The good news is Orange County commissioners have tentatively agreed to keep the property tax rate as is — 85.8 cents per $100. In a county that has endured two decades of tax rate hikes, just keeping it as is qualifies as good news.
The bad news is that Orange commissioners continue to spend taxpayer dollars on things that are clearly not the responsibility of government. The outlay of $45,000 for a breastfeeding consultant is thanks to Commissioner Barry Jacobs and was opposed by county manager Frank Clifton. (emphasis is mine)
Jacobs did manage to convince the board to spend $45,000 to retain a breastfeeding consultant who serves young, Hispanic mothers. Clifton had suggested absorbing that function into existing health department personnel, but Jacobs said the lactation educator has built trust with the Latina community.
“I hope we’re not making budget decisions based on individuals,” Clifton said.
Jacobs said he had never met the woman but had heard a story of her taking a late-night call from a young mother whose baby was turning blue. The consultant urged her to the emergency room, where personnel resuscitated the child.
It is clear Mr. Clifton understands there are numerous resources — both in Orange County government and through private groups — that already provide information and help with breastfeeding. In fact, you will find a 45-page list of Orange County resources on a variety of issues right here. They include — just to name a few — the Orange County Health Department, UNC HealthLink, UNC Hospitals, NC Family Health Resource Line, Nurse Advice Line, and multiple groups specifically geared toward the Hispanic population.
Then, of course, there is La Leche League of North Carolina, which has meetings all over the Triangle and state, including in Orange County, and has this as its mission: (emphasis is mine)
Accredited by La Leche League International, volunteer Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who are familiar with research and current findings dealing with all aspects of nursing. We offer practical information and support to nursing mothers through telephone help, monthly meetings, and lending libraries of books on childbirth, breastfeeding, and related parenting topics.
All breastfeeding mothers and pregnant women interested in breastfeeding are welcome to attend our meetings or call our Leaders for breastfeeding help. Mothers can become a member of La Leche League and enjoy even more benefits.
The conclusion is obvious: Orange County is wasting $45,000 of taxpayer dollars.
