12 County Partnership-Human Services

Proposed business model of
12 county/regional service distribution

OACCT members gathered to hear a draft proposal designed from 12 southeastern counties (organized by Accenture, hired with funds from the Bush Foundation) on delivering human services in a regional venue. These counties are leading a collaborative, cost-savings and cost-effective effort-the first of it's kind in Minnesota.

The newly conceptualized business model shows if services are combined to meet the demographic need an estimated $25-$40 million (10-15%) savings over a five year period could be realized per county and an estimated $50+ million total savings realized by federal, state and counties (combined) over a five year period.

Estimated savings if 12 county business model was implemented

Next steps include answering questions of governance (i.e. 1 county, 1 vote on the regional board), funding (where/how is money dispersed), locations of high touch services, and pay plan.

An upcoming meeting with all counties will determine if this conceptional model will push forward into reality.

Steele County Administrator Shea is supportive of the concept, but still wants to see "the devil in the details" ironed out before fully committing.