Needle Exhange

Thank you for promising to completely eliminate HACHR!! How do you plan to get that done for us?!

Thank you for your question. I have been very clear about my concerns regarding HACHR’s needle distribution program, and I intend to take action rather than simply continue the same policies without examining their results.

My goal is to end HACHR’s needle distribution operations in Eureka through every lawful avenue available to the city, while expanding access to addiction treatment and recovery services.

Here is how I would approach it as mayor:

1. First 30 days: Request a comprehensive review of HACHR’s operations in Eureka, including its authorization, funding sources, city agreements, needle distribution and collection numbers, public safety complaints, and measurable outcomes.

2. City Council action: Work with the Council to review the city’s existing syringe exchange ordinance and pursue changes within our legal authority, including ending any city funding, agreements, or permissions that are not legally required and that the Council determines are inconsistent with our priorities.

3. State accountability: If HACHR operates under state authorization, formally engage the California Department of Public Health, present documented community concerns, and pursue available oversight and regulatory remedies.

4. Treatment and recovery: Work with Humboldt County, healthcare providers, and recovery organizations to strengthen access to detoxification, rehabilitation, mental health services, and long-term recovery support.

5. Public reporting: Publish measurable results, including discarded needle complaints, syringe collection and disposal, treatment referrals, and other relevant public health and safety indicators.

I also want to be transparent about the mayor’s authority. California law allows syringe service programs to receive authorization from the state independently of city government. Therefore, no mayor can simply order an independently authorized organization to close.

What I can promise is that I will not ignore the issue, I will pursue every lawful option available, and I will make the process and results public.

I believe Eureka residents deserve clean and safe neighborhoods, and people struggling with addiction deserve a genuine opportunity for treatment and recovery. We must work toward both goals.