The Region’s Chief Medical Officer of Health sympathizes with cash strapped communities but stresses his hands are tied.
The Northwestern Health Unit Municipal levy has jumped 36%, meaning an extra $100,000 from Dryden alone.
Dr. Pete Sarsfield says they need to comply with minimum Provincial standards, and notes it was a desperation move since the Health Unit continues to be the lowest funded in Ontario.
Sarsfield does believe change is on the horizon now that the Grits are in power.
The money will be used to reverse staff cuts and create more full time positions.
Sarsfield says it should be easier to make ends meet now that the smoking ban court case has wrapped up.
A decision from the Health Services Appeal and Review Board is expected any day now.
