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Calaveras County adopts Behavioral Health Services Act plan and proclaims May as Mental Health Awareness Month
Summary
The board approved the county’s Behavioral Health Services Act integrated plan for FY 2026–2029 and passed a proclamation recognizing May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month, with staff and community members emphasizing access challenges in rural areas.
The Calaveras County Board of Supervisors on May 12 approved the county's draft Behavioral Health Services Act integrated plan for fiscal years 2026–2029 and accepted Mental Health Services Act annual updates.
Wendy, the county behavioral health director, told the board the plan will be submitted to the Department of Health Care Services for approval. "It's kind of ironic that Calaveras County actually did not vote for Prop One to be approved, but we still have to implement anyways because the rest of California did," Wendy said, describing state changes and the county's responsibilities under the new Behavioral Health Services Act.
During the public comment portion of the item several residents and advocacy representatives described the growing mental health needs among youth and adults. Denise Marlor shared a personal account of her niece's experience with serious mental illness and how county services, transportation assistance and the wellness center helped her regain stability. Patrick Mary, president of the local NAMI chapter, thanked the county for its support and urged continued investment in services across age groups.
Board members and staff highlighted transportation barriers, workforce shortages and the need for culturally responsive services in rural communities. The board unanimously adopted the proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month and approved the integrated plan and annual MHSA updates.
What's next: the county will submit the integrated plan and updates to the state Department of Health Care Services and continue local efforts to expand access, transportation support and workforce development.
