Board reviews Board of Health vacancy; application expected and state/local code requirements read aloud

The Franklin County Board of Supervisors discussed filling a vacancy on the local Board of Health and reviewed the county code governing board composition and terms during its May 7 meeting.

A supervisor reported that one potential appointee declined; the board said it had received an application form given to Ruth Tapp and asked for Tapp to submit the form. The board agreed that if the application is received in time they could take action at the next meeting.

During the discussion a board member read county code language into the record: “Local boards of health shall consist of at least 5 members. At least 1 member shall be licensed as a physician, a physician assistant, an advanced registered nurse practitioner, or an advanced practice registered nurse. A local board of health member shall serve for a term of 3 years.” That same speaker noted that a majority of members constitutes a quorum and that an affirmative vote of the majority of members present is necessary for action.

Supervisor Lauren DeGrupp (referenced by the board) suggested expanding membership by one and including someone from the dental profession; the board discussed whether the chair votes or only breaks ties in some organizations and noted local practice varies. No appointment was made at the May 7 meeting; the board awaits a completed application for possible action next week.