Committee defers decision on Burlington overdose prevention center building purchase, requests budget breakdown
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Summary
Members pressed the Department of Health and Burlington partners for a one‑page budget and a clear split of one‑time versus ongoing costs before approving any use of opioid‑settlement funds to buy a building for an overdose prevention center; at least one member said they opposed the site.
During the Feb. 11 meeting, committee members raised concerns about a late request tied to the Burlington overdose prevention center (OPC), which previously received $1.1 million annually from the opioid abatement settlement fund.
A committee member asked whether H.66 D includes language or funding for a Burlington safe injection site; a participant identified as Brenda said, "I'm against it," and asked that the committee be able to vote separately on that section if it appears. Staff noted the OPC had previously received $2.2 million in total awards, of which about $781,000 has been spent and $1.44 million remained obligated.
VDH staff explained the OPC had stalled on opening, later partnered with a community organization and now anticipates opening in 2026 and expects to spend approximately $2.2 million. Committee members asked whether the $1,000,000 purchase estimate for a building was included in the OPC's ask and whether the state would ultimately own or be liable for the property.
Members pressed for an itemized one‑page budget that separates one‑time (capital) costs from ongoing operational expenses so the committee can evaluate sustainability. A staff member recommended the committee "break down their ask by one‑time and ongoing" and ask Burlington and its partner to clarify what portion of the OPC's request is capital versus recurring.
Several members warned of potential long‑term taxpayer obligations if the state funded a building purchase without clear terms for ownership or disposition should the program end. One member recounted local experience with grant‑funded positions continuing after grant sunsets and said the committee should be cautious about approving capital purchases that could later shift costs to municipal or state taxpayers.
The committee did not approve funding for a building and deferred the matter. Staff will request a concise budget, the OPC's breakdown of spent and obligated funds, and documentation about ownership and lease terms before considering any amendment or added language in H.66 D.