Mt. Clemens, MI - Macomb County has been awarded $40 million in state funding to support its innovative jail intake, assessment and housing facility. The funding allocated by the state legislature will be matched with federal and local contributions to fund this proposed $230 million capital project.
"I want to thank our state leaders for recognizing the importance of this transformational project,” said Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel. “From our conversations with Governor Whitmer to our numerous meetings with legislators, it was evident that public safety remains a top priority and that they are committed to investing in projects that have an impact on mental health.”
Many times people in crisis end up in jails, instead of in the care of mental health practitioners who are better prepared to treat a wide variety of concerns. This new facility is being designed with a mindful approach to address the mental health and substance abuse needs of those who come into contact with the criminal justice system.
“The central intake and assessment facility is a critical component of keeping our community safe,” said Macomb County Sheriff Anthony Wickersham. “We are committed to upholding our constitutional responsibility to care for those that are in our custody. This new facility will provide us with the necessary space to implement vital programs and services that can make a real difference."
For the past 25 years, the county has examined a number of alternatives to address this critical infrastructure need. Funding has always been the main barrier. Today’s announcement provides the county with the additional funding needed to proceed with this project.
“We were able to build an exceptional team of advocates who helped secure this critical funding for Macomb County,” said State Senator Kevin Hertel. “From my colleagues in the senate to leadership in the house, we recognized how this project will be transformative in getting people in our community the help that they need. It was clear the state needed to be a key partner in this project.”
For more information on the Mindful Approach To Mental Health the county is planning, please visit macombgov.org.