Vice President Michael Carson discusses case management in MATSU opioid recovery efforts

The Regular Assembly Meeting of the Matanuska-Susitna Borough took place on August 19, 2025, focusing on various community issues and updates. The meeting began with a segment for citizen comments, but no remarks were made by attendees.

Following this, the assembly addressed several informational memoranda (IMs). The first IM notified the assembly of a land acquisition for one acre adjacent to the new Gateway Visitor Center. The second IM provided an update on the submission of a final grant report for the river management program, awarded through the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. The third IM informed the assembly about the consent from the Matanuska-Susitna Borough to assign a lease of land for a solar farm from Renewable IPP, LLC to Clean Capital DBA Energy 49, based on fair market value.

After the IMs were presented, the assembly moved to audience participation. Michael Carson, vice president recovery specialist of My House of MATSU and chair of the MATSU Opioid Task Force, addressed the assembly. He expressed gratitude for the borough's collaboration with the cities of Houston, Wasilla, and Palmer in utilizing health powers for direct services related to addiction recovery. Carson emphasized the importance of case management in building relationships for individuals struggling with addiction, highlighting that recovery is often hindered by isolation. He noted that the new services would provide essential support for those seeking treatment and housing.

The meeting concluded with a focus on the ongoing efforts to address addiction and recovery in the community, underscoring the assembly's commitment to improving public health and welfare. Further discussions and follow-up actions are expected in future meetings as the borough continues to address these critical issues.