Opioid Advisory Committee Meeting

Burke County Addresses Opioid Crisis: A Recap of the September 16th Advisory Committee Meeting

On September 16, 2025, the Opioid Advisory Committee convened to review progress on combating the opioid crisis in Burke County and discuss how to best utilize funds received from settlements with companies responsible for contributing to the epidemic. The meeting, attended by committee members and county officials, focused on three main areas: managing opioid settlement funds, evaluating the effectiveness of current strategies, and preparing for upcoming reporting requirements. This recap provides a clear overview of what was discussed and decided, outlining the impact on Burke County residents.

A significant portion of the meeting centered around managing the substantial funds received from settlements with opioid manufacturers, distributors (including major pharmacies like Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens), and Teva/Allergan. A key takeaway is that Burke County retains a large portion (85%) of these funds directly, unlike many other states where the state government controls distribution. The committee finalized steps to access additional funds through extending existing settlements (SAAF-3) and the Purdue Sackler bankruptcy settlement, which are expected to bring in approximately $26-28 million. A critical action item moving forward is ensuring all North Carolina subdivisions sign on to SAAF-3 to receive these vital funds.

Beyond fund management, the committee reviewed progress on several approved strategies designed to address the opioid crisis. Notably, Burke County has secured a significantly improved price for Naloxone ($22 per kit), the life-saving overdose reversal medication, and has distributed over 95 boxes in just six weeks. Vending machines providing Naloxone are now operational, expanding access for residents. The search is underway to fill the crucial Community Navigator position, and implementation of the Peer Outreach Response Team (PORT) is progressing well. Contracts have been finalized with providers for key programs including Substance Abuse Intervention and Opioid Prevention (SAIOP), Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and Family Centered Treatment-Recovery, all aimed at supporting individuals struggling with opioid use disorder. A powerful presentation showcasing interviews with those impacted by opioid use highlighted the importance of incorporating lived experiences into the county's strategic plan and sharing these stories publicly in both English and Spanish. The committee also noted significant community engagement, with over 315 unique individuals participating in various events and initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a discussion of the annual opioid settlement report submitted to the state, and a presentation from the Burke County Recovery Court team. The court shared inspiring success stories demonstrating how their program, serving high-risk non-violent offenders with substance use disorders, positively impacts individuals and their reintegration into the community. A potential funding need for peer support specialist training was identified, prompting a discussion to explore options and potentially request additional funds from the Board of Commissioners.

Key Decisions & Actions: The committee approved the agenda and minutes from a previous meeting, and passed a motion requesting the Board of Commissioners reinstate funding for Peer Partnering for Excellence (PPE) to cover training costs for 24 peer support specialists. Looking Ahead: The committee will develop a budget proposal for PPE funding and present it to the Board of Commissioners. They are also considering a visit to Trosa, a treatment facility, for informational purposes.

This meeting underscored Burke County’s proactive approach to addressing the opioid crisis, demonstrating a commitment to local control of settlement funds and implementing innovative programs. The progress highlighted – from expanded Naloxone access to the Recovery Court’s success stories - signifies a positive step forward for residents impacted by opioid use and their families. The ongoing efforts, coupled with the strategic allocation of settlement funds, aim to create a healthier and safer community for all.