Board adopts resolutions recognizing Overdose Awareness Day and Breastfeeding Month

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners on July 21 adopted two ceremonial resolutions: one recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31 and another proclaiming August as National Breastfeeding Month and World Breastfeeding Week in Chatham County.

The board read and adopted the Overdose Awareness Day resolution, which notes the county’s recent increases in opioid and other substance-related overdoses and urges awareness, prevention and support for treatment and recovery. The board then adopted the breastfeeding resolution, which cites recommendations from major medical organizations that human milk is the optimal food for infants and encourages community, workplace and health-care support for lactating families. Both resolutions were adopted by voice vote with the chair calling for “All in favor? Aye.” No roll-call tallies were stated on the record.

Both adoption actions were ceremonial proclamations rather than ordinances or binding policy changes. The breastfeeding proclamation notes local partners and awards (Piedmont Health Services and the North Carolina Breastfeeding Coalition Family Friendly Employer and Community Partner Awards) and mentions that University of North Carolina Chatham Hospital is pursuing Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative designation.

Copies of the adopted resolutions will be available with the county clerk’s records; the board invited supporters to come forward for photographs after each vote.

Ending: These were proclamations and not regulatory actions. Any follow-up items referenced during the meeting consisted of community photo opportunities and staff follow-up to distribute the adopted resolutions to partners and the public.