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Sheriff says state accepted $615,000 opioid planning grant; Pennington County will set restricted line items
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Summary
Sheriff Brian Mueller told commissioners the county’s $615,000 planning grant to coordinate opioid response was accepted; the sheriff asked staff to set up restricted fund line items and report back before finalizing spending plans.
Sheriff Brian Mueller told the Pennington County Board on April 20 that the county’s application for a state opioid planning grant — $615,000 — has been accepted and that the county expects staged releases that could begin with about $205,000.
"We've submitted a $615,000 planning grant. It's been accepted," Mueller said, adding the money would be placed in a restricted opioid fund and staff would work with the auditor to establish line items and reporting. He described the funds as settlement dollars intended for substance‑use disorder services rather than tax revenue.
Mueller urged coordination with local partners — Rapid City, health care providers, the judicial system and social services — to use the planning funds to improve treatment capacity, reduce recidivism and better coordinate care for people involved in justice and health systems. He said the state is considering block grants for Rapid City and Pennington County and anticipated additional state awards in 2027.
Commissioners voiced support and noted prior county involvement in litigation that helped secure settlement funds. Chair thanked the sheriff and staff for pursuing funding and asked county finance and the auditor to prepare reporting structures and updates for future meetings.
What’s next: Staff will propose line items and reporting requirements for the restricted opioid fund and bring specific spending plans and strategies for commissioner approval before funds are expended.
