During a recent government meeting, officials from Marlborough County discussed a missed opportunity to secure $1.2 million in funding aimed at addressing the opioid crisis. The proposal included a site for overnight care facilitated by telehealth providers and local emergency medical services. However, concerns arose regarding the payment method and the decision to contract an external grant writer rather than utilizing local resources.

Council members expressed frustration over the lack of communication and transparency surrounding the proposal. One council member highlighted the potential benefits of the funding for all residents, emphasizing that the opioid crisis affects a wide demographic, not just specific communities. The member lamented that Marlborough County failed to capitalize on this opportunity, suggesting that favoritism and nepotism may have influenced the decision-making process.

Another council member countered that the allocated funds remain available to the county and that strategic engagement with providers is essential. They acknowledged the urgency of the situation but maintained that the county's funding is secure and can still be accessed.

The discussion also revealed skepticism about the legitimacy of the proposal from the telehealth company, which requested a $10,000 upfront payment to secure a grant that was not guaranteed. Council members criticized this approach, arguing that it was not standard practice for the county to engage in such transactions, especially when they already have a capable grant writer on staff.

Overall, the meeting underscored the complexities of navigating funding opportunities and the importance of transparent communication within the council to effectively address pressing community issues like the opioid epidemic.