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Board approves interlocal agreement to fund Community Connections hub up to $95,500 per year
Summary
The board authorized an interlocal agreement with Benzie–Leelanau District Health Department to fund the Community Connections hub for Grand Traverse County residents up to $95,500 annually, citing state funding shortfalls and rising referrals for housing, food and transportation needs.
Health department officials described Community Connections — a home‑based, evidence‑backed community health worker hub that addresses social determinants of health — and asked the board to approve an interlocal agreement to cover Grand Traverse County’s share of a regional shortfall.
Debbie Aldridge, an assistant director with the Benzie‑Leelanau District Health Department and a lead on the Community Connections hub, said the program handles referrals from hospitals, clinics and community partners and focuses on housing, food, transportation and other needs. She noted the hub is relationship‑driven and often requires in‑home visits to resolve problems. Aldridge said past evaluations showed cost savings in medical spending and improved client self‑efficacy.
Health officers said state funding has declined, leaving a local shortfall. County staff proposed an interlocal agreement with Benzie‑Leelanau to cover Grand Traverse County's proportion of costs up to $95,500 per year; the contract would run year to year with an option to renew. Commissioners asked about budgeting and whether funds would come from general fund appropriations; staff said the funds identified are not from the general fund and would be factored into health‑department budgets going forward.
The board approved the interlocal agreement by voice vote. Officials said they will continue to pursue Medicaid plan contracts, state advocacy, and other grant opportunities to sustain the program beyond short‑term local appropriations.
Why it matters: Community health worker hubs connect individuals to housing, transportation, medical and behavioral health services, and officials said the hub has reduced some health costs while meeting rising referral demand. The county's contribution is intended to prevent service gaps while longer‑term funding solutions are pursued.
Provenance: presentation, discussion and voice vote on agenda item 9B recorded in the meeting.
