Commissioners Unanimously Approve 775,000 Award from Opioid Settlement to STARS for Cowley Facility

The Spokane County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $775,000 award to Spokane Treatment and Recovery Services (STARS) for the development of the Cowley Behavioral Health Treatment Facility on March 10, 2025. This funding, a portion of which comes from opioid settlement resources, will serve as a 25% match with state appropriated funds, underscoring the county's commitment to addressing the opioid crisis. The award is part of a comprehensive Opioid Treatment and Prevention Plan initiated in May 2024, which aims to fill critical gaps in behavioral health services. STARS plans to offer a safe environment for individuals to undergo withdrawal while connecting them with necessary treatment resources, thereby reducing reliance on emergency rooms and law enforcement. County Commissioner Mary Kuney highlighted the significance of these investments, stating they will have an immediate impact on the community.

Furthermore, the Board is also advancing a long-term investment of $5 million to expand the Spokane Regional Crisis Stabilization Center, enhancing available resources for those in behavioral health crises. This funding is part of a broader strategy that anticipates continued opioid settlement payments until 2038, amounting to over $27 million for treatment initiatives in Spokane County. The collaborative effort between STARS, the county, and the Department of Commerce aims to ensure sustainable support for individuals battling addiction.