During a recent meeting in Ashland, the County Board of Health discussed changes to food service license fees. Public input was welcomed, including comments from Kevin Reidy, a member of the Savannah-Crestview Lions Club.
The Lions Club invested in a commercial kitchen at the Savannah Town Hall, aiming to provide meals for the community. They already host several free lunches and pancake breakfasts each year. However, Reidy expressed concern over the proposed fee hikes which the club struggles to afford. While offering free meals does not require a license, charging for meals does.
The proposed new fee schedule shows significant increases. For example, the license for a small food service operation could rise from $125 to $205, while larger operations face even steeper hikes. Health Commissioner Vickie Taylor noted that fee adjustments are guided by state law.
To address the Lions Club’s financial concerns, Environmental Health Assistant Director Kimberly Wayman shared two solutions that could help reduce costs:
- A noncommercial temporary food service license, which would cost half of a regular food license.
- An exemption for organizations that serve food for no more than 52 days a year or fewer than 13 individuals daily.
This means that if the Lions Club averages serving fewer than 13 people per day annually, they might bypass licensing requirements altogether. This kind of flexibility can ensure the club continues its charitable work without financial strain.
The meeting also covered other critical issues. Commissioner Taylor is working on a cybersecurity plan and discussed the Community Health Improvement plan. The board voted to close the health department on December 24 and 26, and they reviewed a city request to condemn two properties due to their lack of running water. The city believes these buildings pose health risks and should be vacated until repairs are made.
This chain of events highlights the delicate balance between regulatory requirements and community service, especially during challenging economic times. As cities grow, organizations like the Lions Club play a vital role in addressing local needs. Ultimately, the health board aims to create solutions that benefit everyone while ensuring public safety.
For more information on public health guidelines and food service regulations, you can visit the Ohio Department of Health’s official website: [Ohio Department of Health](https://odh.ohio.gov/).
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