St. Clair County looking for new medical director after resignation
The St. Clair County Health Department’s medical director is on her way out less than a year after her stint in the position began.
Dr. Najibah Rehman first came on board in 2022, filling the part-time physician role split by county commissioners from the chief public health job.
Although a six-month advanced written notice is required before the three-year employment agreement can be terminated for the at-will position, an official from a neighboring community has been reportedly filling in within the more than three weeks since Rehman resigned.
A reason for Rehman’s departure has not been shared publicly.
“We are exceptionally grateful for the short time she spent with us,” Liz King, St. Clair County’s health officer, said in a statement late Friday. “We also enjoyed her public health perspectives and wish her the very best in her future endeavors.
“Currently, Dr. Kevin Lokar, Macomb County’s medical director, is remotely covering as acting medical director while the search continues for a permanent replacement. Three candidates will be interviewed next week by a team of individuals from the county administrator/controller office specifically, Karry Hepting, health department administration, county board of commissioners, and board of health members. “
The roles of medical director and public health officer, to which King was promoted, were previously both held by Dr. Annette Mercatante until her contract expired in June 2022. The county board of commissioners voted to split and advertise the positions earlier that year after alleged communication concerns over a controversial COVID-19 mask mandate in schools.
Rehman couldn’t be reached for comment as of Monday.
Hepting also didn’t immediately reply to a request for comment.
The job listing for medical director has been posted on the county’s vacancy site since the date of Rehman’s reported resignation on April 28. Its closing time is May 29.
The position includes wages at $123 an hour and a minimum of 16 hours a week.
According to its posting, a master’s in public health is sought in addition to the medical degree. The position is under the supervision of King as public health officer, the health advisory board, and county board under state law.
Contact Jackie Smith at (810) 989-6270 or jssmith@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter @Jackie20Smith.
This article originally appeared on Port Huron Times Herald: St. Clair County looking for new medical director after resignation
