In a recent government meeting, Milwaukee Mayor Lisa Beatty proclaimed the week of August 4 through 10, 2024, as Farmers Market Week, highlighting the significance of farmers markets in Oregon's agricultural economy. The Milwaukee Farmers Market, celebrating its 26th anniversary, serves as a vital sales outlet for local farmers and food businesses, providing access to healthy, locally produced foods for residents of all income levels.

The meeting also featured a presentation on the Clackamas County Stabilization Center, aimed at addressing the growing need for behavioral health support in the community. Adam Brown, Deputy Director of Clackamas County's Health, Housing, and Human Services Department, along with other officials, outlined the center's purpose: to provide rapid behavioral health assessment and crisis stabilization for individuals experiencing mental health crises.

The center will operate from the former women's center building in Milwaukee and is designed to alleviate the burden on emergency rooms and jails, which are often ill-equipped to handle such crises. The facility will include two programs: a 24/7 behavioral health crisis stabilization service and a housing stabilization program for individuals experiencing homelessness. The project is backed by $4 million in funding from the Oregon legislature, with ongoing operational support from Health Share of Oregon.

Officials emphasized the importance of community engagement and responsiveness in managing the center, which will include safety measures and a commitment to maintaining positive relationships with local residents. The timeline for the project anticipates construction to begin in late 2023, with the center expected to open in late 2024.

The discussions also touched on the need for a coordinated approach to behavioral health services, with an emphasis on ensuring that individuals do not fall through the cracks during transitions between services. The integration of peer support and individualized care plans was highlighted as crucial for effectively addressing the diverse needs of the community, including specific support for veterans and marginalized groups.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing food access through farmers markets and improving mental health resources through the establishment of the stabilization center, reflecting a proactive approach to community health and well-being.