The Opioid Abatement Funding Advisory Board on Nov. 26 received a budget update showing $5,498,458.51 in total opioid-abatement funds to date, of which $3,647,362.36 has already been allocated, leaving $1,851,096.15 available for future applicants and awardees, staff reported.

The board conducted a written election for its leadership. Staff reported two votes for Catherine White and one for Tommy White for chair; for vice chair, two votes were tallied for Tommy White and one for John Mathis. Staff also noted term expirations: Catherine White and Tommy Whites terms expire in May 2026; John Mathiss term expires in September 2026.

Board members then heard short progress reports from current awardees. A community-health representative said the group will "spend down the vast majority" of its 2024 allocation and is not seeking new 2025 funds. CORE reported it has transitioned 514 patients to recovery out of 591 served and described its success rate at 87 percent, while also urging the community not to stigmatize people receiving medication-assisted treatment. OPUS reported distributing harm-reduction supplies including Narcan and fentanyl test strips, providing rapid HCV and HIV testing, and conducting outreach at local encampments. Marcus Bill of Waterfront Mission reported recent ribbon cuttings, initial move-ins to transitional housing and a final reimbursement request pending this month.

The board was reminded that 2024 award contracts end in the coming months; unused funds at contract close will return to the general pool. Staff said 2025-26 applications will go to the Board of County Commissioners on Thursday, Dec. 11, and that nonprofit contracts will be drafted after that vote.

The meeting ended with scheduling discussion for the next board meeting in February and adjournment.