Avita Community Partners asks Stephens County to consider $15,000 opioid-settlement contribution for regional 11-bed substance-use facility

Avita Community Partners presented a regional request to the Stephens County Board of Commissioners seeking local opioid-settlement funds to support a planned men's semi-independent substance-use residential program.

"So we made a request for $15,000," said Michael Faust, chief creative officer with Avita Community Partners, describing a proposal to renovate an existing crisis-stabilization unit into an 11-bed residential program offering intensive outpatient services and 24-hour certified peer supervision. Avita told the board it has secured roughly $345,000 ("almost $346,000," Faust said) in grant funding toward the project but that the grant does not cover the full cost of renovations or licensing.

Avita said the planned facility would be in Flowery Branch and that counties in the region are being asked to contribute $15,000 each from opioid-settlement dollars. "Right now I have 6" counties committed, Faust said in response to a board question; he added he was still meeting with other counties. Faust and other presenters emphasized the program is intended to support diversion, jail in-reach, and post-jail continuity of care.

Commissioners and local speakers raised questions about geography and access: several commissioners said a single site in Flowery Branch could be difficult for residents of northern counties to reach. Faust acknowledged the concern and said Avita looked first at using an existing paid-for facility to limit startup costs, while acknowledging a single 11-bed site would not meet all regional needs.

No county financial commitment was recorded at the meeting. Commissioners said they would need further internal discussion. Avita framed the request as the first step to standing up a program that would take time for licensure and renovation; Faust estimated it could take a year or more depending on licensing timelines.

Avita also described other regional services it provides, including jail in-reach counseling and supported employment, and said the organization serves more than 466 residents in Stephens County through outpatient and IDD services. The presentation generated discussion about linking county justice partners, pretrial diversion and post-release services, and the limits of county authority over regional facility siting and transportation.