What opportunity did Rockland County see? Leaders of the Department of Community Mental Health recognized the need for expert financial support after the retirement of their department’s in-house fiscal lead. The department faced challenges in managing state aid and financial reporting, which required specialized knowledge and expertise.
How did CCSI approach the work? CCSI’s Jim Monfort provided Rockland County with comprehensive financial support, including tracking state aid payments, training agencies on completing the Consolidated Fiscal Report (CFR), and providing quarterly reports on agency expenditures. He also helped maximize the use of state aid by advising on fund allocation and spending strategies.
What were the impacts of CCSI’s work? CCSI’s involvement had a transformative impact on Rockland County’s Department of Community Mental Health:
- Expert Financial Management: Jim Monfort brought extensive expertise in managing state aid, program codes, and financial flexibilities, helping the department maximize the benefits of its funding.
- Innovative Programs: Jim’s guidance enabled the department to understand and utilize FMAC funding for new initiatives, such as a Navigator program for the state’s Office of People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) services and a complex care program offering financial support for clinics and intermediate levels of care.
- Efficient Reporting: CCSI provided technical assistance for the CFR and organized agency expenditures, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
- New Opportunities: The department was able to explore new programs and initiatives, such as a court liaison program, thanks to the financial insights and support provided by CCSI.
What were Rockland County’s insights? Dr. Hoerter notes that CCSI’s partnership with the County allowed the department to navigate complex financial processes and maximize the use of state aid, leading to innovative programs and improved service delivery. Dr. Hoerter highlighted the positive impact of having an identified expert for technical assistance and training, recommending CCSI’s services to other counties.
