During a recent Oroville City Council meeting, officials discussed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Butte County Behavioral Health to participate in a new sobering center aimed at addressing substance abuse issues in the community. The sobering center, which became operational on August 1, 2023, is designed to provide a safe environment for individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol, offering them a chance to receive necessary services and support.

City officials, including Behavioral Health Director Scott Canelli, highlighted the sobering center as a valuable resource for law enforcement, allowing officers to divert individuals from jail to a facility where they can sober up and access treatment options. In its first month of operation, the center serviced 49 individuals, with a significant number of walk-ins and referrals from local hospitals and law enforcement agencies.

The council also addressed the funding for the sobering center, which is supported by recent opioid settlement dollars. The city has received an increase in these funds, prompting a shift in some council members' initial hesitance regarding the investment. Councilman Webber expressed his newfound support, emphasizing the importance of utilizing the funds effectively to address local addiction issues.

The meeting underscored the need for ongoing collaboration between the city and county to ensure that individuals struggling with addiction receive comprehensive care. Officials discussed the importance of building partnerships with local treatment providers and the challenges of addressing the complex needs of those dealing with opioid addiction, particularly the necessity for medical detox services.

As the sobering center continues to operate, city officials plan to monitor its effectiveness through quarterly reports, which will provide data on the number of individuals served and the outcomes of their treatment. The council remains committed to exploring additional resources and partnerships to enhance support for individuals facing substance use challenges in Oroville.