OC Board of Supervisors Seek Public Input to Improve County’s Mental Health Services

Orange County Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Lisa Bartlett and Supervisor Andrew Do will hold a public hearing from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, March 25, 2016, to take testimony from the community on the County’s mental health system. 

Supervisors Bartlett, Fifth District, and Do, First District, comprise an ad-hoc committee established last year to address programs and needs within the County’s behavioral health system. Behavioral health relates to a person’s mental well-being and their ability to function in society. 

“The County’s Behavioral Health system serves a very vulnerable population,” Chairwoman Bartlett, who represents south Orange County, said. “We want stakeholders to have the opportunity to voice their concerns and provide meaningful input as we address ways to enhance the County’s mental health system.” 

“We need the public’s input to increase accountability and ensure that every dollar in our mental health budget is well-spent,” said Supervisor Do, who represents the communities of Garden Grove, Westminster, Santa Ana and portions of Fountain Valley. “This hearing gives Orange County residents an opportunity to recommend ways to improve our delivery of mental health services.” 

As the specialty mental health plan for patients struggling with severe mental illness, the County plays a critical role in the delivery of care. In total, the County is responsible for overseeing more than 200 programs and services, ranging from case management to crisis intervention.  

The meeting will accept a wide range of public testimony and will be held in the Board of Supervisors Hearing Room to accommodate speakers. Anyone is welcome to attend. The board hearing room is on the 1^st floor of the Hall of Administration, 333 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana.