Will County Health Department reviews funding cuts and nursing home policies

The Will County Public Health & Safety Committee convened on May 1, 2025, to discuss key issues affecting local health services, including budget appropriations and nursing home admission policies.

The meeting began with a motion to appropriate funds for the Health Department budget, which was unanimously approved. Following this, the committee addressed the admission policy for Sunny Hill Nursing Home, specifically regarding non-Will County residents. This motion also passed without opposition.

Reports were presented on various health initiatives, including updates on the nursing home admissions and community engagement efforts. Notably, the Health Department reported a successful food drive for peanut butter and jelly, which received a positive community response and will benefit local food pantries.

A significant topic of discussion was the potential cuts to public health funding. The department is currently awaiting a ruling on a temporary restraining order related to state funding, which could impact over $11 million in grants. The Health Department is preparing for possible funding reductions, with plans to assess which services may be affected if grant funding is not renewed by June 1.

Additionally, the committee received updates on recent measles cases reported in nearby Cook County, raising concerns about public health safety in the region. The Health Department is closely monitoring the situation and is prepared to respond as necessary.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Will County Health Department, particularly in securing funding and ensuring the continuity of essential health services for the community. The committee plans to continue monitoring these issues closely in the coming months.