Cameron County court approves mental health service funding for Tropical Techs

The Cameron County Commissioner’s Court meeting on July 8, 2025, focused on the authorization of mental health services provided by Tropical Techs Behavioral Health for individuals enrolled in the Cameron County Mental Health Divert Court. The court discussed a request for reimbursement of mental health services from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025, funded by a grant awarded to the divert court.

Initially, the item was tabled during the previous meeting to gather more information. Staff members from the court and Tropical Techs were present to address any questions from the commissioners. The mental health prosecutor for Cameron County, Anthony, expressed confidence that the services had been provided since September and that the reimbursement request was appropriate.

The meeting highlighted delays in the grant process, with the notice of award not being received until November, which typically would be distributed in September. This delay was attributed to the need for Tropical Techs to hire new staff and finalize job descriptions. The prosecutor assured the court that they would work to improve timelines for future grants, although the next application process would still begin in September.

The discussions underscored the importance of mental health services in the county and the ongoing efforts to streamline funding and service delivery for those in need. The court's decision on the authorization and reimbursement is expected to enhance support for individuals involved in the mental health divert court.