Southeast Public Health’s plan to close seven leased offices across the region is now under review after the board voted to have Medical Officer of Health Dr. Piotr Oglaza revisit the decision and report back next month.
According to a media release from South East Public Health (SEPH), the board passed a motion directing Dr. Oglaza to reconsider the operational decision to shut down offices in Almonte, Gananoque, Kemptville, Napanee, Perth, Picton, and Trenton. A report outlining the criteria used to make that decision is expected at the Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, board meeting.
A briefing note included in the agenda explains the rationale behind the closures. SEPH staff said the move was driven by financial pressures, low service use in some locations and the chance to modernize how rural services are delivered. According to the assessment, several leased offices were underused, and ending those leases would free up money to reinvest in core public health services and new delivery models.
The note also highlights a broader review of office locations, occupancy costs, service patterns, community needs and staffing considerations. SEPH says the changes are intended to protect essential programs and strengthen long-term sustainability.
Cloyne office decision delayed
The board also voted to delay a decision on whether to declare the Cloyne office surplus and sell the property. The building, a converted residence, does not host public health clinics, and staff say closing it would not affect local service delivery. SEPH continues to offer programs in partner locations, at events and in client homes, and says it will keep using data-driven planning to support rural communities.
Merger updates
The board received an update on merger work now underway. Recent steps include:
The first All Staff Day, focused on building relationships and recognizing long-serving employees
Staff transitioning into new teams, supported by change-management plans
Ongoing development of a unified SEPH website
Harmonization of 14 medical directives
A third-quarter change-readiness assessment, with staff participation up more than 10 per cent
Work to align payroll schedules ahead of a February 2026 transition
A new policy review process that has already aligned more than 25 policies
evaluated ahead of December meeting – Kingston News
