The committee recommended allocating opioid-settlement funds to support recovery-oriented services in the county, approving a proposal that includes funding for a part-time certified peer recovery specialist (CPRS), transportation assistance and additional harm-reduction supplies.

Samantha (presenter) explained that the program is led by Our House, a 24-hour treatment facility and recovery provider, and requested $35,134 to employ a 20-hour-per-week CPRS for county services (including mileage and fringe benefits). The proposal also requested $2,750 to construct and distribute fentanyl-testing kits and asked for small transportation supports such as gas gift cards and public-transit tokens to reduce barriers to treatment and appointments.

Committee members asked several operational and oversight questions: how the CPRS position would differ from existing caseworkers; how partner agencies (including the sheriff's office, health department and public defender) would coordinate warm handoffs; whether the prior opioid funds distributed in 2024 were evaluated; and how the applicant would report outcomes. The presenter said the CPRS would provide peer-based outreach and recovery coaching based on lived experience and that partner agencies were engaged and under discussion.

A committee member noted a discrepancy between a cover letter and the application about the requested amounts; the presenter said the application total is the correct figure. Committee members asked for performance reporting; the presenter said they track referrals to partner agencies, connections to treatment, and individuals receiving regular one-on-one support and would provide documentation.

After discussion, the committee approved a motion to fund the proposal and forward it to the full board. Several members emphasized the need for coordinated services, performance measures, and clarity on prior fund use. The committee did not create a permanent county position at the meeting; it approved the proposal for opioid funds subject to the standard reporting expectations discussed during the session.