Kelli Hawkins, SRHD | khawkins@srhd.org | 509.324.1539, c 509.994.8968

SPOKANE, Wash. – During today’s Spokane County Board of Health (BOH) meeting, the BOH voted unanimously to approve Spokane Regional Health District’s (SRHD) 2022 balanced budget of $47.8 million.

The budget is contingent on final confirmation from Spokane County of a $1.98 million allocation of local funding to SRHD. The remaining $47.8 million is received from multiple sources such as state and federal funds, Medicare/Medicaid, program revenue, interlocal grants, public health appropriations, and foundational public health services dollars.

Prior to final approval, the BOH’s financial committee conducted a cost-saving review, focusing on reorganization for operational efficiencies and health equity. During the review, the committee was able to cut the local funding ask from $2.6 million to the current request of $1.98 million.

“It was important to review the budget as thoroughly as possible to ensure good stewardship of local public dollars,” said Dr. Amelia Clark, administrative officer for SRHD. “We are now able to look ahead and move forward with services and programs that benefit the health and well-being of our community.”

Clark further explained discussions on the final budget and how it will be implemented will be conducted with SRHD staff over the next few days through both in-person meetings and virtual Q&A sessions.

“My priority is ensuring the well-being and inclusion of our team, whose passion to serve this community is steadfast. They have a wealth of knowledge and expertise to share in this process, and I look forward to their insight on how our programs can continue to serve our community in 2022,” said Clark.