Last year, Washington County Public Health received a reimbursement from Medicaid for $100,000 due to a rate change and the Washington County Board of Supervisors approved committing the funds to the new public health building project. This week the Board of Health requested the same action with their one-time $46,000 reimbursement and the supervisors tabled action.

Danielle Pettit-Majewski, administrator of Washington County Public Health, explained the funds will help lower the bond request and will be part of the matching dollars needed when applying for grants.

Supervisor Abe Miller shared he feels the $2.8 million price is too high, but he supports something for public health. Pettit-Majewski added they have worked to reduce the cost, including cutting out 1,200 square feet which saves nearly a quarter of a million dollars.

Residents will have a chance to vote on the topic in November. To hear a full interview with Pettit-Majewski and Steve Olson about the building project click here for part 1, part 2, and part 3.