Advisory committees can assist fiscal courts with opioid settlement spending recommendations

Click here to access KACo’s newest resource on creating an advisory committee in your county.

County leaders are working hard to put opioid settlement funds to good use. While the fiscal court ultimately has the authority and responsibility to make funding and allocation decisions, an advisory committee can provide recommendations, guidance and feedback.

Advisory committees serve as a vital link between county governments and the diverse stakeholders affected by the opioid crisis. By facilitating collaboration and communication, they can help ensure that decisions regarding the use of funds are informed, strategic and transparent.

Stakeholder Engagement

Stakeholder engagement is one of the most important aspects of developing effective opioid settlement fund strategies.

A well-rounded advisory group should include representatives from multiple sectors, ensuring that decisions are based on lived experience, research and community priorities.

By bringing together individuals with diverse perspectives, counties will be better equipped to create solutions that address both immediate challenges and long-term recovery goals.

Advisory committees can include a variety of stakeholders including:

• Elected leaders
• People with lived/living experience, including MOUD recipients
• Public health professionals (e.g., health departments, schools of public health)
• Primary prevention providers (e.g., PCPs, school clinicians)
• Treatment providers serving underserved populations
• Recovery and social service groups (e.g., Housing First programs)