New Montgomery County health commissioner appointed

A new Montgomery County health commissioner has been selected, as the area continues to deal with COVID-19 concerns.

The Montgomery County Board of Health announced it selected Jennifer Wentzel as the county’s next health commissioner, effective Wednesday, Dec. 1.

She will lead Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County, which has an annual budget of $38 million, about 300 employees, over 50 programs and services, and eight facilities.

“I am honored to be chosen to lead an organization that makes such a positive impact in our community,” Wentzel said in a statement Wednesday. “I will be dedicated to helping the agency continue to provide outstanding service to its citizens and to further the advancement of health equity in our community.”

Public Health’s services aim to prevent the spread of disease; protect against threats to food, water and air; promote healthy lifestyles; reach out to vulnerable populations; mobilize community action; respond to emergencies; and serve as a public health information resource.

Former Montgomery County Health Commissioner Jeff Cooper announced in May that he would be retiring at the end of 2021.

Wentzel started with the Public Health Dayton & Montgomery County in 2002, including serving as the director of environmental health for the past seven years and previously as a supervisor in the Office of Environmental Health.

She has a Master’s of public health degree from Wright State University.

“Her past leadership in a variety of areas and experience are a perfect match to serve the citizens of Montgomery County and advance our work in helping to keep Montgomery County a healthy, safe and thriving community,“ said Michael Sims, president of the Montgomery County Board of Health.

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