At its most recent meeting, the Salina City Commission voted unanimously, 5-0, to approve a joint agreement with Saline County to oversee opioid settlement funds.
Assistant City Manager Sean Hennesse presented the agreement, which creates a shared framework for managing nearly $500,000 in settlement money. The settlement stems from lawsuits against pharmaceutical companies tied to over-prescription practices.
Under the agreement, the City of Salina will contribute $35,000 and Saline County will contribute $15,000. Funds will be administered by a seven-member board consisting of four city appointees and three county appointees. Each entity will maintain its funds separately.
The board will direct spending toward priority areas including expanding access to treatment services, enhancing prevention and education, reducing stigma surrounding drug use, and strengthening recovery support. Potential uses may also include assistance for law enforcement and co-responder programs.
Hennesse clarified that the money comes entirely from the national settlement and is not tied to local property or sales taxes. The agreement extends through 2038, with the possibility of continued collaboration once settlement funds expire.