Battle Creek Times

State Representative Steve Frisbie has resumed his role on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity, where he is advocating for investments aimed at public safety, mental health, and education in Calhoun County.

“These are not abstract requests—these are real investments in the safety, well-being, and future of our communities,” Frisbie told committee members.

Frisbie is seeking a $30,000 allocation for the Bronson Health Foundation and Sexual Assault Services. The funding would support classroom-based programs on child sexual abuse and assault prevention for students from pre-kindergarten through high school. These services are provided at no cost to children and families in all Calhoun County school districts. Krista Runyan and Amber Depuydt of Bronson Health joined Frisbie to discuss the need for these prevention efforts.

In addition, Frisbie requested $600,000 for Haven of Rest Ministries in Battle Creek. The goal is to maintain comprehensive substance abuse treatment programs for both men and women. According to Daniel Jones, executive director of Haven of Rest, these services can help reduce homelessness and lessen reliance on government assistance.

A separate request calls for $750,000 to support Starr Commonwealth’s REC program. This initiative partners with local schools as well as organizations such as the Battle Creek YMCA and Albion summer programs to offer mental health support and personal development opportunities to students. Gregg Strand, Vice President of Advancement at Starr Commonwealth, testified that participants have shown improvements in academic performance, confidence, and peer relationships.

On Thursday, Frisbie will advocate for a $31,700 appropriation for the City of Albion. The funds would be used to purchase police body cameras and establish secure cloud-based video storage. Aaron Phipps, Director of Albion Public Safety, will join Frisbie in presenting this request.

“I’m proud to stand with our local partners as we fight for the resources Calhoun County deserves,” Frisbie said. “When we invest wisely, we empower people, protect the vulnerable, and strengthen the very foundation of our communities.”