Bay City approves $67,340 opioid‑settlement award to Sacred Heart for substance‑use supports

On May 4 the Bay City Commission approved a resolution to award $67,340 from opioid‑settlement funds to Sacred Heart for substance‑use disorder services. The resolution, introduced by Commissioner Tenney, divides the award into specific uses: roughly $15,000 for residential care for uninsured or underinsured residents, $40,340 for one to two months of housing assistance for residents lacking ability to pay, and $12,000 for household supplies such as food and hygiene items.

Commissioner Tenney said the allocation reflects a rehabilitative and restorative use of settlement proceeds and noted the award is about half of the city’s remaining opioid‑settlement balance. The resolution also directs the city manager to create an application process for remaining opioid funds so other local organizations can propose eligible programs.

During roll call the resolution passed with a majority; Commissioner Zanotti recorded a 'no' vote. Staff and commissioners noted the county and community foundation are also managing larger settlement distributions and encouraged an application process that can allow smaller local groups to apply as appropriate.

Why it matters: opioid‑settlement proceeds are restricted to opioid‑related abatement and treatment activities; directing a portion to local treatment and short‑term housing assistance aims to support individuals in recovery and to make funds available through an open application for other local responders.