The council dedicated considerable time to the opioid abatement fund strategies. Discussions were held about the allocation of settlement funding over the next 17 years, focusing on opioid use disorder treatment, harm reduction, and prevention. Particular attention was paid to the placement of Naloxone boxes in areas identified as overdose hotspots using data such as syringe pickups and overdose incidents. The boxes, designed as outdoor cabinets for Naloxone kits, aim to provide immediate access to lifesaving medication in public spaces.

The opioid abatement working group’s role came to the forefront, emphasizing its diverse partnership, including representatives from MGH Primary Care, people with lived experience, Outreach workers, community-based organizations, Municipal departments, and school resource officers. This group is tasked with decision-making on fund allocation. The council discussed the importance of integrating community feedback into these decisions, with plans to conduct surveys and focus groups to gather public input.

Questions were raised regarding the use of opioid abatement funds, particularly about spending on salaries and whether funds were supplementing existing resources. The potential for abuse of the Naloxone boxes was also a concern, prompting suggestions for preventive measures such as police patrols and security cameras. The idea of incorporating harm reduction vending machines, alongside Naloxone boxes, was considered, with the aim of providing a more comprehensive range of harm reduction supplies.

The safety of Narcan, especially concerning children, was debated, with reassurances about its safety profile, and plans were discussed for training school nurses in its administration. Additionally, the potential use of gift cards to encourage community participation in opioid use surveys was mentioned.

Another topic was the transportation needs of high school students. The council examined the impact of the 2021 transportation policy change, which had resulted in some students losing access to bus services. Proposals to address these issues included the implementation of the M7 card program, similar to one in Boston, offering free transit access to students. Discussions touched on the costs and benefits of the program, with varying opinions among council members regarding its feasibility and impact on the city budget.

The Revere High School building project was also on the agenda, with updates on the progress and financial considerations. The project manager reported confidence in the project’s numbers and stressed the city’s need to manage the financial commitment effectively. Concerns about the conservation process and the timeline for finalizing the project scope and budget were also discussed.

Additionally, the council addressed the aftermath of the recent nor’easter. A motion was raised to urge the DCR to close the tide gates during such weather events to prevent flooding, an issue that had caused significant damage to the Beachmont area. Residents and council members shared their experiences and called for action to mitigate future risks.

Other topics touched upon at the meeting included the zoning subcommittee report, which sparked debate over proposed ordinances and amendments, and a call for traffic calming measures on Pomona Street. The council also referred a motion to the Climate Sustainability and Workforce Subcommittee for further discussion on the scope of a proposal.