Interim health officer Deb Lentz outlines five‑point plan; commissioners press on infant mortality and funding risks

Deb Lentz, interim health officer for Kalamazoo County Health and Human Services (HCS), presented a one‑year roadmap to the county commission on Dec. 2, emphasizing workforce stability, an equity framework, multisector community engagement, public‑health modernization and visible communication.

"Public health is a core responsibility of county government," Lentz said, describing 22 years in county public‑health roles and a leadership approach that favors listening and shared decision‑making. She said her first‑year priorities will create predictable feedback loops for staff, expand home‑visitation and community health worker support, and use data to target services where disparities remain largest.

Commissioners pressed Lentz on several operational and policy points. Commissioner Gisler asked whether Lentz held required certification; Lentz confirmed she met state qualifications before moving into the interim role. Gisler also asked for Lentz’s assessment of an ongoing disparity in Black infant mortality, which Lentz said remains three to four times the rate for white infants despite local efforts. "We continue to work with our community partners," she said, pointing to monthly fetal and infant mortality reviews and a community action team that develops recommendations for hospitals, clinics and social‑service partners.

On emergency authority during an outbreak, Lentz said she would consult with the county administrator and board chair, present options and make an "educated decision" that balances population benefit and individual impacts. She added she is prepared to assert the statutory authority of the health officer when necessary.

Commissioners also asked about funding risks. Lentz identified the HRSA grant as a near‑term vulnerability, noting current award authority through March 2026, and outlined a strategy of national advocacy, state partnerships and collaborations with local nonprofits to sustain critical programs. She said some services could continue via partner organizations if federal funding lapses.

Local public‑health staff and community members had earlier urged the board to support HCS leadership: Dr. William Nettleton, the county’s long‑time medical director, told commissioners he supported Lentz as "a steadfast and dedicated public‑health professional." County staff in the environmental health division also spoke in favor of her leadership.

Next steps: the board will use the presentation and Q&A to inform a formal recommendation to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) about the health‑officer appointment. Lentz told commissioners she welcomes continued collaboration across county departments and community partners and will provide updates on the priorities and program financial risks.