Mental health: Shame on County Council for rejecting tax

Re: “Rejection of Pierce mental health tax leaves supporters reeling,” (TNT, 12/15).

This is not a proud moment for the Pierce County Council members who rejected the proposed tax for mental health services across the county.

After a $64,000 study showed that resources were indeed needed, and overwhelming community support, the proposal failed by one vote. The county’s website states the annual cost of the tax for each person in the county would be $17. We’re also losing $1.5 million dollars promised from the state if the council had passed the tax.

After agreeing that we need the resources, but still voting no, council member Joyce McDonald was quoted as saying, “Right now is a bad time.” No kidding. Especially for those who need the services.

This story was originally published December 16, 2016 at 5:00 PM with the headline "Mental health: Shame on County Council for rejecting tax."