Please place on the June 22, 2022 City Commission agenda a referral to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee for a discussion regarding the Marchman Act and Baker Act, and the City’s approach and strategy for assisting persons requiring temporary evaluation and/or treatment for substance abuse or other mental health evaluations and treatment, as well as the City’s efforts to protect the community in those instances when persons with serious substance abuse problems or mental illness present a threat to public safety.  

As part of this referral, I request that both the Miami Beach Police Department and the City’s Housing and Community Services department be prepared to address their efforts and experiences with these issues, and their collaboration with participating partners and/or hospitals.  I would also request the Administration provide a status regarding the anticipated completion of the new Center for Mental Health and Recovery in Miami-Dade County, and how Miami Beach can best utilize this important resource, once the facility is opened.

If you have any questions about this item, please contact my legislative aide Robert Novo lll at RobertNovo@miamibeachfl.gov.