Carmel Votes Down Crisis Stabilization Center

By Holly Crocco

The Carmel Planning Board voted unanimously Jan. 28 to deny an application by People USA to develop a crisis stabilization center in the hamlet.

“We spent several months analyzing data, challenging People USA with a lot of questions, listing to the public quite a bit,” said Chairman Anthony Giannico prior to the 6-0 vote.

While some audience members applauded the outcome, after the vote, the applicant simply packed up and left the meeting.

Throughout the past several months, residents have spoken at various planning board meetings to either support or decry the potential placement of a Putnam County crisis stabilization center at 1071 Stoneleigh Ave., which would have provided walk-in services to people facing a mental health or substance abuse issue.

While some implored the board to allow the center to come to fruition, others begged it to consider how it will affect neighboring properties and businesses.

The day after the vote, County Executive Kevin Byrne – who has been championing the initiative – said he respects and accepts the board’s decision and appreciates the thoughtful public process that allowed community voices to be heard.

“Local decision-making matters and community support is important for the success of any project,” he said. “Putnam County remains deeply aware of the mental health challenges facing our residents and families. We will continue working with providers, community partners, and municipal leaders to increase public safety and expand access to care through evidence-based approaches, including but not limited to mobile crisis response and other prevention efforts.”

The vote came after two locations had already been shot down, in 2023.

With respect to the American Rescue Plan Act federal funding originally dedicated for this project prior to Byrne taking office in 2022, the county executive said his administration will work with the Putnam Legislature to ensure these public dollars are used responsibly for pre-approved ARPA projects.

“We will ensure full compliance with federal standards for the benefit of Putnam County and to ensure these dollars are not wasted or lost to the U.S. Treasury,” he said.