Topeka leaders back mental-health merger and explore dispatching behavioral-health responders ahead of police

Mayor (unnamed) announced two local mental-health providers—Valeo and the Family Service and Guidance Center—are merging into Astra Mental Health and Recovery Services around Jan. 1. "Both of those organizations are going to merge into Astra mental health and recovery services," the mayor said, calling the consolidation "huge" for improving access to care.

City Manager (unnamed) said the Topeka Police Department is collaborating with the new joint provider and that Chief Vallejo is evaluating options for dispatching behavioral-health teams for some 911 calls. "Chief Vallejo is actually, evaluating ways that we can actually have them respond, to mental health calls, before police officers do," the City Manager said, noting some other cities provide a fourth dispatch option beyond police, fire and EMS.

Officials said the aim is to provide alternatives to arrest or emergency detention when callers need mental-health resources rather than law enforcement intervention. The mayor said such a partnership could help families, law enforcement and people in crisis get timely help.

The city did not provide operational details, eligibility criteria for behavioral-health dispatch, a launch date, or funding sources during the press conference. City Manager (unnamed) said they are exploring whether Astra can be placed on the city's radio dispatch system; the remarks indicated further details and operational planning will be developed in the new year.