Key Take Aways from Stockbridge Board of Health, July 6, 2023

The "Opioid Settlement" is complete. The Commonwealth received the money and will allot it to the municipalities. Some towns in Berkshire County will receive a large amount while others very small amounts. On behalf of Tri-Town Health, Jim Wilusz suggested the three towns pool their money for greater impact. Further he suggested that they turn the money over to Rural Recovery located in Great Barrington and serving all of South County — specializing in opioid addiction. The Board of Health moved and passed a motion to turn money over to Rural Recovery.

They also suggested the expenditure of the money be audited — with annual reports. Dr.

Lefferton complimented the new ride-along program where police answering mental health, drug-related and/or domestic violence calls take a mental health specialist with them.

The Board discussed who carries Naloxone — Narcon — a life-saving drug administered after ingestion of a narcotic overdose. However, police do not like to carry it, EMPs do and schools have it but not all who might need it do carry it.

Finally, the Board voted on an expenditure for a Spector Photometer and a course in how to use it. This will allow the Town in partnership with Tri-Town Health to immediately determine if a cyanobacterial bloom is toxic. Right now, out of an abundance of caution, the Town closes the beach immediately upon observation — sends for testing — only reopens days later when toxicity determined or discounted. This will allow us to know immediately if NOT toxic. Only send away to Commonwealth if toxic and then follow safety protocol. Moved and passed unanimously.

Photo: Jay Rhind