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Marin supervisors unanimously adopt resolution recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month after BHRS presentation
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Summary
The Marin County Board of Supervisors adopted a resolution recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month after a presentation from county behavioral‑health leaders highlighting a 24/7 mobile crisis team, a crisis aftercare team and local Care Court implementation; the board voted 5–0 to pass the resolution.
The Marin County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously April 14 to adopt a resolution recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month after hearing a presentation from county behavioral‑health officials.
Dr. Todd Shermer, director of Behavioral Health & Recovery Services (BHRS), outlined recent local investments and programs aimed at early intervention and crisis response. "We have a mobile crisis response team for just about 10 years now," Shermer said, adding that in 2024 the service became 24/7 and the team logged "over 4,300 calls for service" in the past year. He said about one in six calls were for children under 18 and about one in five for adults over 60. Shermer also described a small crisis aftercare team ("CAT") that has worked with nearly 200 clients following crisis episodes.
Shermer highlighted Marin’s 2024 launch of Care Court — a court‑linked program intended to connect eligible people to behavioral‑health treatment, case management, housing navigation and supportive services — and said the county was named a statewide Care Court "Champion" for its implementation rate.
Mario Garcia, BHRS prevention and early‑intervention supervisor, described a pilot outreach group called "Rooted and Resilient," launched with partner Vivalon to support LGBTQ+ older adults. A participant, Stephen Whittingham, told supervisors the group provided a supportive space for sharing history, resources and coping strategies. "It was a great program," Whittingham said, urging expansion into Novato and Marin City to address transportation barriers for older participants.
Supporters in the chamber and online urged continued funding. Raleigh Katz of MAPE, speaking during item‑specific public comment, said the board should "be on record" supporting BHRS staff and the programs that reduce stigma and expand access.
Supervisor Brian Colbert, who sponsored the resolution, moved its adoption after the presentations. Supervisor Rodoni seconded the motion; the board voted 5–0 to adopt the proclamation.
The resolution directs county staff and community partners to promote Mental Health Awareness Month activities and underscores continued county support for behavioral‑health services and early‑intervention programs. The board photo and brief remarks followed the vote; no further action was required at the meeting.
