Vernon J. Bryant

The meeting agenda was approved. Key discussions included the September 2025 Financial Report, which detailed expenditure and revenue variances, including salary increases, decreases in operating and capital costs, and discrepancies found in Medicaid revenue reporting related to funds mistakenly allocated to the previous fiscal year. The board discussed concerns regarding Medicaid dollars being used to fund county-funded programs like animal control and environmental health, and next steps involving communication with the Medicaid Cost Accountant. The Director's Report covered a personnel update, including service awards and the upcoming evaluation of the Health Director, which is scheduled for discussion in January. A legislative update addressed potential impacts of the federal government shutdown on WIC services, noting current funding adequacy until November 15th. Medicaid updates noted changes in reimbursement rates effective October 1st, leading to an 8% decrease for primary care services and a 3% reduction for other internal programs, necessitating intentional coding. COVID vaccine administration policy was discussed, focusing on evolving eligibility criteria and concerns about liability under the shared clinical decision-making model. Follow-up on flu shot coordination indicated a potential partnership with the Enfield Fire Department. The department celebrated its recent reaccreditation with honors received on October 10th. Structural changes to the Local Child Fatality Team were reviewed, and the Strategic Plan subcommittee reviewed planning platforms. The meeting concluded with discussions held in closed session.

The committee discussed the Youth Initiative, planning its restart in 2026 with Brenda Faithful as an advisor. They reviewed participation in Halifax County Harvest Days, assigning volunteers for the event. The Proclamation schedule was addressed, with Jennifer volunteering as a backup presenter and Steven Green preparing the Native American Heritage Month proclamation. A canceled voting forum was mentioned. The committee discussed Crisis Management training and the retirement of Gene Troy. The yearly report to the Halifax County Commissioners is due in early 2026, and a December retreat is under consideration. A survey will be sent to the Youth Initiative sub-committee to set meeting dates.

The committee discussed the rescheduling of Crisis Management training, considering September as a potential date. Upcoming events were addressed, specifically the Crepe Myrtle Festival in Scotland Neck, where volunteer coordination was discussed. Plans were made for volunteer setup and coordination, with Myra to create a document for feedback and coordinate supplies. The committee also discussed potential collaboration with the Health Department and Department of Social Services for the event. Upcoming proclamations and the distribution of HRC shirts to absent members were also addressed.

The meeting included a presentation on the Communicable Disease Report, highlighting the surveillance and monitoring of various diseases, including a comparison of STD cases from 2023-2024. An Employee Satisfaction survey was presented, noting strengths such as a positive work environment and areas for improvement like communication and employee benefits. A financial update was given, discussing revenues, funding sources, and concerns about county finance practices, including reductions in county allocations and their impact on health department services. The director provided updates on personnel, accreditation, measles preparedness, and grant opportunities, including a potential Practitioner Reimbursement Program. Discussions also covered opioid settlement funds, Triple P staff training, and the Local Child Fatality Prevention Team.

The meeting included an overview of an upcoming crisis management training session open to the public and a discussion about the Crepe Myrtle Festival. An overview of the proposed Youth Initiative was presented, with recommendations to involve representatives from Weldon City Schools, Halifax Community College, and local student government. The initiative aims to address youth retention, mentorship, and guidance, with goals to involve youth in panel discussions, lead initiatives, mobilize students, conduct field research, and pursue grant writing. The committee also discussed upcoming proclamations and the review of by-laws for potential conflicts with DEI bans.