State Representative

Debbie Phillips

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: JAN. 25, 2010

Contact: Christopher Germain, Legislative Aide (614) 466-2158

State Rep. Debbie Phillips Announces Investments in Local Health Facility

Improvements to allow for greater energy efficiency and cost savings

ATHENS – State Representative Debbie Phillips (D-Athens) today announced that the state will invest
over $53,000 in the Appalachian Behavioral Healthcare facility in Athens. The investment will replace
condensing units which cool the building and will allow for more environmentally friendly technology to
be used at the site.

“I am pleased to see the state continuing to invest in critical infrastructure here in southeastern Ohio,”
said Rep. Phillips. “Appalachian Behavioral Health serves dozens of counties in southeastern Ohio and is
a true asset to the area. The investment not only shows a proactive approach to maintaining tax-payer
buildings, but also a commitment to reducing operating costs through environmentally friendly
investments.”

The funds were requested by the Department of Mental Health and approved by the State Controlling
Board this afternoon.

Appalachian Behavioral Healthcare is one of seven state hospitals run by the Department of Mental
Health. The facility serves all of southeastern Ohio and provides psychiatric care, recovery and social
services, work evaluation and more. The facility employs approximately 170 people in Athens, and 38
community support staff primarily in Muskingum and Guernsey counties.

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