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Napoleon council approves OneOhio recovery contribution after debate over naloxone distribution
Summary
Council approved Resolution 005-26 to contribute the packeted amount to the OneOhio multi‑area unit (a regional recovery effort) after extended questioning about program outcomes, local benefit and whether naloxone (Narcan) distribution is part of the program; the measure passed with one recorded no vote.
The Napoleon City Council voted to approve Resolution 005‑26, authorizing the city’s contribution to the OneOhio Recovery Foundation multi‑area unit. Council discussion focused on how much of the grant would directly benefit Napoleon residents, what measurable outcomes exist for the program, and whether the program provides naloxone (Narcan) to people at risk of overdose.
Councilman Gson said he had spoken with the unit’s director and pressed for performance data. He raised concerns about naloxone distribution, saying, “Does your program give Narcan to — fentanyl users? … I feel like that's just giving a user an opportunity to go out and hurt someone else’s family member.” That line of questioning prompted a forceful response from public safety staff.
A fire department representative and another chief described the practical realities they face in the field, saying it can be difficult to measure program success in the short term and that leave‑behind naloxone kits have saved lives. The chief told council, “to hear some of these people that have been revived eight, nine, 10, 11 times … and then you see them being productive members of society. That's where it's 100% worth it in my opinion.”
Staff said the funds proposed in the packet were consistent with prior allocations and that program uses generally focus on drug‑education expenses tied to the multi‑area unit’s activities. Council members asked whether the money would be used locally for youth prevention, treatment, transportation, or infrastructure; staff said uses are constrained to drug‑education categories but can include a range of items if they meet the program’s qualifying language.
After discussion, the council moved and seconded the resolution. The roll‑call vote recorded five yes and one no: Dr. Dave — yes; Tom — yes; Meredith — yes; Victor — no; Jordan — yes; Britney — yes. The measure carried. The council did not direct staff to amend the agreement in open session.
What happens next: staff will execute the contribution as authorized by the resolution and the city will continue to monitor program reporting as it becomes available.
