From the outside, one might not be able to glean much has changed inside the Christian County Health Department.
During Monday night’s quarterly meeting, however, board officials were able to take in their reports and updates in the confines of a remodeled, second-floor conference room.
Public Health Director Devin Brumfield explained what’s been a two-fold process.
Brumfield further explained that the old board room, once refitted, will be large enough to serve as a local, regional and statewide training space — and that it’s already being used at the micro-level.
The value of said renovations is north of $530,000.
And speaking of capital cash, Brumfield took several questions about the potential for federal freezes on future funding — which might be possible under the Donald J. Trump administration.
Grant funding, Brumfield added, will continue to be critical and key, and that the department remains in “great standing” — especially behind concerted efforts to avoid non-budgeted, non-grant-related, non-essential, but non-frivolous, spending.
Three such examples, Brumfield said, are the pushing back on a much-needed phone system upgrade, which is now planned for the 2025-26 fiscal year, a potentially modified and limited Health Department Block Party — which has been largely successful — and a tamping down of advertising expenses.
— The board will next meet April 28, June 23 and October 27, aligning with spring, summer and fall throes.
In other health department news:
— Director of Nursing Jennifer Cail said that a new nurse has arrived from the Pennyrile District Health Department, and since she required little-to-no training, she’s been “a great asset” to the clinic.
— Chad Burch, environmental health director, said a new food factory in Christian County, combined with a new Buc-ee’s in Oak Grove, could be key talking points for him in the future, but not until more details on those developments become clear.
Furthermore, he and Brumfield confirmed the securing of a $650,000 grant under Melissa Miller, which led to the purchase of preparedness backpacks for last year’s Block Party, as well as new lighting for the facility’s parking lot.
— Brumfield also noted that as of this week, the department is back to semi-full-time status with its Health Access Nurturing Development Services, or HANDS, program.
Tarasha Morrow, maternal & child health coordinator, said some families had to be let go from the voluntary home visitation and parental support arm because of staffing issues, but those efforts are getting back on track.
— Cloie Rager, public information officer, said a community partner forum is planned for 1-4 PM March 12 at the department, in order to review the public survey, in order to formulate the next public health plan.
