Public health funding took center stage at the Walworth County Health & Human Services Board meeting on June 18, 2025, with officials expressing both relief and concern over upcoming budget changes. The maternal child health block grant is expected to remain stable, providing a sense of security for essential services. However, the potential elimination of a $10,000 prevention grant has raised alarms, as state-level cuts could significantly impact local health initiatives.

In a more positive note, funding for immunization and respiratory illness programs is projected to see a modest increase. Yet, the board is bracing for a staggering potential cut of over 50% in preparedness and response funding, which could mean a loss of $74,000 for the county. This uncertainty has prompted officials to closely monitor the situation as they prepare the 2026 budget proposal.

In other announcements, the board celebrated the restoration of a previously eliminated safety seat grant, ensuring that enough car seats will be available for the year. Additionally, Alicia Van Dyke was welcomed as the new deputy director, bringing over a decade of experience with the county to her new role.

The meeting also addressed public safety concerns, as high E. coli counts were detected at Delavan Community Beach, leading to its closure. The health department is actively retesting the water and will continue to monitor the situation until it is deemed safe for public use.

As the board navigates these funding challenges and public health issues, they remain committed to keeping the community informed and safe.