It was a historic moment for Delaware County when it launched its first health department in 2021, and picked Melissa Lyon to run it, writes Kathleen E. Carey for the Daily Times.

Lyon was selected in November 2021. The department opened in April 2022.

Now Lyon is moving on. She announced her resignation last week.

In a LinkedIn post, Lyon said she wanted to be closer to her family. She will remain as health director until Oct. 11 as the county begins a nationwide search for her replacement.

Lora Werner, county deputy health director, is serving as interim health director.

“After much reflection, I’ve decided to return to western New York to be closer to my family and embrace a slower pace of life at the ranch with my husband, adult children, grandchildren, and beloved horses,” she wrote in a LinkedIn post.. “Transitioning out is bittersweet, but I leave with immense pride in our achievements and confidence in the department’s continued success.”

The health department has grown to 90 employees, four divisions, and three locations, including two clinics.

Werner said she plans to continue building on the work identified in the department’s strategic plan.  

Read more about the search for a new health director in the Daily Times.