REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Resolution Adopting Council Policy 4.4.1 Establishing a Suicide Prevention Policy
Report
BACKGROUND
Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and is the 11th leading cause of death in the State of California. The City of Sunnyvale has experienced the tragedy of suicide within its community: records show that 110 Sunnyvale residents ended their own lives from 2007 to 2016, 40% of whom where over the age of 55.
Statistical evidence indicates that suicide is a public health issue that affects residents of all ages, races, gender and other social characteristics. These incidents affect not only individuals, but also their families and the entire community, making suicide prevention a matter requiring community action.
In 2010 and 2011, Santa Clara County adopted and revised a countywide Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan. Best practices and strategies for suicide prevention are currently being employed by the Santa Clara County agency for Behavioral Health Services, the National Council for Behavioral Health, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and the World Health Organization. Cities throughout Santa Clara County, including Palo Alto, Milpitas, Los Gatos, and Morgan Hill, have adopted resolutions establishing suicide prevention policies within their jurisdictions.
EXISTING POLICY
Community Vision Goal IV Safe and Healthy Community: To maintain Sunnyvale's traditional high level of public health and safety, so all residents, employees and visitors feel safe at all times and in all places in the City.
General Plan Goal SN-3 Safe and Secure City: Ensure a safe and secure environment for people and property in the community by providing effective public safety response and prevention and education services.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The action being considered does not constitute a "project" with the meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section 15378(b)(5...
Click here for full text