TITLE
Recommendation to authorize City Manager, or designee, to execute all necessary documents and any subsequent amendments, including any amendments to the award amount, with the California Department of Public Health to accept and expend grant funding in the amount of $600,000 for local cannabis education and youth prevention for a 36-month period estimated to begin June 30, 2023 through June 29, 2026, with an option to extend the agreement for an additional 36-month period, at the discretion of City Manager; and
Increase appropriations in the Health Department in the Health Fund Group by $600,000, offset by grant revenue. (Citywide)
DISCUSSION
City Council approval is requested to enter into an agreement with the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to accept grant funding to expand the Health and Human Services Department’s (Health Department) work on cannabis education and youth prevention led by the Division of Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention’s Greenlight Long Beach program.
The Health Department will use CDPH funding to 1) implement youth-led advocacy efforts to identify and promote evidence-based strategies that limit youth access to cannabis, 2) provide positive alternatives, and reduce or prevent cannabis use through a youth cannabis diversion and prevention program, 3) educate youth and their families about the risks and consequences associated with cannabis use through culturally appropriate educational resources through print and digital media to teens, parents, and dispensaries.
This initiative is in line with the City’s Strategic Plan to increase funding, resources, and services focused on youth substance use prevention (21.1.b) and to implement a comprehensive approach to encourage responsible cannabis use (21.1.c).
This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Anita Lakhani on May 22, 2023 and by Budget Analysis Officer Greg Sorensen on June 1, 2023.
TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on June 20, ...
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