Polk County approves $12M contract extension with Pacific Source Community Solutions

A significant contract extension for behavioral health services took center stage at the Polk County Board of Commissioners meeting on April 9, 2025. The contract with PacificSource Community Solutions, originally set for five years, has been extended by two years, now running until December 31, 2026. This decision comes after several months of challenges, including typographical errors that delayed the signing process.

Commissioner Hansen explained that the contract is crucial for funding behavioral health programs in the region, emphasizing that while the $12 million contract is substantial, it is not considered large within the behavioral health sector. The contract serves as a key funding source for Coordinated Care Organizations (CCOs), which manage Medicaid funds for outpatient treatment programs.

Despite the hiccups in finalizing the contract, the county has continued to draw from the funding without interruption. The meeting highlighted the complexities involved in managing behavioral health services, with the CCO overseeing operations in both Polk and Marion counties.

The board unanimously approved the contract extension, ensuring continued support for essential mental health services in the community. This decision marks a critical step in maintaining the stability of behavioral health funding as the county navigates the intricacies of state-level processes.