Linda Garwood of Leetonia has been selected to join the Columbiana County health board, filling the seat left after the death of Tom Haugh. The advisory council unanimously voted for Garwood to serve the remainder of the term, which ends in March 2025. In her letter of interest, Garwood highlighted her experience as a farmer and business owner/manager, along with her past involvement in community organizations.
Haugh, a retired pharmacist from Wellsville, had been a member of the health board since 2001. The County Health District Advisory Council, consisting of township trustees and community representatives, is responsible for appointing health board members. While some members questioned the process of selecting Garwood, it was mentioned that the vacancy had been published in a local newspaper.
The next meeting of the advisory council is scheduled for March 4 at the health department. During this meeting, County Health Commissioner Dr. Wes Vins will provide updates on the East Palestine train derailment efforts, as well as the rise in COVID cases. Vins emphasized the importance of staying home when sick and mentioned that free at-home COVID test kits are available at the health department.
Vins also announced the approval of a new COVID vaccine and plans to host a drive-thru clinic for flu and COVID vaccines at the fairgrounds in mid-October. Dates for the clinic will be announced once finalized. Additionally, a household hazardous waste drop-off event is being planned for the end of the month or beginning of October, with more details to come.
Regarding the water well testing in the East Palestine/Negley area, Vins reported that there have been no contamination issues related to the train derailment thus far. He commended the health district staff for their handling of both the COVID pandemic and the train derailment, noting their strong collaboration with state and federal partners in East Palestine.