Consumer Consultation Panel reviews budget, events and STARS sobering‑triage program

The Consumer Consultation Panel (CCP) reported on May and June meetings where members reviewed minutes, discussed a small events budget and heard a presentation on STARS (Spokane Treatment and Recovery Services)/STAT (Sobering Triage and Transitional program).

Tom Goad presented CCP minutes for May and June. Brent Smith, CCP chair, led discussion of the CCP budget; members agreed to allocate $250 for a June walking event and discussed year‑end budgeting. The CCP set a target to prepare the remainder of the 2025 budget by August and start planning the 2026 request by December 2025. The panel also confirmed elections for CCP officers (chair, co‑chair and secretary) will take place in August.

The CCP heard from Ryan Kent (identified in the minutes as STARS executive director) about STARS/STAT, described in the minutes as a sobering‑triage and transitional program that allows people to be intoxicated while receiving services. The minutes reported that STAT has taken about 540 clients since December, with roughly 8% (37 individuals) having duplicated treatment encounters; the minutes contrast that with historically higher duplication rates. The minutes also said STAT accepts walk‑ins, provides case management, and accepts individuals with suicidal ideation when appropriate.

CCP members also discussed community outreach and event logistics (raffles, signage and refreshments) and noted continuing online OBHA (Office of Behavioral Health Advocacy) forums every second Wednesday. The CCP scheduled its next meeting and adjourned.