Viewpoint Health requests $254K funding increase from Newton County commissioners

A strong push for increased funding took center stage during the Newton County Board of Commissioners meeting on April 8, 2025, as Viewpoint Health presented its budget request for fiscal year 2026. The organization, a key provider of behavioral health care, is seeking $254,282—an increase of nearly $20,000 from the previous year—to restore funding levels to those seen in 2017.

Eric Norton, CFO of Viewpoint Health, emphasized the critical role the organization plays in the community, serving approximately 1,900 residents of Newton County annually. He highlighted the importance of ongoing support from the county, noting that the funding would help maintain essential services amid rising operational costs and inflation pressures.

Norton pointed out that the funding request is not just about maintaining current services but also about expanding capabilities, particularly in their detox unit, which recently increased its capacity from eight to ten beds thanks to previous county investments. "The money that you invested in Viewpoint Health is serving your citizens quite well," he stated, urging the commissioners to consider the long-term benefits of their support.

The meeting also featured discussions about community engagement, with a focus on encouraging male involvement in children's education through events like a recent breakfast that attracted nearly 80 fathers. This initiative aims to foster a more active role for dads in their children's lives, reinforcing the importance of education.

As the commissioners deliberate on the budget, the outcome of Viewpoint Health's request could significantly impact mental health services in the region, highlighting the ongoing need for community support in addressing behavioral health challenges.