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Commissioners discuss using opioid settlement funds to buy infrared drug‑detection equipment for jail

Somerset County Commissioners · February 5, 2026

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Summary

County staff proposed using opioid settlement funds to purchase mobile infrared equipment to detect drugs on paper, clothing and mail destined for the jail; commissioners discussed funding availability (approx. $660,000 settlement balance) and pairing equipment with MAT/SUBLOCADE programs.

Somerset County staff raised a proposal to use opioid settlement funds to acquire mobile infrared detection equipment to help keep contraband drugs out of the jail.

County Administrator (S3) and corrections staff described a new infrared machine that can detect drugs on paper, ink and clothing — intended to reduce the risk of overdoses and contraband smuggling into custody. Staff estimated the unit and service contract could run roughly $100,000 over five years and recommended using opioid settlement money rather than raising taxes.

Finance/corrections staff (S11) said the county has around $660,000 in opioid settlement funds and receives approximately $150,000 per year under settlement distributions; some settlement proceeds are restricted to treatment and recovery programs, but staff said there is scope to fund jail security measures tied to overdose prevention. Commissioners asked how detections would be handled operationally and whether detections would trigger investigations; corrections staff said positive hits would generate case investigation follow‑up under existing procedures.

Commissioners supported further review of the proposal and asked staff to return with specifics on vendor costs, contracting terms and grant opportunities to offset costs. The matter will return to the commission for formal consideration with detailed budget and operational recommendations.