UPDATE: The Fargo City Commission has just confirmed its decision to continue the city’s controversial needle exchange program despite significant public outcry. In a narrow 3-2 vote on November 10, 2024, officials rejected a motion by Commissioner Michelle Turnberg aimed at halting the program while legal clarifications were sought regarding the distribution of glass smoking pipes.
This urgent development follows reports that the Harm Reduction Center provided glass pipes, sparking heated debates on public safety and drug addiction. Turnberg expressed her outrage, stating, “The vast majority of residents are outraged by this… They’re sick of finding needles.” She argued that the city should prioritize treatment, not enable drug use.
The vote saw Turnberg and Commissioner Dave Piepkorn advocating for a pause on the program, while Commissioners John Strand, Denise Kolpack, and Mayor Tim Mahoney defended it as a critical resource for those battling addiction. “Let’s just quit attacking the people who are trying to do their best,” Strand emphasized, highlighting the program’s role in connecting individuals to treatment.
Since its launch in April 2018, the syringe services program has served 1,321 individuals with a total of 6,852 visits from March to October this year, reflecting a staggering 34% increase in individuals served and a 47% increase in visits compared to last year. The program aims to reduce the transmission of diseases like HIV and hepatitis C, with Public Health Director Jenn Faul noting that such initiatives have the backing of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The controversy ignited after reports surfaced that the Harm Reduction Center distributed 4,952 glass pipes as part of a pilot program aimed at overdose prevention. Faul defended the distribution, asserting that it prevents injuries and connects users to vital services. “SSPs do not increase crime… they decrease sharps litter and needle-stick injuries,” she stated.
However, the center paused the glass pipe distribution “out of an abundance of caution” due to potential legal ambiguities. North Dakota law permits the distribution of safer drug use items, but glass pipes were not explicitly included. This has left many community members questioning the legality and effectiveness of the program.
Local voices are divided. While some residents, including North Dakota Rep. Desiree Morton, criticized the initiative for allegedly normalizing drug addiction, others like resident Olivia Fisher passionately defended it as a life-saving measure. Fisher expressed her frustration at the attempts to dismantle the program, especially after the glass pipe distribution was halted.
Turnberg reiterated her concerns, questioning how the city could have distributed so many pipes without broader oversight. “There is an election coming up, and voting records are public,” she warned, hinting at political implications surrounding the issue.
As Fargo grapples with these urgent public health challenges, the city remains committed to addressing addiction through evidence-based programs, even amidst a landscape of controversy and diverging opinions. The commission’s decision underscores the ongoing debate regarding harm reduction strategies and public safety.
This developing story continues to unfold as the city weighs its approach to addiction recovery and community health. Residents are urged to stay informed as further updates arise in this critical public health discussion.
