In a decisive move to strengthen mental health support systems, Washington County's Board of Commissioners announced the appointment of Nichole Buatala to the Mental Health Advisory Council on February 11. Buatala, stepping into the role as a Chemical Health Professional Representative, will begin her term today and serve until December 31, 2027.
Also during the February 11 meeting, a significant step forward was taken to directly embed a full-time crisis telecommunicator within the county's Emergency Communications Response Center. The move, backed by a $199,841.82 grant from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, is slated to aggressively begin on March 1, 2025, extending through June 30, 2026. This initiative aims primarily to meet the standards set by Travis Law, which requires 911 centers to promptly dispatch mental health crisis teams as primary responders. According to the Washington County announcement, the setup is designed to bolster coordination with the Sheriff's Office and enhance mental health support services.
In related news, the sheriff's department is set to see a new furry member join its ranks, thanks to a $7,500 Reunite K9 Cop Grant from the United States Police Canine Association and the American Kennel Club. The Washington County Board of Commissioners approved the grant, which will aid in the acquisition of a new canine for the office, replacing a retiring member of the K9 Unit. The county's matching funds of $2,500 have been reportedly budgeted within the existing K9 Unit's financial plan.
These initiatives are part of local efforts to continuously evolve public safety and wellness strategies within Washington County. With the integration of mental health professionals into emergency response situations and reinforcement of the K9 unit, the community is positioned to experience enhanced support when faced with adversities, be they of the mind or matters of public security. Full details about the Board of Commissioners meeting and the programs mentioned can be found on the Washington County website.
