The HSHS and Prevea closures appear to be positioned to cause significant upheaval for county residents. Healthcare shortages are already becoming problematic. There is little avaiable margin in the system to accommodate, for example, the 30,000 or so emergency and urgent care patents who would previously have gone to HSHS. The county has no authority to control what these private institutions do, nor are we nimble enough or wealthy enough to step in with a workable long-term plan. There is no question that the impending closures will lead to an unsustainable situation. Perhaps a major breakthrough will evolve, but the task at hand is to prepare for what we otherwise can envision. That seems best handled by looking at each individual area impacted and address those needs piecemeal

Human resources are the backbone of an efficient and effective county. Our ability to attract and retain dedicated employees is key. Turnover has been high in some areas, and job vacancies remain. The Human Resources Committee, of which I am a member, oversees our compensation packages to insure that we offer inviting and competitive compensation and opportunities for career advancement.

Affordable housing appears to be an ongoing issue, magnified by inflation and high interest rates. Covid, supply chain issues, and unemployment factor in. There is a shortage of rental property in rural areas. New construction is helping, though the type of housing has to match demand. As with most issues faced by the county board, the key is to recognize issues, compile data and other facts, prioritize needs, take advantage of available grants and outside funding, and allocate resources in the most effective and responsible way.

Public safety issues rely more heavily on local county funding than most categories. The landscape has changed with the HSHS closures, with projected increases in the need for support from Health and Human Services. Economic uncertainties, including job losses, inflation, high housing costs, and a downward trend in the economic cycle always add risk to the county's commitments. Administration has already released a recommended budget for 2024, and I expect to monitor changes that may be required as we navigate the chalenging months ahead prior to budget approval.