Mental Health & Recovery for Licking and Knox Counties is announcing the renewal of its local Licking and Knox County levies on the upcoming November ballot. These levies are not a new tax, but a continued investment in the health and safety of our community.
Each year, these levies provide over $4 million in funding — representing at least 40% of the MHR Board’s total budget. These dollars impact the lives of local residents and ensure access to prevention, treatment, and recovery support for individuals and families impacted by mental illness and addiction.
“Renewing these levies means protecting the services that make a difference every single day—from 24/7 crisis response to youth prevention in our schools, urgent care for mental health needs, and recovery housing,” said Kay Spergel, Executive Director. “This is our community's safety nets for each county.”
In 2024 alone:
— Over 5,245 crisis calls were answered through the 211 hotline.• 2,545 individuals received same-day care at local behavioral health urgent care clinics.• Over 24,000 people accessed services funded by the levy — from children in classrooms to adults rebuilding their lives in recovery.
The renewal levy ensures:
— Continued funding for 211 and 988 crisis lines
— Behavioral health urgent care and mobile crisis response
— Addiction treatment, mental health counseling, and housing supports
— School-based prevention and suicide education programs
— Services for seniors, families, and survivors of domestic violence
These levies are not a tax increase. It simply extends each community’s ongoing commitment to accessible, local behavioral health services.
"Your vote is a vote for hope, healing, and a healthier future for everyone in Licking and Knox Counties," said Spergel.
For more information about MHR Board services or the levy renewal, visit www.mhrlk.org/vote-yes or follow us on social media @MHRLKCO.
