The Rockingham County Board of Commissioners convened on September 4, 2025, to discuss several key topics, primarily focusing on the distribution of opioid settlement funds and the ongoing management of these resources.

The meeting opened with an update on the county's anticipated receipt of over $400,000 in settlement funds related to opioid litigation. This marks a significant development, as it has been over a year since the last distribution. The commissioners noted that other counties, such as Strafford County, had expressed concerns about the delay in receiving their funds.

Commissioners discussed the allocation of the state's total opioid settlement amount of $97 million, with $77 million already authorized for various programs, including housing initiatives. They emphasized the importance of transparency regarding how these funds are being utilized. The public can access detailed information about expenditures by visiting the New Hampshire opioid abatement website, which outlines the spending criteria and the specific programs funded.

A reminder was issued regarding the September 1 deadline for municipalities and counties to submit their reports to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). This submission is crucial for ensuring compliance with the funding requirements, as the Attorney General's office must certify that the funds are being used appropriately.

The discussion also touched on the submission process for the funds, highlighting the necessity for counties to report on their expenditures to maintain accountability. The commissioners acknowledged some initial confusion among municipalities regarding the submission format but noted that compliance has improved.

In closing, the meeting underscored the importance of proper management and reporting of opioid settlement funds to ensure they effectively address the ongoing crisis. The commissioners expressed their commitment to overseeing the responsible use of these resources as they continue to support community health initiatives.