unavailable be exempted from e work participation requirements in the lorado Works Program if thy meet one of criteria listed be ow. The county o
uses the following criteria determine when childcarethe
is unavailable.
1. The county defines appropriate and affordable formal child care arrangements unavailable when the
following conditions exist:
a. The cost of available child care exceeds the maximum amount
o considers
ersW
eld
County Department of Social Services deems as appropriate
a participant could pay.
• b. There is no facility or home available when a child's health and
safety could not reasonably be assured.
2. The county defines informal child care by a relative or under other arrangements as unavailable or
unsuitable when the following conditions exist:
a. When a Colorado Works recipient cannot make arrangements for child
care with a relative or acquaintance and assure that the child's health
and safety would not be in jeopardy.
•
3. The county defines appropriate child care
e within a reasonable distance from the individual's home or
work site is unavailable when the following conditions exist:
a. When child care is not available within a reasonabledistance
ffrom
work or home to allow the recipient to effectively participate
Colorado Works in Weld• County Program. It must also be demonstrated that
a reasonable commuting time and/or alternative transportation is also not
available.
Instructions
• All counties must complete this attachment
ATTACHMENT O
(COLORADO WORKS PROGRAM)
Colorado Works Program and Colorado Child Care Assistance Program
Attachments A—0
BIRTHS AND PREGNANCY TERMINATIONS IN 1998
Births to Total live Induced
Births to Total live Induced
UNmarried births pregnancy UNmarried births pregnancy
women terminations
women terminations
Colorado 15181 59550 6657 '
1578 5428 390 Lake 40 129 6
Adams - 18 La Plata 100 456 153
Alamosa
5 691
Arapahoe 1498 6595 23 564 Larimer 592 2907 16
Archuleta 25 83 13 Las Animas 60 172
3 47 Lincoln 7 56
Bena 9 Logan 53 237 21
Bo 29 71 360 1469 172
Boulder 629 3460 724 Mesa
15 Mineral
34 141 33
Chaffee 36 178 13
Cheyenne 7 28 Moffat 40
Clear Creek 21 108 13 Montezuma 112 320 41
30 127 Montrose 138 425
Costilaos 18 55 4 Morgan 181 495 21
C
Crowley l 15 53 6 Otero 124 254 3610 34
D
4 Ouray
Custer 5 38 34 168 8
Delta 80 318 23 Park 3
Denver 3535 9833 1030 Phillips 12 74 13
Dolores 4 17 Pitkin 33 135
2743 86 Prowers 75. 226 9
agle 131 9 805 1909 157
Eagle 52 Pueblo 61 4
26 220 9 Rio Blanco 9
Elbert 10
E1 Paso 2006 7842 957 Rio Grande 56 196 41
Fremont 156 438 .56 Routt 9
Garfield -144 624 58 Saguache 24 97
Gilpin 6 44 4 San Juan 6
5 7
Grand 29 136 26 San Miguel 8 64 36
24 134 43 Sedgwick 8 35
Gunnison 3 Summit 41 255 5(
Hinsdale 9 40 188 3:
Huerfano 27 67 3 Teller
Jackson 18 5 Washington 13 59 32
568 Weld 747 2638
Jefferson 1168 6382 Yuma 32 129
Kiowa 8 17
Kit Carson 18 90
Note: Only counties with more than 2 induced terminations are shown here.
EXHIBIT A
(COLORADO WORKS PROGRAM)
Hello