Public health wins approval for diabetes workshop MOU and state-funded specialist; move to new building underway

Public Health briefed the committee and sought two approvals: a memorandum of understanding with Comfort Food community to host a six-week diabetes self-management workshop (March–April), and permission to accept a state-funded public health specialist placed through the New York State Department of Health as a direct assistance assignment (the specialist would be a PCG employee stationed with the county through May).

The presenter described the MOU scope (weekly incentives for participants such as $25 produce vouchers or fresh-food boxes), and said the direct-assist specialist position would be 100% grant-funded under the state program. The committee voted to approve both items.

Staff also reported progress on a planned move to a new public-health facility: most data and paperwork have been submitted to the state; a safety walk-through was completed with public-safety staff; remaining items include a fire-safety inspection and a certificate of occupancy that the county chairman will be asked to sign so the department can occupy the space. Vaccine refrigerators were moved but actual vaccine transfer awaits the final inspection. Staff said they hoped to complete the move before the new year.

The presenter reminded the committee that flu season is active and described ongoing outreach (farm visits and an in-house weekly clinic). The committee expressed support for the move and for keeping the specialist in place while staff continue public-health operations.