Lehigh County commissioners extended the contract with Magellan Behavioral Health by a vote of 7-2 during their Dec. 16 meeting.

Magellan has provided behavioral health services for county residents eligible for medical assistance for the last 14 years.

Voting in opposition were Commissioners Vic Mazziotti and David Jones Sr.

The new contract takes effect July 1, 2016.

Commissioner Percy Dougherty called for greater oversight of the organization.

“We need to see improvement, Dougherty said. “We need to keep their feet to the fire.”

Despite his vote of approval, Commissioner Geoff Brace pointed out the organization has been inconsistent with maintaining communication with the county.

Jones, who voted against extending the contract last year as well, referred to constant complaints leveled against the organization, predominantly from the public.

Once the contract is drafted, the board will formally approve it.

The board also recognized Commissioners Lisa Scheller and Mazziotti for their service on the board.

Mazziotti was not re-elected and Scheller did not seek another term.

Mazziotti said he was comfortable and content with his service on the board. Scheller also said she considered it a great responsibility to serve as a commissioner.

Jones said Mazziotti and Scheller offered a different perspective to board discussions.

“You left a mark,” he said of both of them.

New board members Marty Nothstein and Dan Hartzell will be sworn in at the Jan. 4, 2016, commissioners organization meeting.

The board will also vote on and nominate a chairperson and vice chairperson for the new year at the meeting.