Mental-health board needed in township

It is said that the goodness of a society is judged by how it cares for its most vulnerable people. Some of our most needy citizens are those with developmental disabilities, mental health needs and substance abuse conditions. The Illinois system of care is severely underfunded, and as a result, the state ranks at the bottom in terms of services.

My son David is 27 and developmentally disabled. He functions at the level of a 4-year old and will require care his entire life. Four years ago, he received state funding that pays for services I could not afford on my own. But in Dundee Township, where I live, approximately 200 individuals with developmental disabilities are waiting for services.

I have a friend whose son died from an opioid overdose, and another whose son is incarcerated for drug use violations. Neither received adequate treatment. And the Kane County jail is filled with individuals whose criminal behavior is due to unaddressed mental health conditions.

Township-based Mental Health Boards can provide comprehensive local support services targeted at disability, mental health and addiction. Mental Health Boards are created by voter-approved referendums. Both Elgin Township and Dundee Township have Mental Health Board referendums on the March 17 ballot. If passed, they will generate funds for things like counseling, drug treatment and rehabilitation, day training, accessible transportation and respite care for families. The property tax increase is small - in Dundee Township, about $7.50 a month, in Elgin, about $7 a month.

Numerous townships in Kane County already have 708 boards, but most northern Kane County townships do not. Together we in Elgin and Dundee can provide a safety net for our most at-risk residents. Show you care by voting yes on March 17.

James B. Gould

Carpentersville