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Atlanta’s Policing Alternatives Initiative Suspended Amid Contract Dispute

The newly opened support center in downtown Atlanta aims to assist individuals facing crises.

News Summary

The Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative (PAD) in Atlanta faces suspension due to a contract dispute, impacting its crisis response services. As city negotiations continue and a new contract is in the works, residents look for alternatives to support. The PAD has been a crucial resource for individuals in crisis, providing timely help and avoiding incarceration. With a new diversion center opened, the community hopes for a resolution soon.

Atlanta’s Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative Hits Pause: What You Need to Know

In the bustling streets of Atlanta, a nonprofit organization known as the Policing Alternatives and Diversion Initiative (PAD) has carved out an essential niche by helping residents amid crises. Until recently, PAD has been a beacon of hope for individuals facing challenges related to mental health, poverty, and substance use. But now, a contract dispute has led to the suspension of its crucial services, leaving many in the community seeking answers.

What is the PAD All About?

The heart of PAD’s mission is to help citizens avoid the often intimidating and overwhelming experience of jail time. Instead of directing individuals into the criminal justice system, the organization works tirelessly to provide alternative support. Officers from the Atlanta Police Department (APD) can refer those in need directly to PAD, creating a smoother path toward recovery and assistance rather than facing arrest.

Normally, PAD operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., ready to address issues head-on. However, after a spat over contract negotiations, services to the city’s ATL311 and the APD have been put on hold.

The Contractual Conundrum

The crux of the issue stems from the expiration of a previous month-to-month contract at the end of 2024. City officials are now pushing for performance metrics that PAD allegedly did not furnish in their previous agreement. This has sparked discussions that ultimately led to the suspension, creating a gap in service that residents are feeling.

The city council took action and authorized a new contract on November 18. During this interim period, the city has temporarily deployed its HOPE (Homeless Outreach Prevention and Engagement) team to provide diversion services until PAD can resume its operations. PAD has expressed enthusiasm about getting back to work as soon as their contract is executed.

Impact of the Suspension

In a normal month, PAD responds to over 1,800 calls related to various crises, with an impressively quick average response time of just 19 minutes. Their role has been crucial in the community, helping individuals navigate their struggles and find access to necessary resources.

Looking Ahead: New Contract on the Horizon

As we look toward the future, a fresh two-year contract between the City of Atlanta and PAD is set to kick off on January 1, 2025, valued at $5 million. This contract sits on the foundation of a program that has been in place since 2015, allowing officers to divert individuals into social services rather than funneling them into the cumbersome criminal justice system.

The primary objective remains the same: use these programs to address public safety and enhance the quality of life without resorting to incarceration.

A New Diversion Center to Step In

Amid the ongoing tensions, the Center for Diversion & Services recently opened its doors in downtown Atlanta. Designed with the community’s needs in mind, this center aims to alleviate some of the burden on the Fulton County jail and court system by effectively diverting individuals facing mental health issues or low-level offenses. It’s expected to serve more than 10,000 individuals annually.

The services offered at the diversion center are comprehensive and include a 24/7 sobering room, certified peer support, case management, and an array of referrals. Guests will also find amenities like showers and laundry facilities available. However, participation requires individuals to be 18 or older and consent to diversion services.

Final Thoughts

The recent developments in Atlanta regarding PAD underscore an essential conversation about how communities can better support their most vulnerable citizens while addressing public safety concerns. As the city navigates these changes, all eyes will be on the new contract and the future services that PAD will provide. The commitment to alternatives over arrests signals a progressive approach to public safety in Atlanta.