CUMBERLAND — Allegany County officials announced Thursday that Gena Spear has been selected as the new county health officer.
The selection of Spear, who has been functioning as the interim county health officer, was made public at the regular meeting of the Allegany County Board of Commissioners at the county office complex on Kelly Road.
Spear had been acting as interim health officer since November following the resignation of Dr. Junie Delizo.
“I want to thank you; with your support and confidence, I will be able to lead the Health Department,” said Spear.
“I have a great staff. They are very passionate and very dedicated to their work and they have a passion for helping people no matter where they work, whether be in our central services, outpatient addictions, developmental evaluation services or Massey Unit.”
Before accepting the interim role, Spear had been the assistant director of administrative services at the Health Department for three years.
“We just started a new reproductive health clinic and our director there is very passionate,” she said. “We also started a new nutrition program so I look forward to leading the department and making sure we keep the residents of Allegany County as healthy as possible.”
Kristi Liller, Allegany County human resources supervisor, introduced Spear at the meeting and gave details on Spear’s background.
Before coming to the Health Department, Spear was the director of fiscal services at the Thomas B. Finan Center for 15 years before becoming the chief fiscal officer for five years.
“We are happy to have you on board and look forward to working with you in your new position,” said Dave Caporale, county commission president.
Spear has a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a minor in business administration from Frostburg State University.
“Gena has hit the ground running at the Health Department,” said Jason Bennett, county administrator.
“She has the respect of the staff and county and is a good choice.
“We wish her well in her new role.”