Colbert County commissioners seek clarity on opioid-settlement spending as balance nears $225,000

Commissioners at the March 17 Colbert County Commission meeting pressed for clarity about how opioid-settlement dollars may be spent and raised several local items for potential use or recognition.

Commissioner Tommy Barnes asked whether opioid funds could help support Alsboro School’s CU360 event or facility needs. County Administrator Roger Creekmore said county auditors have verbally advised the county’s CFO that opioid funds should be spent directly on traceable opioid treatment and prevention programs, and that the county has not received formal guidance from the Attorney General. Creekmore noted there is a bill pending in the Alabama Legislature that, if enacted, could clarify what the state — and by extension counties as state subdivisions — may spend from their opioid allocations. He reported the current balance is roughly $225,000.

Commissioner Tyrus Mansell asked that the courthouse be lit blue in April in recognition of Child Advocacy Month and proposed local resolutions and coordination with the Cramer Advocacy Center and local child-advocacy centers. Commissioner Tommy Barnes also asked for an MPO update next week on an overpass design and raised concerns that train blockages have impeded access to the hospital; he suggested researching technological solutions used in other counties. Commissioner Bailey announced a Colbert Animal Services fundraiser on March 23 and asked elected officials to attend.

No formal policy change or vote on opioid-fund uses was recorded during the meeting; Creekmore’s remarks indicate auditors’ verbal guidance and a pending legislative development are the next steps for clarification.