During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around the substantial increase in the health promotions budget, which rose by 118%. This increase is primarily attributed to funding for health promotions related to the opioid settlement. Council Member Henkel raised questions regarding the source of this additional funding and the status of the opioid settlement.

Jason Bolling, the director of public health, clarified that the funds are derived from retail marijuana sales tax. The city council had previously directed that these funds be allocated to health and human services programs, with a particular emphasis on behavioral health initiatives. Over the past three years, the city has been tracking the revenue from retail marijuana sales, which saw a notable increase this year. The budget for the current year was projected at $750,000, a significant rise from the previous year's budget of approximately $125,000.

Bolling outlined specific allocations from this budget, including $450,000 earmarked for the B Corp program and $105,000 for intervention services at Broomfield High School. Additionally, the city is collaborating with community mental health providers to address gaps in substance use services and improve access to treatment.

In response to inquiries about the opioid settlement funds, Bolling confirmed that the city has begun receiving these dollars, although further details on their distribution were not provided during the meeting. The discussions highlighted the city's proactive approach to addressing public health challenges through targeted funding and community programs.