From the Office of Councilmember Dawn Luedtke: “Bill would help individuals in crisis by coordinating Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services and Montgomery County Police Department responses
Councilmember Dawn Luedtke will introduce legislation tomorrow to establish an innovative model to respond to individuals in crisis that has proven to be more effective at deescalating potentially violent situations, divert individuals from the criminal justice system and increase access to needed follow-up services.
Bill 43-23, Crisis Intervention Team – Established, would create Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) as a joint program of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services and the Montgomery County Police Department. Each CIT team is composed of one clinician and one law enforcement officer who co-locate, co-deploy and co-respond to calls regarding an individual who may be experiencing a mental or behavioral health crisis and pose a significant risk of danger to themselves or others in a model that is increasingly being deployed across the country.
Many of the elements of CIT are already in place in Montgomery County, which has made significant strides in establishing clinician-response to support those in crisis. Bill 42-23 would continue the County’s progress by creating a cohesive, navigable and easily identifiable crisis response system. The formalization of CIT within the County will ensure that the program is funded and expanded over time to meet the demands of this jurisdiction.
“The right type of response to someone who may be in crisis is critically important to reaching that individual and ensuring their safety and the safety of everyone around them,” Councilmember Luedtke said. “CIT is a proven model because it emphasizes the right type of response and supports further intervention and wraparound services that are equally important in preventing and mitigating future crises.”
The bill would establish an advisory committee of stakeholders both inside and outside of County government who will collaborate with advocates, identify best practices and inform the CIT team’s procedures. This advisory body will also liaise with the new State CIT Center of Excellence, which was created for the purpose of issuing guidance to the counties so that CIT is adopted and implemented by all jurisdictions in a coordinated fashion. Nothing in this bill eliminates, supersedes, replaces or otherwise interferes with the Mobile Crisis Outreach Teams’ clinician-only responses.
“CIT adds another option in a menu of options for response. Since crises can present in many ways, it’s imperative the system is flexible enough to meet folks where they are,” Luedtke said.
Learn more about Bill 43-23 here.”
Recent Stories
Adventist HealthCare White Oak Medical Center, an acute-care hospital in eastern Montgomery County, is adding patient beds to increase its ability to serve patients from across the Washington, D.C., region…
MCPS High School Sports Scores for May 06, 2024:
The Office of Governor Wes Moore issued the following news release on Monday, May 7:
On Sunday we reported on Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (MCFRS) and Rockville City Police responding to a collision involving a vehicle into a tree at the intersection of…
FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
Eco-Friendly: All shredded material will be recycled, supporting our commitment to sustainability.
Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
Exciting Giveaways & Prizes: Don't miss out on giveaways and be sure to enter our drawing for a chance to win one of four $100 gift cards.
This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
