Update on Southeastern Center controversy

The Southeastern Center for Mental Health is at the center of controversy in the state legislature.

Friday, Senator Julia Boseman called for an audit of Southeastern’s finances.

Representative Danny McComas says the request was not in the spirit of co-operation.

Friday, Boseman wrote a letter to the state auditor, requesting a deeper look into Southeastern Center for Mental Health’s finances.

This request caught other legislators off guard.

Just one day before Senator Boseman’s letter, southeastern center officials and state leaders met in Raleigh.

Its purpose was to discuss the center’s finances, and professional future.

The outcome – Southeastern Center was given until August 1 to address problems, and come up with solutions.

Julia Boseman did not attend that meeting, but sent her administrative assistant.

Representative McComas says Boseman’s audit request came at the wrong time.

“We don’t question the fact that she in her ability to call for an audit. We do question the fact of how she went about it and the timing of it,” said McComas.

McComas wouldn’t say whether “the timing” was in reference to the fact that Senator Boseman’s personal and financial issues have made headlines.

Boseman says that has no bearing on this matter.

“I’m just doing my job working hard for the citizens of New Hanover County,” said Boseman.

Southeastern was cleared to re-open its detox center last week, but its crisis station still remains closed.

Julia Boseman said Thursday’s meeting was an overview of the station, and was not intended to specifically address its finances.

McComas said if another meeting is called, he can’t guarantee Senator Boseman will be invited to attend.