ABQ Times

City Councilors in Albuquerque have introduced R-25-141, a resolution to allocate $4,589,736 in opioid settlement funds. This initiative focuses on enhancing services for individuals in the city affected by substance use disorder. City Councilors Nichole L. Rogers, Tammy Fiebelkorn, Dan Champine, and Renée Grout aim to boost the city's stabilization system and increase access to treatment and recovery resources.

The resolution follows previous actions by the City Council, such as the establishment of a policy for opioid settlement expenditure (R-23-174) and the adoption of the Local Government Coordinating Commission Joint Opioid Settlement Implementation Plan (R-25-128). The resolution seeks to address gaps identified in the existing system of care.

Nichole L. Rogers, District 6 City Councilor, stated, “We know that individuals facing opioid-related crises require immediate and specialized care that goes beyond the emergency room or the criminal justice system.” She added that the resolution aims to supply resources to fully operationalize the Medical Sobering Center, First Responder Center, Medical Respite Center, and Recovery Housing. This network of support is expected to have a significant impact.

Tammy Fiebelkorn, District 7 City Councilor, highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach. “By investing in these centers, we are not only addressing immediate crises but also building pathways to long-term recovery,” she said. Funding under this resolution will ensure access to essential medical staffing, peer support, and wraparound services.

The resolution specifically allots funds to expand the Medical Sobering Center. In Fiscal Year 2025, $2,339,736 will support expanded services, with an additional $2,250,000 set for Fiscal Year 2026. It also proposes to increase available recovery housing, recognizing its importance for successful recovery, especially for those with housing instability.

Dan Champine, District 8 City Councilor, pointed out the community impact, noting, “These centers have the capacity for over 26,000 patient encounters annually. By providing low-barrier, trauma-informed services, we can reduce repeat overdoses, alleviate strain on our hospitals, and decrease involvement in the criminal justice system.”

Renée Grout, District 9 City Councilor, emphasized transparency and accountability. “We are dedicated to ensuring that these opioid settlement funds are used effectively and in a way that benefits our community,” Grout said, highlighting the use of evidence-based strategies for immediate relief and long-term solutions.

The City Council plans to discuss this resolution on May 5, 2025. The sponsoring councilors encourage their peers to support this initiative, which aims to improve the health and well-being of Albuquerque residents.