Amador County –The Amador County Behavioral Health Department this week announced the launch of a community planning phase in its pursuit of Mental Health Services Act funding. Director George E. Sonsel said Amador County Behavioral Health is “about to embark on an inclusive process to plan for several million dollars worth of MHSA funding.” Areas in Amador that will get funding include “prevention and early intervention programs; workforce development activities; new information technology systems; behavioral health facilities; supportive housing; and unique and innovative behavioral health practices. Sonsel hired a professional community planning consultant, Resource Development Associates, to help “identify our county’s unique mental health needs and develop strategies that address these needs.” During the meeting, he said, “we will map our vision for future MHSA programs.” The meeting will “look at where we are today, and where we hope to go in the short-term and long-term.” RDA in an early June meeting said Amador County has $5.7 million dollars in funding due to it from the MHSA. RDA’s Jennifer Susskind said if something about the funding amount “changes in Sacramento, we will come back and tell you about it.” Funding includes $772,000 dollars for prevention and early intervention; $450,000 for workforce education training; $778,000 for capital facilities and technology; $501,000 for housing; and $230,000 for innovation. Susskind said a minimum 51 percent of the prevention and early intervention funds must be dedicated to children and youth, ages zero to 20. Part of that funding must also be spent by early next year. And workforce education training funds must be used in 10 years. Susskind said each county will decide whether to use the capital funds for buildings or technology. She said the $500,000 for housing “sounds very minimal,” but it can be used for development, acquisition, construction or rehabilitation. She said buying a house could help 6 people or so. Susskind said the planning council meeting will help identify goals and objectives in Amador. Sonsel said to “Expect a highly interactive meeting.” He said mental health specialists’ participation and voices are critical to the planning process. They “especially seek the input of behavioral health clients, their family members and caregivers.” The “community-wide kickoff meeting” is 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 30th at the Health & Human Services Building, 10877 Conductor Blvd, in Sutter Creek. RSVP (if possible, though not necessary) to Lynn Thomas at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call (209) 223-6814. The meeting is open to the public. Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.