In a recent government meeting, officials provided updates on key initiatives related to mental health services and infrastructure development. Scott Brunner, Deputy Secretary for Hospitals and Facilities, reported on stakeholder engagement efforts, including two large meetings that attracted over 100 participants, both in-person and virtually. These discussions focused on budget development for fiscal year 2026, with numerous suggestions received for enhancement requests.

Brunner highlighted the implementation of 20 provisos from the previous appropriations bill, specifically addressing mental health in schools and staffing agency requirements. He also announced that the results of a waitlist study conducted by the University of Kansas, along with the final report from the South Central Regional Psychiatric Hospital advisory panel, will be presented at the next meeting in October.

A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing development of a new 104-bed regional psychiatric hospital in partnership with Sedgwick County. Brunner detailed the project's progress, noting that the design phase is nearing completion, with construction documents expected to be released for bidding on October 24. Responses from contractors are anticipated by November 22, with a decision on the general contractor to be made in December. Construction is slated to begin in February 2025, with an expected completion date in August 2026.

The Sedgwick County Board of Commissioners has approved a land donation agreement for the hospital site, located at MacArthur and Meridian in South Wichita, with the closing process expected to finalize by the end of August. This project aims to enhance mental health services in the region, addressing both involuntary commitments and competency evaluations for criminal defendants.

Brunner also provided insights into staffing challenges at current state hospitals, emphasizing the critical need for direct care positions, including nursing and mental health technicians. The meeting underscored the government's commitment to improving mental health infrastructure and services in the community.