Hastings Prince Edward Board of Health approves 2019 budget

Public health services for Hastings Prince Edward, including the two cities, will cost a little more in 2019.

The Board of Health approved a 2019 budget of $15.3 million representing a 2.5% hike for Belleville and Quinte West, and a decrease for both Hastings and Prince Edward counties, at its meeting on Wednesday.

Reductions in management positions were offset by new staff positions, including an epidemiologist.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Peter Oglaza says the health unit will increase its communication with the public.

Board member Belleville Councillor Sean Kelly said it might be time to take a look at different avenues of communication for public health since traditional ways may not be practical anymore.

Oglaza also told the board that during budget consultations in January, the value of public health was emphasized, including its value in preventing diseases and its impact on heath care. He said they were looking at “bulkier long-term funding that would make our work more efficient.”

Associate CEO Valerie Dunham told the board the salary budget for 2019 includes the 1.6% increase negotiated with the Ontario Nurses Association for 2018 as well as a provision for the Canadian Union of Public employees. Those negotiations are not yet resolved.

Dunham noted program materials were over-budgeted in 2018 because of increased expenditures in vaccines, nicotine, replacement therapy thermometers, and signage. Office costs are down because of electronic usage.

The public health costs for partner municipalities are as follows:

Belleville – $1,057,039 – 2.5 % increase

Quinte West – $908,531 – 2.5% increase

Hastings County – $870,246 – 2.7% decrease

Prince Edward County – $553,137 – 4.3% decrease