From Our Readers

Letter from:

Ian M. Coyle,
ICMA-CM County Administrator 

November 2, 2021 

Dear Editor: 

Livingston County government has been on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. We have put the lives and well-being of our residents first and are leading the way in our economic recovery. Our work has had a real impact on the lives and livelihoods of our residents, particularly our most vulnerable. 

The coronavirus pandemic has hit every corner of the globe, including here at home. COVID-19’s impacts have been severe as we have seen loved ones fall ill and pass away and businesses shutter. 

Here in Livingston County, the pandemic has shown us just how important mental health and wellness resources are for our residents. Our dedicated Livingston County Mental Health Services team has responded by: 

• creating a free and confidential Emotional Support phone line for community members and first responders who need someone to talk to during these unprecedented and stressful times 

• converting in-person clinic visits to telehealth sessions in order to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic and respond to client needs 

• developing a series of online wellness videos that highlight art therapy, yoga, distress tolerance, and meditation 

• starting a new social media page committed to providing mental, behavioral, and emotional support 

• dropping off needed supplies on client doorsteps 

• collaborating with several other mental health agencies, such as CASA Trinity, to develop programming and educational tools for the general public 

These actions have directly impacted our residents by raising awareness of mental health issues, keeping our community updated on the evolving behavioral health landscape, increasing accessibility to mental health services, and decreasing stigma by consistently communicating the importance of emotional well-being during this difficult time. 

With the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, we will continue to serve the needs of our residents. They come first. And we will tell the county story. We are very proud of our Mental Health staff, and all members of the county workforce, for their commitment to best-in-class public service. 

Counties matter. We have proof of that right here in Livingston County. 

Sincerely, 

Ian M. Coyle 

County Administrator