Utah County designates August as Breastfeeding Month to support new mothers

The Utah County Commission meeting on July 26, 2023, focused on two significant agenda items, including the designation of August as Utah County Breastfeeding Month and a proposed change to the staffing plan in the clerk's office.

The first item involved a resolution to officially recognize August as Breastfeeding Month in Utah County for the third consecutive year. The resolution highlights the importance of breastfeeding, citing recommendations from major medical authorities for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continued breastfeeding for at least one year. It also aligns with national and global initiatives aimed at promoting breastfeeding and addressing barriers faced by families. The resolution notes that Utah County's breastfeeding rates are above the state average, with 90.5 percent of infants ever breastfed. The commissioners emphasized the need for community support and resources for lactating mothers, reflecting on personal experiences and the importance of breastfeeding for infant health and wellness.

The second agenda item proposed a change to the staffing plan, which would involve removing a full-time career service elections director position and adding a full-time appointed chief deputy to the clerk's office. The discussion centered around the necessity of this change, particularly in light of upcoming elections. Human Resources provided insights into the rationale behind the staffing adjustments, indicating that the chief deputy position would help meet the demands of the clerk's office.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to supporting breastfeeding initiatives and adapting staffing structures to enhance electoral processes. The resolution for Breastfeeding Month was unanimously approved, reflecting a collective effort to prioritize maternal and infant health in the community.