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Curry County approves detention center behavioral-health booth and naloxone vending MOA
Summary
The commission approved use of FY2026 RISE grant funds to buy a soundproof SpaceWERX DuraMate for confidential behavioral-health services and approved a memorandum to install a naloxone vending machine at the adult detention center foyer, with staff noting administrative and liability safeguards.
Captain Caitlin Cook asked the commission to approve a capital outlay purchase of a SpaceWERX DuraMate — a self-contained, soundproof and ADA‑compliant booth — to expand confidential counseling and telehealth services for participants in the RISE program at the Curry County Detention Center.
"It is fire safe, soundproof, and ADA compliant," Cook said, adding that the unit includes video-conferencing capability that will expand clients' access to outside counselors and behavioral-health providers.
Cook told commissioners the State of New Mexico Health Care Authority has approved the purchase as an allowable use of FY2026 RISE grant funds. Commissioners asked about placement and security; Cook said the unit would be located in the detention center's multipurpose room with a staff member stationed outside during sessions to maintain safety.
On a separate but related action, Joe Alaniz presented a memorandum of agreement with Knox Consultants LLC to participate in the New Mexico Health Care Authority's naloxone-distribution initiative and to place a naloxone vending machine in the detention center foyer with a one‑year term and possible two‑year extension. Alaniz said the dispensing system would improve community access while the facility would not be the primary administrator of naloxone at point of crisis.
Attorney Mackey said he reviewed the MOA and raised administrative and liability concerns but indicated the contract language itself was acceptable and that Alaniz had taken steps to address administrative details.
Alaniz stressed the life-saving rationale for the program: "One life being worth saving," he said, arguing that free and accessible naloxone for visitors or loved ones can prevent fatal overdoses.
The commission moved and approved both items in voice votes. Commissioners asked staff to finalize administrative procedures and liability protections in coordination with the county attorney before deployment.
What happens next: staff will proceed with procurement under the RISE grant rules and finalize the MOA implementation details (placement, signage, dispensing procedures and community notification).
