The Elsmere City Council approved the use of opioid abatement funds for the police department at their Nov. 4 caucus meeting.
The council approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter an interlocal agreement with the Kenton County Fiscal Court, which makes use of funds from the National Opioids Settlement for the intervention, treatment and prevention of opioid abuse. Specifically, the agreement concerns a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement navigator program to find the most effective use for the abatement funds.
Kenton County Fiscal Court has proposed increasing the reach of regional law enforcement to include drug use, alcohol use and mental health issues in police responses, according to City Clerk Katie Hehman. Cities cooperating on the funds pool could ease burdens on the community.
Police Chief Russell Wood and an Elsmere police drone pilot also demonstrated newly purchased equipment at the meeting, including a rifle-proof helmet, shield and drone. The drone was purchased from a local drone dealer and replaces the police department’s retired drone. Using the new drone, the police were able to locate an 11-year-old autistic child who went missing on Nov. 3, according to Wood.
These new equipment purchases would save the city $35,000 a year, Wood said.
