Community Health Improvement Plan to outline Kenosha County’s health priorities for next 5 years

August 1, 2026 - 00:54

Work has begun on a new Community Health Improvement Plan for Kenosha County, following up on a broad community survey that wrapped up last year. Health Officer Ricky Ferrari Traner made the announcement today, confirming that the plan will set the county's health priorities for the next five years.

The survey, which gathered input from residents across the county, is the foundation for the updated strategy. It asked people about their biggest health concerns, access to care, and the social factors that affect well-being, such as housing, jobs, and transportation. Now, local health officials and partner organizations are sorting through that data to identify the most pressing issues.

Traner said the goal is to move from identifying problems to building a realistic, action-oriented roadmap. The plan will not just list priorities but will also outline specific steps, responsible parties, and measurable outcomes. Community input remains a key part of the process, with more listening sessions expected in the coming months.

The previous plan focused on mental health, substance use, and chronic disease. The new version is expected to keep some of those themes but may shift emphasis based on what residents reported. Officials say the final document should be ready for public review later this year, with implementation starting in early 2026.

Residents who missed the original survey will still have chances to weigh in. The county plans to post draft goals online and hold public meetings before the plan is finalized. Traner stressed that the plan only works if it reflects what people actually need, not just what data suggests.