Humboldt Supervisors Honor Veterans Stand Down Event, Discuss Mental Health Partnership Expansion
The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors convened Tuesday morning for their regular meeting, addressing veterans' services, mental health initiatives, and fielding public concerns about homelessness and police oversight.
Veterans Support Takes Center Stage
The Board unanimously approved a resolution honoring the North Coast Stand Down, a three-day event scheduled for September 25-27 at the Humboldt County Fairgrounds in Ferndale. The annual gathering provides comprehensive services to veterans and their families at no cost, including medical care, dental services, employment assistance, and temporary housing.
The event, which has been running locally since 2005, offers what organizers call a "stand down" – a military term for removing exhausted soldiers from the battlefield to recuperate. Services begin at 9:00 AM on Friday and Saturday, with free transportation available from various locations throughout the county. Veterans can register on-site beginning at 8:00 AM Thursday through Saturday.
Mental Health Services Expansion Under Consideration
Significant portion of the meeting focused on Assembly Bill 348, which would establish presumptive eligibility criteria for Full-Service Partnership programs under California's Behavioral Health Services Act. The legislation aims to streamline access to comprehensive mental health services for individuals with serious mental illness.
Under the proposed criteria, individuals would be presumptively eligible if they are experiencing unsheltered homelessness, transitioning from incarceration after six months or more, have had multiple emergency department visits related to mental health crises, or are transitioning from secured treatment facilities. Full-Service Partnerships provide wraparound care including mental health treatment, housing support, and 24/7 crisis intervention.
One public commenter spoke specifically about the bill, urging the Board to consider its potential impact on the county's most vulnerable residents. The legislation, which has already passed through several legislative committees with bipartisan support, would not require counties to enroll individuals if doing so would exceed available funding.
Community Members Voice Diverse Concerns
Several residents addressed the Board during public comment periods, raising various local issues.
A representative from the Redwood Region Audubon Society discussed a pending memorandum of understanding that would allow the organization to conduct environmental improvement events on county property. The agreement requires finalization before activities can proceed.
Multiple speakers honored the contributions of a local environmental advocate who had worked extensively with youth programs, the recycling center establishment in Eureka, and various environmental initiatives. Family members and community partners, including a Human Rights Commissioner, spoke about the individual's decades of service to the community through the Youth Author's Festival, Span-Nutrition Network, and Eco Club.
Calls for Homeless Services and Police Oversight
One community member advocated for enhanced services for the homeless population, specifically requesting 24-hour electricity at the Arcata Plaza to support unhoused individuals. The same speaker called for the establishment of an oversight board for the Humboldt Police Department, citing the need for increased accountability.
Another resident inquired about transportation options to the Stand Down event, highlighting the importance of ensuring all veterans have access to the services being offered. The North Coast Stand Down provides free shuttle services from multiple locations throughout the county.
Concerns about public health also emerged during the meeting, with one speaker raising questions about COVID-19 vaccine safety, citing international studies. While the Board listened to these concerns, no immediate action was taken on this topic.
National Day of Service Proclaimed
The Board unanimously approved a proclamation designating September 28, 2025, as National Day of Service in Humboldt County. The proclamation, presented by a board member, encourages residents to participate in community service activities and volunteer efforts throughout the county.
One public commenter noted a connection between the proclamation and a supervisor's family member, though specific details were not elaborated upon during the meeting.
Administrative Updates and Future Actions
The Board made several adjustments to their consent calendar, pulling items D1, D3, and D4 for separate discussion. Item D23 was removed from the agenda entirely and will return at a future meeting with modifications, though specific details about these items were not provided.
All five supervisors were present for the hybrid format meeting, which allowed both in-person and remote participation via Zoom. The Board continues to meet regularly on Tuesdays at 9:00 AM in the Supervisors' Chamber at the Humboldt County Courthouse in Eureka.
Looking Ahead
As the county prepares for the North Coast Stand Down, organizers emphasize that the event serves all veterans, regardless of their housing status or immediate needs. The event provides overnight accommodations, welcomes service animals and pets, and offers veterinary care on-site.
The Board will need to consider its position on Assembly Bill 348 in future meetings, as the legislation continues to move through the state legislative process. The bill's supporters argue it will reduce barriers to mental health care for those most in need, while ensuring counties maintain flexibility in implementation based on available resources.
The finalization of the memorandum of understanding with the Redwood Region Audubon Society remains pending, with details expected to be addressed in upcoming meetings.