Ricky Goldman introduced New Design For Living (NDFL) to the Montgomery County Commission during public comment, asking the commission to consider financial or partnership support to expand the program into neighborhood satellite divisions. Goldman, who identified himself as a recovering addict and alcoholic of four decades, described NDFL as a faith-based recovery program that uses biblical principles alongside 12‑step methods and said he has spoken nationally on recovery.

Goldman characterized substance use as the root cause of much local crime, saying, "the root problem of most of our crimes of 85% is caused by the use of alcohol and drugs." He asked the commission to vet NDFL and consider helping with funding, facilitation or other assistance to bring the program into Montgomery neighborhoods.

A commissioner noted the county’s existing opioid task force and the fact that the county has received settlement funds from some manufacturers named in opioid litigation. That commissioner said the settlement emphasizes education, prevention and treatment and asked staff to vet Goldman’s program to determine whether it can address those areas before the commission considers a formal partnership.

The meeting record shows no formal request for immediate funding was voted on; commissioners agreed to have the program vetted for potential future partnership. The record does not detail a specific dollar request or any staff recommendation.

What happens next: The commission requested vetting of NDFL and did not take formal action on funding during this meeting.