ALPINE COUNTY, Calif. – The Alpine County Board of Supervisors has ratified a local emergency declaration following a significant increase in fentanyl-related overdoses, which have threatened public health and safety in the region. This declaration comes in response to a 63 percent surge in fatal overdoses over the past 14 months in the county, primarily affecting the Hung-A-Lel-Ti Community. These five deaths, including several near-fatal overdoses, have overwhelmed local emergency services, public health resources, and law enforcement.
This is the state’s smallest county, and the surge and number of deaths are higher per capita than in other parts of California.
The emergency was initially declared by Alpine County Sheriff, Tom Minder, due to the imminent and proximate threat posed by fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that is far more potent and lethal than substances such as heroin and prescription opioids. Fentanyl’s availability has had a devastating impact
on Alpine County’s population, especially its vulnerable youth and those with a history of substance use disorders.
“Alpine County is facing a public health crisis of unprecedented proportions,” said Alpine County Sheriff, Tom Minder. “Our rural nature and limited resources have hindered our ability to adequately respond to
the situation, which is why we are calling for urgent assistance from state and federal agencies.”
As part of the emergency declaration, the following actions have been taken:
1. Local Emergency Ratification: The Board of Supervisors has ratified the emergency declared on September 30, 2024. The emergency will remain in effect for up to 60 days unless further extended or terminated based on the evolving situation.
2. Resource Mobilization: Alpine County departments and agencies have been instructed to take all necessary actions to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of its citizens. This includes requesting mutual aid as necessary to support emergency medical responses, public health efforts, and law enforcement activities.
3. Collaboration with State and Federal Authorities: The declaration has been forwarded to the Governor of California, requesting that Alpine County also be declared in a State of Emergency.
The county is seeking assistance under the California Disaster Assistance Act and is requesting the Governor’s support for a State Declaration of Emergency.
Alpine County officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity or potential cases of fentanyl distribution. The opioid epidemic, particularly the rise of fentanyl, poses an ongoing threat, requiring enhanced collaboration between law enforcement, public health officials, emergency medical responders, and community organizations.
In the coming weeks, the County’s Director of Emergency Services will continue to monitor the situation and provide regular updates to the Board of Supervisors, ensuring that appropriate measures are taken to address this urgent crisis.