Polk County Press Release - July 6th, 2022

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 6th, 2022

Polk County is finalizing the acquisition of the vacant Wells Fargo building at 636 Main Street in Dallas Oregon. The intent to purchase this building, versus building a new facility is a cost saving measure to acquire much needed space to house essential behavioral health services staff. This location also proved to be an excellent addition for these staff to stay near their primary services offered in the Academy Building only a block away.

Discussion is ongoing as to what services will be available at this location and the planning phase is still pending. After receiving feedback from citizens and business owners in the downtown Dallas area, the Board of Commissioners are taking the location and potential services under review. Polk County shares the desire to make downtown Dallas a thriving, welcoming gateway to all who visit and conduct business here.

Polk County Health Services is proud of its long history of providing critical and preventative services to youth, adults and families in all Polk County communities and strives to be a neighbor that is welcome and welcoming.

We regret that there are hard feelings and fears about the work that is being considered for all of Polk County citizens out of this building or any other location that may be considered. Polk County was not yet prepared to roll out a plan for staffing or programs in the Wells Fargo building during the real estate transaction. Those plans are still in the works and will be informed by the input we have received and will likely continue to receive as we conduct our review.

It is important to clarify what this location is not intended for: the Wells Fargo building, or any possible alternative, is not intended to be a shelter or homeless services facility as has been rumored. The location is not intended to house or shelter people with substance abuse challenges or behavioral instability. The location will not be a drop-off for local police agencies to bring intoxicated or unstable individuals.  

Polk County will work to ensure that the Dallas business district will be respected and supported, as we have historically done in every location we partner with.