Flint, Michigan – A ground-breaking mental health first responder compensation program has run up an obstacle in a recent Flint City Council meeting, which calls for more council member discussion. Following a resounding vote, the effort—which aimed to provide $200,000 from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to assist first responders handling mental health concerns—was postponed back to the finance committee.
Council members voiced universal support for the welfare of first responders during the Monday night session, but they also underlined the need of more data and time before implementing the funding plan. Initiated by Mayor Sheldon Neeley, the initiative sought to reduce some of the financial load first responders experience in obtaining mental health treatment.
Sixth ward councilwoman Tonya Burns underlined the program’s urgent need and the continuous mental health issues inside the departments. She mentioned that both agencies had problems with mental health, therefore addressing the police and fire chiefs attending the conference.
Stressing the program’s relevance, Flint Police Chief Terrence Green and Fire Chief Theron Wiggins both supported it. Chief Green pointed out that although the police department budgets for debriefing following tragic events, out-of-pocket expenses still cause issues. Chief Wiggins, on the other hand, underlined the absence of such tools in the fire department.
“I don’t have the set-up that the chief of police do. I need a resource. Please don’t take the resource away. When they come to us and they have a situation that’s identified, we have to have a resource or things really get out of hand,” said Chief Wiggins, as reported by ABC 12.
Read also: Flint Mayor calls for mental health funding for first responders, highlighting workplace stress
Originally considering using money from the Opioid Settlement, the plan fell short with a 3-5 vote. Later, a revision was done on the resolution in the finance committee, which got an 8-0 approval to be reassessed.
Ladel Lewis, President of Flint City Council, voiced uncertainty over the decision to postpone. Lewis clarified that the council is responsible for distributing the funds to ensure that the staff members—not just some, all of them are heroes at different levels—have the necessary services.
The next chance for the council to handle this important matter is the finance committee meeting set for September 18 at 5 p.m. Finding a solution that improves the emotional health of individuals serving on Flint’s public safety sectors excites the community and council both.