Middletown Township approves opioid lawsuit participation agreement for $250K minimum funding

Middletown Township is set to receive significant funding to combat the opioid crisis after the Board of Supervisors approved participation in a statewide settlement agreement during their meeting on December 20, 2021. The township's involvement in the opioid lawsuit will allow it to access a portion of the over $1 billion settlement expected to be distributed across Pennsylvania over the next 18 years.

The Board unanimously agreed to enter into the participation agreement, which allocates 15% of the settlement funds to the state, 70% to counties, and 15% to municipalities involved in the litigation, including Middletown. With a population of approximately 60,000, the township anticipates receiving a minimum of $250,000, contingent on the participation of other municipalities. The township is expected to receive about 20% of this amount as early as next year.

The funds are earmarked specifically for opioid abatement efforts, with strict guidelines on their use. A trust will be established to oversee the distribution of the funds, ensuring they are utilized effectively in addressing the opioid epidemic. Each year, the township will be required to certify how the funds are spent, ensuring accountability and transparency.

In addition to the opioid settlement, the Board also approved payment for the Langhorne Gables drainage improvement project, totaling $110,445.02, as part of their consent agenda.

The decisions made during this meeting highlight Middletown Township's proactive approach to addressing pressing community issues, particularly the ongoing opioid crisis, and improving local infrastructure. The township's participation in the settlement is a crucial step towards securing necessary resources for public health and safety initiatives.