The Knox County Mental Health (708) Board has about $1.8 million available for the July 1, 2026–June 30, 2027 fiscal year to fund local services for mental health, intellectual/developmental disabilities, and substance use.
Board Chair Steve Watts appeared on Galesburg’s Morning News to discuss the board’s work. Established by 2017 referendum, the board levies a 0.15 per $100 property tax, projecting $1.7 million in revenue for the 2025 tax year. Watts, an original member since inception along with John Schlaf and Luke Raymond, explained the narrow mandate and common misconceptions about broader funding eligibility.
(Listen to the interview with Knox County Mental Health (708) Board Chairman Steve Watts above.)
Applications for the next fiscal year are now open online through the Knox County Board website, with a Feb. 27 deadline. Funding is available to Knox County organizations, agencies, and for-profit businesses that provide treatment for mental health, intellectual/developmental disabilities, or substance abuse issues. To apply, visit the Knox County Board website for forms and guidelines. Disbursements are made through the Knox County Treasurer’s office with review by the County Board.
For more information, contact Watts at (309) 344-3409 or swatts@knoxcountyil708board.org.
Watts highlighted impacts like $157,000 to double Knox County Drug Court capacity (now up to 50 people) and set-aside funds for Bridgeway’s 24/7 crisis care center. The three-meeting public allocation process handles rising applications (over 40 last year), emphasizing fairness despite limited funds.
