Cayuga County Health Department seeks contracts for engineering services amid staff shortages

Cayuga County's Health and Human Services Committee convened on March 12, 2025, to address critical staffing shortages within the Environmental Health Division and to approve a series of resolutions aimed at maintaining essential public health services.

The committee approved a resolution authorizing the hiring of professional engineers to manage the workload created by the temporary absence of key staff members. With two engineers set to take leave and one resigning, the department anticipates a significant gap in its ability to review and approve septic and water system designs, which are crucial for compliance with state regulations. The resolution allows for the expenditure of approximately $30,000 to contract these engineering services, ensuring that public health standards are upheld during this transitional period.

Director of Environmental Health, Ani Fish, emphasized the importance of having multiple contracts in place to mitigate costs and ensure timely service delivery. The committee discussed the potential hourly rates for contracted engineers, which could range from $150 to over $250, depending on the firm. The resolution includes provisions for compliance with purchasing policies, ensuring that the county's funds are protected and that competitive rates are sought.

In addition to the primary resolution, the committee engaged in discussions about the necessity of maintaining stringent local standards for septic and water systems, highlighting the unique regulations in Cayuga County designed to protect local watersheds. Legislators expressed concerns about the open-ended nature of the funding request and the need for clearer guidelines on the expected costs and services.

The committee's proactive approach aims to address immediate staffing challenges while ensuring that public health services continue without interruption. As the county moves forward, the focus will remain on securing qualified engineering support to uphold the health and safety of the community.