YOUNGSTOWN - Mahoning County Commissioners are slated to vote Thursday on a resolution to allocate $464,000 in opioid settlement funds to support the Mahoning Valley First Responder Wellness Center.

The agreement with Boardman Township would formalize the county’s financial contribution to the facility, which aims to provide mental health support and wellness resources for police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and dispatchers across the Mahoning Valley.

 The proposed Clarence R. Smith, Mahoning Valley First Responders Wellness Center, located on Raupp Avenue in Boardman Township, will offer services tailored to the unique challenges faced by first responders, including stress management programs and mental health assistance.

The 4-acre property for the center was donated by the family of Clarence R. Smith, a longtime supporter of emergency services personnel.

Earlier this month, Poland Township became the first township to partner with Boardman in financially backing the center. Boardman Township has already dedicated $253,000 towards improvements at the site.

Duane Piccirilli, executive director of the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board, described the center as a future “safe space” for first responders dealing with trauma.

A nonprofit agency in the name of Clarence R. Smith is being established to operate the wellness center, overseeing training, education, and services. The facility is anticipated to open in October.