At the Montgomery County Board meeting Tuesday morning, Finance Committee Chairman Megan Beeler addressed the board about concerns FAYCO Enterprises has about staying funded. FAYCO is an organization that integrates people with disabilities and other life issues into the community.

To help with some of the financial struggles, Beeler said FAYCO, along with the Montgomery County Health Department, requested the board allow voters in the county to consider a resolution that could help.

"FAYCO and the health department has addressed the finance committee requesting that the county board consider allowing the voters to consider a public tax that will provide funds for mental health, substance abuse and disabled citizens."

The tax would be collected by a 708 Board, also known as a Mental Health Board. Organizations like FAYCO would be able to apply for grants, and the 708 board would determine who receives them.

Mike Plunkett was one of the county board members who was vocal in expressing his approval of the resolution.

"There's always opportunities to pay more taxes, but you've got to look and choose just like your own budget, 'Where do my dollars best help?' and this is a place where I think the taxpayers can say, 'here's a place I think my dollars will really help.'"

Board member Glenn Savage also expressed his approval by stating that if passed, the county could see residents remain in the area.

"Providing opportunities for a fuller, more fulfilling life for children and adults with developmental disabilities is going to cause whole families to stay in Montgomery County that otherwise would leave. Not because they're looking for free services, but because they're looking for a fuller life."

Voters in the county will now be tasked with deciding whether or not to approve the tax of .15 percent. The resolution will be placed on the ballot for the general election in November.

-David Jenkins
August 10, 2016