Resident raises concerns about St. Clair County health officer’s qualifications

Fred Fuller used the public‑comment portion of the April 2 meeting to call into question whether the county’s health officer and medical director, Dr. Nevin, is suited to the post.

"I'm very concerned about Dr. Nevin continuing as medical director, let alone as health officer and medical director," Fuller said, adding that in his review Dr. Nevin "seems to have very little clinical experience or managerial experience." Fuller said he has read both Nevin’s professional publications and published critiques and is assembling materials to submit to commissioners.

Why it matters: Allegations about a county health official’s qualifications can prompt formal inquiries or requests for documentation. In this meeting, Fuller framed his concerns around perceived gaps in experience and suggested the county could face litigation and sustained controversy if the issues are not addressed. He also said supporters of Nevin share critiques of "Big Pharma," but Fuller warned against relying on unsupported claims.

Meeting response: Fuller’s remarks drew applause, but no county official offered an immediate rebuttal or formal response from Dr. Nevin. Commissioners accepted Fuller’s offer to provide his documentation and did not take immediate action during the committee session.

Next steps: Fuller said he will provide the compiled materials to the board; commissioners may decide to request a formal written response or take the item up at a later meeting.