Report: County health would save Sparta money

Sparta - Sparta will save money if it disbands its health department and signs on for the health services provided by Sussex County, according to a preliminary cost-benefit analysis distributed by township manager Henry Underhill. He prepared the analysis as part of an investigation of cost-saving options of merging local health functions into the county system, and posted it on the township’s Web site. The review determined that the county provides all the same services as the township’s health department. Currently, Sparta provides services to neighboring communities, but after a financial review finding that health care costs exceed the amount charged in contracts, the township will have to make adjustments. After seeing the analysis, Franklin borough decided to join the county department, which will allow the township to also consider merging with the county’s health services. During a presentation made to the council, Herbert Yardley, division director and health officer, resolved the concern regarding current township health employees when he said those who are employed full time will become members of the county team. New Jersey statutes require local health departments to absorb all full-time employees of any local health department that is abolished in favor of a combined system, according to the township’s preliminary review. Although there may be some differences in benefits and vacation, Yardley said they would continue to work under the county instead of the town. There are six employees that will be absorbed into the county department, with salaries ranging from $23 an hour to more than $116,000 annually. Should the township decide to merge with the county health department, services such as animal control, registrar of vital statistics, and solid waste functions would be reassigned to other municipal employees. Sparta contacted five municipalities who have merged with the county. Newton, Byram, Andover Township, Hampton and Wantage all reported they were satisfied with the services rendered, according to Underhill’s preliminary review. “After careful consideration of the available information, I recommend taking the steps necessary to effectuate the jointure,” Underhill said in his statement. “Joining the county is a reversible step that can be taken at any time given proper notice. The township will be required to hold the county harmless from any litigation that may arise due to the change. Savings in excess of $100,000 for the first year is expected. Additional savings could be possible depending on personnel moves. In addition, savings will increase due to the county spreading its costs over a large base, and their ability to have more municipalities join the county system.” A public hearing regarding the merger will be held at the Nov. 21 council meeting. For more information about the merger, the preliminary report is posted on the township’s Web site at http://www.spartanj.org.