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The Pleasanton Police Department’s Alternate Response Unit recently won the Alameda County Emergency Medical Services Agency’s Program of the Year award.
The unit, which pairs mental health clinicians with non-uniformed police officers to respond in tandem during crisis situations, has helped lead to a reduction in ambulance services in mental health situations in Pleasanton – a trend the county award specifically recognizes, according to city officials.
“This award is a testament to what alternative policing can look like,” Police Chief Tracy Avelar told the Pleasanton Weekly.
“Every day, our officers and clinicians work together to support individuals experiencing mental health crises, connect people with resources, and help stabilize situations before they escalate,” Avelar added. “Their work represents the very best of modern policing, and I couldn’t be prouder of the impact they are making in our community.”
Designed as an alternative to uniformed police responses in certain mental health crises and homeless outreach situations, the team has been on the scene for more than 3,000 calls and conducted nearly 600 evaluations over the past two and a half years, according to the city.
The number of detentions from ARU calls has gone down from 82 in 2023-24 to 79 in 2024-25 to 47 as of May in 2025-26, according to the city. All told, the reduction in ambulance transports has saved families more than $170,000 in costs since 2023-24.
The unit is also making an impact in the schools, helping reduce the percentage of student evaluations that result in psychiatric holds – from 39.5% in 2023-24, to 27.9% in 2024-25 and 20% in 2025-26 as of May, according to the city.
Outgoing City Manager Gerry Beaudin told the Weekly, “This recognition reflects the City’s commitment to finding innovative, collaborative solutions to some of our community’s most complex challenges. The Alternate Response Unit brings together law enforcement, behavioral health professionals, and community partners to provide the right response at the right time.”
Mayor Jack Balch noted how the ARU team has become an integral part of the police department’s response to mental health crises, for the better.
“By bringing together officers, clinicians, and community partners, the program helps connect people with the support they need while reducing the need for more intensive interventions,” Balch said. “This recognition reflects the impact the team is making every day and the value of investing in approaches that work.”
