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Public Health Inspector Jennine Wolf utilized a presentation detailing the multitude of codes and regulations, which the Environmental Health Department is directed to enforce to protect the public's health and safety. The ServSafe training classes for anyone involved in food preparation and serving have utilized over $42,000 in grant funds to provide presentations to groups ranging from non-profit organizations to classes at area high schools.
A recent grant has also expanded the ServSafe training to include the approximate 90-day care centers in the county. Over 400 food safety inspections are made annually at the 200 or more licensed food service and retail establishments including schools, restaurants and processing facilities. In addition, inspections are conducted at hotels and motels, swimming pools and spas, tanning facilities and tattooing parlors.
Other basic health safety regulations require permits for new private water wells and on-site wastewater treatment systems. Approximately 50 permits for new wells are issued annually.
New septic systems or replacement systems require a permit and are inspected several times during the installation. Approximately 71 percent of the approximate 3,500 private septic systems in the County do not have a current permit.
State and Federal governments have recognized the serious contamination and pollution potential from these sources and are providing programs to assist homeowners in replacing failing systems. Washington County Environmental Health received state recognition for implementing the largest number of on site septic systems utilizing a state financial assistance program for homeowners.
Environmental Health also provides free annual testing of water quality for any private water well. Grant funds are utilized to offset the cost of the program, which includes analysis at the hygienic laboratory.
Jeff Thomann, Environmental Administrator and Jennine Wolf, Certified Inspector, have received many awards and recognitions from state regulatory agencies and organizations. Much of the emphasis of the department is educational primarily through class and presentations. Inspections are to provide enforcement of the regulations and also serve as a training tool.
The board approved a letter of support detailing the county efforts to assist the unincorporated community of Richmond in obtaining sewer system improvements.
A fireworks permit application from Mike Levy of Washington was approved. The event will take place on September 6, 2009 at 2676 240th Street.
The Board re-appointed Yaro Chmelar to serve on the Washington Free Public Library Board. The appointment continues the term for an additional 6 years.
Ed Raber, executive director of the Washington Economic Development Group (WEDG), made a brief presentation to the board. The county provides annual financial support and Supervisor Mangold requested the informational presentation.
Raber stated the rural community and residents are engaged with the support of topic research and guidance directing inquiries to other businesses and economic assistance programs from a variety of sources.
Representative Larry Marek attended the meeting and reported on several items from the recently concluded legislative session. Marek stated that a goal of the large bonding initiative was to encourage seeking federal funds to leverage and expand the benefit for infrastructure improvements.
