Senator Burkhart discusses Jamestown State Hospital's staffing and modernization needs

The Senate Appropriations - Government Operations Division convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding the Jamestown State Hospital and its operational capacity. The meeting, chaired by Senator Mather, featured significant dialogue regarding the hospital's current state, staffing challenges, and potential future investments.

The session began with a reminder from a senator that the Jamestown facility is not operating at full capacity, with entire wings remaining empty. Concerns were raised about the implications of constitutional mandates that may not align with contemporary needs. The senator emphasized the importance of adapting mental health facilities to modern practices rather than simply constructing new buildings.

Discussion shifted to the hospital's infrastructure, with senators noting that while the building itself is relatively new, having been operational since 1986, it suffers from significant deferred maintenance. One senator pointed out that the facility has not been adequately maintained, leading to concerns about its ability to serve patients effectively. The need for a $25 million investment was proposed to address these maintenance issues and modernize the facility to better accommodate current mental health practices.

Staffing shortages emerged as a critical issue during the meeting. Senators discussed the difficulty in recruiting qualified professionals to work in Jamestown, with many potential candidates preferring larger cities like Fargo or Bismarck. The budget included $5 million aimed at addressing staffing needs, but senators expressed skepticism about whether this would be sufficient to attract the necessary workforce.

The conversation also touched on the potential for a new building to accommodate specific populations, such as forensic patients. A senator estimated that constructing a new facility could cost around $96 million, but there was a consensus that maintaining a presence in Jamestown is essential, particularly for handling more challenging cases.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the pressing need for investment in the Jamestown State Hospital to ensure it can meet modern mental health care demands while addressing staffing challenges. Senators agreed on the importance of maintaining a facility in Jamestown, with discussions set to continue regarding the best path forward for the state's mental health infrastructure.