During the recent California Mental Health Commission meeting, concerns about transparency and trust were at the forefront of discussions, highlighting a growing disconnect between the commission and the public it serves. Community members voiced their frustrations over the handling of the consent calendar, which included procedural rules that had not undergone committee review. This lack of oversight raised alarms about the decision-making process and the potential for unaccountable actions.

Stacy, a concerned participant, emphasized the need for transparency regarding the reallocation of unencumbered funds from the EMPATH program. She expressed fears that private discussions might lead to decisions that do not align with the community's best interests. Her comments echoed a broader sentiment among attendees who feel that the commission has not been forthcoming about its intentions, leading to a significant erosion of public trust.

Susan Gallagher from Cal Voices echoed these sentiments, urging the commission to reconsider its approach to sole source contracting. She called for a moratorium on such practices until a thorough review could be conducted, particularly regarding the distribution of funds to BIPOC agencies and nonprofits. Gallagher's remarks underscored a pressing need for the commission to listen to community feedback and ensure equitable funding practices.

The meeting revealed a palpable frustration among community members who feel sidelined in the decision-making processes that directly affect mental health services. As the commission moves forward, the challenge will be to rebuild trust and ensure that the voices of those they serve are heard and valued. The discussions from this meeting signal a critical moment for the commission to reassess its strategies and prioritize transparency and community engagement in its future actions.