Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish's office has announced a series of steps aimed at improving procedures at the Division of Children and Family Services following the death of 4-year-old Aniya Day-Garrett.
In March, Budish's office opened an investigation into the DCFS and put together an independent panel to review her case to determine if the agency followed proper policy and procedure.
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According to the county:
- On May 29, Budish's office plans to launch its first "listening tour" to give residents a chance to speak directly with DCFS leadership. The event will also give community members the opportunity to learn more about child protection laws, according to the executive's office. The event will be held at Friendly Inn, 2386 Unwin Road, Cleveland from 1 to 3 p.m.
- A "customer relationship management program" was launched by the county today to let residents register complaints or concerns about social services via email, phone or in person. (The county did not provide the specific email, phone number or location to do so when it announced the program.)
- The county executive's office said on Tuesday it will assign a sheriff's deputy to assist DCFS with investigations.
- There are plans to increase the number of licensed social workers at DCFS.
- Budish's office has asked Cuyahoga City Council to create a Citizen Advisory Board made up of 8 to 10 community members. The board would provide feedback to DCFS and act as a link between the agency and the community.
