Tammy L. Barriger

The agenda for the Cortland County Board of Health Meeting included a roll call, division reports from Health Education, Environmental Health (with an action item), Nursing Clinic, and Children with Special Needs Program, and Administration. Key discussion topics involved the Sanitary Code review, updates on influenza and other communicable diseases, rabies program data, the status of the Community Health Assessment (CHA) and the upcoming Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) prioritizing Substance Misuse, Depression/Suicide, Tobacco Use, and Nutrition Security. The Administration section also noted the status of Board Member terms expiring at the end of 2026.

Cortland County has released the County-Wide Strategic Development Plan, developed through the Elevate Cortland initiative, for public review and comment. The plan outlines a vision, goals, and strategies to advance the county, focusing on four key areas: Energy, Sustainability & the Environment; Housing; Economic Development & Workforce; and Connectivity & Infrastructure. These areas are supported by three common pillars: Collaboration, Vibrant Communities, and Coordinated & Aligned Growth, aiming to guide policy, attract investment, and enhance residents' quality of life.

The Cortland County Board of Health convened to discuss a variety of public health initiatives and updates. Key discussion points included the 2025 Community Health Assessment (CHA) survey results, which captured community perspectives on healthcare access, health concerns, and social factors affecting well-being. The board also reviewed the HUD Healthy Homes Production Grant, focusing on mitigation efforts and fund requests. Updates were provided on various programs, including Tobacco Control & Prevention, Injury Prevention & Traffic Safety, Healthy Neighborhoods Program, Cancer Services Program, and Youth Bureau activities. The Environmental Health Division presented data on rabies incidents, community sanitation, and staff training. The Nursing Clinic reported on immunization programs, communicable diseases, and lead levels. The Children with Special Needs program shared data on Early Intervention, Child Find, and CYSHCN activities. The meeting also covered administrative matters, such as the Leadership Cortland Panel and the health department's role in the Cortland Community.

The meeting included a presentation on communicable diseases. There were also division reports from Health Education, Environmental Health, Nursing Clinic, Children with Special Needs Program, and Administration. The strategic plan updates focused on public health workforce, communication, and collaboration. The Youth Council gathered clothing and shoes, and participated in events such as Seen Enough Tobacco Day. The Healthy Neighborhoods Program conducted home visits to assess and educate residents. The Cancer Services Program enrolled new clients and continued outreach efforts. The Environmental Health Division reported on rabies incidents, community sanitation, and enforcement processes. The Nursing Clinic provided immunization services and addressed communicable diseases.

The meeting included strategic plan updates focusing on public health workforce, communication, and collaboration. Discussions covered maintaining staff professional development, realistic competency assessment goals, social media plans, website reviews, and collaboration enhancements. The Health Education report highlighted community events, hygiene product sharing, bicycle donations, and the Youth Council's clothing drive. Environmental Health reported on rabies incidents and penalties. Nursing Clinic activities included community outreach and efforts to re-engage with the Amish community. The Children with Special Needs Program discussed PreK program costs and transportation challenges. Administration provided updates on the new county administrator and budget status.