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Local News

Newscast: Mendocino Supervisors Debate Oversight of Mental Health Spending

A picture of the house where MCAVHN is located at 148 Clara Street in Ukiah
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MCAVHN is one of the organizations funded by the Mental Health Services Act to provide community services and support.

A routine review of updated bylaws for the Mendocino County Behavioral Health Advisory Board triggered a discussion Tuesday at the Board of Supervisors about the need for greater transparency and accountability around spending state funds for mental health programs.

Calls for Greater Accountability

Supervisor Ted Williams expressed frustration with the lack of performance tracking and transparency, noting that multimillion-dollar contracts do not appear to receive BHAB review.

“One of the concerns I have is that we don’t have any sort of performance tracking or conditions of satisfaction,” Williams said. “There are a lot of contracts that come forward, millions of dollars that this board votes on. I don't see a recommendation from BHAB.”

Supervisor Mo Mulheren, who serves on BHAB, defended the board’s efforts, stating that its committees review facilities and participate in contract processes.

Balancing Transparency and Efficiency

Supervisor Glenn McGourty suggested the need for further revisions, noting that some concerns—such as board representation across districts—remain unresolved. And he noted that the board of supervisors is still waiting for an external assessment of behavioral health. "I’m not comfortable moving forward until we get clarity on these concerns,” McGourty said.

Supervisor Williams highlighted public criticism over the perceived lack of transparency in appointing BHAB members.

Mulheren explained that recent criteria require the board to include representatives such as a veteran, a school district member, and someone under 25.

Concerns About Vulnerable Populations

Supervisor McGourty emphasized the importance of proper oversight, particularly given the vulnerable populations served by mental health programs. “These are some of our most vulnerable people, and treating them with the utmost dignity and care is a high priority for me,” he said.

Next Steps

Ultimately, the supervisors decided to defer the final decision to the new board, which will be seated in January, allowing time to address the unresolved issues.

Local News
Elise Cox worked as an editor and reporter for the San Jose Mercury News, Knight Ridder, U.S. News & World Report and other publications prior to moving to the Mendocino coast in 2022. She began reporting stories for KZYX in August 2024 and became news director in December 2024.