NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 12, 2016
CONTACT: Dana Kazel, Communications Manager
218-725-5049 (office) • 218-591-2219 (cell)
David Lee hired as Public Health and Human Services director
Following a nationwide search, the top choice to lead the St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services Department turned out to be right next door. St. Louis County has hired David Lee as its new Director of Public Health and Human Services. Lee has held a similar position in Carlton County for the last 11 years. He replaces Ann Busche, who is retiring this month.
In addition to his experience as Carlton County PHHS director, Lee also worked as a supervisor in that department's Children's Services Unit. Lee was instrumental in launching the statewide TXT4Life suicide prevention initiative, mobile crisis team expansion, mental health crisis stabilization (Birch Tree Center), and telehealth initiatives, all of which have benefited residents of both Carlton and St. Louis counties. Lee was named the 2014 PHHS Director of the Year by the Minnesota Association of Social Service Administrators, and has earned many honors including an Association of Minnesota Counties outstanding service award in 2011 and a National Association of Counties Achievement award.
"We are extremely fortunate to have an experienced and proven leader coming on board," said Kevin Gray, St. Louis County Administrator. "Public Health and Human Services is our largest department, both in terms of budget and number of employees, and with much of its responsibilities and funding determined by the state legislature, it's an ever changing and challenging role."
Lee thanked commissioners for the opportunity to serve, "I’ve been fortunate to be able to work with many of the staff and leadership in St. Louis County, and have learned a great deal," said Lee. "As a resident of St. Louis County, I’m happy to put my energies in my home community."
St. Louis County Commissioners unanimously approved Lee's appointment during today's Board meeting, expressing confidence in his experience and skills. They also noted he has big shoes to fill, praising outgoing director Ann Busche for her tremendous service to the county and advocacy for human services.
"I think Director Lee
will hit the ground running. He has great vision that he’s already incorporated
in Carlton county and the Arrowhead Region, and he knows the County north and south," said Commissioner Patrick Boyle who chairs the Health and Human Services Committee.
Lee will begin his new role on April 25.
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 David Lee has been hired as St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services Director. He previously served in a similar capacity in Carlton County.
 The St. Louis County Board issued a proclamation declaring the month of April as Child Abuse Awareness Month,recognizing the need for continued collaborations to ensure all children are raised in a loving and nurturing environment, and expressing gratitude for the dedicated county workers in child protective services.
Shown left to right are: (Kneeling) Commissioners Patrick Boyle and Pete Stauber; (Standing) incoming PHHS Director David Lee, County Administrator Kevin Gray, Board Chair Steve Raukar, Social Services Supervisor Mary Ness, Commissioner Frank Jewell, retiring PHHS Director Ann Busche, County Attorney Mark Rubin, Commissioners Chris Dahlberg and Keith Nelson.
The Board meeting was held in Rice Lake City Hall.
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