They are a determined group that is committed to solving a continuing problem. It is a problem that transcends academic accomplishment, income level, gender or race. The problem is the growing use of methamphetamine in Fayette County. And the members of the Fayette Meth Task Force say they intend to be a part of the solution.

Still in the formative stages but solidifying with each passing month, the task force has formed committees targeting education, prevention, treatment and enforcement.

Though the aim might seem lofty to some, task force members have established four goals to spearhead their effort.

The task force has committed to inform and educate all areas of the public regarding methamphetamine use and dangers, to eradicate meth from Fayette County, make treatment options for addicts known to judicial officials, social workers and family members and to help bring about systems changes that would get more meth addicts off the street and into treatment, task force Assistant Coordinator and Fayette FACTOR Executive Director Becky Smith reported from the group’s November meeting.

The important goal of identifying committee members was accomplished at the November meeting. Averaging nearly two dozen members each meeting, Smith said the task force now has three members who are facilitating faith-based recovery programs and five that provide professional counseling or therapy services.

Other members include recovered or recovering addicts and family members, members of several area churches, Fayette FACTOR and DFACS staff, five police officers, a Fayette school teacher and several concerned citizens.

Still needed are those from the judicial system, domestic violence agencies, the education system, law enforcement and county government, said Smith.

“Thank you so much for your enthusiasm and your willingness to be a part of a community coalition whose purpose is to infiltrate our wonderful county with education and tools for everyone to play a part in making Fayette a safe and nurturing environment for all its citizens!” Smith said recently to task force members. “It’s not too late to eradicate meth from Fayette.”

The next meeting of the Fayette Meth Task Force will be held Jan. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Court building adjacent to Fayetteville Police Department.

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