Title
Vote to a request to adopt a Resolution Declaring the Opioid Crisis a Public Nuisance
Abstract
Action Requested:
Adopt Resolution
Introduction & Background:
In recent years, North Carolina has seen a spike in opioid related overdose deaths. According to data provided by the NC Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 11,000 North Carolinians have died from unintentional opiate poisoning since 1999.
In recent years, Chatham County has seen an increase in opioid overdoses, so Chatham County is taking proactive steps to mitigate further increases. Data between 2015 and mid-2017 reveal that Chatham County has had 21 people seen at area hospital emergency departments for opioid overdoses. During this time there has been one (1) reported death as a result of unintentional opiate poisoning. Data findings beginning in 1999 through 2016 indicate that the county has seen 27 deaths due to unintentional opiate poisoning, averaging 1.5 deaths per year (the 2017 data regarding deaths is not available at this time).
The request to approve the Resolution declaring the opioid crisis a public nuisance will assist appropriate county departments to bring awareness to this very dangerous issue.
Discussion & Analysis:
Budgetary Impact: N/A
Recommendation:
Motion to adopt Resolution Declaring the Opioid Crisis a Public Nuisance