Council committee recommends increases for behavioral health and crisis services, advances diversion‑center CIP changes

Montgomery County staff told the Health and Human Services committee that the County Executive’s FY26 recommendation would fund behavioral health programs at roughly $66.5 million, an approximate 8% increase over FY25. The HHS committee recommended concurrence with the executive’s package.

Key additions and reductions - A $107,500 increase to bring the abuser intervention program in‑house, consistent with the county’s designation as a comprehensive domestic violence service provider; the change shifts costs from contract to personnel. - A $425,000 increase for the county’s domestic violence shelter line after an initial RFP attracted no bidders at the FY25 funding level; DHHS said the higher amount is needed to secure a shelter provider. - A $249,194 annualization of two Takoma Park‑co‑located crisis center therapists; the county will receive reimbursement from the City of Takoma Park for those positions. - A $206,414 reduction reflecting full general‑fund annualization of Mobile Crisis Outreach Teams (MCOTs) as previously grant‑funded positions shift to general fund support. - A $555,400 reduction of ARPA substance use services grants, consistent with DHHS policy to use ARPA for time‑limited pandemic responses; hospitals may opt to continue services under billable models. - A $357,219 reduction reflecting the end of one‑time FY25 988/telephone‑line grants; staff noted that local lifeline services remain in place under contract with EveryMind but FY25 funding was one‑time.

Capital program and diversion center The committee reviewed multiple capital improvements program (CIP) amendments for a diversion‑centric project. Packet materials described several prior executive amendments and a recent April amendment adding $500,000 in state aid tied to a COMAR‑required stabilization unit to be located at the Rockville Picker Drive site. Staff said the state aid and a geo‑bond advance will support a walk‑in stabilization unit and youth‑oriented services. The HHS committee recommended approval, and Councilors approved the CIP amendment unanimously during the session.

Context and committee concerns Staff described the behavioral health and crisis services recommendations as responding to long‑standing county needs; a staff presenter noted behavioral health has appeared as the top issue in the DHHS public health survey in consecutive years. Committee members emphasized that some grant reductions reflect the one‑time nature of federal or ARPA funding and that shifting grants to general fund appropriations changes long‑term fiscal exposure.

Outcome The HHS committee recommended concurrence with the County Executive’s FY26 behavioral health operating and CIP package and placed the items on the reconciliation list where applicable. The committee reported unanimous support for the operating and CIP items during the session.