Uxbridge joins regional opioid‑settlement effort to expand youth services, treatment access

The Select Board on July 14 authorized the town manager to sign an intermunicipal agreement to regionalize opioid‑settlement funds with neighboring towns through the Blackstone Valley Opioid Task Force.

The Chief, who presented the plan, said the Commonwealth’s settlement with opioid manufacturers will deliver funds over an 18‑year period and that municipalities will receive a share. “Uxbridge has received approximately $270,000 and expects over the 18‑year period to amass approximately $850,000,” the Chief said, describing the state’s seven allowable spending categories (treatment, connection to care, harm reduction, support for people in recovery, support for pregnant or parenting women and families, prevention/education, and services for people involved with the criminal justice system).

The task force proposed a regional approach and asked participating towns to pledge $2 per capita (Uxbridge’s share about $28,000) to match a state offering. The group secured a dollar‑for‑dollar RISE/Mosaic match of $129,300 to amplify services if towns contribute per capita funds. Board members sought and received clarification that settlement funds are not intended for increased policing; the Chief said the funding is focused on treatment, prevention and recovery supports.

Officials outlined three priority program areas for the region: (1) youth services and prevention programs; (2) transportation and supports to get people to treatment; and (3) education and recovery‑coach training. The intermunicipal agreement allows towns to withdraw with 60 days’ notice and specifies no use of taxpayer dollars when settlement funds are available. The Select Board approved the agreement and authorized the town manager to sign it on the town’s behalf.