Shasta County Residents Push for Funding Mental Health Programs and IHSS Wage Increases

In a pivotal meeting on August 26, 2025, the Shasta County Board of Supervisors faced pressing issues regarding funding for local treatment programs and the wages of in-home supportive services (IHSS) workers. Community members voiced urgent calls for action, emphasizing the need for immediate investments to save lives and support essential services.

One of the most significant discussions centered on funding for treatment programs aimed at addressing substance abuse. A representative highlighted that 37% of the local population could benefit from these programs, urging the Board to allocate between $740,000 and $1.7 million to support organizations like Empire Recovery and the Sheriff’s Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program. The speaker stressed the urgency of the situation, noting that lives are at stake and that the available funds should be redirected to these critical services rather than unused for other purposes.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the financial plight of IHSS workers, who play a crucial role in the community by providing care and reducing healthcare costs. Advocates argued that by investing $1.2 million over the next three years to increase wages for these workers, the county could save $1 million annually that would otherwise go to the state. This proposal aims to keep taxpayer dollars within Shasta County while ensuring fair compensation for those who support vulnerable residents.

The meeting also touched on broader electoral issues, with community members expressing concerns about the influence of money in politics and advocating for fair redistricting practices. One speaker proposed that the Board send a letter to the federal government urging the adoption of impartial redistricting processes, highlighting the importance of fair elections in shaping local governance.

As the Board of Supervisors considers these pressing issues, the community remains hopeful for decisive action that prioritizes health, safety, and fair representation. The discussions from this meeting underscore the critical need for local leadership to respond effectively to the challenges facing Shasta County residents.