CLEARFIELD – Clearfield County Jail inmates who are experiencing mental health issues from extended periods of isolation due to COVID-19 will now have access to services.
On Tuesday, the Clearfield County Commissioners approved an agreement with Cen-Clear to provide consultive mental health services at the jail.
Most services will be conducted via tele-health with the jail’s medical practitioner also being involved.
It was noted that the cost will be at a rate of $250 per hour, but services are not to exceed 10 hours for the inmates so that the total costs will not exceed $2,500.
Commissioner Dave Glass thanked District Attorney Ryan Sayers for calling attention to the fact that several inmates are experiencing major difficulties with being isolated due to COVID-19. “He took the lead.
“… We don’t want to see anyone’s mental health deteriorate to the point where they’re a danger to themselves or others. It needed to be taken care of.” And Commissioner John A. Sobel, chairman, concurred.
Also, on Tuesday, the commissioners proclaimed Feb. 20 as Hoodie Hoo Day in Clearfield County at the request of Jane Lee Yare, who has organized events locally for the past 10 years or so.
It’s a little-known holiday to make a lot of noise to overcome the winter blues. It brings Hoodie Hoo out of the forest to chase off winter, and he’ll still make his appearance in downtown Clearfield in spite of COVID-19.
According to information provided to the commissioners by Yare, a “pre-Hoodie Hoo” celebration will take place, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19 at Ethan’s Café.
Then, the only official Hoodie Hoo Day stop Saturday, Feb. 20 will be from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Express Café. The celebration will be held outdoors and all COVID-19 protocols will be followed.
“Mask wearing and social distancing will be followed,” expressed Sobel. “She’s informed me that even Hoodie Hoo will be wearing a mask.” All are invited to attend.
In other business, the commissioners:
- approved a service agreement with Viking Water Technology for maintenance of the boiler at the Clearfield County Courthouse.
- approved two new hires and two employee separations/retirements.
- approved the bills as presented by the Controller’s office.
- approved the minutes from the Jan. 26 board meeting as presented by the chief clerk.