On April 1, 2024, the Roundtable Group presented an update on the progress made towards adding a community mental health resource using rebate funds from the 2017 County Mental Health and Public Safety Millage. The update was provided by Superintendent of the Chelsea School District, Mike Kapolka, and CEO of 5 Healthy Towns, Steve Petty, who collaborated to deliver it to the council.
Mayor Jane Pacheco, a member of the Roundtable Group, emphasized the support from Washtenaw County Community Mental Health, which is offering financial assistance as well as clinical management supervision for the new position. She highlighted the importance of this partnership in establishing and sustaining the new resource.
Kapolka informed the council that discussions around the structuring and management of the role, its administrative location, and the geographical scope of the services were ongoing. He mentioned that while nothing has been finalized yet, they are nearing a decision. He also mentioned that the service area would align with Chelsea School District boundaries.
The addition of this new position is intended to complement existing mental health resources in Chelsea’s community such as social workers and psychologists in schools, Chelsea Police Department, Chelsea Hospital and other local agencies. This collaboration aims to enhance continuum of care for community members who rely on these services.
Kapolka emphasized that this position will be established as a two-year pilot program rather than a permanent role. This approach allows for careful consideration, reflection, feedback and evaluation over
