Title
Vote to adopt a resolution to direct the expenditure of opioid settlement dollars.
Abstract
Vote to adopt a resolution to direct the expenditure of opioid settlement dollars.
Introduction & Background: In July 2021, North Carolina announced a $26 billion agreement with pharmaceutical distributors of opioids to bring resources to communities harmed by the opioid epidemic. The agreement resolves litigation over the role of four companies in creating and fueling the opioid epidemic. Beginning in 2022 and ending in 2038, Chatham County will receive a total of $2.9 million in funding from this settlement, averaging approximately $170,000 per year.
Discussion & Analysis: The Sheriff’s Prevention Partnership on Controlled Substances (SPPCS) serves as the coordinating committee for these Opioid Settlement funds. In September 2022, members of the SPPCS presented a proposal for the use of this funding to address the opioid overdose crisis to the Chatham County Board of Commissioners. A resolution by the Board of Commissioners authorizing the expenditure of a stated amount of Opioid Settlement Funds during a specified period of time and the strategies funded is required prior to drawing from this funding. This resolution aligns with the proposal to the Board of Commissioners in September 2022.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: N/A
Budgetary Impact: No Local Funding Requested.
Recommendation: Vote to adopt a resolution to direct the expenditure of opioid settlement dollars.