Community outcry stops plans to build facility for 'dangerous' mentally ill adults for North Baton Rouge
Elected officials still plan to meet Saturday, Jan. 21 at 10am with residents who live near Glen Oaks High and Forest Heights Elementary where the facility would have been located.
Following significant community pushback, Harmony Behavioral Health Center has decided not to move ‘dangerous’ mentally ill adults into a facility in North Baton Rouge. And, elected officials plan to continue a community meeting to hear public feedback at 10am, Saturday, Jan. 21 at Forest Heights Academy.
In a statement released today (Jan. 17), the company stated, “Last week, Harmony Behavioral Health Center administrators were informed of a planned community meeting regarding the opening of its facility at 7414 Sumrall in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After much discussion, prayer, and consideration of the community’s concerns, Harmony Behavioral Health Center has made the decision not to place patients directly transferred from East Louisiana Mental Health System at 7414 Sumrall. We have continued to listen to the community and stakeholders. As such, we convened a meeting with area elected officials before concluding that this decision may be in the best interest of everyone affected. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our patients, staff, and neighbors.”
The facility—which would have 118 inpatients beds for "severely/persistently mentally ill”— was set to be located right next door to Forest Heights Academy of Excellence, an elementary school, and across the street from Glen Oaks High School.
The Glen Oaks Area Neighborhood Association is expected to discuss the proposal at its monthly meeting tonight. Below is the flyer circulating online for community participation.
Community survey seeks to understand how Louisiana's K-12 teachers, instructors, and administrators transitioned into virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic from 2020 to the present. Add your voice and win prizes for participating. https://forms.gle/ogMYWxooCVuiKsPT8