Mayor to Propose Substitute Legislation, Strengthening Kids Hope Alliance
September 28, 2017
Today, Mayor Lenny Curry announced proposed updates to Kids Hope Alliance: The Jacksonville Partnership for Children, Youth & Families (KHA). Launched in August, KHA is a comprehensive and integrated system of reform established to improve the programs and services developed to meet the critical needs of Jacksonville children and youth.
“Since our original legislation, we’ve had an opportunity to continue our work with various community partners and groups to gain valuable input,” said Mayor Lenny Curry.
The substitute legislation establishes KHA as an organization with a seven-member board appointed by the mayor, and confirmed by city council. While the mayor appoints the first chair, KHA’s Board will select its chair, thereafter. In addition, the KHA Board selects its CEO. Board members can be removed by the Mayor and City Council. The legislation now adds a fifth category to the essential services identified to positively and tangibly impact the lives of youth. Mental Health, Behavioral Health, Emotional Health and Physical Disabilities Programming has been added to Early Learning; Literacy and School Readiness; Juvenile Justice Intervention Programming; Out-of-school Programming; and Pre-teen and Teen Programming.
The substitute legislation, to become effective January 1, 2018, will be introduced by City Councilman Scott Wilson (District 4) on Monday, October 2, 2017.