Amber Rozek

This strategic plan outlines Winnebago County Public Health's direction to become a trusted community partner, promoting health for all residents. The plan focuses on five key goals: increasing visibility and value, investing in staff development, strengthening the integration of equity work, reinforcing community partnerships, and enhancing policy advocacy and developmental capacity. This approach aims to foster community well-being, increase organizational capacity, cultivate an inclusive environment, and secure stable funding, ensuring effective public health practice grounded in collaboration and evidence.

The meeting included a public comment session regarding the Health Director's credentials and public health advocacy. Discussion topics covered the Winnebago County Public Health budget, an election of Board of Health officers, and an amendment to the Winnebago County Code concerning Board of Health membership and terms. The board also approved budget transfers for the 2024 Routine Immunization Community Engagement grant and the 2024 Immunization Supplement Grant. Additionally, program updates were provided regarding maternal and child health initiatives, the Wisconsin Well Woman Program, and wellness coordination, and the board established a recurring monthly meeting schedule.

The meeting included the designation of an acting EPCRA compliance inspector, a review and acceptance of bylaws, and the adoption of a hazmat response claims policy. Discussions were held regarding spill reports, committee reports on education and outreach, and a regional three-year hazardous materials emergency preparedness tabletop and commodity flow study. Additionally, the group participated in a workshop for the integrated preparedness plan, reviewed the status of EPCRA plans, and discussed future plans for conducting facility walk-throughs.

The task force conducted the election of its Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. Key discussion topics included defining the purpose and scope of the task force regarding potential updates to board rules, identifying resources for rule revisions, establishing a strategy for collaborating with Corporation Counsel, and determining the timeline for delivering proposed changes to the Judiciary and Public Safety Committee. Additionally, the committee scheduled the next meeting date.

The committee discussed the 2025 Scope of Services contract, noting changes such as the implementation of the Peer Place data system, new fiscal and data reporting requirements, and an increased focus on suicide prevention training. Planning for the 2025 committee focus areas included potential staff presentations, the creation of an ADRC services video, and plans to invite state legislators to future meetings. Members shared various updates, including efforts to fill committee vacancies, outreach regarding disability benefit specialists, and reports from local Lions clubs on medical equipment lending and ramp installations. Additionally, public health updates were provided regarding available vending machines for essential health products, respiratory illness prevention, and fall prevention initiatives.