Northeast Ohio Counties Advocate for Increased Funding for Mental Health and Addiction Services

Voters in several counties across Northeast Ohio are preparing to cast their ballots on November 4. The focus is on renewed funding for local mental health and addiction recovery services. These services include crisis intervention, addiction recovery programs, mental health treatment, and community support for both adults and youth.

Northeast Ohio Counties Advocate for Increased Funding for Mental Health and Addiction Services

Summit County Seeks Levy Renewal and Increase

Summit County voters will consider Issue 1, which proposes both a renewal and an increase for the County of Summit ADM Board. Aimee Wade, the board’s executive director, stated that they provide a comprehensive range of behavioral health care services. These range from prevention to recovery support.

The ADM Board has struggled with funding in recent years, especially during the opioid crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. Wade noted that while demand remains, their expenditures are rising. The proposed levy increase from 2.95 mills to 3.45 mills aims to generate approximately $46.5 million annually. This increase would cost property owners $75 for every $100,000 of assessed value.

Ashland County Proposes Replacement Levy

Ashland County is putting forward a replacement levy for its Mental Health & Recovery Board. This marks the first replacement levy in 15 years. David Ross, executive director of the Board, explained that the funding is vital to address the evolving needs of the county.

The levy is expected to generate nearly $1.92 million each year. It will cost property owners $35 for every $100,000 of assessed property value. Funds will support initiatives such as school community liaison programs and enhanced crisis services.

Columbiana County Seeks Levy Renewal

Columbiana County voters are being asked to approve a renewal levy for its Mental Health and Recovery Services Board. Director of Operations and Evaluation, Jennifer Whitman, highlighted that the services cater to individuals without traditional insurance coverage. The renewal would cost residents $6 annually per $100,000 assessed value and is projected to generate $589,900 each year.

Huron County Requests Levy Renewal

Huron County is also pursuing a renewal levy to sustain its Mental Health and Addiction Services Board. The board provides a wide range of services, including counseling, peer support, and medication management. Interim Executive Director Mircea Handru stressed the necessity of maintaining funding to avoid cuts to critical services.

The renewal would cost property owners $11 annually for each $100,000 of assessed value and is expected to yield $580,000 per year.

Richland County Seeks Levy Renewal

Richland County has proposed a renewal levy for its Mental Health and Recovery Services Board. This board recently launched an online platform to help residents access needed services. Executive Director Sherry Branham-Fonner noted that continued funding is essential to sustain existing services.

If approved, the levy would generate approximately $2.44 million annually at a cost of $35 for every $100,000 of assessed property value.

Tuscarawas County Proposes Levy Increase

Tuscarawas County voters are considering an increase in the levy for the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board. The executive director, Natalie Bollon, outlined that this funding will enhance crisis intervention and school-based prevention services.

The proposed increase would raise the millage from .34 to .50 and is expected to generate around $1.42 million annually. The cost to property owners would rise from $12 to $18 per $100,000 of assessed value.

As these counties advocate for increased funding, it is clear that mental health and addiction services play a critical role in the community’s well-being. Each of these levies aims to sustain and enhance vital resources, proving essential in addressing ongoing challenges.