minhhs 11-01-21 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Commissioner Allan discussed the role of the Environmental Public Health Division in its response to the pandemic, as well as its other duties, some of which have included providing guidance to businesses around new public health/social distancing orders, coordinating with schools, fire departments and the governor's office, food inspections, nuisance complaints, water quality inspections, among others. He also emphasized the work of the division to lower the blood lead level rate by more than half since 2007, when CCBH first started serving Lakewood. Commissioner Allan emphasized that the agency's COVID response has been continuous for 20 months. CCBH has not asked communities for additional funds during COVID, but must ask now in order to sustain COVID response and to invest in infrastructure. At the moment, the State is providing funds for these expenses, but those funds will expire at some point. The agency feels good that it has played a part in protecting the most vulnerable and helping communities avoid the worst, including overflowing hospitals —which has not happened thanks to CCBH efforts. The committee expressed appreciation to Commissioner Allan and all staff at CCBH for their hard work and guidance through the pandemic. In response to a question, Commissioner Allan clarified that CCBH is currently using state money to fund 32 contract employees and 5 contract nurses. The agency has a regular staff size of 160. CCBH needs to prepare for the state to sunset its funding, while also being reasonable with its requests for increases. He mentioned that CCBH is usually very effective in securing grant dollars for its programs. John Sobolewski of CCBH spoke about the possibility of using ARPA funds to tackle lead issues. He has been in communication with the County about the possibility. In response to a question, Commissioner Allan and Rick Novickis remarked further about what additional infrastructure will be supported by the contract increase. They emphasized that the agency is doing 3-5 large-scale vaccine clinic per week, administering boosters and homebound vaccines. Ongoing support is needed to help with planning and coordinating the logistics of these initiatives as well case tracking, data analytics and supporting people who test positive and lack resources. The committee and Commissioner Allan discussed CCBH's efforts to increase vaccination access among minority communities. These efforts have included: • Providing cash incentives for first doses • Working with translators and faith leaders • Targeted outreach • Door to door canvassing • Working with a diverse team of outreach workers Commissioner Allan acknowledged that there can be a lack of trust among minority communities. CCBH plans to be available and ready with vaccines when people are ready to get them. 2