Moline proposes "Path Forward" program using opioid-settlement funds to pay vendors for recovery supports

Moline officials described a new program, "Path Forward," that would use the city's opioid-settlement allocation to provide short-term, vendor-paid wraparound supports for Moline residents enrolled in certified recovery programs.

Chief of Police introduced the policy rationale: synthetic opioids such as fentanyl remain the primary driver of overdose deaths statewide, and local law enforcement has seized large quantities of drugs locally. After consulting public-health stakeholders and examining allowed uses for settlement funds, staff proposed directing one-time funds to residents who demonstrate financial need while participating in treatment programs.

Jess Anderson, Community Development program coordinator, presented the program design. Key features:

- Eligibility: Must be a current Moline resident and show documentation of enrollment in an approved recovery program (Drug Court, Robert Young Center, Top of the World Ranch were cited as examples). - Assistance: Up to $5,000 per participant, usable within 180 days of disbursement; funds are to be paid directly to vendors (landlords, transportation providers, childcare, job training institutions). Cash disbursements to participants are not permitted; recipients must provide W-9s for vendors prior to payment. - Case management and follow-up: Monthly follow-up meetings or calls with the program coordinator for 180 days; applicants must submit an impact statement describing how assistance would support recovery.

"Everyone deserves a second chance, and everyone is worthy of success," Jess Anderson told council as she described the program's goals.

Council questions focused on logistics and outreach: whether landlords and other vendors will provide W-9s (staff said the city has similar processes for other assistance programs and does not anticipate systemic problems), whether medical treatment costs are eligible (staff said direct medical treatment payments were generally not allowable under the settlement guidance), and how the city will publicize the program to providers and clients. Chief and CED staff said they intended to partner with Drug Court and treatment providers for early outreach and to evaluate demand; staff recommended bringing a formal adoption agenda item back to council at the next meeting so the program can begin operating.

Why it matters: the proposal directs one-time settlement dollars to short-term stability needs (housing, transportation, childcare, training) that staff said remove common barriers to completing treatment and returning to employment. Council members asked staff to report back on caseload and program performance after initial implementation.

Provenance: staff presentation and materials provided at the June 17 meeting.