The Board of Directors for Hastings Prince Edward Public Health is preparing for what could be a significant budget deficit next year.
The province has announced just a one per cent funding increase for health unit services.
Wednesday, the board approved moving $700,000 from its operating reserve account and $260,000 from its building reserves to hopefully balance the 2025 budget while keeping current staffing levels.
Meanwhile, the local health unit continues to wait for approval from the province to amalgamate with health units in the Kingston and Brockville areas.
Amalgamations were to take effect January 1. An amalgamation could mean overall cost savings for both organizations.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Ethan Toumishey says staff and the board are working on two budgets for next year – one depending on whether amalgamation is approved and another if the health unit has to continue as is.
