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Grand Traverse County board appoints Mike Leahy as health officer after three-candidate interviews
Summary
After interviewing three finalists, the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners voted to appoint Mike Leahy, the department's deputy health officer and 13-year employee, to the county health officer post; the board cited continuity and local experience as deciding factors.
Mike Leahy, the county's deputy health officer and a 13-year department employee, was appointed Grand Traverse County Health Officer following a series of structured interviews and a board vote. The board voted to approve the appointment after members discussed the three finalists' qualifications and organizational priorities.
Leahy described his local experience and leadership approach during his interview, saying, "Leadership is relationships," and urging leadership that builds trust across the health department and community partners. Several commissioners praised Leahy's familiarity with the department's operations and the heavy workload ahead. The chair said, "In my mind the clear choice is Mr. Leahy because Mr. Leahy has already been doing the job," citing continuity and existing working relationships.
Board members who spoke during deliberations acknowledged the other finalists' strengths. One commissioner said the first candidate had an excellent resume and offered solid answers on budget and program challenges, but favored Leahy's institutional knowledge for the near-term demands the department faces. Commissioners also flagged looming state budget uncertainties and emphasized the need for a leader who can navigate reduced resources while maintaining essential services.
The motion to appoint Leahy was made, seconded, and adopted by the board; administration said staff would notify the candidates and complete post-offer requirements. The board recorded no dissenting votes during the roll call on the motion.
Next steps: the county will complete employment-offer formalities and work with the newly appointed health officer on priorities discussed in the interviews, including reviewing accreditation findings, strengthening community partnerships, and readying the department for an expected programmatic shift under reduced state funding.
