In this series of meetings that began August 14 and conclude September 18, citizens offer their suggestions to county officials. Additional community hearings are planned for feedback on the reports, after which a follow-up report will be prepared for presentation to the county's Board of Supervisors. But when I look at you, any one of you could spend it in a day. The money comes at a good time for the community, according to HSCA Director David Kears. Residents from the county offered their suggestions in three minute speeches, many calling for additional funding for smoking prevention and teen anti-violence programs.
Many teens begin smoking to relieve stress.
Other speakers called for benefits for home health care workers and programs to aide the seniors and disabled. Community suggestions will be categorized within the four sections of the report under behavioral care for indigents, expanded health coverage, public health and school-linked children and youth services. Following the release of the report, an additional four hearings will be scheduled to allow county residents to make further suggestions of program funding before the Board of Supervisors prepares their budget allocations.