Local coalition warns of fentanyl-laced pills; Snowflake police endorse naloxone and training

Vicki Solomon, executive director of NCDP, told the Snowflake Town Council on Jan. 10 that the community faces a significant drug problem and asserted that roughly six in 10 pills on the street are laced with fentanyl. She said NCDP works under grant funding across several communities, including Snowflake and neighboring Taylor, and that the group is working with schools to provide prevention information.

"Fentanyl laces every 6 out of 10 pills that are on the street," Solomon said, and she urged that naloxone be included in emergency kits. Solomon offered brief training on naloxone use and follow-up medical care and recommended simple, repeated messaging through social media and paper handouts.

Snowflake Police Chief Martin supported broader naloxone availability and said the department uses naloxone in the community "about 10 times per year." Chief Martin also presented a no-cost "Brain Performance" program designed to support mental flexibility and peak performance for sworn and civilian staff; he said the vendor provided equipment and supplements normally valued at about $20,000 and that staff could participate during scheduled work time. Councilmember JoAnne Guderian asked for a report on the program's effects in about six months; Chief Martin agreed.

Why it matters: Solomon's presentation frames fentanyl contamination as a local public-health and safety concern and calls for expanded prevention and rapid-response measures. The police department's naloxone use and the offered wellness program are immediate steps connecting public safety and officer welfare.

Next steps: NCDP will continue outreach and offer naloxone training; Chief Martin will report back to council on the Brain Performance program's results.