Polk County allocates $50,000 in opioid settlement funds to New American Integration Center for prevention, referral and support

Polk County commissioners approved a one‑time contract of up to $50,000 from the county’s opioid settlement fund to the New American Integration Center, a community organization based in East Grand Forks, to support prevention, community partner coordination and short‑term supports for people in recovery.

County public health staff said the state memorandum of agreement identifies public health as the lead for distributing opioid settlement funds at the county level. Public Health and the county’s opioid advisory council recommended the award after an RFP and follow‑up consultations with applicants.

County staff described the award as a single, time‑limited contribution that runs June 1 through Dec. 31. A staff member said the award is reimbursement‑driven: if recipients do not expend funds consistent with the contract and submit reimbursement requests, payments will not be made.

Public Health staff outlined three main components of the New American Integration Center’s proposal: community education and prevention (information about opioids, disposal, recognizing signs of misuse and how to access care), partnership building and referral coordination so people can be connected to appropriate services, and direct supports to reduce barriers to treatment such as short‑term transportation or housing assistance and employer engagement for job placement during or after recovery.

Commissioners asked about fund balance and sustainability. Public Health staff said there is currently sufficient money in the opioid settlement fund to cover the contract and other awards made from the fund, and that future funding decisions would return to the board when public health and the advisory council make funding recommendations. Staff emphasized that the settlement funds are distinct from county general tax dollars and that the board’s current awards are limited to the opioid settlement account and allowable uses described by the attorney general’s office.

The board approved the transfer and contract by voice vote. Staff said they will return to the board at year‑end with recommendations about future funding or a new RFP process if partners demonstrate outcomes and sustainability plans.

Ending

The award is a one‑time reimbursement contract; future funding would require renewed board action and would be subject to available settlement proceeds and the attorney general’s allowable‑use guidance.