Board of Health Regular Meeting

The upcoming meeting of the Public Health Advisory Committee will focus on a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving public health in Burke County. Discussions will center around the department's strategic plan, including efforts to improve employee and community relations, address substance use disorder and mental health challenges, strengthen partnerships with academic institutions like UNC Gillings, and enhance environmental health services. A significant portion of the meeting will be dedicated to reviewing progress on grant-funded programs, particularly those supported by Dogwood Health.

A key decision expected is the election of a new Chairman and Vice-Chairman for the committee, alongside approval of the meeting agenda and minutes from a previous session. The board will also discuss the process for approving a large number of departmental policies, currently paused pending an audit. Community members may be interested in learning more about the department's plans for addressing workforce development, implementing new programs like NC Care 360, and utilizing opioid settlement funds.

Several ongoing projects will be updated, including the development of a Street Medicine program and efforts to secure funding for a technology platform. A health fair in collaboration with Campbell University and UNC Blueridge is planned for March 16th, and the committee will discuss staffing needs within the Environmental Health department. For those interested in learning more about these initiatives and how they impact Burke County, attending or watching the meeting is recommended.