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Board approves opioid settlement spending for second co‑responder and $50,000 grant to Viewpoint Health
Summary
Newton County unanimously authorized $48,000 from opioid settlement funds to add a second co‑responder position in the sheriff’s office and approved a $50,000 grant to Viewpoint Health for opioid‑related treatment services.
County staff presented two opioid‑related items March 17. First, staff recommended using opioid settlement funds to pay $48,000 to bring on a second co‑responder assigned to the sheriff’s office; the amount was described as covering salary and benefits for the additional position. The board moved, seconded and unanimously approved the expenditure.
Separately, staff recommended dispersal of $50,000 to Viewpoint Health for opioid‑related treatment assistance. The board voted unanimously to approve that grant as well.
Commissioners framed both approvals as part of a multi-pronged response to addiction and overdose risk, noting co‑responder programs connect individuals with services and treatment rather than relying solely on arrest and incarceration.
