Assembly directs staff to work with Bartlett Regional Hospital on short‑term sobering center location and long‑term options

The Juneau City and Borough Assembly Finance Committee on May 7 voted to direct staff to pursue a short‑term sobering center at Bartlett Regional Hospital facilities and to work with Bartlett on a potential long‑term location.

Assemblymember Smith moved the non‑finance, policy direction: "the assembly direct staff to find a short term location for the sobering center at Bartlett using Bartlett Regional Hospital facilities and work with Bartlett to find a long term location, which could be located at Bartlett, that may be funded in whole or in part by Bartlett Regional Hospital." The motion passed by unanimous consent in the committee.

The motion followed a staff briefing that outlined three options for a sobering center and identified site, capital and operational considerations. Committee members asked whether Bartlett could provide temporary space while renovations occur elsewhere. Bartlett representative Wanner told the committee the hospital had discussed short‑term uses of available clinic space; he said Bartlett had been approached by specialty providers (dermatology and cardiology) about occupying clinical space and noted Bartlett's longer‑term facility master plan calls for operating room updates and possible consolidation of clinics.

Assemblymember Atkinson proposed that staff include Saint Vincent de Paul in negotiations; Smith said staff could involve other potential partners. Manager Kester and staff noted any long‑term arrangement would require further analysis, board approvals and possibly capital work; Bartlett said the hospital board would consider proposals.

Ending: The committee advanced the budget packet and separately approved the motion directing staff to work with Bartlett to locate a short‑term sobering center and pursue longer‑term options; staff will return to the Assembly as plans and funding options progress.