Saline County Weighs Winding Down Home Health Program in 2027 Budget

Saline County officials indicated during a July 28 budget study session that they plan to recommend winding down the county's home health services, a move that would remove roughly $413,000 to $430,000 from the 2027 budget.

County Administrator Matt Stiles told commissioners that a Request for Action (RFA) is expected to come before the commission at its next regular meeting on August 11. Stiles said an official decision one way or another is required, and that the process is roughly a 120-day process, which would bring the wind-down close to the end of the year.

"It gives us the ability to do that in a controlled and graceful way, and to find people the right services for them," Styles said, referring to clients currently served through the program.

The commission chair praised the health department director, identified as Jason, calling the decision "a courageous thing to do" and saying she had been reassured that clients served under the program would be taken care of during the transition.

Commissioners also discussed concerns about staff whose positions would be eliminated, and asked whether options for retaining employees in other positions would be included in the RFA. Staff said a plan or options for affected employees would be provided.