Shake-Up at Multnomah County’s Community Health Center: Rhodes, Perry and Thomas Resign from their Positions

Jeff Perry and Bernadette Thomas, who were brought on board to lead Multnomah County’s community health center as chief financial officer and medical director respectively, have resigned from their positions. Rhodes, who was hired as executive director last April and earned $273,000 per year, also resigned from his position on Friday after less than a year on the job.

Rhodes faced challenges in his role, including discrimination as a Black leader. He was placed on paid administrative leave in October before returning in January only to resign in February. Despite the recent turmoil within the health center system, Multnomah County officials continue to seek qualified individuals to fill the vacancies left by Rhodes, Perry, and Thomas.

Serena Cruz, the county’s chief operating officer stated that the decisions from Perry and Thomas were unrelated to Rhodes’ resignation. The community health center will work towards overcoming challenges and maintaining its commitment to providing accessible and equitable health care to all residents. Subscribe today to OregonLive.com to support quality journalism.