Monroe County approves renewal of syringe service program amid public health concerns

Monroe County commissioners approved the renewal of a local syringe service program and allocated $20,000 from the county health fund to continue prevention services.

Miss Kelly, a program representative, told the board the program began in 2015 after a hepatitis C public-health emergency and asked for renewal, saying, “So just requesting to renew this program.” She said Monroe County had seen an increase of nearly 32% in acute and chronic hepatitis C rates between 2023 and 2024 and reported a rise in newly reported HIV cases over the past two years, underscoring the need for prevention strategies.

Mister Voyles, a program representative, described local operations and community partnerships, saying the organization is in its second year as a CDC Center of Excellence and that the group’s work “saves lives.” He said the program has helped local overdose-response efforts and highlighted community outreach such as an upcoming recovery community organization open house.

Commissioners and other meeting participants expressed support for continuing the program, noting that fewer counties in the state are maintaining similar services. After public comment, an unidentified meeting participant moved to approve the renewal and identified the funding source as “Health,” fund number 1159, in the amount of $20,000; the motion was seconded and passed 3-0.

The renewal covers program operations and prevention services as described in the meeting; the board did not specify additional conditions or reporting requirements during the session.

The motion carried 3-0. The board adjourned to other agenda items.