A community united

What is Partnership Carson City?

Partnership Carson City is a coalition made up of city, school, civic and law-enforcement officials, as well as other community leaders.

What does it do?

Members work together to combat methamphetamine use and sales in Carson City.

In July, the committee was divided into several task forces: community awareness, prevention, public policy, treatment and enforcement.

Each subcommittee focuses on issues relating to its particular topics.

Why?

The Carson City Board of Supervisors named combating meth use as its No. 1 priority last year.

Between Jan. 1, 2004, and Oct. 31, 2005, the Nevada Department of Public Safety's nine Narcotic Task Forces opened 1,131 drug-related cases, with 61 percent of those cases being meth-related.

What has come of it?

The coalition has developed several tools for battling methamphetamine. They include:

• A meth hotline was established through the Carson City Sheriff's Department where people can anonymously report suspicion of any meth-related crimes. That number is 887-2020 ext. 6384 (METH).

• A public-information campaign was launched with posters showing the physical degeneration of drug users. There are also pamphlets available listing side-effects and methods of treatment, as well as stickers, highlighters, magnets and other items featuring information. A campaign of radio advertisements is forthcoming.

• The Special-Enforcement Team was formed with a group of officers who direct their efforts toward a specific criminal activity. Methamphetamine was established as one of its priorities. The team also works on such things as warrant service, community relations, drug awareness education and support to other divisions within the Carson City Sheriff's Department.

• The city partnered with Carson High School on a grant from "Learn and Serve America" for $30,000 to assist with illegal drug use education and awareness in Carson City.

• Bumper stickers and/or decals placed on all law-enforcement and school vehicles advertise the meth hotline.

• Training of school officials.

• Several community meetings were held to inform the public on the dangers and warning signs of meth use.

• Carson High School students created a film with an anti-methamphetamine message.

Is it working?

Liz Teixeira, Carson City community relations officer, said political leaders at the state and federal levels have taken notice of the work being done.

"Our coalition has really taken a leadership role in this effort," she said. "We're trying to get tough on meth. We don't want it here. We don't want people who deal it here."