Monroe hires Bridgeport’s deputy health director
MONROE — Starting Monday, Bridgeport’s deputy health director is Monroe’s health director.
The Town Council at its latest meeting, unanimously approved hiring Amy Lehaney. She was nominated by First Selectman Ken Kellogg and already approved by state Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani. The town’s health board also voted earlier this month to recommend the appointment.
Lehaney, a Trumbull resident, said her last day with the city of Bridgeport was Friday.
“I have been in municipal public health for almost my entire career and have always been interested in becoming a director of health.” she said. “I’m thankful for all the experience that I have gained with the city of Bridgeport and am looking forward to starting in Monroe next week.”
Lehaney starts in Monroe on Monday. She replaces Nancy Brault, who retired.
Kellogg said he nominated her because of her experience. He said she was one of two finalists interviewed.
Lehaney is a registered sanitarian with more than 17 years of public health experience. Prior to Bridgeport, she worked in Fairfield, Stamford and Redding. She earned a master’s degree in public health from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven.
State law requires nominated health directors to either be a licensed physician with a public health degree or someone with a master’s degree in public health. Monroe also requires health directors be registered sanitarians.
“Someone who’s actually licensed to do inspections in the field as well,” Kellogg said. “Obviously, they’re running the department, but there are times when they’re actually out doing inspections as well.”
At last Monday’s meeting, council members approved her four-year contract with the town of Monroe. Lehaney will receive a $110,000 salary for her first year in the role, according to the approved employment agreement. Like other department directors in Monroe, she will be eligible for an annual merit increase.