Freeborn County approves $61,000 in opioid‑settlement funds for Albert Lea Fire Rescue equipment

The Freeborn County Board voted to award $61,000 in opioid settlement funds to Albert Lea Fire Rescue to buy a Lifepak cardiac monitor/defibrillator and naloxone for first‑responder overdose response.

Public health staff requested a resolution to allocate $55,000 for a Lifepak device (including training and shipping) and $6,000 to purchase naloxone at an estimated $30 per double dose, totaling about 200 double doses. The grant funds are intended to make the Lifepak and naloxone available to Albert Lea Fire Rescue as a hub that will share naloxone with outlying volunteer departments.

Commissioners pressed staff about rising naloxone prices and whether the resolution should include authority to increase the allocation if vendors raise costs. A fire department representative told the board that suppliers have raised the price for a double dose to about $67, and said the department would use the initial funding and return later for additional doses if needed. Public health staff said additional money remains in the opioid settlement fund and the board could either approve an amendment now or allow the fire department to return with a second request.

Several commissioners favored approving the purchase with language allowing for a small amendment if costs increase, citing the equipment’s operational value to first responders who often arrive before ambulances. The resolution was approved by roll call.

The board’s action authorizes procurement of the Lifepak and the initial naloxone order; if further doses are required because of vendor price changes, departments expect to seek supplemental funds later through the opioid settlement process.