One Item on the agenda during this weeks supervisors meeting was discussion and possible action regarding transferring opioid settlement funds from the administrative control of the Sheriff’s Office to Public Health.
Sheriff McNamee expressed surprise at seeing the item on the agenda without prior notice.
He emphasized that for the past 2.5 years, the Sheriff’s Office — particularly Chief Deputy Jesse Bell — has done a good job managing the funds, holding regular meetings with stakeholders (including Health and Human Services, police chiefs, and Public Health) to decide on fund uses.
Kelly Carr with Public Health, voiced concern about taking on new administrative duties, especially as they are already absorbing general assistance responsibilities without added staff.
Board members and department leaders agreed that the Sheriff’s Office has managed the funds well and that any decision should be made collaboratively, involving the Sheriff’s Office, Public Health, legal counsel, and other relevant stakeholders.
Ultimately, the board passed a motion to explore the possibility of transferring administrative responsibility, not to enact a transfer yet. The goal is to ensure all parties are aligned, understand the benefits or complications, and maintain transparent communication throughout.