Baltimore’s 911 response overhaul: Can the city afford it — or afford to wait?
A new city agency focused on diverting non-violent 911 calls to mental health professionals moved closer to approval by the City Council Monday night. Baltimore City Council members are debating whether the city is moving too quickly to establish a $16.8 million alternative 911 response system. The proposed Department of Neighborhood Safety would send mental health professionals and civilian responders to certain nonviolent 911 calls while absorbing existing violence prevention programs. Some lawmakers have warned that financial and operational questions remain unanswered as the legislation moves towards a final vote. Council President Zeke Cohen defended the proposal, stating it follows years of discussions with community leaders and planning for a gradual rollout based on the city’s Group Violence Reduction Strategy. The city”s Finance Department has warned that the expanded emergency response operation could create significant recurring costs without a sustainable long-term funding source.
Publicerad : 6 timmar sen förbi Chevall Pryce i Politics Health
Baltimore City Council members clashed Monday over whether the city is moving too quickly to establish a $16.8 million alternative 911 response system, with some lawmakers warning that financial and o... [5743 symbols]
