Board of Commissioners Recessed Meeting Materials

Burke County Board of Commissioners Focuses on Utilizing Opioid Settlement Funds

On February 14, 2025, the Burke County Board of Commissioners held a focused work session to discuss how best to utilize approximately $24.5 million in funds received from opioid settlements – with an anticipated additional $2.5-$3 million coming later. This meeting, a recessed session without public comment, was dedicated to strategizing how to address the ongoing opioid crisis within Burke County and improve the lives of residents affected by it.

The primary focus of the meeting was understanding the legal framework surrounding these funds, specifically a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) established by the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC). Representatives from NCACC explained that counties have a significant opportunity to make impactful decisions with these funds, but must adhere to specific guidelines and reporting requirements. Two options were presented for how the county could utilize these funds: Option A, focusing on readily approved, evidence-based strategies; and Option B, allowing for a broader range of initiatives but requiring a more involved approval process. The Board will need to decide which path forward best serves the county’s needs in future meetings.

Throughout the session, County Manager Mr. Ep presented compelling data illustrating the current opioid situation in Burke County. An interactive map highlighted areas experiencing high rates of overdose calls, particularly along the I-40 corridor and in congregate living settings. Demographic information revealed that men aged 26-45 are disproportionately affected. While overdose deaths have seen a slight decline thanks to naloxone distribution and harm reduction efforts, the number of overdose calls has shown a concerning upward trend over the past two years. The Community Education Group (CEG), contracted to assist with strategic planning, emphasized the need for a collaborative approach that incorporates community input and data-driven decision-making to address this complex issue, referring to the opioid crisis as a "syndemic" – a cluster of interconnected health problems. Discussions also touched on potential opportunities like capital grants through Partners Behavioral Health and alignment with the White House's "Make America Healthy Again" initiative.

While no formal votes were taken during this work session, the discussions highlighted several key priorities for Burke County. Commissioners are encouraged to attend the North Carolina Summit on Reducing Overdose in March, and will be reviewing information presented to determine how best to allocate the settlement funds. The Board is expected to continue a collaborative strategic planning process, ensuring community stakeholders are involved in identifying priorities and developing a long-term spending plan. Specific action items include exploring strategies under Option B of the MOA for greater flexibility, pursuing a potential capital grant to support brick-and-mortar facilities, and strengthening support for community health workers who play a vital role in addressing opioid use.

Ultimately, the outcome of this meeting is significant for Burke County residents. The opioid settlement funds represent a substantial opportunity to invest in programs and initiatives that can reduce overdose deaths, support recovery efforts, and address the underlying factors contributing to opioid use within our community. The Board’s decisions in upcoming meetings will directly impact the availability of resources for prevention, treatment, and harm reduction – all crucial steps towards a healthier and safer Burke County.