Memorandum

City of Lawrence

City Manager’s Office

TO:	Lawrence City Commission
FROM:	Social Service Funding Advisory Board
CC:	Casey Toomay, Assistant City Manager Danielle Buschkoetter, Strategic Projects Manager
DATE:	March 5, 2018
RE:	2017 Social Service Funding Advisory Annual Report

Background

In 2017 the City of Lawrence provided $1,181,000 to over 20 social service agencies in our community. Of that $515,000 was paid from the City’s General Operating Fund and $666,000 was paid from the City’s Special Alcohol Fund.

The Social Service Funding Advisory Board (the Board) noted with the 2017 process that they wanted more financial accountability. Therefore, beginning with the 2018 process financial information was included in the application process so the Board was able to review it prior to making funding recommendations to the City Commission. This practice will continue with the 2019 budget process.

Social Service Agency Annual Reports

The Board requires every agency that receives funding to fill out an annual report. The report serves several purposes. It demonstrates the social service agency’s capacity to carry out their stated mission; demonstrates how funds were actually used in comparison to the request; and provides taxpayers with information about how public dollars were spent.

The Board reviewed the 2017 annual reports at their February 27, 2018 meeting. In general, the Board was satisfied with the annual reports. They did note that specific details and data were more meaningful than generalities.

Additionally, the Board noted that two agencies (Sexual Trauma and Abuse Care Center and Lawrence Community Shelter) missed the deadline to submit an annual report and therefore they were not able to be reviewed by the Board. Staff noted that the Lawrence Community Shelter missed the deadline due to a transition in leadership. And as of March 5, 2018, the annual reports for the Lawrence Community Shelter had been received.

Finally, the Board was impressed with the annual report submitted by Douglas County Dental Clinic noting they did an excellent job using data and stories to demonstrate how dollars were spent and how that impacted those they serve.

Action Requested

Receive report.

Attachments

February 27, 2018 Draft Minutes

2017 Outside Agency Applications, Agreements, and Annual Reports - Added 04/02/18