The Board voted that Ridgewood High School, Elk Grove High School and Carpenter Elementary School should have installed a sound insulation system for a proper learning environment. This is necessary because of their proximity to O'Hare International Airport air traffic noise.
The Board discussed establishing Veteran Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Screening and Benefit Fairs in Illinois. It is estimated that more than 300,000 deployed since 9/ll suffer from PTSD. The number of cases are expected to climb according to a new study conducted by Stanford University. The Board of Commissioners of Cook County directed that the Cook County Veterans Assistance Commission shall coordinate the PTSD screening and benefit fairs in each Commissioners' district every two years. The screening and benefit fairs will be located in National Guard armories. If none is available, an alternate, suitable location should be chosen.
The Health Bureau is expected to spend 95% of its budget this year. There is no danger of closing any health facilities this year. There may be concern in the future because less money may be coming in. County Hospital received $32.l million in patient fees this past year, which is up from last year.
There was a lengthy discussion about the Juvenile Temporary Detention Center (JTDC). Earl Dunlap, the Director, was appointed in 2006. Mr. Dennis McGomry, is the newly appointed Director of the Fiscal Policy. The Cook County Board has questions about the Procurement Process. Some bills have not gone through this process. Some bills have not gone to the lowest bidder. The Cook County Board questioned the JTDC fiscal policy and would like to invite Mr. Dunlap to appear before them. The Juvenile Temporary Detention Center has 360-400 children daily. Eighty per cent have mental health problems. The contract is $l6 million annually.
--Submitted by Observer Arline Doblin
