Voters approve Mental Health and Recovery Board levy

Voters have officially passed the Mental Health and Recovery Levy, reaffirming the community’s commitment to ensuring access to critical mental health and addiction services for residents across both counties.

The levy represents approximately 40% of the Mental Health & Recovery Board’s annual funding and supports essential crisis response services, prevention and early intervention programs, treatment and recovery supports, and partnerships with local agencies.

“This is more than a win on paper — it’s a commitment to saving lives,” said Kay Spergel, Executive Director. “This vote ensures that 24/7 crisis services, prevention programs in our schools, and life-saving treatment options will continue to be available for our neighbors when they need it most.”

The board extends its deepest gratitude to the PAC Chairs, volunteers, partners, and community advocates who dedicated their time and energy to ensuring voters understood the impact of these services.

“This outcome shows that our community recognizes the importance of investing in behavioral health. These funds make it possible for people in crisis to get help when they need it most, right here at home,” said Rob Montagnese, PAC Chair for Licking County. “We’re deeply grateful for the trust voters have placed in the Mental Health and Recovery Board and the life-saving services it supports.”

“When a community stands up for mental health, it stands up for its people. The passage of this levy means that children, families, and first responders across Knox County will continue to have access to care and support that saves lives. We’re thankful to every voter who chose hope, healing, and recovery,” said Jen Odenweller, Knox County PAC Chair.Funds from the levy will help sustain services including mobile crisis response, behavioral health urgent care, prevention initiatives, and connections to treatment and recovery resources.

For more information about programs supported by the levy, visit www.mhrlk.org.