SUBJECT/RECOMMENDATION:
Title
Approve an Agreement between the City of Clearwater and Tampa Bay Psychology Associates, LLC, of Clearwater, FL, for psychological and educational services for Clearwater Fire and Rescue first responders, in a not to exceed amount of $70,000.00 through August 31, 2023, pursuant to Clearwater Code of Ordinances Section 2.563(1)(f), Professional services not subject to CCNA, and authorize the appropriate officials to execute same. (consent)
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SUMMARY:
In recent years, the mental health of firefighters/EMS responders has become an increasing concern. The Clearwater Fire & Rescue Department (CFR) offers several resources for mental health requests. However, Tampa Bay Psychology Associates was recommended by the Clearwater Firefighters Association, IAFF 1158, and Clearwater Police Department for their influential, professional, psychology services. Tampa Bay Psychology Associates, LLC, specializes in the mental health treatment of public safety employees, unlike the short-term general services provided by Cigna’s Employee Assistance Program. Tampa Bay Psychology Associates is utilized by fire departments and law enforcement agencies within the Tampa Bay region.
This agreement provides for the maintenance of a 24/7 resource telephone number (for continual employee access, if needed for mental health concerns), individual counseling services, mental health check-ins, fitness for duty evaluations, pre-employment evaluations, employee wellness and safety training, additional tailored training modules, and post-academy training.
The term of this agreement is for one year.
APPROPRIATION CODE AND AMOUNT:
Funds are budgeted in the proposed fiscal year 2022/23 operating budget in CFR’s cost code 0101220-530100 to fund this agreement.
USE OF RESERVE FUNDS:
N/A