The story (“Graduates finish treatment, move forward”) in the Sept. 18 newspaper highlights both the great efforts of two veterans who turned around their post-military lives in the face of great challenges, and the important programs for offenders who face up to their substance abuse and mental health problems.

The Co-Occurring Disorders Court, developed between Justice Nancy Mills and Kennebec/Somerset District Attorney Meaghan Maloney, provides those offenders who acknowledge their drug or mental health problems a way to overcome their problems and again become productive and law-abiding members of our community. These offenders must make the commitment to meet the tough requirements set by the court.

The Co-Occurring Disorders Court is just one of a number of efforts undertaken by our elected county officials that make government in Kennebec County an example of how county governments can meet the challenges of our changing world.

Many of these efforts have not received much publicity, but those who are familiar with governments in our 16 counties know that Kennebec County government is a leader in many areas through innovative programs developed by Maloney, Sheriff Randall Liberty and Registrar of Deeds Beverly Bustin-Hatheway, and supported by our county commissioners. It is good to see our county government team leading the way on such important issues.

Richard Davies

Hallowell


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