Humboldt County Executive Committee approves March minutes, hears behavioral health updates

The Humboldt County Executive Committee met May 6, 2026, and unanimously approved the minutes from its March 4 meeting; the committee also reviewed behavioral health program updates, board membership nominations and scheduled upcoming presentations.

Jack Breazeal, Behavioral Health Director/Deputy Director, reported that the county's Triage Center project is progressing and a new MRT clinician has begun work; staff are preparing activities for May Is Mental Health Month. Paul Bugnacki, Behavioral Health Director/Deputy Director, said that behavioral-health services at the county jail have transitioned to Wellpath and that Dr. Agricola is now providing services at the CCRC as well as for Care Court and diversion work. Bugnacki added that Care Court is proceeding smoothly under supervisor Megan Sheeran.

Bugnacki told the committee that Quality Improvement staff are preparing a presentation for July and that SV must reapply for designation, with a deadline in October; he also reported that Dr. Skotzko is actively reviewing programs in the role of Medical Director. Staff noted planning is under way for a new SV facility with a projected 2030 start date. Committee members said they are monitoring a governor's proposal that would cut the Mobile Crisis Benefit.

During the discussion Laura Montagna, Executive Committee member, asked whether AB109 funding remains available; Bugnacki said some AB109 funds continue to support services at the CCRC but that most AB109 funding is now directed to the jail under the Wellpath contract. Bugnacki agreed to follow up with Amy Cone from QI and requested that QI send a meeting invitation so a Behavioral Health Board member can attend; Kelly Johnson suggested Margurite Story-Baker as a possible attendee.

Under Chair/Vice Chair reports, Kelly Johnson raised a potential conflict of interest for Wes Harrison of Crossroads; Laurel Johnson said the bylaws indicate Harrison would have a conflict because he is a contract provider. Kelly Johnson said she will inform Harrison that he cannot be appointed to the board but may still attend meetings. Laura Montagna reported the committee has interviewed Brian Miller, Eddie Morgan and Saul Lopez and plans to forward those names to the Board of Supervisors at its May meeting; she also reported that Dana Holcomb has resigned, which would bring the board to 15 members if the candidates are appointed.

Oliver Gonzalez will hold the BHSA public meeting at the May meeting. Laurel Johnson reported that DHHS will present its budget to the Board of Supervisors on May 11 at 12:00 noon and that most public discussion is expected to concern Social Services cuts rather than Behavioral Health. Kelly Johnson said she will present TAY recommendations in June and Quality Improvement will present in July. The committee reviewed and finalized the May agenda and adjourned at 12:51 p.m.