Required for proper care: $25M in 90 days

by Mindy Aguon

Guam - $26.5 million is money the Government of Guam doesn't have available right now, but it's how much must be put aside for a federal management team that was appointed by District Court Judge Consuelo Marshall.  $1.5 million must be deposited with the court by next week while the island's public sector has less than three months to find the other $25 million needed as the management team is ready to move full steam ahead to get the government into compliance in about three years.

A federal management team appointed by Judge Marshall believes it can get GovGuam into compliance with an amended permanent injunction (API) within 30-36 months for approximately $25 million.  It's a task the local government has been unable to complete in nearly nine years.

"We've been tasked to right the ship, so to speak," described Attorney James Casey.  "They have not bee compliant with the terms and conditions of the API to date; we will be overtaking overseeing the two agencies."  The team consists of Casey and Dr. James Kiffer, who are familiar with the government's inability to provide adequate and basic care to individuals with disabilities.  The two were previously appointed as court monitors for the case and today they outlined their $25 million plan that they believe will result in hundreds of individuals with disabilities receiving proper care and treatment.

Although they must receive approval from Judge Marshall when they submit their plan of action in the next 60 days, the team is recommending to build and operate the center, a place where consumers can receive a myriad of services.  The center's price tag? $9 million.

Continued Casey, "It will be the focal point of delivery of services and programs envisioned in the API. Psychiatrists will see clients in the center to monitor the medications have immediate contact with other professionals to assess medications, psychologists will monitor treatment programs, gather behavioral data. We're trying to maximize utility of everyone here.  Social workers will evaluate the need for social skills try to engage clients in social skill building activities and evaluate transitional needs."

Another $6.6 million is being targeted to construct eight new residential group homes to bring the total number on the island to twelve. These homes provide a transition for consumers who can learn how to live on their own.  The team is also looking to bring the Guma Mami homes - the Independent Group and Mary Clare homes back on the grid to house consumers as there are more than 200 people on a waiting list to be treated at these types of homes.

Casey and Kiffer say they will also receive consultant assistance from ResCare, a multi-national corporation based out of Texas, to obtain training and get a stream of professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists and occupational and behavioral specialists.  The former said, "They have been instrumental in turning around programs, a long history of operating and improving services for people with special needs. They've actually been named receiver in several states."

Dr. Kiffer adds the management team's goal is to build an enduring system and have adequately trained and accountable staff, telling KUAM News, "So we are going to aim the system that will include accountability and electronic record keeping all setting up for 2014."

Kiffer also talked about utilizing a shelter plus program administered through the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority that will underwrite the costs of consumers who rent facilities that could provide significant savings to the government. The federal management team has 30 days to submit proposed fees and expenses and within 60 days the plan of action must be submitted with progress reports being submitted every 90 days thereafter.