This is the WFHB Local News for Wednesday, February 3rd, 2021.

Later in the program, we have the latest edition for our podcast Prescription for Healthcare hosted by Dr. Rob Stone and Karen Green Stone. Today’s guest today is T.R. Reid - a longtime corresponding for the Washington Post and chairman of the Colorado foundation for Universal Healthcare.

Also coming up in the next half hour, the Monroe County Public Library is reopening on February 22nd with limited in-building services. More on that in today’s headlines.

But first, your local headlines:

Monroe County Board of Health 

The Monroe County Board of Health discussed COVID-19 vaccinations during their February second meeting. Monroe County Health Administrator spoke about appointment scheduling.

Caudill mentioned each vaccine vial holds ten vaccination doses. She said the weekly waitlist makes sure not vaccine goes unused.

Caudill mentioned waitlisted individuals are chosen based on the state’s eligibility, and at-risk individuals. Immunizations Coordinator Jaema Kelly reported no severe reactions from any individual getting the vaccination. She mentioned the County Convention Center site has five vaccinators.

Caudill mentioned that volunteers without medical experience are also needed for vaccination clinics.

Bloomington Board of Public Works 

Bloomington Board of Public Works discussed a Memorandum of Understanding with City of Bloomington Utilities for traffic signal construction costs during their February second meeting. Board member Dana Palazzo stated construction would occur at the intersection of 3rd and Lincoln Streets. Engineer Neil Copper spoke about the improvements.

Copper mentioned the project cost about 2 hundred and 28 thousand dollars. Contractor Josh Burns said constriction is projected to begin in June of this year. Board members unanimously approved the MOU.

Monroe County Personnel Administration Committee

Monroe County Personnel Administration Committee reviewed the Waggoner Irwin and Scheele, or WIS, recommendation for the County Fleet and Building Manager position. During their February second meeting, Council Administrator Kim Shell said WIS classified the job as a Professional, Administrative, Technological job in the fifth category.

According to a 2006 WIS classification summary, a PAT five classified job would receive a salary of approximately 33 thousand to 43 thousand dollars. Committee member Marty Hawk stated the County GIS Coordinator position was also ranked as a PAT five position. Commissioners' Administrator Angela Purdie spoke about effects on the approved salary budget.

Purdie clarified approximately one fourth of the job salary could be paid for through the Public Safety Local Income Tax. Committee members unanimously accepted the classification. Council members will take a final vote on the Fleet and Building Manager position during their February 9th meeting.

MCPL Reopens on February 22nd with Limited In-Building Services

The Monroe County Public Library is set to reopen on February 22nd with limited in-building services. Curbside pick-up will no longer be available in this new model

Mandy Hussey, communications and marketing manager for MCPL, spoke to WFHB over the phone earlier this afternoon. Hussey went into detail on Covid-19 safety precautions the library will put into place upon reopening.

“Masks are going to be required even for those who have been vaccinated,” said Hussey.

Hussey mentioned what library patrons should expect when it comes to activities available in the building starting later this month.

“You are able to come into the building and browse the shelves,” she said.