The word “Shades” seems to surface often right now – be it “Shades of Gray” about the aftermath of the Civil War in the south- or otherwise as a catchword of our times. It’s been anticipated, and I’m not alone by any means, we’d be seeing shades of Polk County – Des Moines in the state, yet again.

Behold- based upon a Des Moines Register article published Sunday, July 5, the “shades” are turning brighter for the state’s capitol, indeed.

On the very week state mental health facilities were closed in Clarinda and Mt. Pleasant, The Register told of a new $25 million campaign to expand mental health services at, where else?

Broadlawns Polk County Hospital.

Our Iowa Legislature has already agreed to chip in $4.2 million for the project it was reported.

No word at press deadline from Senator Sodders and Rep. Fisher on their take on this following a Chronicle email request sent on Sunday.

Wasn’t the crux of the mental health institution shutdowns to spread more community-based services across Iowa?

Apparently it will be spread across Polk County.

With the closing of the Iowa Juvenile Home / State Training School for Girls in Toledo 18 months ago, the predictions were out a new facility and new services will replace it.

Keep watching this prediction for Polk County to emerge as the center, as well.

Shades?