Ryan, right, presents her detailed report

MONTICELLO – There was virtually no support for fixing something several Sullivan County seniors say is not broken. The lengthy discussion Thursday in Monticello was on public health nursing, or more specifically, the Certified Home Health Agency operated by Sullivan County Public Health Services. 

County Public Health Director Carol Ryan presented a detailed report about the agency.

“[It] provides a valuable service for county residents, makes which helps to offset over public health costs and provides staff infrastructure for other necessary public health activities.”

Ryan said if the operation is sold, “certain protections for county residents must be guaranteed in the contract.”

Several citizens who spoke during the Health and Family Services Committee meeting presented impassioned arguments for keeping the CHHA as it is now.  Some cited personal experiences.

Republican Legislator Leni Binder said “nothing is on the table now,” and that they are cognizant of the concerns being raised.

“We’re not competitive,” claimed Committee Chairman Ron Hiatt, a Democrat, despite Ryan’s report saying the service is making a small profit.  “I’m not in favor of backing into socialism,” added Hiatt, a comment that drew some fire from fellow Democrat Dave Sager. 

“We have a fiduciary and financial responsibility to our taxpayers”, said Sager, adding that whatever course the county pursues must be based on sound research.

No recommendations came out of the committee meeting.