By RYAN SKAITH
Following a strategic pivot to local governance, the Platte County Commission has announced the formation of the Platte County Mental Health Board Advisory Committee. The group is tasked with building the framework for a new, independent board dedicated exclusively to the county’s residents.
The move comes after the Commission’s decision to withdraw from the tri-county Clay-Platte-Ray Mental Health Board. By moving to a localized model, the county intends to redirect over $3 million in annual property tax revenue toward initiatives that prioritize local control, transparency, and tailored services.
The newly formed advisory body serves as the architect for the future Mental Health Board. Its primary responsibilities include designing a fair and open application process for prospective board members, recommending specific qualifications and selection criteria, and providing a final framework to the Platte County Commission for approval.
Presiding Commissioner Scott Fricker emphasized that this transition is about creating a system that is more responsive to the specific needs of the local population.
“The creation of this Advisory Board marks an important milestone in our commitment to building a mental health system that truly serves Platte County,” Fricker said. “By having stakeholder input on what we should be looking for in Board members, we are positioning Platte County to deliver more effective, accountable, and tailored mental health services for our residents.”
The Advisory Board includes representatives from various sectors, including health professionals, county leaders, and stakeholders with relevant expertise.
Members of the committee include:
- Honorable Amy Ashleford, Associate Judge Platte County Circuit Court
- Shanna Burns, Public Administrator of Platte County
- Carole Ficken, Pharmacist
- Jeff Kingsley, Platte County Health Board Member
- Elliot Lahn, COO ReDiscover
- Wes Minder, Platte County Administrator
- Jason Reed, Platte County Representative, Clay Platte Ray Mental Health Board
- Michael Shafe, Platte County Health Board Member
- Alii Sayed, Psychiatrist
The Advisory Committee will begin its work immediately to establish the structure of the permanent board. Details on upcoming meetings, project timelines, and how the public can participate will be posted on the official Platte County website at www.co.platte.mo.us.