Water Lab Achieves $3K Profit in First Year of Operation

The Dunn County Health and Human Services Committee convened on August 21, 2025, to discuss the performance and financial outlook of the county's water lab, along with budget considerations for the upcoming year.

The meeting began with a report from Amy, who highlighted the water lab's success in its first eight months of operation. The lab processed over 500 samples, generating a profit exceeding $3,000, primarily driven by nitrate testing. Amy noted that while the lab had initially projected a profit of $1,000 based on 400 samples, the actual performance surpassed expectations, showcasing the lab's potential for growth.

Amy emphasized the need to increase awareness among private well owners to boost sample submissions. Plans were discussed to enhance advertising efforts and implement a billing and invoicing system to facilitate payments from clients who may not be the well owners themselves. This change aims to streamline the process for various water systems regulated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), including mobile home parks and rural workplaces.

Additionally, Amy mentioned that the land and water department plans to utilize the lab again next year, with an anticipated 300 samples. She also reported on a grant application for $10,000 aimed at supporting the land and water project, which could cover lab fees and potentially fund a shared intern.

The committee then shifted focus to the budget for 2026. Members reviewed a detailed list of the health department's 13 programs, noting that while some programs generate revenue, many do not cover their operational costs. This includes essential services related to communicable disease follow-up and immunizations, which are often unfunded mandates.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the collaborative efforts between departments and the importance of ensuring that health services remain sustainable and adequately funded. The committee plans to continue discussions on budget allocations and strategies to enhance service delivery in the coming months.