On Friday, The B Square received an anonymous tip that Monroe County’s health department had implemented “a large layoff” without informing the local food services industry.

Stephen Pritchard, who is vice president of the board of health, was reached by The B Square on Saturday morning for comment.

Pritchard confirmed some departures from the department, a number he pegged at “less than five.”

Responding to a followup question, Pritchard wrote that one position was in vital records, and another in environmental services. Pritchard wrote that he is unsure in which area a third departure worked.

In Monroe County’s health department, environmental services encompasses food safety, among other areas.

About the possible perception that there had been large numbers of health department employees who have left, Pritchard wrote, “Some of these departures were in the past week, which may have created the impression, among some, that there was a large exodus, which is false.”

Pritchard wrote that the open positions would be posted, using the proper county channels, most likely right away.

Pritchard also commented on the transition from long-time health administrator Penny Caudill to current administrator Lori Kelley. That transition “has not been without its challenges, which is to be expected,” Pritchard wrote. Continue reading “At least 3 gone from Monroe County health department staff” →