Yellowstone County Commissioners Discuss Terminating Substance Abuse Connect Contract
March 28, 2023 | Yellowstone, Montana
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Yellowstone County officials are considering the future of the Substance Abuse Connect (SAC) program, which has been pivotal in addressing mental health and substance abuse issues in the community. During the March 28, 2023, Commissioner Meeting, stakeholders voiced their support for extending the current contract, which is set to expire in June 2023.
Zach Terakidas, the director of Substance Abuse Connect, urged the commissioners to honor the existing contract, emphasizing the program's success in crisis diversion and collaboration among various community partners, including law enforcement and health services. He highlighted the importance of continuing the program to maintain momentum in addressing the county's mental health challenges.
The City of Billings' Mayor echoed this sentiment, advocating for a careful approach to any decisions regarding the contract. He stressed the need for transparency and accountability while recognizing the complexities of the issues at hand. The Mayor requested that the commissioners allow the contract to run its full term to ensure that all stakeholders can work together to find effective solutions.
Katie Easton, CEO of the Downtown Billings Alliance, also supported the continuation of the contract, noting the positive relationships and outreach initiatives that have emerged from the program. She pointed out the success of the homeless outreach team, which has been instrumental in connecting individuals in crisis with necessary resources.
Further support came from Melanie Schwartz of Rimrock, who suggested conducting a thorough review of the program's resources and metrics over the next 90 days. She emphasized the unique position of Yellowstone County in having dedicated funds for mental health services and the importance of leading in this area.
As discussions continue, the commissioners are faced with the critical decision of whether to extend the Substance Abuse Connect contract, which many believe is essential for ongoing efforts to improve mental health services and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system. The outcome of this decision will significantly impact the community's approach to addressing these pressing issues.
Zach Terakidas, the director of Substance Abuse Connect, urged the commissioners to honor the existing contract, emphasizing the program's success in crisis diversion and collaboration among various community partners, including law enforcement and health services. He highlighted the importance of continuing the program to maintain momentum in addressing the county's mental health challenges.
The City of Billings' Mayor echoed this sentiment, advocating for a careful approach to any decisions regarding the contract. He stressed the need for transparency and accountability while recognizing the complexities of the issues at hand. The Mayor requested that the commissioners allow the contract to run its full term to ensure that all stakeholders can work together to find effective solutions.
Katie Easton, CEO of the Downtown Billings Alliance, also supported the continuation of the contract, noting the positive relationships and outreach initiatives that have emerged from the program. She pointed out the success of the homeless outreach team, which has been instrumental in connecting individuals in crisis with necessary resources.
Further support came from Melanie Schwartz of Rimrock, who suggested conducting a thorough review of the program's resources and metrics over the next 90 days. She emphasized the unique position of Yellowstone County in having dedicated funds for mental health services and the importance of leading in this area.
As discussions continue, the commissioners are faced with the critical decision of whether to extend the Substance Abuse Connect contract, which many believe is essential for ongoing efforts to improve mental health services and reduce the burden on the criminal justice system. The outcome of this decision will significantly impact the community's approach to addressing these pressing issues.
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