As the need for mental health and addiction services continues to rise, local leaders are asking for the community to support a new levy, Issue 8. The Mental Health and Recovery Service levy—set to appear before voters on March 19—aims to not only fortify existing support systems but also address increased demand for mental health and recovery services.
On Monday morning, community leaders, local mental health agency representatives, and recovery advocates joined the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board (MHRSB) Executive Director Scott Sylak at the Levy Kickoff Rally. Held in the Club Room at the Thomas M. Wernert Center, community members banded together to show their support for renewed and expanded mental health and recovery services throughout Lucas County.
With the current .5-mil levy set to expire at the end of this year, the new 1-mil initiative not only ensures MHRSB can meet the growing demand for care but also provides room for growth and expansion of these services.
If passed, homeowners with a $100,000 property can expect to pay an annual rate of $35—an increase of just $22.91 per year when compared to the existing levy. The additional funds generated would play a pivotal role in enhancing mental health and recovery services, ensuring that the community has access to the support it requires.
The proposed expansion of services was carefully selected to reflect the growing need for care in Lucas County. Specifically, new services would focus on youth and seniors, as well as the implementation of 'compassionate accountability' at the new Lucas County Corrections Center.
In addition to leadership from MHRSB, Monday's gathering saw a multitude of local leaders voicing their support for the levy and driving home the importance of increased funding for these services. Among the prominent figures present were the Lucas County Commissioners, Toledo's Fire Chief, representatives of the NAACP, and Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. Their collective presence not only underscored the significance of this levy but also the widespread acknowledgment of the mental health issues in our community.
“The services we provide are vital for so many in Northwest Ohio,” Flores said. “A vote for Issue 8 on March 19 ensures this crucial support will continue to be available for our children, our families, and our community.”
As we approach the election in March, the call to action is clear—Now More Than Ever, Mental Health and Recovery Services support is vital for Lucas County. By collectively investing in mental health and recovery services, the community is given an even greater opportunity to grow and thrive.
Mark your calendar and prepare your voting plan to support Mental Health and Recovery services! The deadline to register to vote is February 20 and the election will be held on March 19. For more information about voter registration and voting options, visit https://www.ohiosos.gov/elections/voters/register/.