For 27 years Leslie Campbell has been working with the Pottawatomie County Health Department and served as director for 18 of those years–but she’s stepping down as director in the near future, taking on a position as a clinic manager with the Riley County Health Department. Pottawatomie County Commission Chair Dee McKee tells KMAN Campbell has been a real asset to the county, with her many responsibilities.
She describes the position as an active one in working with infectious disease, management of shots and screenings, and in working with the schools. More recently the health director has been working with the Stepping Up program involving mental health.
The Commission chair adds she has also appreciated Campbell’s knowledge of grants. Mary Abitz will be serving as interim director as the county advertises to fill the position.
In other Pottawatomie County Commission business Monday, commissioners heard from Marty Vanier with Homeland Security and NBAF, along with County Emergency Management Director Chris Trudo regarding efforts to work together.
The group also approved temporary notes for Whispering Meadows Unit IV, and heard from Register of Deeds Batty Abitz.
And according to Pottawatomie County Commission Chair Dee McKee, funding for the county’s emergency services is on the decline as they are looking at money for a new ambulance. McKee says the hit to medicaid funding will affect everyone in the county as ambulance services are requested.
McKee mentioned she feels the state is not participating with any kind of obligation towards healthcare, just like they’ve made cuts towards the Department of Transportation and other major aspects of the community. McKee says when the state makes these cuts, the county must then decide what to cut within their department, such as higher quality ambulatory services.
Pottawatomie county commissioners continue to hear budget requests during this budget season…including a presentation from public library officials. Director Judith Cremer was accompanied by a library board member to make her presentation.. admitting the state has been decreasing amounts of funding. Cremer adds there’s actually a little bit of carry-over from last year–but that money will be used in other areas of need, such as the capital improvement fund and filling of positions, with one in particular she hasn’t been able to fill.
Commissioners Monday were also spending the noon hour visiting with Public Works Officials regarding their budget needs for the coming year.
And it’s the last day to register to vote for this primary election. County Clerk Nancy McCarter spoke with KMAN about that deadline Monday, reminding voters to bring their proof of citizenship with them. They can also fax and email that information to her office.
