Hayden council approves opioid abatement contracts; town to serve as fiscal agent for region

Mayor Ryan Banks and the Hayden Town Council unanimously approved seven opioid abatement contracts intended to support recovery, prevention and education services across the Northwest Colorado region.

The contracts were presented during new business; Town Manager Mathew Mendisco told the council that Hayden serves as the fiscal agent and pass-through for the state funding and that he participates on the board and steering committee overseeing the contracts. Mayor Banks moved to approve the contracts; Councilmember Bell seconded the motion and a roll-call vote carried unanimously among councilmembers present.

Why it matters: the approved contracts route state opioid settlement funds to regional service providers and set local administration and oversight responsibilities. The town’s role as fiscal agent assigns Hayden responsibility for receiving and disbursing funds on behalf of the regional board, subject to the contract terms.

What the council said: Mathew Mendisco explained the town’s administrative role and participation on the board and steering committee. The record shows no council amendments to the contracts and no public speakers opposed during the meeting.

What happens next: With council approval, the town will proceed with the administrative and financial steps required to receive and distribute settlement funds under the contracts. The council did not set additional conditions or direct staff to return with modifications at this meeting.

Ending: The motion carried by unanimous roll-call vote; the meeting continued to other agenda items and adjourned at 8:14 p.m.