ANDOVER, MA — Town officials are developing a long-term strategy for spending opioid settlement funds expected to bring approximately $2.65 million to Andover through 2039.
The funding stems from national legal settlements with pharmaceutical companies and distributors accused of fueling the opioid crisis. Municipalities across Massachusetts are receiving payments over several years, with Andover projected to receive roughly $178,000 annually on average.
Town officials said the community has already received several years of payments, leaving about $800,000 currently available for programs addressing substance use disorder and mental health needs.
Initial spending has focused on services and prevention efforts, including the Care Solace behavioral health navigation program, mental health training initiatives, a youth services outreach worker, transportation assistance for treatment appointments and programs addressing food insecurity.
Town officials said those early investments were intended to support residents struggling with addiction while the town developed a broader plan for allocating the funds over the next decade.
Data presented to the Select Board shows the opioid crisis continues to affect the community, though some indicators have improved.
Officials reported one opioid-related death in Andover in 2024, along with 266 substance-related emergency room visits. Alcohol-related emergency room visits have increased, while opioid-related EMS incidents have declined significantly, with 11 reported in 2024.
Community surveys and focus groups conducted as part of the planning process identified several priorities for future spending, including expanding access to treatment and counseling, increasing mental health services and providing additional support for families affected by substance use.
The draft spending strategy includes several initiatives, such as funding a part-time recovery coach, continuing support for behavioral health navigation services, creating family support programs, expanding Narcan training and providing transportation and financial assistance for residents seeking treatment.
Town officials said the plan is designed to ensure the settlement funds are used strategically over time rather than exhausted too quickly.
Payments from the opioid settlements are expected to continue through 2039.