Delaware County Board Seeks Funding for Expanded Opioid Treatment Programs

During the Delaware County Jail Oversight Board meeting on August 12, 2025, a significant proposal emerged aimed at expanding substance use treatment programs within the county's correctional facilities. The board discussed the pressing need to enhance the PREP (Prisoner Reentry and Education Program) 2, which is a court-mandated program for repeat offenders. Currently, many individuals are experiencing extended incarceration while awaiting enrollment in these essential programs, which are crucial for their rehabilitation.

The proposal, spearheaded by the county's substance use director, seeks to secure funding from opioid settlement dollars to cover the costs of additional staffing and program resources. Specifically, the plan includes hiring two full-time substance use counselors, a licensed clinical social worker, and a substance use mental health support coordinator. This expansion aims to provide more frequent group sessions, addressing the backlog of individuals waiting for treatment.

Board members expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to reduce recidivism rates and improve outcomes for those struggling with substance use disorders. The discussion highlighted the importance of aligning funding sources with the county's operational needs while ensuring that services remain effective and accessible.

As the board prepares to submit this proposal for funding, the anticipated outcome is a more robust support system for individuals in the correctional facility, ultimately fostering a smoother transition back into the community. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to addressing the challenges posed by substance use and the critical role of timely intervention in the rehabilitation process.