The Cole County Commission convened on September 9, 2025, to address several pressing issues concerning the local health department's staffing and operational needs. The meeting began with discussions focused on the recruitment of nursing staff, particularly in light of upcoming maternity leave and the busy flu clinic season.

The health department currently has six nurses, with two vacancies and one nurse expected to go on maternity leave in October, a critical time for flu vaccinations. To mitigate potential staffing shortages, the department proposed dual hiring for Registered Nurses (RNs) and Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), a move that has not been previously implemented. The commission agreed to modify the job description to include both RNs and LPNs, with a reduced salary for LPN hires.

In addition to the dual hiring proposal, the health department requested approval to hire one or two part-time nurses to assist during the flu clinics. This staffing solution aims to ensure that clinics can operate smoothly without interruption, especially since the department has already committed to school clinics starting September 24. The health department highlighted the importance of maintaining clinic operations to avoid disappointing local schools that rely on their services.

The commission expressed support for both proposals, recognizing the challenges in finding qualified nursing staff. The health department will finalize the hiring details and budget adjustments once potential candidates confirm their availability.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing staffing challenges faced by the health department and the proactive measures being taken to ensure community health services remain uninterrupted during peak periods. The commission's approval of these proposals is expected to alleviate some of the pressures on existing staff and maintain essential health services in Cole County.