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Benton County OKs intent to apply for jail‑based medications for opioid use disorder grant
Summary
The board voted to approve the county’s intent to apply for a state grant to launch medication‑assisted treatment inside the Benton County Jail; presenters said a jail doctor is in place and estimated grant funding (~$148,000) would largely cover start‑up costs.
The Benton County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 1 voted to approve staff’s intent to apply for a state grant to provide medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) inside the county jail.
Sheriff Ben Arzdal introduced the item and Lieutenant Jeremy Jewell described program readiness, saying the jail has a doctor from the health department experienced with MOUD and that the grant would primarily pay for medications. "We have the doctor in place," Jewell said, adding the proposal will require a lockable refrigerator, urinalysis kits and medication costs. Presenters estimated the grant total at about $148,000 and told the board the initial award would fully fund implementation in the jail.
Commissioners voiced support for the application. Commissioner Pat Malone moved to approve the intent to apply and the motion passed unanimously.
Next steps: staff will submit the grant application and, if awarded, return with implementation details, cost‑share needs (if any) and operational requirements.
