Future Generations Hearing (HB 872) Public Comment from Kyle Waterman[NOTICE: This message includes an attachment -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you know the content is safe.]
Dear City Council,
Not every homeless issue is a behavioral health issue but these issues are sometimes highly visible. I think it is very important to address these behavioral health and/or addiction
crisis for all our neighbors if they are facing housing insecurity or not. As you know, the State of Montana is an important partner in this work here in the Flathead.
I have received some questions recently regarding the State of Montana funding for Behavioral Health. As President of the Board of Western Montana Behavioral Health Center (WMBHC), I
have been watching the interim hearings for House Bill 872 and there was another hearing today. These issues are broad and complex and I have appreciated that the diligence the Department
has taken to not only understand issues but to advance short term initiatives.
Attached are some slides from today’s updates explaining how the Behavioral Health System for Future Generations Commission that help explain how the funding is rolling out in near term
and one time investments. Western has been applying for these grants as the roll out for the Flathead and the other Counties we provide services in. We look forward to the Commissions
final recommendations and seeing how the remaining $94M is allocated.
There are some other funding decisions what will be announced soon that could help expand our outreach and intervention services. Happy to share more about these future opportunities
as they roll out for the Flathead.
I’d also be happy to come provide an update to the City Council if you are interested.
Thank you for your public service.
Kyle
Kyle Waterman
406.871.4885