Health Services committee accepts 2024 annual report, reviews budget and inspection findings

Warren County Health Services presented its 2024 annual report to the Health Services Committee, which the committee accepted by voice vote. Staff highlighted programs, trends and contractor contributions in the report and thanked health services employees for their work.

Nut graf: The presentation covered the department’s program activity for 2024, an anticipated budget adjustment tied to a settlement fund, the results of a state survey with minor policy deficiencies, and ongoing operational matters such as office renovations and upcoming child safety seat events.

Budget amendment ("Jules" settlement): Staff requested a budget amendment to reflect anticipated settlement funding (identified in the meeting as the "Jules settlement"). Staff said the department originally recorded the full settlement amount in the budget but learned the county did not receive funds in 2024; staff said they expect three catch‑up payments and have notified the treasurer to watch for an incoming payment. Staff reported that going forward the county expects annual payments of $47,735.64 each June 1. Because the transcript contained inconsistent numeric phrases for the total settlement amounts, staff and the committee agreed to record the anticipated annual amount and handle carry‑forwards or additional amendments when funds arrive.

State survey and operational updates: Staff reported a state survey visit June 23–26 and characterized it as “excellent,” noting surveyors praised the nurses and identified some minor policy and documentation deficiencies (for example, an immunization/MMR certificate issue where a signature prevented counting a long‑tenured staff member’s record). Staff said deficiencies were procedural and did not change the quality of care provided. Staff also reviewed attachments showing year‑to‑date salaries (44.78% of budget to date vs. 48.36% last year), equipment purchases tied to an infrastructure grant, and timing differences in contractual expenses.

Other items: Staff publicized upcoming rabies clinics and child passenger safety seat events (one Aug. 26 in Chestertown and one Aug. 27 in Warrensburg) and described the phased progress on office renovations: phase 2 finished and phase 3 (minor construction, painting and carpet) planned; furniture mostly received with some backorders.

Ending: The committee accepted the annual report and approved the budget adjustment approach to reflect anticipated settlement receipts; staff will process amendments and notify the treasurer and auditors as funds are received.