The Strafford County Commissioners convened on August 28, 2025, to discuss several pressing health and safety initiatives, particularly focusing on infection control and energy efficiency in county facilities. The meeting highlighted a proposal for a pilot program involving a technology called Virus Killer and Air Shield, aimed at reducing infections and energy costs in healthcare settings.

The discussion began with a presentation on the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19 and seasonal flu, emphasizing the need for effective infection control measures. The proposal from Virus Killer and Air Shield seeks to implement a no-cost pilot program that would allow the county to assess the technology's impact on infection rates and energy consumption. The technology, based on atmospheric plasma, is designed to sanitize air and surfaces, potentially lowering infection rates among residents and staff in healthcare facilities.

Commissioners were informed that the only costs associated with the pilot would be the time required for data collection and analysis. The initiative aims to establish baseline metrics before and after the technology's implementation to evaluate its effectiveness. The discussion included insights from public health perspectives, noting that while the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) do not mandate specific air quality measures, improving air quality could significantly benefit infection control efforts.

Tory, a key speaker during the meeting, elaborated on the technology's workings, explaining that it utilizes ionization to break down pathogens in the air. This method has been successfully applied in various healthcare settings, and the company is eager to expand its understanding of the technology's effectiveness in different environments.

The commissioners expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the pilot program, particularly in light of historical data on infection rates and absenteeism among staff. They noted that the county already maintains comprehensive records that could support the evaluation of the technology's impact.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing public health measures while also addressing energy efficiency. The proposed pilot program represents a proactive step towards improving the safety and well-being of residents and staff in Strafford County's healthcare facilities. Further discussions and planning will follow to ensure the successful implementation of this initiative.