North Star Collaborative unveils new Skagit STAR Center for detox and treatment

The Sedro-Woolley City Council meeting on April 23, 2025, spotlighted the significant progress on the Skagit Star Center, a new evaluation and treatment facility aimed at addressing community health needs. Currently under construction, the center is expected to open by the end of this year or early next year, adding 48 new beds for detox, stabilization, and co-occurring treatment. The project, with a budget of approximately $26 million, is set to be funded through Medicaid reimbursements, with an additional $530,000 in one-time startup funds requested from the state legislature.

The Star Center is a response to the urgent need for a medical service alternative to jail for individuals requiring detoxification. First responders have long faced challenges when dropping off individuals needing medical services, often caught in a cycle between detox facilities and emergency rooms. The new center will streamline this process, allowing first responders to drop off patients without the need for prior medical clearance, thus freeing them to respond to other emergencies.

In addition to the Star Center, the council discussed the launch of the Jowada case management system, which aims to improve coordination among first responders and support teams. This system will enhance communication and efficiency, allowing responders to access a person's history and provide better support, particularly for those experiencing homelessness or behavioral health issues.

The meeting also highlighted improvements to the coordinated entry system for accessing shelter and support services. Previously cumbersome, the revamped system now allows individuals to sign up for services via phone or through service providers, reducing the need for in-person wait times.

These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to enhancing community health services and improving the efficiency of first responders in Sedro-Woolley, marking a significant step forward in addressing local health challenges. The anticipated opening of the Star Center and the implementation of new systems are expected to have a lasting positive impact on the community.