County OKs $52,800 in restricted opioid funds for CEASE program, asks staff to pursue space MOU

The Scott County Board of Commissioners approved $52,800 in restricted opioid settlement funds to expand the CEASE program’s staffing and community services after a presentation from the program’s director.

The CEASE representative described a day-reporting alternative for youth, one-on-one peer services, monthly mobile health screenings and bereavement support groups, and said current grant rules limit some early-intervention work to youth with prior justice contact. “All in all, we’re asking for $52,800 from restricted opioid funds,” the presenter said, noting she currently earns $19,920 annually through CEASE and is already working unpaid hours to sustain the program.

Commissioners questioned whether restricted settlement funds could be used to renovate physical space for CEASE and a partnering nonprofit. “I need to look back at the settlement documents just to make that connection,” a staff member said, and the board asked staff to report back at the next meeting on eligible uses and any constraints.

Commissioner Adam moved to approve the $52,800 request; the board approved the motion by voice vote. The board also authorized staff to pursue a memorandum of understanding to secure shared space in Scottsburg, and discussed a plan to use a county-owned building (including potential repairs) if the settlement documents permit such expenditures.

The CEASE representative said the funding would expand her hours to 20 per week, retain administrative support, and continue grief groups and youth services, adding that the program had screened 99 people since April and is nearing its target of 100 by year’s end. Commissioners agreed to place the space‑MOU discussion on the next agenda after staff returns with legal and accounting guidance.