[ad_1]
The tears were real on Monday as members of the Chautauqua County Health Board and even some community leaders said goodbye to Christine Schuyler.
“We, the Board of Health, can unequivocally express our gratitude to Director Christine Schuyler for her outstanding accomplishments. I have relied on her professionalism and support during my tenure.” I shared Dr. Lillian Ney, Chairman of the Board of Health, at the board meeting on Monday.
Schuyler’s term ended this week after county chief executive PJ Wendell chose not to reappoint Schuyler.
The board had no elected officials, but was attended by community leaders, including Forestville School Superintendent John O’Connor and Silver Creek School Superintendent Todd Crandall.
In addition to serving as Superintendent of Silver Creek, Crandall also served as president of, and spoke on behalf of, the Far West Council of School Superintendents, which includes all school superintendents in Chautauqua County.
“During the pandemic, our partnership with Christine has been invaluable in helping Chautauqua County school districts stay educated and open. Guidance and regulations from the New York State Department of Health change regularly. and often changed without prior notice, Christine and her team were always available to help interpret and help implement new practices. We texted, talked, and emailed staff, often ending up with Zoom calls for limited and/or full group meetings.” He said.
During the pandemic, O’Connor worked for BOCES as an administrator for several schools in western New York. He points out how Schuyler helped develop testing systems for students and staff so they could stay in school even if they tested negative.
“As part of BOCES, I had to work
With the people of Erie County and the people of Chautauqua County. The solution Christine had was just the top.” He said.
County physician Dr. Robert Burke, formerly the county health director, had recommended Skyler to former county administrator Greg Edwards. “You met and exceeded our expectations. he told Skyler.
Health Commission member Mark Turbrake worked with Skyler during his ten years as a Republican congressman.
“We worked on a lot of legislation right here in this room, but it never would have happened without Christine. We had an amazing team.” He said.
Turbrake praised her efforts to help develop welfare-to-work programs and raise the smoking age to 21.
“She really helped this county. I can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done.” He said.
Health Commission member Dr. Elizabeth Kidder noted how difficult it was for health leaders when COVID-19 first broke out.
“During the pandemic, I remember thinking many times, ‘Christine would have the most challenging job in the county.'” she said.
Schuyler thanks everyone for their comments.
“I am proud of all the work this department has done and will continue to move forward.” she said.
With Skyler’s resignation, Wendell assigned DHHS physician Michael Falk additional duties as interim public health director overseeing DHHS’ public health division. Deputy Secretary of Social Services John Anderson will serve interim as Acting Secretary of Social Services overseeing his five social services divisions at DHHS. County officials have previously said they plan to announce a restructuring of the county’s welfare department by early next year.
[ad_2]
Source link