Wheat Ridge Council approves pilot program pairing mental health clinicians with EMS personnel

Wheat Ridge City Council has taken a significant step towards enhancing mental health support in the community by approving a memorandum of understanding for the Jefferson County Community Crisis Response Pilot Program. This initiative, spearheaded by the West Metro Fire District, aims to address the growing need for mental health assistance in Jefferson County by pairing licensed mental health clinicians with emergency medical services (EMS) personnel.

The pilot program, which is set to run until January 2026, will allow for a more effective response to mental health crises, requiring police involvement only when absolutely necessary. This approach is designed to alleviate the burden on law enforcement and ensure that mental health issues are handled by trained professionals. The program is modeled after successful initiatives in Denver and Arvada, and importantly, it comes at no cost to the city.

Division Chief Kellogg emphasized that this program will supplement the existing co-responder program, increasing the availability of mental health professionals in Wheat Ridge. By doing so, it aims to provide more focused care for individuals experiencing mental health challenges, while allowing law enforcement to concentrate on their primary duties.

In addition to this pilot program, the council discussed the implementation of a "blue envelope" initiative, which aims to assist individuals with communication difficulties during police encounters. This envelope contains essential personal information that can help officers understand the needs of those who may struggle to communicate effectively.

The Wheat Ridge City Council's approval of these initiatives marks a proactive approach to mental health care in the community, reflecting a commitment to improving public safety and support services. As the pilot program progresses, the council will evaluate its effectiveness and consider future steps to enhance mental health resources in Wheat Ridge.