After helping lead Appleton through a pandemic, Health Officer Kurt Eggebrecht is retiring Friday. Eggebrecht was set to retire in June of last year but decided to put that off for a year to handle the pandemic. He says dealing with the coronavirus pandemic comes in second as the most meaningful time in his career. He feels Appleton leading the effort to go smoke free is higher on his list.
Meanwhile, Appleton officials have begun the search for a new health officer. Interim H-R Director Jay Ratchman says they started advertising for the position in March. The first round of interviews started this week. He says they’re looking for someone who wants to work in the community and will reach out and establish relationships.
A panel committee that includes the mayor, H-R, retiring health officer Kurt Eggebrecht and an outside person will nominate a candidate. That recommendation will go before the Common Council for approval. Ratchman hopes a new health officer will be in place by sometime in July.
