El Dorado County (Dec 12 2023) – In a move aimed at optimizing resources, El Dorado County has officially decided to terminate its 2-1-1 county information and referral line. The decision, announced in a news release on Tuesday, follows a comprehensive review that revealed the service was not regularly utilized by residents.
Effective this Friday, the 2-1-1 line will cease operations, marking the end of a service that, according to Olivia Byron-Cooper, director of the county’s Health and Human Services Agency, was experiencing persistently low call volume and extended wait times of up to 30 minutes.
In a statement, Byron-Cooper explained that the county officials, after careful consideration, determined that the program was not providing a sufficient “return on investment.” The move reflects a strategic shift in resource allocation to better meet the needs of the community.
To ensure residents continue to have access to essential information and referrals, the county will be transferring these services to the Community Hubs program. Conveniently located in every county library, the hubs will become the new focal point for information dissemination.
“Residents will now have a local contact who is familiar with the services, geography, and options available rather than receiving information from a phone bank located in southern California,” the county news release emphasized.
The transition to Community Hubs is expected to enhance the accessibility and local relevance of information services, providing residents with a more tailored and immediate response to their inquiries. El Dorado County remains committed to serving its residents efficiently and effectively as it adapts its approach to align with community needs.
