San Juan County authorizes participation in Purdue Sackler settlement agreement

San Juan County Council made significant strides in addressing the ongoing Purdue Pharma bankruptcy case during their special meeting on August 26, 2025. The council unanimously approved a motion to authorize their legal representatives at Keller Warbach to vote in favor of the thirteenth amended joint chapter 11 plan of reorganization for Purdue Pharma LP. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the long-standing legal battle, as the plan now includes conditions only for parties that have agreed to it, streamlining the process for those involved.

In addition to this, the council discussed the Purdue Sackler direct settlement, a global settlement package that incentivizes participation from various jurisdictions. The settlement amount increases based on the number of participants, prompting a push for broader involvement. The council voted to participate in this settlement, allowing staff to proceed with the necessary documentation.

As the meeting transitioned into public access time, community members were invited to share their thoughts, with one caller discussing property acquisition on Decatur Island. The council's decisions today not only reflect their commitment to addressing the opioid crisis but also highlight their proactive approach to engaging with the community on local issues.