Security guard services at Mental Health facilities

What it pays for and how it works

This action approves a new Department of Mental Health (DMH) contract for armed and unarmed security guards at DMH-operated facilities, clinics and service sites. The contractor is Universal Protection Service LP, doing business as Allied Universal Security Services (Contract No. MH540004). The total contract sum is $23,200,000, with $3,500,000 for FY 2025-26 and $19,700,000 for FY 2026-27. Coverage is split into a North zone and a South zone.

DMH sought a contractor because the Sheriff's Department no longer has capacity to cover DMH facilities, citing staffing shortages, retention and recruitment. DMH used Invitation for Bids No. DMH12242025B1, released December 24, 2025 and closed February 9, 2026. It received 26 bids from 13 entities and chose Allied Universal as the most responsive and lowest-priced bidder.

The term runs from Board approval through June 30, 2027. The County may extend it through June 30, 2030. The Director of Mental Health executes the contract and any extension. The Director may amend it, including the contract sum, by up to 20% above the Board-approved amount if funds are available, with written notice to the Board and CEO. The contractor invoices monthly by the 15th of the following month, and the County's project manager must approve each invoice. DMH evaluates the contractor each year. A liquidated damages clause lets the Director withhold or reduce payment for non-compliance. The County may terminate for convenience.

The records we read do not list the number of sites, guard hours or hourly rates. The amounts for the option years through 2030 are not stated. The Board item (Item 32, File 26-2037) passed 4-0 on April 14, 2026, moved by Supervisor Solis and seconded by Supervisor Hahn, with Supervisor Barger absent.