At last week’s meeting, the Haywood County commissioners approved a resolution to help mental health leaders in a seven-county region regain control of nearly $20 million in assets and more that $1 million in annual rental payments — all which stemmed from public funds.
Smoky Mountain Center is the regional organization that receives government funds to ensure those with mental health issues receive needed services. In 2001, the organization established a separate organization, Evergreen Foundation, to manage the property in which services are provided. Initially, the organizations shared board members, but since former SMC Executive Director Tom McDevitt was released from his contract in 2008, but stayed on as the Evergreen Foundation director, communication between the two organizations has been minimal.
