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Board of Health MinutesCalhoun County Board of Health
Larry Anderson called the meeting called to order at 8:02 a.m. The agenda was approved. (Jean Cook-Hughes/George Perrett) Larry introduced the two Board of Health candidates, Ken Ponds and Harry Bonner. The March 2004 meeting minutes were approved. (Ben Miller/Jeff Mitchell) Finance Report Currently, we continue to show an excess of revenue over expenses. We received notification that the Network for Young Children program was renewed for an additional two years. We also received notice from the state that the WIC program will receive increased funding retroactive to October 1, 2003. The additional WIC funding is $14,560. In addition, we are requesting $17,170 for an increased caseload. Revised budgets for programs funded through the CPBC contract must go to the state by June 2nd, this includes WIC funds. Kathy asked if we should complete two budget adjustments, one for the state, which would be approved at the May Board meeting, and one for the County, which would be approved in June. County amendments are necessary due to our requests for non-state sources for additional funding, which we are waiting for approval. Heidi asked what the downside is if we wait until June to have the boards approve County-only amendments. Kathy asked if both types of budget adjustments need to go to the BOC. Greg indicated that we should produce a quarterly report to the BOC that indicates that we are waiting for additional information on funds, and would prefer that we not complete two budget adjustments. Larry asked about the W.K. Kellogg Foundation funds for the Network for Young Children program. Their funds indicate that we have one ISD nurse that contracts with us. We will add one public health nurse after July 1st. Other Business Sanitation Code Ted summarized the revised sanitation code for the BOH’s review and for the public’s review. The revisions clarified several of the codes for sanitarians. Changes included no moving of well once the permit was issued (e.g., from front of house to back). Farmers, for example, can dump their own septic waste on his/her property when approved. There is a certain amount of nutrient value. There are no fee changes to the revised code, the revisions were designed to tighten loose ends as the sanitarians perform their duties. Because it’s been a problem in Washington DC, Greg asked if we, as the Health Department, have any responsibility for checking the lead amounts in municipal water. No. Ted indicated that EH receives reports, but does check on water from other sources during restaurant inspections or real estate transactions. Larry: the next step is a public hearing for approval. Greg suggested that we send a letter of changes to those in the water, well, home builders, and septic businesses for review prior to the public hearing. Schedule public meetings in and around the county. The public hearing and approval of the revised code will be scheduled in June. Minority Health Partnership Heidi handed out a summary of the Minority Health Partnership, its history, and what has transpired. The MHP is funded by the State, W.K. Kellogg Foundation, potentially the United Way of Greater Battle Creek, and HCAP/CareSource currently. The financial information from the Battle Creek Community Foundation is currently pending. Kathy developed a detailed list of financial item requests. There are many items still under development that will be coordinated with County Administration staff. Greg asked why the Minority Health Partnership is coming back to the Health Department. Originally the MHP was moved to the BCCF to connect to a private organization such as the RHA. The request to move back was to keep with the original goal to use a public health approach to improve the health outcomes of African-American individuals as a part of Healthy People 2010. There is no governance board, but there is an advisory council that is reforming. There are specific restrictions with the Federal funds (distributed through the State) that the program be data driven. There is an evaluator that is being hired to look at the results of the MHP. One Board member asked to see specific financial data for the MHP. He believes that there is a direct positive financial impact on the BCCF if they hand over the program and that the BCCF should still have a financial responsibility (financially) for the program. Another Board member asked if other organizations were asked about taking on the MHP. Heidi stated that only Brenda Hunt could answer that, however, Brenda’s comment to Heidi was that it belonged in the Health Department or should not be moved at all. The Health Department was always a partner of the MHP. This Board member stated that we need to look at financials along with priority health issues related to people of color. Let’s not lose sight of the broader issue, which is that this a health issue and should be part of the Health Department. George feels that we need to look at, “if not us, then who”? Larry stated that the two priorities of the MHP are the violence among African-American youths, and diabetes. Harry stated that on the arena of 2010, we look at what they offer and what public health impacts. It is a public health initiative. Heidi stated that we will have additional financial information and a revised timeline to be presented at the next BOH meeting. Heidi summarized Public Health Week. We nominated 6-8 individuals for Local Hometown Heroes. Harry Bonner was selected as a Hometown Health Hero as was Judge Garbrecht. We also nominated the 15 physicians who volunteer onsite at the Nursing Clinic for the “Group Volunteer” award to be chosen at the Volunteer Center of Battle Creek’s Annual Volunteer Awards on April 22. Board Business Larry asked Harry and Ken to take a couple of minutes to address their interest in the BOH and their abilities. Ken stated that he considers it an honor to be asked to be on the BOH. Expressed his interest in health, particularly as an African-American individual. Looked at the BOH as a backstop for other health services that are not available within the community. Has a strong concern on health issues particularly in Albion. Harry stated that Ken and he have different strengths, different approaches. Harry feels that Ken is more familiar with the policy issues whereas Harry likes to work more directly with health issues. Harry also feels there are enough organizations that have availability of funds to deal with many of the issues facing minorities within Calhoun County and is supportive of the proposed MHP change. Jean asked if our meeting date is any problem with either of you. Both answered “no”. Several commented that the Board had to choose from 2 very qualified candidates and that it would be difficult. Harry feels that Ken would be a better candidate because Harry will be focused in the direct services and remain involved as he is currently. Harry withdrew his name from consideration. George stated that Harry will continue to be directly involved and that he appreciated Harry’s offer to continue to be involved, particularly with the Minority Health Partnership. Ken’s expertise with policy issues was acknowledged. Jean moved that the BOH nominate Ken Ponds to fill the vacancy. Jeff seconded. Approval was unanimous. Greg will ensure the recommendation goes to the Board of Commissioners on May 6th for the official appointment. Meeting adjourned at 9:13 a.m.
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Minutes Archive
Several photos included in this 
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