SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Sangamon County Mental Health Board is continuing its quest to identify and meet the community’s mental health needs.

“One of our concerns is that someone will take a comment by a board member and construe it as board policy. These study sessions are expressly for the purpose of exchanging ideas, some of which are good, some of which might not be so good; ‘some of which will fly, some of which won’t fly,” said the chairman, Steve Nardulli (pictured, center). “In any event, by our bylaws, we are not permitted to take votes at those study sessions. It’s to get ideas.”

The group’s new executive director, Tatyana Gardner (pictured, center), said Wednesday she hopes the board can come alive Thursday. Nov.  4. “I have started exploring grant-managing systems, and the process we will need to establish a transparent and accountable funding structure.,” Gardner said Wednesday. “My goal is to make sure that when we are ready to start distributing funds, we have the appropriate systems and procedures in place to do so effectively. Over the next 30-60 days, my priorities will remain focused on finalizing our specific drafts and continuing to develop our grant-making process.”