SUBJECT:
Title
Request Approval of Regional Opioid Settlement Committee Recommendation for Funding (Budget Impact - Neutral; not to exceed $202,521)
Body
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INITIATOR: |
DEPARTMENT: |
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Cheryl Butler, Director |
Community Services |
DESCRIPTION/BACKGROUND:
On November 5, 2024, the Board approved the Interlocal Agreement to Monitor and Review the Expenditure of Opioid Settlement Funds between Marion County and Marion County Hospital District (MCHD), followed by a First Amendment on December 17, 2024. This agreement designates MCHD as the disbursement agent responsible for distribution, vetting, monitoring, and reporting of expenditures for regional opioid funds.
On July 1, 2025, the Board approved the 2025-26 Marion County Regional Opioid Abatement Plan, which set four (4) funding priorities recommended by the Opioid Settlement Committee to include:
• Expansion of Warm Handoff Programs and Recovery Services
• Pregnant and Postpartum Women
• Connections to Care
• Support People in Treatment and Recovery
On September 11, 2025, The Opioid Settlement Committee reviewed and recommends approval for an additional project that is consistent with the approved priorities:
• Dignity House - Wear Gloves: Dignity House is a transitional, low-barrier housing for men with opioid use disorder and co-occurring conditions. The program combines housing with wraparound recovery services, including counseling, peer support, job training, and case management. The recommended award is $193,800, and in accordance with MCDH’s interlocal agreement with the County, a 4.5% administrative allocation is required, bringing the total recommended distribution to $202,521.
Also, during the September 11th Opioid Settlement Committee meeting the allocations for the Marion County Coordinated Opioid Recovery (CORE) Network were between SMA Healthcare, Ocala Fire Rescue, and Marion County Fire Rescue. This collaboration will expand access to treatment, stabilization, and recovery services across the community. A summary of the recommended allocations are attached.
BUDGET/IMPACT:
Neutral; not to exceed $202,521.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Recommended action
Motion to approve the recommendation, authorize the Marion County Hospital District to issue agreements and distribute funds, and authorize the Chairman and Clerk to execute all necessary documentation.
end