The Falmouth Select Board has formally joined the growing opposition to the Massachusetts state government’s plan to close the Pocasset Mental Health Center, a move that has sparked strong objections from various stakeholders across Cape Cod.
During a meeting on February 10, the select board unanimously approved a letter to Governor Maura T. Healey, urging her to reconsider the decision to shut down the only state-run mental health facility on Cape Cod—one of just two inpatient mental health centers in the entire state. The board emphasized that closing the center would not only exacerbate an already critical shortage of mental health services in the region but would also worsen existing challenges for residents in need of care.
Worsening an Existing Crisis
Select board members expressed deep concern that closing the Pocasset facility would leave Cape Cod with even fewer mental health resources. Member Douglas C. Brown highlighted the ongoing unmet need for mental health services in the area, remarking, “The need is already not met. To take away services at this time is unacceptable.”
Other board members also expressed their dissatisfaction with the proposed closure. Heather M.H. Goldstone urged that Falmouth should add its voice to the growing chorus of opposition to the closure. She noted, “There is already a large and vocal chorus opposing the closure, and that Falmouth should jump in.” Chairwoman Nancy R. Taylor stressed the urgency of sending a strong, swift message to the Governor, stating the letter must be “very strongly” worded.
Support from Local and State Leaders
Falmouth’s stance joins a broad coalition of local government leaders and community advocates who are actively opposing the closure. Among the notable voices of dissent are Sheriff Donna L. Buckley, State Senator Dylan A. Fernandes, State Representative David T. Vieira, and the Barnstable County Assembly of Delegates. The Towns of Bourne and Mashpee have also expressed their objections, alongside numerous community members who have rallied against the decision.
The Pocasset Mental Health Center, which offers inpatient care for those struggling with psychiatric issues, has become a lifeline for many on Cape Cod. However, Governor Healey’s proposal to close the facility was announced as part of a larger set of budget cuts for the upcoming fiscal year. The select board is strongly opposed to the Governor’s proposal to cut 16 beds that are critical for individuals grappling with mental health-related crises.
Impact on Mental Health Services
The closure of Pocasset would leave Cape Cod Hospital as the only available facility for mental health services on the Cape. However, the hospital’s facility has limitations—it only provides care for those aged 16 and older and has only 20 beds available, significantly fewer than what is needed. This would place even greater strain on the hospital and its staff, who already face considerable demand for mental health services.
Alden H. Cook, a retired firefighter and paramedic with nearly three decades of experience, spoke about the deep impact the closure would have on first responders and the wider community. “The first responders spend an enormous amount of time dealing with people who have psychiatric or emotional issues. If Pocasset closes, we are left essentially wide open in this and all other communities on Cape Cod,” he said. His concerns reflect the increased burden on local services if mental health support facilities are reduced.
Next Steps
The Falmouth Select Board has committed to taking action by sending a formal letter to Governor Healey, expressing their concerns about the potential closure and urging her to reconsider. Town Manager Michael Renshaw is expected to send the letter soon, pending final approval from Dr. Taylor.
The debate over the closure of the Pocasset Mental Health Center highlights the growing mental health crisis in the region and the urgent need for expanded mental health infrastructure. The Falmouth Select Board and other local leaders are now working to raise awareness about the critical importance of maintaining and enhancing mental health services on Cape Cod to meet the needs of the community.
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