Board hears executive officer report: staffing cuts, $3M fund balance and budget projections reported

Anthony Lum, executive officer for the Dental Hygiene Board of California, briefed members on personnel and fiscal status at the board’s July 19, 2025 meeting, saying the office is operating with several recent departures and a reduced workforce while maintaining a positive fund condition.

Lum reported that the board currently has four vacant positions and two staff working modified half-time schedules, which he described as equating to a 36% reduction in workforce. He said two staff — an assistant executive officer and a special investigator — left in May for positions with the Dental Board of California. Lum said he is advertising to fill the assistant executive officer vacancy and is reviewing applications for the citation-and-fine analyst position.

On finances, Lum told the board the office’s funds are “fully replenished” under the newly approved state budget and estimated the board’s balance at roughly $3,000,000 for fiscal year 2025–26. He said the board had spent approximately 77 percent (about $2.3 million) of a $2.9 million expenditure budget through fiscal month 11 (May) and that a revenue report through month 11 showed about $3.4 million received toward an anticipated $3.5 million by year end. The fund-condition report indicated approximately $4.6 million in the fund for the year.

Board members asked for clarifications on budget line items. Member Julie Elginer praised staff for maintaining operations despite the personnel reductions and pressed staff to monitor sustainability and hiring timelines. Lum and other staff said hiring requires departmental HR processing and duty-statement revisions before vacancies can be posted. Lum also said staff are preparing a newsletter to remind applicants and licensees of renewal and licensing processes.

Ending: Lum said staff have completed 10 of 27 strategic-plan goals and will continue work as positions are filled and priorities allow.