Thurston County is currently facing the challenge of finding a new public health director after the resignation of David Bayne, who was hired just 17 months ago. Bayne resigned on Friday, citing a desire to pursue new opportunities outside the county. His departure marks the second director resignation in the last three years, following Schelli Slaughter’s resignation in December 2021 due to personal reasons.
As an interim director, Jennifer Freiheit, the assistant director of PHSS, has agreed to step in for now. The leadership team is committed to supporting Dr. Freiheit and the dedicated employees of PHSS during this transition period. Bayne and Freiheit began their roles around the same time and have been working together since then.
Thurston County is currently assessing its next steps in light of Bayne’s resignation. The county has not specified if a similar recruitment process will take place. However, it remains committed to addressing its public health challenges with a new director at the helm. The importance of public health in the community remains a priority for Thurston County.
Bayne had previously worked for the Washington State Department of Health and the Georgia Department of Public Health before being hired as Public Health and Social Services director in Thurston County in December 2022.
County Manager Leonard Hernandez expressed disappointment at Bayne’s departure but stated his appreciation for Bayne’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery phase.
The former PHSS director Schelli Slaughter resigned in December 2021 due to personal reasons, marking the second director resignation in the last three years.
Thurston County will continue to prioritize public health and work towards finding a replacement for Bayne while also ensuring that PHSS continues to function smoothly under Freiheit’s leadership.
