Buffington chairs her last Board of Health meeting

WASHINGTON — The Washington County Board of Health had a more or less typical meeting on Thursday, with a handful of updates on county agency activities, comments on future budgets, and action items related to personnel, policy updates and the Public Health Department’s lease with Federation Bank.

It was a run-of-the mill affair in all ways but one: Thursday afternoon marked Board Chair Cathy Buffington’s last meeting as a member of the body, after eight years as a member and five as its leader.

Buffington, a registered nurse, said the departure felt bittersweet.

“I’ll miss it,” she said. “But I’ve learned a lot, and it’s a great organization … I’ve learned about the workings of public health, and environmental health, there’s a lot of stuff I didn’t know there, and they’re very good at their job.”

In a parting message to community members, Buffington asked people to communicate their questions and concerns to local health officials whenever they arose.

“I don’t think some people know what public health does,” she said. “So if you have any questions or anything, ask someone that works here that can answer your questions, instead of just assuming information.”

Board of Health Member and Washington County Supervisor Jack Seward Jr. presented Buffington with a plaque moments before she called the meeting to a close.

He said he appreciated her eight years of service to the county, congratulating her “on behalf of the board.” He was not the only local government official to express his appreciation.

“Thank you, you’ve helped us numerous times,” Environmental Health Director Jason Taylor said.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com