The Cochise County Board of Supervisors approved several key decisions in a recent meeting:
- The county will lease two parking lots from St. Patrick Roman Catholic Parish for $1,000 per month to address parking issues for court employees, jurors, and courthouse visitors
- An agreement with Douglas for the use of their animal shelter was updated, with an annual cost of $60,126 and a 3% yearly increase
- Supervisors Ann English and Peggy Judd approved the continuation of a syringe exchange program in partnership with Cochise Harm Reduction, funded by over $63,000 from the Justice Reinvestment Fund
Notably, Supervisor Tom Crosby expressed skepticism about the needle exchange program, citing concerns about increased opioid and heroin addictions among participants. However, Cochise Health and Social Services Director Alicia Thompson requested Crosby provide sources for his claims. The syringe exchange program, operated by Cochise Harm Reduction, will be required to submit an annual report on their efforts and community impact