POWHATAN COUNTY BOARD OF SOCIAL SERVICES  Board Meeting 8/27/2024  Attendance: Lindia Cox Lynne LaPierre  Will Hagy, Deputy County Administrator  Management Team and Staff: Meghan Carroll, Director  Sharon Bartley, Administrative Services Manager Cathy James, Benefit Programs Supervisor Belinda Farnham, Children's! Services Manager Melissa Carpenter, Family Services Manager The meeting was called to order at 9:30 am Cathy James provided the invocation. Public Comment Period Approval ofMinutes October 2024 meeting.  Call to order Invocation  There were no public comments at this meeting.  There was no motion to approve minutes as there was not a quorum to vote. Minutes will be approved at  AmouncementAddlions to Agenda  Lynne LaPierre provided information regarding fleece blankets for the Humblebee project and several events and classes being provided by Community Matters including Wellness Expo and Active Aging. Meghan Carroll discussed branding refresh with Senior Connections and will get further information. Melissa Carpenter, Family Services Manager informed that her unit is finally fully staffed and new employees are working out well. Issues that existed during staffing challenges are resolving. Cathy James, Benefits Program Supervisor informed ofthe current skimming of] EBT cards. To date, 16 cases have lost benefits on their card. Replacement policy for cards is in effect until 9/30/2024. She also reported on issues with system latency and the retirement of Cindy McDaniel, Self Sufficiency Specialist. Belinda Farnham, Childrens Services Manager, introduced herself to the Board as the newly hired Manager for this program and discussed transition from her former position with the agency. She also Sharon Bartley, Administrative Services Manager, discussed moving into the newi fiscal year. Meghan Carroll, Director discussed ongoing questions regarding Board Member duties and responsibilities. There have been questions on what they can do as an Advisory Board. Meghan  Agency Updates - Unit Managers  provided information and current stats on cases.  Current Business    suggested that they review the Board Handbook and she would also send an email with several bullet points to consider. During this discussion, Lynne Pierre asked about fund raising for our community service programs through bigger organizations such as the Rotary or Lions Club. Will Hagy, Deputy County Administrator, stated that the Advisory Board should perform as an Advocacy Board and focus  more on needs oft the County and those that are challenged.  Next meeting October 22,2024, 9:30 am Adjourn  The meeting was adjourned at 10:25 am KddeBlh P5  Ocron Pouxo00 10122124  Chairperson  Date  DirectoP  Date