Community leaders in Bartholomew County will be kicking off a new effort to stem the heroin and opiate epidemic in the community with an event Wednesday night at The Commons.
The “Move the Needle” community forum was to feature author Sam Quinones, who wrote the book “Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic.” However, organizers say that a medical emergency will keep Quinones from attending. Organizers say that the community will still get to hear from the author, as Quinones’ family has granted permission for them to use a video presentation that covers many of the topics he would have addressed in person.
Columbus Mayor Jim Lienhoop says that he and members of the city council will be at the event. Prior to taking office last year, Lienhoop talked about the growing problems caused by drug addiction in and around Columbus. Despite that, the Mayor says he was surprised by the depth of the problem and how it affects addicts, their families and the community as a whole.
While council members will be in attendance, no official action will be taken. The event is scheduled to take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is free to attend.