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Residents and providers urge clarity after reported $200,000 health-program reallocation
Summary
Community members at the Aug. 13 meeting alleged the county health director returned $200,000 to Dogwood Health Trust, cutting staff and programs such as a Produce Prescription initiative; speakers asked the board for investigation, and the county attorney noted the board does not govern the health department.
Several residents and program partners told the Macon County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 13 that cuts to public-health programming and staff followed the Health Department's reported return of $200,000 to Dogwood Health Trust, and they asked the board for clarity and investigation.
Dr. Patrick Baron summarized a community food-security assessment and said the decision affected programs that serve vulnerable residents; he stated that at least 40% of residents had used the food pantry. Sarah Crawford-Miller, who described herself as a Produce Prescription participant, said the program provided fresh produce and supported local farmers. Rose James, a nurse and longtime collaborator with MountainWise, said she could not think of a leader who would turn down $200,000 and questioned the decision to return funds.
Attorney Eric Ridenour responded during public comment to clarify board authority, saying the Board of Commissioners is not the governing board for the Health Department. Health Director Kathy McGaha told the board the department will operate under the prior fee schedule until the board acts on any new fee plan; Commissioner Shearl asked to table the Public Health Billing Guide and Fee Plan until September.
No formal action altering the Health Department's status or budget was taken at the meeting; public commenters asked the Board to request information and to clarify the timeline and rationale for the reported funding decision.
Provenance: public comments recorded during the public comment period and presentations on Item 4; Attorney Ridenour commented about board authority during the same session.
