Opioid Abatement Council

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About the Council

The formation of the Opioid Abatement Council is a proactive response to the impact of the Opioid Epidemic on Pierce County and the greater Puget Sound area. This epidemic, originating in the 1990s, has progressed into its 'third wave,' characterized by a surge in overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids, notably illicitly manufactured fentanyl.

Pierce County is set to receive $29 million in funding from various opioid settlements over the next 17 years, with the broader region anticipating a total of $48 million. These settlements result from the misleading marketing by opioid manufacturers, who falsely portrayed opioids as non-addictive pain management solutions.

On June 20, the Pierce County Council took action by passing Resolution No. R2023-91, authorizing the establishment of the Pierce County Opioid Abatement Council through an Interlocal Agreement (ILA). The ILA unites cities, towns, and subject matter experts to ensure the effective utilization of allocated funds in addressing the opioid epidemic. The OAC's primary areas of focus include addiction treatment programs and educational campaigns about the risks of opioid abuse.

The OAC comprises representatives from each participating party, appointed by their respective governing bodies for three-year terms. Administrative oversight of the council falls under the purview of the Pierce County Auditor's Office, which calculates and distributes administrative expenses equitably among the parties based on the settlement fund distribution formula.

Read the Press Release

Members

  • Kent Hay, City of Auburn, Director of the Anti-Homelessness Department
  • Dena Burkey, City of Bonney Lake, Deputy City Attorney-Prosecutor
  • Christi Keith, City of Edgewood Councilmember
  • Derek Matheson, City of Fife, City Manager
  • Katrina Knutson, City of Gig Harbor, City Administrator
  • Trestin Lauricella, City of Lakewood Councilmember
  • Heather Moss, Pierce County, Director of Human Services
  • Steve Kirkelie, City of Puyallup, City Manager
  • Jason Wilson, City of Sumner, City Administrator
  • John Hines, City of Tacoma, Councilmember
  • Jennifer Hales, City of University Place, Public Safety Administrator

Interlocal Agreement

View the Interlocal Agreement

To make a public records request please email [email protected]

For more information about the Council please email [email protected]

Past Meetings

Special Meeting of the Opioid Abatement Council

October 11, 2023 | 3:05 PM
View Agenda | Watch the Recording