A Tellurian Behavioral Health detox program that has served thousands of people across Dane County may close at the end of the year, WMTV15 reports.
The news is spurring concern from law enforcement, county officials and health leaders.
The Dane County Health and Human Needs Committee on Wednesday heard directly from Tellurian and county leaders about the possible shutdown. Tellurian reported losing over $750,000 last year running the detox unit.
Kevin Florek, Tellurian’s CEO, said the organization is again projecting an over $500,000 loss this year despite reduced staffing.
“Detox is a contract we started in the ‘80s as a cost-effective alternative for folks that were incapacitated,” Florek said. “Over the last five to 10 years, the cost for detox has skyrocketed. Nursing costs have gone off the charts. Our doctor costs have gone off the charts. And we just can’t afford to backfill that.”
With Tellurian stepping away, the county is preparing a request for proposals to bring in a new provider in 2026. Tellurian’s contract runs through Dec. 31.
If no new agreement is reached, the county will shift to a scaled-back program in 2026.
