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MINUTES OF HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE May 22, 2023 AUDITORIUM Present: Councilmembers Kepple (Chair), Marx, and Rader Also Present: Councilmember Baker, Human Services Director Berry, Mayor George, Law Director Vargo, Joyner and Associates members Laurie and Jim Joyner, members of the public, Clerk Bachand Council staff Call to order: 6:04 p.m. Approval of the minutes of the Health & Human Services Committee held February 27, 2023. A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes of the Health & Human Services Committee held February 27, 2023. All members voted in favor. Motion passed. Minutes approved. Communication from Human Services Director Berry regarding ME/WE Substance Misuse Program. (Referred to HHS 05/01/23) Mr. Joyner of Joyner and Associates gave a presentation regarding the Me/We program and the misinformation about drug addiction. He explained the behavioral characteristics of drug abuse and addiction and the importance of a healthy support system. He explained that the Me/We program provides a platform for family members to get out of a disorganized relationship and learn how to support and connect with a struggling loved one. Mr. Joyner applauded Lakewood for its leadership and insight to address drug abuse in a substantial way. He described the 12- week access programs that meet virtually and in person from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. The in-person meetings are at Cove Community Center and there is no fee for participants. He th mentioned the thousands of evaluations with outcomes in the 99 percentile for success and explained that Lakewood can make a significant difference regarding drug addiction. Chair Kepple shared her excitement regarding the program and thanked the Administration and Director Berry for helping set the program up in Lakewood. She confirmed with Mr. Joyner that the education group and the support group are both occurring on Saturdays. Mr. Joyner shared that the program begins with the education and then follows with time to process before the self- help support group begins. He explained that people engage at their level of comfort, but as the meetings evolve people become more engaged and take ownership of the group and meeting. He gave an example of the connection made between two members. Chair Kepple explained that the program is critical in helping build community and resiliency, and she welcomed any information regarding the results from the program. 1