The closure of Circle of Friends in Burney, a mental health center serving the Intermountain area, has sparked a debate over the future of behavioral health services in Shasta County. This facility, which has been a vital resource for residents, is set to close on July 24 due to state reforms aimed at reshaping how these services are delivered. The question now is whether it can be reopened under a new model that emphasizes peer support, social inclusion, employment, housing assistance, and community reintegration.
The center's closure has raised concerns about the limited mental health and social services available in the area. Residents have expressed their reliance on Circle of Friends for essential services such as transportation to medical appointments, heating assistance during winter, and cooling resources during extreme summer temperatures. They also value the center's role in providing a place for social interaction and peer support.
The county officials' response to the closure is twofold. They acknowledge the importance of the center's services and the need to restore them as quickly as possible. However, they also highlight the state's behavioral health reforms as the driving force behind the closure. The plan is to reopen the facility as a 'behavioral health clubhouse,' a model that aligns with the new state standards.
The timeline for reopening is optimistic, with officials estimating a potential three-month turnaround. However, this timeline is subject to change, and the process may take up to six months. The Board of Supervisors has also certified the results of a recent election and discussed a proposed censure of the Shasta County Registrar of Voters, Clint Curtis. Additionally, they voted to place two county charter amendments on the November ballot, addressing eminent domain and procedures for filling vacant county department head positions.
The closure of Circle of Friends in Burney serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between state reforms and the practical needs of local communities. While the county aims to implement a new model that aligns with state standards, the immediate impact on residents cannot be overlooked. The challenge lies in ensuring that the reopening of the center meets the community's needs while also adhering to the broader goals of behavioral health reform.
