Public Health turnover and employee treatment
Summary
Former Public Health Director Lise Kennedy told the committee roughly one-third of Public Health staff left in the first half of 2026 and urged legislators to investigate. The Certified Home Health Agency census is down because there aren't enough physical therapists; the department plans to redirect about $104,000 from eliminated roles to hire one.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 4
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Aug 13, 2026.
Impact analysis
Proposed staffing changes would shift about $104,000 from eliminated roles to a new physical therapist position.
Homebound patients who gain access to skilled nursing and physical therapy if staffing improves.
Patients whose referrals were declined — 20 in the latest report — because of staffing and caseload limits.
Mentions & discussions (3)
Human Resources Committee — August 13, 2026
A resident told the committee that about 20 employees — roughly a third of the department — have left Public Health this year, including one whose position was eliminated. She called for a real investigation into whether a culture of intimidation persists.
Health & Human Services — August 13, 2026
Former Public Health Director Lise Kennedy told the committee roughly one-third of Public Health staff left in the first half of 2026 and urged legislators to investigate. The Certified Home Health Agency census is down because there aren't enough physical therapists; the department plans to redirect about $104,000 from eliminated roles to hire one.
Executive Committee — July 21, 2026
A resident warned that maternal-child health nursing has been eliminated after 50 years, with 20 staff departures this year and leaders criticizing the public health director's management.
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