Trending
LISBON -- Columbiana County health board members honored the memory of one of their own Wednesday, the first meeting since the unexpected death of longtime board member Tom Haugh.
Haugh attended July's board meeting, just as he did every month for the past 22 years.
"We have lost our fellow board member and friend Tom Haugh," board President Shawn Apple said at the beginning of the meeting, seated next to Haugh's empty chair and nameplate. "His input and guidance will be missed by all."
Haugh passed away on July 29 at his home in Wellsville at the age of 80. He had owned and operated Center Pharmacy in Wellsville until his retirement.
After the meeting, county Health Commissioner Dr. Wes Vins talked about Haugh's contributions, saying "Tom has always been a very supportive board member and very energized. His experience as a pharmacist was extremely helpful, especially during the recent pandemic."
Haugh still had 18 months left on his latest five-year term. He was first appointed to the board in 2001.
The Columbiana County Health District Advisory Council, made up of township trustees and representatives of communities in the health district, now has the task of naming a replacement. The council's next meeting is 6 p.m. Sept. 11 at the health department on state Route 45 where it's expected a new board member will be named. Board members must live in the district. The city of Salem and the city of East Liverpool have their own health districts.
Vins said Haugh will be missed.
"He was always available if I needed a consult. I could always get a hold of Tom and count on thoughtful input," he said.
In other business, Environmental Director Laura Fauss introduced environmental health specialist in training Alexis Lawton, who's been handling water sampling and reports in East Palestine for the health district. Fauss said 737 water samples had been taken since the train derailment in February, with the department currently in the sixth round of water sampling from wells in the designated zone.
Regarding East Palestine efforts, Vins passed around a resolution received from 79th district state Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel, R-Columbiana, and Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens congratulating the health district for the recent 2023 Ohio Department of Health Director's Award.
"Indeed, this noteworthy agency has established a fine reputation as a dynamic force for positive change in the area for its efforts in response to the East Palestine train derailment, including the development and implementation of the potable water sampling plan, the opening of a temporary health assessment clinic as well as a permanent health clinic, and advocating in Washington, D.C., for community recovery and the need for a long-term private well sampling program," the document said.
Vins said it's just great to be recognized.
In other matters, the board approved board orders against Paul and Jene-Ann Beaver, Orchard Street, East Liverpool, for the removal of trash and tires from their property.
A variance was granted for installer Richard Williams regarding completion of at least six continuing education hours.
The board also approved seeking a bid funded through three different grants and a second bid for another grant program, all related to septic system replacements, repairs or sewer connections.
The next health board meeting is set for 4:30 p.m. Sept. 20.