JAMESTOWN, N.D. (Prairie Public Radio) – A representative of the state Behavioral Health Planning Council is urging North Dakota lawmakers to fund a new state hospital in Jamestown.

Carlotta McCleary is the executive director of Mental Health America of North Dakota. She presented a resolution from the Council to the Legislature’s interim Acute Psychiatric Treatment Committee. McCleary said the Council fully supports community based behavioral services, but also recognizes the need for in-patient services, provided at the state Hospital.

She says the current Hospital buildings have exhibited “profound deterioration.”

McCleary says the current facilities lack natural light and healing green-space, and they pose hazards to patients and staff.

The state Hospital is on the same grounds as the James River Correctional Center.

The interim committee will be making recommendations on a new state hospital, as well as expansion of community-based treatment.