47-22 Exhibit - Memorandum of Understanding with Mental Health Association of Essex and Morris - 2022.pdf

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR CO-RESPONDER PROGRAM BETWEEN THE TOWNSHIP OF WEST ORANGE POLICE DEPARTMENT AND MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATES OF ESSEX AND MORRIS COUNTIES This Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) is hereby entered into between the Township of West Orange Police Department (“WOPD”) and the Mental Health Associates of Essex and Morris Counties (“MHAEM”) for implementation of a co-responder program which provides critical services to the community for de-escalation, response, treatment, and follow-up. WHEREAS, the WOPD and MHAEM have begun collaborating on a pilot program; and WHEREAS, the WOPD is highly decorated and experienced in addressing a myriad of circumstances; and WHEREAS, between July 13, 2019 and July 13, 2020, the WOPD received 393 mental health calls; and WHEREAS, mental health calls require immediate, compassionate and directed responses and follow ups to ensure de-escalation and the safety and well-being of the community; and WHEREAS, the WOPD has previously implemented Operation HOPE (heroin-opiate prevention effort) to train volunteers and assist persons who voluntarily seek treatment; and WHEREAS, the Township has previously entered into a ground-breaking pilot program with MHAEM but due to resources, MHAEM was only able to respond to 37 calls during the six (6) month initiative while there have been approximately 197 mental health calls demonstrating a need for further coverage and response; and WHEREAS, the Township has made this a priority towards the health, welfare and safety of the entire community; and WHEREAS, the Township is desirous of applying to the United States Department of Justice for a grant under the Connect and Protect: Law Enforcement Behavioral Health Responses Program (“DOJ Grant”); NOW, BE IT HEREBY AGREED BY AND BETWEEN THE TOWNSHIP AND MHAEM as follows: 1. Term of Agreement. This MOU shall be for a period of one (1) year beginning on the first day of the month at least 30 days after the following have occurred: (i) approval by the Township Council; and (ii) implementation of sufficient trained staffing by MHAEM; and (iii) acknowledgment of the receipt of the DOJ Grant. The term shall be for not less than twelve (12) consecutive months.