City of Oakland Park
Implementation Plans
FY 2024-2025 Plan
The City of Oakland Park has received funding through the Opioid Settlement Agreement to launch a list of initiatives aimed at reducing opioid misuse and disorders. This funding will enable the city to implement strategies for opioid abuse prevention, educate residents about the dangers of opioids, and provide access to essential resources and support.
Oakland Park has a multi-tiered strategy that will focus its efforts on expanding training for the use of MAT. Large portions of the Oakland Park includes Naloxone (Narcan) distribution. Oakland Park plans to distribute Narcan to employees and provided training to faith-based organizations who frequently encounter the public. While first responders are trained to handle overdose situations, many other city employees, such as those in public works, engineering, construction, solid waste, stormwater departments, and faith-based organizations also encounter the public regularly. These employees and faith-based organizations may find themselves in situations where they are the first to witness an overdose during their regular shift. By distributing Narcan and providing training to these populations, the city can extend its emergency response capabilities across all departments.
Next, is partnering with Opiate Recovery Services to Distribute Narcan. Collaboration with opiate recovery services can help identify individuals who would benefit from having Narcan available at home. By partnering with these services, the city can ensure that vulnerable populations, including those in recovery, can access Narcan. This initiative could also be integrated into the city’s emergency preparedness plans, ensuring that these individuals are supported during hurricanes when emergency services might be delayed.
The plan also includes a distribution/education point at local events, creating a resource guide for overdose patients, and the creation of a drug disposal program in the city. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, providing an excellent opportunity to engage with the community. The fire department, which often has a booth or presence at these events, could use this platform to distribute Narcan or sign residents up for Narcan training classes. This approach increases access to Narcan and educates the public on its use, contributing to a safer community. These initiatives leverage the funds from the Florida Opioid Allocation and Statewide Response Agreement to enhance community safety, provide critical resources, and support ongoing efforts to combat the opioid epidemic.