Health director outlines proposed 2025 budget; board approves August minutes and adjourns to October

The health director briefed the board on the department’s proposed budget, telling members the health department’s budget is expected to be near $10.5 million for the coming cycle and that the department’s requested increase is approximately 4.26% excluding behavioral health. The director identified a $1.2 million behavioral‑health request as a significant component of the proposed increase and said some reductions (travel and training) are being used to contain costs.

The director said budget staff are preparing scenarios in case a county tax measure does not pass, and noted the budget committee will present the countywide budget to the county manager. "We continue to advocate for public health resources in this community," the director said, urging board members to stay engaged in advocacy and 2x2 meetings with council members as appropriate.

Procedural business: a board member moved to approve the Aug. 5 meeting minutes; the chair called for all in favor and multiple board members said "Aye" on the record; the chair declared the minutes approved (the transcript does not include a numerical roll call or full tally). Later the meeting was adjourned to October after a motion and second and a voice vote.

No public commenters were recorded during the public‑comment period; staff and board members closed with acknowledgements of staff outreach and upcoming events.