WASHINGTON
After the 2022 “year of learning,” the Washington County Board of Health found teamwork in 2023 has gone “pretty well,” noted Administrator Emily Tokheim Thursday, Dec. 14, as …
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WASHINGTON
After the 2022 “year of learning,” the Washington County Board of Health found teamwork in 2023 has gone “pretty well,” noted Administrator Emily Tokheim Thursday, Dec. 14, as the board members prepare the fiscal 2024-25 budget while facing expected cuts in state funding.
Currently the county, as are most in the state, is looking at possible state funding decreases from $1 million to $1.3 million. However, Tokheim indicated that the department will find solutions to meet the new HHS recommendations for the potential reorganization of local public health pending the governor’s review and approval of decisions.
An addition to department’s equipment came Nov. 9 with the purchase of a Dodge Durango to replace the 2014 Buick Encore. Earlier a $38,000 maximum had been approved for the needed vehicle. With a trade-in and government fleet discount, the price dropped to $29,325.
Tokheim also reported that, to date, the county has had no case involving the applesauce product that is currently under federally ordered recall due to reports of elevated lead levels.
In other business, the board approved the resignation of Public Health Nurse Megan Waterhouse, effective Dec. 8.
The board approved revisions/updates to Public Health policies, including the Emergency Preparedness plan and contracting for services for some clinics.
The board approved the new lease with Federation Bank for space in the bank’s former building in downtown Washington for $6,200 a month, a $200 increase, effective July 1, 2024. Tokheim indicated that possibly after the Tuesday, Dec. 19 supervisor work session for an update on relocating county administrative offices, there will be information regarding the proposed re-location of the health department.
At the meeting’s conclusion, board member Jack Seward, Jr., who is also a county supervisor, presented outgoing member and chairwoman Cathy Huffington with a plaque acknowledging appreciation for her eight years of service, including five as the chairwoman. Huffington and Seward were the two whose terms expire December 31. Seward accepted reappointment and the new member is Kodey Salow. Both will officially take office next month.
The next scheduled meeting is noon, January 25, 2024, in the former bank building. Last week's meeting was a combined November/December session.
