Huerfano County approves opioid-settlement funds for Narcan distribution and free CPR training

Huerfano County commissioners voted to approve county funding drawn from opioid settlement proceeds to support a local Narcan distribution and free CPR training program, endorsing an initial allocation to begin the outreach work.

The program is led locally by Shane (last name not given), who told commissioners that “Narcan saves lives” and described plans to offer free two-dose Narcan kits and a shortened CPR certification for community members, business owners and employees. Shane said the kits have a shelf life of about four years and that the CPR course has been adapted to be shorter and serve groups of up to seven people.

The county discussion focused on scaling the program beyond La Veta and Walsenburg to reach Gardner and other communities. Commissioners urged the organizers to coordinate with regional partners and potential funding sources. One commissioner (unnamed in the public record) noted that the Southeast Corridor funding organization has provided grants up to $50,000 in other counties and offered to connect the organizers with those contacts.

Commissioners approved the motion to fund the program with opioid settlement money as presented on the agenda. The motion text on the record was to approve funding for an opioid settlement proposal with Peak Fitness; earlier in the meeting staff and presenters referenced an $8,350 figure as a ballpark for Walsenburg-specific costs while noting it was an initial estimate.

Organizers said they will continue outreach and work to obtain additional grants and partnerships to expand the project. Shane and county staff will report back with a more detailed scope and budget as they refine the plan and pursue external funding.

The approval was procedural funding to begin activity; commissioners asked staff and the program to return with more detailed scope, cost estimates and confirmation of coordination with partner organizations.