Title
a. Approve and authorize the Director of Health Services or designee to execute a no-cost Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Monterey-Salinas Transit District, a special district (MST), authorizing the installation of two (2) naloxone and fentanyl test strip vending machines, at no cost to the user, at the Salinas and Marina transit centers, for a term effective upon execution through October 31, 2026 for a total MOU amount of zero dollars; and
b. Approve the recommendation of the Director of Health Services to accept all non-standard provisions in the Agreement.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Director of Health Services or designee to execute a no-cost Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Monterey-Salinas Transit District, a special district (MST), authorizing the installation of two (2) naloxone and fentanyl test strip vending machines, at no cost to the user, at the Salinas and Marina transit centers, for a term effective upon execution through October 31, 2026 for a total MOU amount of zero dollars; and
b. Approve the recommendation of the Director of Health Services to accept all non-standard provisions in the Agreement.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
Overdose deaths, particularly those involving fentanyl, continue to rise both nationally and locally. Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid often mixed with other substances, significantly increases the risk of unintentional overdoses. In response, the County of Monterey Health Department is launching new harm reduction efforts aimed at addressing this growing crisis, with a focus on expanding the availability of naloxone, a medication that can reverse opioid overdoses.
Building on previous initiatives, this new effort includes a key partnership with Monterey-Salinas Transit District to increase access to naloxone and fentanyl test strips in critical areas. Two of four planned vending machines will be installed at transit centers in Salinas and Marina, while the other machines will be strategically placed in areas with high rates of opioid use and overdoses. These vending machines will dispense free naloxone and fentanyl test strips, empowering individuals to detect fentanyl in substances and prevent fatal overdoses.
This initiative reflects the County’s ongoing commitment to public health and safety by ensuring lifesaving tools and resources are easily accessible. Through this partnership and targeted outreach efforts, the County aims to reduce overdose deaths and foster a healthier, safer community.
This work supports the County of Monterey Health Department 2025-2028 Strategic Plan Goal: 2. Provide Exceptional Person-Centered Care through Accessible, Community-Focused Health Services. It also supports the following of the ten essential public health services, specifically: 7. Link people to needed personal health services and assure the provision of health care when otherwise unavailable.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
The offices of County Counsel and Risk Management have reviewed and approved this MOU as to form and content, respectively.
FINANCING:
There is no fiscal impact associated with this MOU. The MOU does not involve any County expenditures or revenue.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Check the related Board of Supervisors Strategic Initiatives:
? Economic Development:
• Through collaboration, strengthen economic development to ensure a diversified and healthy economy.
? Administration:
• Promote an organization that practices efficient and effective resource management and is recognized for responsiveness, strong customer orientation, accountability and transparency.
? Health & Human Services:
• Improve health and quality of life through County supported policies, programs, and services; promoting access to equitable opportunities for healthy choices and healthy environments in collaboration with communities.
? Infrastructure:
• Plan and develop a sustainable, physical infrastructure that improves the quality of life for County residents and supports economic development results.
? Public Safety:
• Create a safe environment for people to achieve their potential, leading businesses and communities to thrive and grow by reducing violent crimes as well as crimes in general.
Prepared by: Shiba Sumeshwar, Compliance Officer, 755-4018
Approved by: Elsa Mendoza Jimenez, Director of Health Services, 755-4526
Attachments:
Board Report
MOU