Behavioral Health Advisory Committee

Purpose

The Behavioral Health Advisory Committee serves in an advisory capacity to the Whatcom County Executive, via the Health and Community Services Department, advising on general priorities for behavioral health programs, including substance abuse and mental health services. 

Meetings

Meetings are held quarterly on the second Monday of the month from 3:00-4:30 pm. The meetings are in a hybrid format, virtual on Zoom and in person at 800 E Chestnut Street, Suite 1B Conference Room.

Click here to Join virtually.  Passcode: 705865

2024 Meeting Dates:

  • January 8, 2024
  • April 8, 2024
  • July 8, 2024
  • October 14, 2024

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas and Minutes

Members

The Committee consists of 11 members. Ten members are appointed by the County Executive, and one member must be a member of the County Council.
 
Current Membership Roster

Barry Buchanan             County Council member

Erika Lautenbach           Health and Community Services' Department Designee

Donnell Tanksley            Whatcom County Sheriff

Susan Johnson                PeaceHealth Representative

Shannon Boustead        Behavioral Health Professional

Caleb Erickson               County Chief of Corrections

Stephen Gockley            Mental Health Recovery Advocate

Stephanie Kraft              Judicial representative               

Erika Creydt                   Behavioral Health Professional

Summer Starr                Mental Health Recovery Advocate

Crystal Thompson        Substance Use Disorder Advocate

Specifications

All members are residents of Whatcom County. Membership must include one representative from:

  • PeaceHealth St. Joseph's Medical Center
  • Judicial branch of County government
  • Whatcom County Sheriff or designee
  • Chief of Corrections or designee
  • County Public Health Director or designee.

Additionally, the remaining five Executive-appointed positions shall include two people who are advocates of mental health recovery, two people who are advocates of substance use disorder recovery, and one behavioral health professional.

Vacancies

Term Length and Limits 

  • 3 year term
  • 2 consecutive full terms; 1 year separation required

Authority