Health Department faces drastic changes amid $1.2M funding cuts in Eaton County

The Barry County Health Department is facing significant challenges due to substantial funding cuts, which have led to staff reductions and program closures that will directly impact residents. During a recent Board of Commissioners meeting, officials reported an $850,000 loss in federal funding, forcing the department to eliminate nine staff positions. Additionally, Eaton County's decision to cut its contribution by 25% resulted in a further loss of $225,000. If Barry County were to follow suit, the health department could see an additional $130,000 reduction.

In response to these financial pressures, the Health Department announced the closure of the Connections Grama program, which assisted residents in accessing local health resources, effective August 1. Leadership changes are also on the horizon, with Health Officer Colette Scrimgerer retiring earlier than planned, along with Environmental Health Director Jay Van Stee. These transitions may provide opportunities to restructure and reduce administrative costs.

To cope with the budget shortfall, the department is considering limiting public access hours, increasing fees for permits and inspections, and cutting discretionary spending on training and materials. Residents may experience slower responses to infectious disease outbreaks, longer wait times for vaccines and STI services, and a heightened risk of foodborne illnesses due to reduced support for food service establishments.

The Board of Health plans to begin searching for a new health officer soon, aiming to fill the position by October 1. However, further cuts at the federal level could necessitate additional program reductions, raising concerns about the long-term impact on community health services. Officials acknowledged that these changes will have real consequences for residents, particularly those who are most vulnerable.