Title
Briefing on Mental Health Services in Thurston County
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
n/a
City Manager Recommendation:
Receive a briefing from Tom Stuebner, Department Director and Mark Freedman, Director of Thurston County Public Health and Social Services.
Report
Issue:
Untreated mental illness is one of the largest social issues facing the State of Washington, Thurston County and the City of Olympia.
Staff Contact:
Steve Hall, City Manager, 360.753.8244
Presenter(s):
Tom Stuebner, Department Director and Mark Freedman, Director of Thurston County Public Health and Social Services
Background and Analysis:
The services and systems that address this public health issue are complex. Thurston County Public Health is charged with coordinating and responding to these needs. Resources are inadequate.
To learn more about the issue of mental illness and current responses, the City has invited Tom Stuebner, Department Director and Mark Freedman, Director of Thurston County Public Health and Social Services to help learn more about:
• The County’s new mental health triage facility.
• The new behavioral/health organization.
• The relationship of the County to Providence’s proposed community care facility.
• Actions at the State level to expand evaluation, treatment and housing for the mentally ill.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The behaviors of some mentally ill individuals create fears and concerns for citizens, merchants, first responders and others particularly in downtown Olympia.
Options:
n/a
Financial Impact:
n/a