Board members raise due-process concerns over prior administrator; member offers resignation

Several board members said they will submit a formal statement expressing concern about how personnel matters involving the prior health department administrator were handled.

"I have concerns about due process and the importance of making sure that all sides are heard in any allegation," one board member said and announced they would submit a longer document for the minutes. Another board member said the process was "odd" and that the departing administrator was not interviewed during the investigation, leaving no opportunity to provide context.

Separately, a board member identified as Jim told the board he was retiring from his prior position as a school superintendent and believes he no longer meets the statutory requirements to serve. "Since I am now retired and not a school superintendent ... I offer my resignation," Jim said.

Why it matters: board members said they want clearer, more measured HR procedures and greater board involvement in personnel decisions to preserve departmental credibility. Health department and county representatives said they followed county HR advice when the issue was reported.

What’s next: board members will submit formal concerns for the minutes and asked that the board be involved in future hiring and disciplinary procedures where appropriate. The resignation offer was made on the record; the transcript does not record whether the resignation was accepted or formally processed.

Ending: members closed the personnel discussion by asking staff to review HR procedures and consider ways to involve the board when appropriate.