Public Health & Safety
Prioritizing mental health support, youth opportunity, and proactive public safety across District 16.
A Holistic Approach to Community Safety
Public health and public safety are the cornerstones of a thriving community. As your County Legislator, I believe that every resident of the Town of Newburgh and Orange County deserves to feel safe and have direct access to high-quality healthcare services. My approach to safety is rooted in my professional background in organizational psychology—focusing on empathy, de-escalation, and addressing the root causes of crisis. We are working to build a system that supports our law enforcement while ensuring that medical and mental health professionals are the primary responders for those in need.
Legislative Agenda for Health & Safety
Our office is focused on strengthening the safety net for our families and vulnerable neighbors:
- Expanding Crisis Response Teams: Supporting the expansion of the Orange County Crisis Mobile Response Team and the 988 Crisis Call Center to provide 24/7 in-person support and de-escalation for those experiencing mental health or substance use crises.
- Advanced Training for First Responders: Advocating for increased Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training for local law enforcement to ensure they have the tools to handle behavioral health calls with safety and compassion.
- Investing in Youth Development: Supporting community-led youth programs that provide mentorship, educational advocacy, and safe spaces for our young people to thrive outside of school hours.
- Comprehensive Substance Use Treatment: Championing accessible treatment services, including Free Naloxone (NARCAN) Training and medication-assisted treatment programs at facilities like Garnet Health.
- Equitable Mental Health Access: Working to increase the availability of mental health clinics and peer-support services in historically underserved areas of District 16 to ensure care is never out of reach.
Crisis & Health Resources
If you or someone you know is in need of immediate support, these county resources are available 24/7:
- [Button: Orange County Crisis Call Center (311 / 988)]
- [Button: Find Narcan Training & Treatment]
Other Issues
Affordable Housing
Partnering with local stakeholders to expand housing options and strengthen protections for our neighbors.
Economic Development & Job Training
Creating sustainable pathways to high-quality jobs and ensuring economic growth benefits every resident of Orange County.
Environmental Protection
Preserving our landscapes, safeguarding our water, and building a sustainable future for the next generation of Orange County.