Commissioners discuss hiring county health director

Garth Meyer, Whitman County Gazette | Nov 19, 20200

COLFAX — Whitman County commissioners continued discussing when to advertise the health director position when they met Monday, Nov. 16.

Troy Henderson resigned; his last day was Nov. 15. Chris Skidmore was named interim director.

Skidmore previously served as Whitman County Public Health deputy director.

Commissioner Art Swannack said that comments he made last week were misinterpreted – it was not that he doubted Skidmore’s qualifications, it was just that he did not know them at the time.

Skidmore’s background includes a bachelor of science in molecular genetics from Washington State University, followed by seven years in research at WSU’s institute of biological chemistry (plant sciences) and four years at Anatek Labs in Moscow, Idaho, in analytical chemistry (drinking water, hazardous waste).

He has worked for six years at the county health department and attended statewide conferences (as a representative) for three years.

“I don’t believe he is unqualified for this position. He’s been a good employee and a good manager,” Swannack said.

Commissioner Michael Largent expressed his confidence in Skidmore and noted a series of e-mails coming in on the subject, following a report in last week’s Gazette.

“These decisions are not being made for budgetary reasons,” Largent said. “I have full confidence in Chris. I’m not concerned.”

“I encourage him to apply,” Swannack said.

Commissioners agreed Monday to start advertising the position.

Largent had suggested last week not to do so until March or April.

Henderson has taken a new job with the U.S. Department of Defense in Germany.

“The No. 1 desired objective is to get through the COVID situation that appears to be worsening,” Largent said. “We’re not gonna compromise the capacity for Whitman County to respond to the evolving crisis.”