City Council approves funding for drug court, treatment facilty

Efforts to combat the local drug epidemic continue and a residential treatment center for women is a step closer to becoming reality. The ASAP Board is presenting to local officials to fund the Fresh Start Recovery Center. The center is a residential treatment program for pregnant women and women with young children. The board is recommending the city and county split a one-time $200,000 payment to get the program established. City Council approved $100,000 in funding out of Substance Abuse Non-Reverting Fund during it’s meeting Tuesday night.

The ASAP Board is also recommending that the city and county split the cost of an Adult Drug Recovery Court. The court is designed to integrate substance abuse and mental health treatment, drug testing, sanctions and incentives. The hope is to reduce recidivism, as well as offer hope and opportunity for those in the system. The board is recommending the city and county split funding $92,603 to get the court established. City Council approved $46,302 in funding out of the Substance Abuse Non-Reverting Fund.

Court officials say both aspects of the anti-drug effort will begin later this year, assuming funding is approved.

The Bartholomew County Council heard a similar presentation during its work session Monday night. While the body could not vote, members indicated they would approve funding their share of these programs. The measures are expected to be discussed during the county council’s regular session next week.