City to consider opioid epidemic resolution Monday

DAHLONEGA, Ga. – The Dahlonega City Council will consider approval of a resolution to help increase public awareness of the opioid crisis that has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. when it meets Monday, Feb. 5, at 6 p.m.

Opioid addiction and abuse is a growing problem with devastating consequences. Since 1999, the sale of prescription opioids has nearly quadrupled in the U.S. In 2015, nearly 40 percent of Americans were using prescription painkillers. Approximately 91 Americans die daily from opioid overdose and 17.7 percent of Georgia’s high school students report taking prescription painkillers.

The resolution states: “The City of Dahlonega, acting through the City Council supports local, state and federal efforts to combat the opioid crisis and will seek to raise awareness within its jurisdiction regarding this public health emergency.”

Spring festivals are fast approaching. Two of Lumpkin County’s most popular spring festivals — the Bear on the Square Mountain Festival April 20 through 22 and Dahlonega Arts and Wine Festival May 19 and 20 – have applied for special event alcohol licenses. Those applications are expected to be voted at Monday’s meeting. Council also will consider amending the city’s alcohol regulations to allow Sunday sales beginning at 11 a.m.

A representative from Rushton & Company CPA will present the Audit and Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ended Sept. 30, 2017.

Wimpy Park is back on the council’s agenda. Residents of nearby Sky Country have expressed concerns regarding parking hazards. Council is awaiting the results of its grant application that should help address those concerns.

 

 

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