“In Cobourg, our streets are not safe for our children and our seniors because of the drug issue,” Cleveland said.

“I'm trying to understand the safe supply – how much money is being spent to hand out free drugs in our community? I don't see that as a plan. I see it as doing what we have been doing, with no effect and no success.”

This is a situational assessment. It's not an operational plan,” Hall replied.

“The report is meant to bring light to the situation and for us to be able to talk about it and make a plan.”

Record acknowledged Cleveland's voice as that of the lead elected official of his community.

“Come to the table,” he invited

“Be an active participant with the HKLN Drug Strategy. There's an active role you can play in looking at some of the finer details.”

“Not only do I accept, I look forward to the invitation,” Cleveland said, asking if there was indeed the opportunity for this council to add members of this council to be included.

“I would 100% be interested in attending. I look forward to that opportunity in the future,” Deputy Warden Olena Hankivsky said.

Councillor Mandy Martin noticed that the progress being made in Northumberland in bringing down deaths is outpacing that of Kawartha Lakes.

“Thank you for highlighting the improvements that have been happening in Northumberland County,” Record said, citing greater collaboration and communication that have been part of the drug strategy, as well as the efforts of the police in response to drug poisonings and in diversions that might have significant effects. As well, strategizing that includes people with lived and living experience of the issue makes for more effective policy.