During a recent Lakewood City Council meeting, members engaged in a robust discussion regarding the potential reintroduction of Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) services through the Jefferson Center for Mental Health (JCMH). The conversation highlighted the challenges of funding and the need for effective mental health services in the community.

Councilor Stewart initiated the dialogue by referencing the historical context of MST services in Jefferson County, noting that while they were previously offered, financial constraints led to their discontinuation. She emphasized the importance of understanding the barriers to care and proposed a collaborative approach to explore feasible solutions, including potential funding opportunities.

Councilor Lowe supported the idea of meeting with JCMH staff before advancing any formal resolutions, suggesting that such discussions could clarify the city's priorities and the viability of MST services. He expressed a desire to signal the council's commitment to mental health initiatives while remaining open to modifying the resolution's language based on feedback from colleagues.

Several council members echoed the sentiment that a meeting with JCMH would be beneficial. Councilor LaBeouf praised the initiative, highlighting the importance of clear action items in council resolutions. Councilor Cruz acknowledged the need for evidence-based policies and expressed enthusiasm for exploring MST services further.

However, some councilors raised concerns about the resolution's wording, fearing it might imply directives to JCMH that could strain their resources. Councilor Ryan suggested that the council might consider prioritizing an informational meeting over a formal resolution to better understand the implications of reintroducing MST services.

Ultimately, the council reached a consensus to schedule a public meeting with JCMH to discuss MST services and potential barriers to implementation. This meeting aims to foster collaboration and gather insights before deciding on any formal resolutions. The council's commitment to mental health services remains strong, with members eager to explore effective solutions for the community's needs.