A nonprofit organization’s representative introduced a proposal to install Narcan vending machines, highlighting the group’s recent 501c3 status and its efforts in combating opioid addiction and human trafficking. The organization’s involvement in creating awareness videos and providing resources for detox, rehab, mental health, and human trafficking set the stage for a broader conversation about the draft notice of funding availability. This document, critical to the distribution of county funds, was scrutinized to ensure its alignment with the community’s needs.

The board grappled with the draft notice’s requirement that applicants match the county funds requested with non-local government funding. Concerns were voiced over the potential exclusion of startup agencies from funding due to this clause. The stipulation demanding organizations provide two years’ worth of tax returns and financial statements was also debated. To accommodate newer organizations, the board considered adding “if applicable” to the funding criteria to offer necessary flexibility.

The County Office of Compliance and Ethics provided insight into the crafting of the draft notice, drawing from an exemplar used by Lee County. Discussions ensued regarding the nuanced language of the funding requirements and their impact on diverse organizations, including startups and those with shorter service histories.

The board’s discussion delved into the requirements’ specifics, with members seeking clarity on the draft notice’s intent and potential consequences.

A motion was made to amend the language concerning the two-year tax return requirement, recognizing that new organizations might not meet this standard. It was concurred that an audit might not be necessary for these groups. Additionally, the board tackled the application’s completeness checklist, resolving ambiguities in the required attachments.

Another focal point was the widespread availability of Naloxone, commonly known as Narcan, an emergency treatment for opioid overdoses. Surprised by the number of locations already distributing Naloxone, the discussion explored the possibility of expanding its availability to include fire departments.

The board also scrutinized the evaluation process for funding applications, questioning the composition of the performance evaluation and ranking committee.

To maintain momentum in the fight against opioid addiction, the board agreed to convene again on June 10th at 10:00 am. This meeting will align with the notice of funding availability’s distribution and the subsequent review of applications.