Commissioners approve bid waiver for Northeast Mobile Dental amid dentist transition

In a recent meeting held by the Rockingham County Board of Commissioners, key discussions centered around the urgent need for dental services in local nursing homes and the upcoming fiscal year budget considerations.

As the meeting commenced, the commissioners addressed a bid waiver request related to the Northeast Mobile Dental Service. With the retirement of a long-standing dentist, the county is in a tight spot, needing to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements while searching for a replacement. The commissioners unanimously approved the bid waiver, allowing Northeast Mobile Dental to provide temporary services as the county continues its open Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This decision highlights the ongoing challenge of securing dental care for nursing home residents, a niche service that has proven difficult to fill.

Transitioning to budget discussions, the commissioners turned their attention to the fiscal year 2026 plans. They explored various scenarios for cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for nonunion employees, aiming to align salary increases with economic indicators. One commissioner suggested a total increase of 4%, combining a standard COLA with an additional 1% to maintain consistency across the budget. However, there was a consensus that further discussions with department heads were necessary before finalizing any decisions.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to addressing immediate healthcare needs while also planning for sustainable financial practices. As the commissioners continue to navigate these complex issues, the community remains hopeful for effective solutions that will enhance the quality of care for its most vulnerable residents.