Whatcom County task force forms work group to study behavioral care center model

The Incarceration Prevention and Reduction Task Force approved forming a behavioral care center work group to research and adapt a Nashville-style co-located model that pairs behavioral health treatment with criminal-justice diversion. The motion, read by Task Force co-chair Peter Frazier, asked the group to "conduct detailed research, engage local stakeholders, and make recommendations aligning with best practices in mental health care and criminal justice reform." Birdie Safford moved the measure and Dan Hamill seconded it; no members raised opposition or abstained before the chair declared the motion passed.