Health district asks for public's ideas to set priorities

The Snohomish Health District has scheduled a series of five meetings this month so the public can tell the agency how it should juggle its priorities at a time when its budget is being cut.

The health district has cut 25 positions this year and reduced hours in its Lynnwood and Everett clinics.

Other areas affected by cuts included the tuberculosis program, child health programs, an oral health program for kids to get cavity-prevention treatments, and agency administration.

Despite reduced funding, the public health agency is dealing with both a growing population and one that is becoming increasingly diverse, said Dr. Gary Goldbaum, health officer for the Snohomish Health District.

"In that kind of setting, we simply must set priorities," he said. "We've got to have a clear picture of where we head into the future."

The question he hopes people answer is: "What should we expect public health to do and can the rest of you in the community help us accomplish that?"

Public input will help guide the agency as it prepares its budget for next year, he added.

The meetings are:

Arlington: 6:30 to 8:30 tonight, Haller Middle School, 600 E. First St.

Everett: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Snohomish Health District, 3020 Rucker Ave.

Lynnwood: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 21, First Baptist Church of Martha Lake, 17319 Larch Way.

Mill Creek: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 23, Southeast Family YMCA, 13723 Puget Park Drive.

Monroe: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. April 30, Frank Wagner Elementary School, 115 Dickinson Road.

The final report on the organization's goals is expected in June. It will help guide its 2010 budget.

For more information, call the health district at 425-339-5200.

Sharon Salyer: 425-339-3486, salyer@heraldnet.com.