Crisis Care Centers Levy: Noble idea needs more time

Re: “The Times recommends: Approve King County Proposition 1, the Crisis Care Centers Levy” [March 31, Opinion]:

The Proposition 1 Official Voters’ Pamphlet saddens me. The “assertion in favor” affords particulars solely relating to want. The “assertion in opposition” merely gripes about taxes. Voters ought to as an alternative be involved with effectiveness.

Cautious studying of the complete textual content leaves critical doubts that this noble thought will obtain its objective as a result of planning — not less than as revealed within the ordinance — has barely begun. There will probably be 5 facilities, however details about possession and operational management is absent. Part 4, paragraph C acknowledges staffing difficulties, however neither assesses the present coaching pipeline nor proposes to enlarge its capability. Elevated wages and advantages could help recruitment, however don’t handle the excessive burnout on this area.

Most of all, Part 7, paragraph A grants the county government barely eight months (till Dec. 31, 2023) to submit the complete implementation plan. Proposition 1 funds mustn’t be wanted for this, since they’re unavailable till 2024. Efficient authorities would higher present its concern for individuals who want these providers by finishing the eight months of planning this system earlier than expending the citizens’s goodwill to fund it.

The proposition’s excessive value absolutely makes it a once-in-a-lifetime measure, one which deserves a clearer path to success than this ordinance affords.

David Korkowski, Seattle