Claremore tackles opioid crisis with new grant funding

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant updates regarding payroll procedures and the management of opioid settlement funds. The clerk's office announced new policies aimed at preventing issues related to payroll submissions, emphasizing the necessity for in-person presentations to ensure accuracy and security. This change comes in response to recent challenges, including phishing attacks that have targeted payroll systems. The office is collaborating with RCB to provide training for employees to better identify and handle fraudulent communications.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the successful application for a $506,000 opioid abatement grant, awarded through the Attorney General's office. This funding aims to combat the growing opioid addiction crisis locally. The grant will be managed through a partnership between Rogers County and the City of Claremore, with plans to hire a director on a contract basis to oversee the initiative. The city’s streamlined processes were noted as advantageous for managing the funds effectively.

The meeting also included discussions on revenue trends and budget updates, with a follow-up session scheduled for later in the day to delve deeper into financial matters. The commissioners expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts in addressing both payroll and opioid-related challenges, underscoring the importance of community support in these initiatives. The meeting concluded with a motion to recess until the afternoon for further discussions.