I was pleased to see the content of the March 7 news conference regarding the collaboration among Biddeford and Saco city and police officials and the University of New England to address the opioid crisis. People like Jim Godbout and organizations like the Rotary’s Red Ribbon Committee have done a great job raising awareness, along with giving the young the sense of purpose that often keeps people from using drugs.

My belief is that a sustainable strategy for tackling this crisis is going to require multiple approaches. I believe the introduction of a full-time, knowledgeable liaison, along with cooperation between departments, will be another “leg on the stool.”

I’m eager to see the fruit of the labor from organizations such as the Biddeford Fire Department and the York County Sheriff’s Office. As all of these efforts come together to tackle different pieces of the challenge, I believe we will be well positioned to make the most of additional resources that will hopefully come from both the state and federal government.

Kudos – this is great progress.

Matthew Lauzon

Biddeford