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Norwalk
Health Department
Board of Health Actions
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May 9, 2006
8:00 AM in Library
Call to order at 8:05 AM
Present: Board of Health – Ken Lalime, RPH, Martha Lemmon, PE, John McNamara,
MD, and Edward Tracey, MD
Staff – Tim Callahan, Rhonda Collins, Health Educator, Bill Mooney, Sanitarian
and Craig Shoop, EAP Coordinator
Minutes of April 11, 2006 meeting
Correction as follows: Follow up on Pandemic & Avian Influenza Symposium,
second sentence, should read “ There is uncertainty as to if and when avian
influenza will be found in the United States.” A motion to approve the minutes
as corrected was made by Mr. Lalime, seconded by Dr. Tracey and passed unanimously.
Pandemic & Avian Influenza Update
Mr. Callahan reviewed the presentations made to the local health directors by
James Hadler, MD and Matt Carter, MD at the semi annual meeting with the state
health commissioner, Robert Galvin, MD. The spread of avian influenza, the threat
to Connecticut citizens and the preparation for bird and human cases was discussed.
The response from Michael Mocciae, Parks Director, to Mr. Lalime inquiry regarding
the risks posed to children who play soccer on fields littered with geese waste
at Veterans Park was discussed. Board members agreed the City has a responsibility
to better control the geese extending the dog patrol’s season. Reducing the
numbers of geese is especially important since concerns about bird flu will
be on the rise. Mr. Callahan will follow up with Mr. Mocciae.
Well Child and Immunization Clinic
Mr. Callahan met with NCHC Executive Director Larry Cross to determine their
needs and the role of the Health Department. Mr. Cross has hired a locum tenums
Pediatrician through August 2006. A search is underway to hire an experienced
Pediatrician and a recent graduate. Desirable candidates for each position have
been identified. Mr. Cross said he is confident that the needs of pediatric
patients are being met.
Employees Assistance Program
The Police and Fire Departments will have an additional EAP provider to choose
from. Police Chief Harry Rilling proposed to the Common Council’s Personnel
Committee the addition of Public Service EAP. The Common Council is expected
to approve this request at their meeting this evening. Mr. Lalime asked about
the provider network and suggested following up to find out about the availability
of professionals.
Health Lifestyles Program Update
Rhonda Collins, Health Educator, gave an update on the NorWalker project. After
3 years 11 walking routes have been developed. There are plans to add two more
routes this year. The maps are in demand. The project has received state and
national recognition and interest. The Board discussed ideas for sustaining
the project since the state grant is ending. Mr. Callahan will explore the idea
of seeking sponsorships to cover the map printing and advertising costs.
Adjourn 9:40 AM
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