Mental Health Services Committee evaluates funding for crisis response resources in Chapel Hill

Orange County officials are taking significant steps to enhance emergency medical services and mental health support in the community, as discussed during the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on May 6, 2025. A key decision made during the meeting was the projected increase of $275,000 in emergency medical services revenue, attributed to improved collection rates when a dedicated staff member assisted with billing.

The board also recommended the creation of a program coordinator position for the arts commission, funded by the occupancy tax, alongside a small increase for a clinical coordinator in the criminal justice resource department. These changes aim to bolster community resources and support.

In a notable shift, the board decided to reallocate funds to maintain a community emergency medical technician position, which is crucial for on-scene responses. However, the decision was made to discontinue funding for a crisis counselor in the 911 center, which had been identified as underutilized. This move reflects a prioritization of direct emergency response capabilities over less utilized support roles.

Commissioners emphasized the importance of rapid response in mental health crises, highlighting that timely intervention can significantly impact outcomes. Discussions also touched on the need for better coordination among various mental health services in the county, suggesting that a future work session could explore how these services interact and improve overall community support.

As the county navigates funding challenges, including potential cuts in federal support, officials are focused on optimizing existing resources to enhance service delivery. The decisions made during this meeting are expected to strengthen emergency response capabilities while addressing mental health needs in the community.