Members of the county’s opioid committee briefed the Board of Supervisors on Aug. 19 and recommended a process allowing existing contractors to request contract extensions through March 31 while preserving the county’s ability to award new contracts earlier if selection occurs.

“...it probably makes sense to do some kind of process to allow the existing contractors to apply for extensions through March 31,” a committee member said. The committee said extensions could be terminated early if new awards are made by the county before March 31.

Why it matters: The recommendation affects how local providers of opioid-related services will be retained or replaced while the county completes a competitive application or award process. It also affects continuity of services for residents who rely on those providers.

Committee members said they are concerned about timing and want flexibility because they do not expect to have applications and awards ready by Jan. 1. They therefore proposed the temporary extension window to avoid service gaps.

Committee members also reported that a mobile clinic was delivered the prior Friday and that staff — including Caitlin Emerick and Colleen (last name not given in the transcript) — are coordinating application timelines. The committee said it aims to present an application for the board’s review by mid-September.

The recommendation was presented as a committee process proposal; the board did not take a formal vote on contracting policy at the Aug. 19 meeting and no formal extensions were approved on the record during the session.