Concern raised about access to services

Where can I find mental health resources?

Portland City Council addressed that question from a resident Tuesday after they expressed frustration about struggles with finding help.

Keni Lehman presented council members the concern, indicating a personal mental health crisis for about a month. Efforts to find help, specifically with paying for prescription medications, have not been fruitful.

Lehman said the situation forced a decision between paying for the electric bill or paying for medication.

Among options explored were Meridian Health Services, The Bowen Center and the Wayne Township Trustee’s Office. Lehman indicated that Meridian and Bowen had a long wait time and the trustee’s office was not helpful.

“I don’t understand what I’m supposed to do,” Lehman said.

“Mental health awareness starts with kindness and I have not gotten that at all,” Lehman added later.

Portland Mayor Jeff Westlake said he reached out to Meridian Health Services and that he had some information to provide to her.

Council member Ashley Hilfiker suggested IU Health Jay's behavioral health unit, which is located in Building C on the west side of the hospital property. She noted that the unit offers services, including helping patients find assistance with paying for medications.

She provided Lehman with information about IU Health.

“I know it’s hard, but stick it out,” said Hilfiker, who also pointed to Bowen and Centerstone as options that offer assistance. “You’ve got to just keep reaching out.

“It’s unfortunate that you had one bad experience, but there are people in Jay County that will help you.”

Council member Matt Goldsworthy suggested that information regarding mental health resources be added to the city’s website. Hilfiker agreed that making the information more easily accessible would be a good idea.

In other business:

•Council member Ron May referenced executive orders signed by President Donald Trump. One of those says: “It is the policy of the United States to take all appropriate action to secure the borders of our Nation through the following means … Cooperating fully with State and local law enforcement officials in enacting Federal-State partnerships to enforce Federal immigration priorities.” May asked if Portland police are prepared to handle enforcement. Westlake said he would be attending a round table today to seek additional information.

•Council forwarded a request from Joyce/Dayton for a one-year tax abatement on a $57,000 investment on new equipment to the city’s tax abatement advisory committee.

•May suggested the city consider requiring that residents euthanize their chickens in an effort to slow the spread of bird flu. He referenced the outbreak of bird flu in Mercer County.

•Council member Michele Brewster asked a question regarding a resident having an issue with trash pick-up.

•Westlake reminded residents that Splashin’ with a Passion: Peggy’s Plunge is scheduled for noon Saturday, Feb.8, at the pond behind Moser Engineering and that Portland Fire Department will host a chili cook-off the following weekend.

•May said he hasn’t found anyone who is in favor of initial plans to create a “social park” in the now-vacant lot to the east of The Greazy Pickle. He asked council members to continue to seek input on the matter.