CPPD has to turn down grant
By Terry Murry on Thursday, December 15th, 2022 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
COLLEGE PLACE – The College Place Police Department has had to abandon hopes of hiring a mental health professional. The position, which was recently advertised, would have helped first responders with people who are dealing with mental health crises.
Chief Troy Tomaras said the position would have been funded through a federal grant and overseen by Greater Columbia Behavioral Health, an entity formed by an inter-local agreement between Asotin, Benton, Columbia, Franklin, Garfield, Kittitas, Walla Walla, Whitman, and Yakima counties. It would have been recognized by the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
“I was really excited for this new position and was disappointed we had to abandon the grant,” he said. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t get anyone interested.”
Tomaras believes strict guidelines and the uncertainty of ongoing funding may have contributed to the lack of interest among potential job seekers. Tomaras said he plans to continue to work toward hiring a mental health professional.
