City plans to expand 311 services for mental health support

During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the expansion of 311 services and the establishment of a new mental health rehabilitation center in Fulton County. The conversation highlighted the need for extended hours for 311 services, with plans for a pilot program to be initiated before the end of the year. Officials emphasized the importance of collaboration between city and county resources to enhance service availability, particularly during nighttime hours.

The meeting also celebrated the opening of the first mental health rehabilitation center in Fulton County, a $15 million project funded through federal, state, and local contributions. This facility aims to serve as a primary resource for individuals experiencing mental health crises, with 100 staff members available around the clock. City officials expressed a desire for the Police Alternative Diversion (PAD) program to establish a partnership with this center to facilitate better support for individuals in need.

In addition to these discussions, council members raised concerns about the organizational structure and funding of PAD. The program currently operates with a budget of approximately $6.5 million, with 70% of funding sourced from public funds. Officials acknowledged the necessity of understanding the division of responsibilities between the city and county, particularly as the city expands its social services in response to community needs.

Council members requested more detailed statistics on PAD's service delivery, including the number of diversions by police zone. The data revealed that the program had successfully engaged referred individuals about half the time, with a notable disparity in service utilization across different zones.

As the meeting concluded, officials recognized the importance of ongoing dialogue with county counterparts to ensure a coordinated approach to social services and public health initiatives. The discussions underscored the city's commitment to addressing mental health and homelessness while navigating the complexities of funding and service delivery.