Staff Writer SALEM — City council put its opposition to the state’s proposed killing of the city health department in writing Tuesday, citing the department’s invaluable efforts during the pandemic and overall service to citizens. “The city of Salem strenuously objects to any effort by the state of Ohio to abolish the local Salem City Health Department, and moves that any effort to study the feasibility of dissolving the same or otherwise abolish it be immediately stricken from any state budget proposals,” the resolution said. Council voted 7-0 to approve the resolution, which noted the state only contributes $3,400 per year towards the city health district’s operation. The city funds the district with a per diem based on the city’s population, plus licensing fees and grants help cover costs.