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Benton County crisis center team outlines hiring, certification and phased opening plans
Summary
County staff reported progress on the Benton County crisis center (stabilization downstairs, respite upstairs): furniture orders placed, certification and billing work underway, bargaining still in process before hiring, and IT and security procurement scheduled to meet an early‑May target for ceremonial events.
County staff updated the board on the Benton County Crisis Center project scope and near‑term tasks on Feb. 18.
Project scope and phasing: Rachel Vance and project manager Stacy Utsi said the facility will operate in phases — a 24/7 stabilization area on the ground floor and a respite/residential component upstairs. Furniture for the stabilization area and upstairs respite has been ordered.
Staffing and bargaining: Utsi said hiring is paused pending conclusion of collective bargaining; bargaining meetings are scheduled through early March. The county intends to hire permanent staff rather than limited‑term positions, and staff said they hope to begin hiring in March if bargaining allows.
Licensing and billing: The team is assembling documentation needed for residential treatment facility certification and is working on coding and billing forms to ensure claims and reimbursements will flow properly once services begin.
Operations and procurement: IT equipment orders must be placed by the end of the month to meet procurement lead times; the county will order in two phases (initial equipment for stabilization and later for the upstairs respite). Custodial and security scopes are being defined for 24/7 operations, and MOUs with partner agencies are being drafted.
Timeline and outreach: Staff suggested early May as a reasonable window for tours and ceremonial events, noting that minor finish issues can be managed while celebrating progress. Commissioners encouraged outreach to state partners and potential helpers for recruitment and operational design.
Ending: The county will continue to brief the board as bargaining and hiring timetables firm; staff emphasized that current crisis services will continue during the move to the new site and that the phased approach reduces operational risk.
