The Bertie County Work Session held on May 14, 2025, featured significant updates from Trillium Health Resources and the Bertie County Sheriff's Office, highlighting community health initiatives and public safety improvements.

Trillium Health Resources, represented by the regional vice president, reported substantial growth in its service area, now covering 46 counties in North Carolina. This expansion reflects a shift from a focus solely on Eastern North Carolina to a broader reach that includes urban areas like Guilford County. The organization emphasized its commitment to local connections, noting that many staff members reside within the communities they serve.

The vice president shared that approximately 80,000 individuals received behavioral health services across the expanded regions, with a significant portion of funding coming from Medicaid. In Bertie County specifically, 491 residents are enrolled in the tailored plan, which is designed for individuals with higher needs. The organization plans to conduct town halls in the area to gather community feedback and improve service delivery.

In public safety updates, the Bertie County Sheriff's Office introduced new staff members and recognized Deputy Danielle Milton for her life-saving actions in an overdose incident. The sheriff reported a decrease in violent crime and overdose calls, attributing these improvements to proactive policing and community engagement. The office has also taken steps to address the influx of gaming machines in the county, which had contributed to local crime issues.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community health and safety initiatives, with both Trillium Health Resources and the Sheriff's Office working collaboratively to enhance the well-being of Bertie County residents. Future community engagement efforts and continued monitoring of public safety trends were emphasized as key next steps.