County approves $19,920 opioid-settlement award for Oakwood Sober Living supportive housing pilot

The Freeborn County board approved a resolution awarding $19,920 in opioid settlement funds to Oakwood Sober Living for a supportive housing pilot. Public health staff described the request as funding to house and support residents while they stabilize and find employment, and noted the house is already open.

The public health representative said the money will primarily cover three months' rent for eight residents and some supplies including lockboxes, Narcan and bicycles to facilitate treatment access. Commissioner Ekstrom underscored that "this is not taxpayer dollars. This is settlement money from the opioid lawsuits," and the board moved and passed the resolution. The board also confirmed the pilot aligns with prior workshop discussion and that Oakwood currently houses residents.