OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — The ongoing feud between Oklahoma County and Oklahoma City over the construction of a new jail and behavioral health facility has led to a stalemate, with millions in funding now at risk of being redirected to other projects if an agreement is not reached.
The Oklahoma City Council has yet to approve the necessary permits for the behavioral health facility to be built at 1901 E Grand Boulevard. If the city does not change its stance by January 1, the $40 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding earmarked for the facility could be reallocated to other uses.
Commissioner Myles Davidson of Oklahoma County, in a statement on the matter, discussed the potential uses for the $40 million if the behavioral health facility project is no longer viable. He emphasized that while the county had hoped the funds would support the behavioral health facility, there are still numerous pressing needs in his district that could benefit from the funding.
Potential Uses for the $40 Million
Davidson outlined several community projects that could be funded with the $40 million:
After-School Programs – With many families facing financial hardships, after-school programs could provide a safe and structured environment for children, ensuring they have access to education and recreational activities while their parents are at work.
New YMCA Facility – The construction of a new YMCA could support recreational activities, wellness programs, and community-building initiatives for residents in Edmond and District 3, enhancing access to affordable fitness and social programs.
Luther Fire Department Facility – Davidson highlighted the urgent need for a new fire department in Luther, where the current station is inadequate. The firefighters cannot even sleep at the station due to space limitations, creating safety concerns for the community.
Deer Creek Fire Department – With the rapid expansion of Deer Creek, there is a pressing need for a new fire department to accommodate the growing population and ensure that emergency services can respond effectively.
Ambulance Services for Unincorporated Areas – As part of his responsibilities as a county commissioner, Davidson mentioned that funds could also be allocated to improve ambulatory services for the unincorporated areas of the county, where emergency medical services are often stretched thin.
Hopes for Behavioral Health Facility Fading
The prospects of the $40 million being used for the behavioral health facility began to look increasingly uncertain after failed mediation between Oklahoma County and Oklahoma City. Commissioner Davidson expressed disappointment, acknowledging that while the funds could be used for other valuable projects, the behavioral health facility would have addressed a critical need for mental health services in the region.
“I was just still really trying to hold out for this because it’s best practice for this,” Davidson said. “I believe it probably could’ve done better if the partners would’ve come together.”
Despite his concerns, Davidson also expressed optimism that the redirected funds could bring meaningful improvements to the district. However, Commissioner Brian Maughan pointed out that the behavioral health facility, if it had moved forward, would have had the most significant long-term impact.
“Make no mistake, it’s going to do a lot of good, but I believe it probably could’ve done better if the partners would’ve come together,” Maughan said. “I don’t think anything could’ve topped the good that would’ve happened had it been able to be a behavioral care center at the jail.”
Ongoing Dispute and Public Sentiment
The situation remains fluid, with public frustration growing over the ongoing conflict between the city and county. Many residents and advocates for mental health care have expressed disappointment that the proposed behavioral health facility, which could have alleviated the strain on local hospitals and jails, is now in jeopardy.
However, Davidson’s comments underscore the difficult position the county finds itself in, with the fate of the $40 million hinging on whether a resolution can be reached by the January deadline. Whether the funds are redirected toward community infrastructure or remain allocated for mental health services will depend largely on the outcome of ongoing negotiations and the city council’s decision.
As the January 1 deadline approaches, both commissioners and community members continue to hope for a resolution that will benefit the residents of Oklahoma County and the broader Oklahoma City area.
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