The Smithtown Town Board has taken a decisive step in the fight against opioid addiction by unanimously approving the creation of an Opioid and Addiction Task Force. The initiative, passed during the February 4 Town Board meeting, aims to combat the growing substance use crisis through a comprehensive approach focused on education, prevention, and community support.
Supervisor Ed Wehrheim (R-Kings Park) emphasized the town’s commitment to addressing the crisis head-on, stressing the need for accountability and reducing the stigma surrounding addiction.
“We cannot turn a blind eye to the opioid crisis, mental health struggles, and substance abuse that impact our community. Furthermore, we must also hold those liable for this crisis accountable,” said Wehrheim. “The stigma surrounding addiction often creates a sense of shame and judgment that prevents individuals from seeking the help they desperately need. We all know someone, a friend, a family member, coworker, or a neighbor, who has been affected by this crisis. It is our responsibility to foster a culture of compassion, understanding, and support. Everyone deserves a chance at living a healthy, rewarding life, and together, we can break down barriers to recovery and build a stronger, healthier community.”
The task force is a response to the increasing need for a collaborative approach to addiction and mental health challenges. Supported by local officials, including New York State Senator Mario Mattera (R-St. James), Horizons Counseling and Education Center, law enforcement, and healthcare professionals, the initiative aims to provide crucial resources and education to the public. Community advocates Susan Buroker and Madlyn Makboulian, Director of Horizons, were instrumental in developing the concept.
“After meeting Susan Buroker and her team in my office, I knew Supervisor Wehrheim and the Town Board would take immediate action to help protect Smithtown residents,” said Senator Mattera. “Along with his colleagues, Supervisor Wehrheim quickly put the issue on their agenda to help raise awareness and save lives. This, along with their decision to ban legal cannabis dispensaries, shows their commitment to protecting our residents from drug abuse. That is greatly appreciated, and I look forward to continuing to work with all involved to increase the conversation around this somewhat whispered topic.”
The task force will include local leaders, first responders, medical professionals, and key community members who will spearhead initiatives focused on education, resource accessibility, and stigma reduction. One of its core missions is to inform the community about prevention strategies, available treatment options, and the realities of substance use disorders.
“The formation of the new Smithtown anti-drug and opiate task force represents a critical step in our fight against substance abuse. By bringing together law enforcement, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, we are committed to preventing addiction, providing support for those in recovery, and holding those who fuel this crisis accountable. Together, we will work toward a safer, healthier future for our community,” said Madlyn Makboulian, Director of Horizons Counseling and Education Center.
A major focus of the task force will be on community engagement. The town has already planned its first major event, a Community Awareness Day, scheduled for May 17, 2025, in partnership with Horizons Counseling and Education Center. The event will offer Narcan training, a Prescription Medication Disposal (Give-Back Initiative), and expert guest speakers. Numerous organizations, including Phoenix House, Thrive, Long Island Center for Recovery, St. Catherine’s Hospital, and Sun River Detox, will participate, providing critical resources and support services for attendees.
Community advocate Susan Buroker highlighted the importance of collective action. “Together as a community we created this task force because addiction isn’t just an individual struggle- it affects us all. Through awareness, support, and conversation we can create real change together,” said Buroker.
The Smithtown Opioid and Addiction Task Force is the result of dedicated efforts by local advocates and professionals. Buroker, Supervisor Wehrheim, Senator Mattera, Makboulian, and other community members collaborated to present a proactive strategy to the Town Board, ensuring the issue received the urgent attention it deserved.
As the task force begins its work, Smithtown is setting a strong example for community-driven solutions to the opioid crisis. By fostering collaboration between law enforcement, healthcare providers, and support organizations, the initiative aims to create lasting change in the fight against substance use disorders.
