Conflicting opinions were expressed during Riley County Health Department Director, Brenda Nickel’s request to close the department for a few days next year.
In her presentation to the county commission, during their Monday meeting, Nickel stated this would allow her department to have time for professional development. She requested this for five different afternoons throughout the year, all of which would be on Thursdays.
Since the department has recently changed their clinic hours of operation, this has added over 100 additional hours of operation every year. So even by having the department closed on these five occasions, Nickel said they still would be providing additional hours of service.
Commissioner, Dave Lewis and Commissioner, Ron Wells voiced their reservations with the concept. Lewis stated if the health department does this, other department heads may feel the need to follow in these footsteps and close their departments for professional development as well. Wells said he agreed with Lewis on the matter.
On the other side of the argument, Commission Chair, Robert Boyd believed the health department should serve as a model for the other county departments. He said all the other department heads should take the same initiative. He also encouraged moving forward with this recommendation.
Wells suggested Nickel bring the item before the other county department heads during their meeting on Wednesday, January 7th. She could then present the item to the commission again during their Thursday meeting on January 8th.
The commission agreed with this concept, and also asked that Nickel share other options including three and four day alternatives, instead of just the five day suggestion.
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The health department presented another item on the agenda, as the staff members shared words of gratitude to Commissioner, Dave Lewis.
Each staff member shared their appreciation for the work Lewis has done over the years. Many of them mentioned his role in helping the department transition from a city/county entity to a county entity.
The group also presented Lewis with a certificate.
