The Lebanon County Commissioners recently approved a series of service contracts and budget proposals aimed at addressing critical needs in mental health and disability services for the upcoming fiscal year. The total approved service contracts amount to $6,361,597, reflecting an increase of $535,975 from the previous year. This funding will support 81 service providers across various programs, including mental health, intellectual disabilities, and early intervention services.

A significant portion of the budget increase is attributed to a new contract with WellSpan Philhaven for crisis intervention services, which is mandated by the Mental Health and Intellectual Disability Act of 1966. The commissioners acknowledged the ongoing challenges in securing adequate funding for these essential services, particularly in light of insufficient state and federal support for crisis intervention.

The agency budget for fiscal year 2025-2026 has also been presented, with total expenses projected at $9,084,501, an increase of $303,530. However, projected revenues have decreased by $85,109, raising concerns about a potential deficit of $766,023. The commissioners are requesting $600,000 in county funds to help cover this deficit, which has remained consistent over the past four years.

Commissioners expressed their commitment to managing the budget carefully to minimize the need for additional county tax dollars. They emphasized the importance of maintaining current services without expanding them, as any cuts could jeopardize the fragile network of support for vulnerable populations in the community.

The discussions highlighted the urgent need for sustainable funding solutions, especially as the county anticipates potential funding cuts in the future. The commissioners are hopeful that the proposed $20 million in statewide mental health funding from Governor Shapiro's budget will alleviate some of the financial pressures, but they remain cautious about the uncertainties surrounding state budget negotiations.

As Lebanon County moves forward, the focus will be on ensuring that essential services remain intact while navigating the complex landscape of funding and community needs. The commissioners are committed to advocating for the necessary resources to support the mental health and disability services that are vital to the well-being of their residents.