Community leaders push for urgent mental health resources

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant community needs and ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing them. Krista Batterson, the housing and community development manager, provided an update on local mental health resources, revealing that a facility is partially operational, offering outpatient services for families, youth, and adults in crisis. However, the urgent care side is still awaiting essential furniture and staffing, including a licensed nurse practitioner, with hopes of full operation in the coming weeks.

The meeting also highlighted the progress of the Edmond Plan, initiated in 2018, which aims to improve local development processes and transportation infrastructure. Staff members reported successful diagnostics of current development codes and the implementation of recommendations from the Edmond shift transportation plan.

Financially, the city has made strides in securing funding, with $26 million awarded for fiscal year 2024 and a total of $67 million in active grants. Officials praised the efforts of staff in building relationships with state and federal entities to secure these funds, emphasizing the importance of these resources in supporting community projects.

Additionally, discussions touched on a potential partnership with the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) for a significant project estimated to cost over $63 million, which remains on hold due to funding challenges. Despite this, officials expressed optimism about fostering community involvement in existing UCO facilities, such as Mitchell Hall.

The meeting concluded with a focus on expanding community education initiatives, including public outreach events on recycling and solar power, which have seen positive citizen participation. Officials reiterated their commitment to engaging the community and addressing key issues effectively.