Description
Title: To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute an Operational Agreement for Cooperative Partnerships for Opioid Abatement Authority Award for Hospital Liaison Effort between the City of Richmond, the Counties of Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover, and the City of Colonial Heights for the purpose of supporting a hospital liaison initiative to combat the opioid crisis.
Summary
On February 23, 2026, the City of Richmond introduced Ordinance No. 2026-049, which authorizes the Chief Administrative Officer to enter into an Operational Agreement with Henrico County, Chesterfield County, Hanover County, and Colonial Heights. This agreement aims to support a hospital liaison initiative designed to combat the opioid crisis in the region. It allows for the hiring of two registered nurses to facilitate referrals and education regarding substance use treatment, particularly for pregnant individuals. This initiative stems from concerns about the rising rates of neonatal abstinence syndrome and a lack of proper referrals. The project is funded through a $10,000 grant from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority, with no local match required. A public hearing is scheduled for