Carroll County Board considers dropping opioid litigation against pharmacy benefit managers

In a recent Carroll County Board of Supervisors Budget Planning Work Session held on July 11, 2025, community concerns regarding budget transparency and the impact of property tax reassessments took center stage. Residents expressed frustration over limited access to county news and the perceived lack of communication from local government, which they believe contributes to low public attendance at such meetings.

One resident highlighted the confusion surrounding a proposed 20% tax increase, questioning how the county arrived at a 49-cent reduction in taxes based on property reassessments. This resident emphasized the financial strain on retirees and others who do not receive corresponding income increases, underscoring the need for clearer budgetary explanations from the county.

Another resident raised concerns about the timing of property reassessments, particularly in relation to the damage caused by a hurricane in September. They pointed out that many homeowners were left without insurance coverage for the damages, further complicating the financial landscape for residents.

The meeting also addressed ongoing opioid litigation, with the board considering a recommendation to drop certain pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) from the lawsuit. The county's legal counsel argued that the costs associated with continuing litigation against these defendants would outweigh any potential recovery, particularly for smaller localities like Carroll County. The board ultimately voted to authorize the dropping of these defendants, allowing the county to focus its resources on more viable aspects of the case.

As the meeting transitioned to budget discussions, the board acknowledged the hard work put into the budget planning process. However, the earlier discussions about communication and transparency suggest that the board may need to enhance its outreach efforts to ensure residents are informed and engaged in local governance.

Overall, the meeting highlighted significant community concerns about financial pressures and the need for improved communication from local officials. As the board moves forward with budget planning and litigation strategies, addressing these concerns will be crucial for fostering trust and participation among Carroll County residents.